At ACBVI, accessibility isn’t just something we provide—it’s something we live every day. And few embody that more than Tracey, our on-staff ASL Interpreter.

Tracey’s journey to interpreting began close to home—she has a Deaf daughter and Deaf family members, which inspired her to learn ASL and become fluent in the language of connection. Over time, her career naturally led her to ACBVI, where she first began interpreting part-time. As the organization grew and the need for communication access expanded, so did Tracey’s role. “Before long, I was here nearly every day,” she says. “Eventually Kathy asked me to come on full-time—and I’ve been here ever since.”

Today, Tracey’s schedule is as dynamic as the clients she serves. One moment she’s interpreting a job training session, class, or counseling appointment; the next, she’s assisting during community activities or helping out wherever she’s needed. “We joke that my title should really be ‘interpreter and whatever-else-needs-done mom,’” she laughs. But behind that humor lies deep dedication—Tracey’s work ensures that every person who is Blind or Visually Impaired, DeafBlind, or living with Combined Vision and Hearing Loss can fully participate in all that ACBVI offers.

What makes having a staff interpreter so significant, Tracey explains, is consistency. “Our clients know me. They trust me. That ongoing relationship allows for true communication—not just words, but tone, emotion, and understanding.” Having someone in-house ensures accessibility at a moment’s notice, even for last-minute meetings, emergencies, or daily interactions where contracted interpreters may not be available.

Tracey has seen firsthand how communication access can transform lives. She recalls one client—a woman adjusting to blindness—who began working with a Deaf counselor through interpreted sessions. “At first, she wasn’t sure how it would work. But as the sessions continued, she realized the interpreter wasn’t a barrier but a bridge. That triangle of trust helped her heal and grow.”

Working with ACBVI’s clients, Tracey says, has changed her profoundly. “I’ve learned that communication goes far beyond signs or words—it’s about patience, presence, and trust. The people I work with every day have taught me resilience and creativity. It’s humbling and beautiful work.”

For Tracey, accessibility isn’t an add-on—it’s essential. “Having a Deaf daughter made this personal. Accessibility means everyone gets a fair shot to connect and belong. When we make access a priority, life just gets better for everyone.”

Real People. Real Impact. Made Possible by You.
At ACBVI, our staff are more than just professionals—they’re passionate individuals who dedicate each day to empowering people with vision loss. In this series, we shine a light on the people behind the programs, the ones who turn your generosity into life-changing services. Because of your support, their impact is real, personal, and powerful.