New Orleans 2008

“A single tree cannot create a forest.” – Chinese proverb

It took one person with an idea but a group to make it happen.  Melissa Malzkuhn finished her Master’s thesis in May 2008 with the focus on deaf youth in America.  Her thesis came to life that following summer.  Melissa talked with many people about her research and decided it was time for America to wake up.  With over $15,000 in sponsorship, DYUSA was soon to become a reality.  With the help of her friends and colleagues, the first deaf youth usa gathering happened in New Orleans, Louisana in July 2008.  Over 59 people came and helped solidify DYUSA’s mission, vision, purpose, and more.  History happened there with everyone working together in a big white tent all day and enjoying one another’s company all night.