About Us
Who We Are
Black Deaf Senior Citizens of America, Inc. was founded on a simple but powerful belief: every Black Deaf senior deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
Our Story
A Legacy of Community
Black Deaf Senior Citizens of America, Inc. (BDSCA) was established in 2013 with a clear and urgent purpose — to create a dedicated space where Black Deaf senior citizens could find community, access resources, and advocate for their unique needs. The founders are Gerald and Lavonda Miller.
Our founders recognized that Black Deaf seniors often face compounding barriers: the intersection of age, race, and hearing loss can lead to isolation, limited access to services, and a lack of culturally affirming support. BDSCA was born to change that.
Over the years, we have grown into a national organization with members across the United States, united by shared experience and a commitment to one another. From our annual gatherings to our ongoing advocacy work, everything we do is rooted in the belief that our elders deserve dignity, joy, and belonging.
Founded 2013 · Serving Members Nationwide
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
To empower Black Deaf senior citizens through community connection, advocacy, and access to the resources and support they deserve — because every elder in our community has earned a life of dignity, joy, and belonging.
Our Vision
A world where Black Deaf senior citizens are fully included, deeply valued, and actively supported in every aspect of life — from healthcare and housing to culture, fellowship, and civic participation.
Community
We believe in the power of togetherness. Our strength comes from our connections to one another.
Dignity
Every member of our community deserves to be treated with respect, honor, and care at every stage of life.
Advocacy
We speak up for the rights and needs of Black Deaf seniors at every level — local, state, and national.
Access
We work to remove barriers and ensure every member can access the services, information, and support they need.
Leadership
Our Officers
BDSCA is led by a dedicated team of officers who bring passion, experience, and deep commitment to our community.
President
Debra Fleetwood
Debra leads BDSCA with vision and heart, championing the needs of Black Deaf seniors across the nation and guiding the organization's strategic direction.
Vice President
Jennifer Jackson-White
Jennifer brings energy and dedication to her role, supporting the President and leading key community initiatives and member engagement efforts.
Secretary
Sheila L Hall Price
Sheila ensures the smooth operation of our organization, maintaining records, coordinating communications, and keeping our community informed.
Treasurer
Jeffrey Dennison
Jeffrey oversees the financial health of BDSCA, ensuring responsible stewardship of our resources in service of our members and mission.
Board of Trustee
Zachary DeLoya
Zachary serves as a trusted steward of our organization's values and long-term interests, providing governance oversight and community accountability.
"Get Together, Stay Together"
— BDSCA Motto