When using VRS to place telephone calls to hearing individuals, deaf consumers use a D-Link videophone or Web cam to connect with a video interpreter via the Internet. The video interpreter then places the call to the hearing person, voicing to the hearing person and signing the telephone conversation to the deaf consumer through a TV or computer screen. This service, provided at no charge, is funded through the National Exchange Carriers Association (NECA).

To keep up with increasing demand, CSD contracted with Interpretek to operate its Omaha VRS facility, which opened in June. The center currently processes 800 hours of video interpreting calls each month and is one of 16 video relay centers owned or operated by CSD. In addition to its own CSDVRS product, CSD also works with long-time partner Sprint to provide Sprint VRS.

"Collaborating with CSD on (VRS) has been an exciting endeavor," said Michael Rizzolo, president of Interpretek. "Using technology to promote excellence in communication is what both companies are about."
As a national nonprofit agency headquartered in Sioux Falls, S.D., CSD provides a variety of services and programs to individuals with hearing loss. Interpretek, a national sign language interpreter agency, is based in Rochester, N.Y.

"CSD makes a concerted effort to partner with sign language interpreting agencies who share our concern for the critical need to balance video and local community interpreting resources," said Benjamin Soukup, CSD chief executive officer. "Interpretek supports that philosophy, and we are pleased to be working with them."

The open house begins at 4 p.m. at CSD’s Omaha VRS facility, which is located at 9394 W. Dodge Rd., Suite 125. The event is open to the general public, and sign language interpreters will be present to provide full communication access. In addition to Interpretek staff, representatives from Sprint and CSD are also expected to attend. The National Association of the Deaf regional conference is taking place in Omaha over the same weekend, and attendees have been invited to participate, as well.