For Otto - Help Keep ASL Classes Alive

Hello! My name is Katrina Gallant, and I’m reaching out for your support to keep our community ASL (American Sign Language) classes going. We’ve created these classes to foster a more inclusive environment in Aspen, offering them for a small donation from the community and free of charge to Aspen School staff and students. Unfortunately, we’re not generating enough funds to compensate our amazing teachers, and we need your help to ensure these essential classes continue.

A bit of backstory—earlier this year, my son Otto was diagnosed as Deaf/Hard of Hearing. While we were advised to move to a deaf community, we strongly believed Aspen would offer better opportunities for Otto and our family. Rather than leave, we decided to take action and help create a more inclusive community.

Inclusivity is more than a buzzword—it means creating a culture of respect, understanding, and equal access for everyone. For the Deaf community, that means ensuring they have the same opportunities to participate fully in education, work, and social life. Our ASL classes are a step toward transforming Aspen into a place where everyone, regardless of hearing ability, can thrive.

By donating, you’re not just helping fund a class; you’re contributing to a larger mission of making Aspen a welcoming, inclusive place for Otto and other Deaf individuals and families. By donating, you’re not just helping fund a class; you’re contributing to a larger mission of making Aspen a welcoming, inclusive place for Otto and other Deaf individuals and families. Every dollar will go directly toward paying our dedicated teachers, keeping these vital classes going, and moving towards an inclusive community.

Together, we can build an environment where Otto and others like him can thrive. Thank you for your generosity and support!

With gratitude,

Katrina Gallant