Unique travel experience integrates students of mixed hearing abilities for the learning adventure of a lifetime
Hear the World, a global initiative by hearing system manufacturer Phonak, combines forces with Global Explorers, a not-for-profit educational travel organization, to offer the first-ever Hear the World Expedition. The expedition will integrate students of mixed hearing abilities to raise awareness about hearing as a fundamental part of life that many take for granted.
Hearing loss affects one in every six people worldwide - the equivalent of the number of people who own a car. However, few realize the important role that hearing and sound play in day to day life. The acoustical environment of the Peruvian Amazon is a complex symphony exploding with life - where one's ability to listen is increasingly magnified. For that reason, it is the perfect setting to educate students about the importance of hearing and the consequences of hearing loss. Students with and without hearing loss will form an unlikely team that will work together and learn from one another while shattering expectations and learning to use adversity to their advantage.
The expedition team will be accompanied by Bill Barkeley, a world-class mountain climber and one of the 15,000 people in the United States with Type 2 Usher's Syndrome - the leading cause of deaf-blindness in the world. Bill's 2007 summit of Mount Kilimanjaro shattered expectations and confirmed his role as an advocate and inspiration for the hearing loss community.
"With the assistance of a Phonak hearing device, I was able to successfully accomplish what many deemed impossible," said Bill. "I am thrilled to be a part of this partnership between Global Explorers and Hear the World, and accompany these inspirational young people as a mentor on this incredible journey."
About Hear the World Expeditions
Hear the World Expeditions create a unique platform where groups of students explore science, culture, leadership and service while at the same time raising awareness about the importance of hearing. More than a simple trip, the Hear the World Expedition to the Amazon will include a pre-expedition training in the Spring of 2010, a two week international field workshop throughout the Peruvian Amazon (Iquitos, Peru) from July 8-17, 2010, as well as follow-up service projects and a large-scale public outreach campaign for students from around the world.
Expedition applications are currently being accepted through January 15, 2010. Applicants must be between the ages of 17-22 on July 8, 2010, enrolled as a full-time student either the semester before or after travel and experience hearing loss or have an expressed interest in hearing awareness and education. Fundraising assistance is available for those who qualify.
To learn more, nominate a student or apply, visit: http://www.globalexplorers.org/programs/destinations/hear_the_world_expeditions/.
SOURCE Phonak
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