Being a CODA Doesn't End at 18
Growing up with Deaf parents can shape our lives in all sorts of ways.
For some of us, sign language was our first language. For others, it was something we picked up along the way, or perhaps never learned at all.
Some of us grew up surrounded by Deaf friends, family and community events. Others may have spent much of their childhood feeling like the only person with Deaf parents.
Perhaps you've spent years explaining your family's experiences to others, navigating different cultures or finding yourself in situations that your hearing peers didn't always understand.
Or perhaps your experiences were completely different!
There's no single way to grow up as a CODA, and there's no single way to experience being an adult CODA either.
As we grow older, our relationship with our identity can change. We might begin to look back on childhood experiences with a different perspective, become more involved in Deaf culture, or simply appreciate the value of meeting others who share parts of our story.
Whatever being a CODA means to you, your experiences are valid, and your story matters.
Our Identity. Our Experiences. Our Stories.
Being a CODA means different things to different people.
For some, it's a strong connection to Deaf culture, sign language and community. For others, it's something they may not have thought about very much until adulthood.
You might feel completely at home in both Deaf and hearing environments, or you might sometimes feel caught somewhere between the two.
Perhaps you've reflected on the responsibilities you had growing up, the expectations others placed on you, or the ways your family experiences influenced your confidence, relationships and independence.
You may also have developed friendships, skills and perspectives that you value deeply.
There's no right or wrong way to feel about any of it.
We believe adult CODAs deserve spaces where they can explore their identities, share experiences, learn from one another and celebrate the different journeys that have brought us together.
Your CODA identity is yours to define.
You don't need to sign, have attended a CODA event before or feel a particular way about your childhood to belong.
Make a Difference for the Next Generation
Remember what it was like growing up as a CODA? Imagine the difference you could make to a young person discovering their own CODA community.
One of the wonderful ways adult CODAs can get involved with CODA UK & Ireland is by volunteering.
Our CODA Camps bring young CODAs together, creating opportunities to develop friendships, try new experiences and spend time with others who understand what growing up with Deaf parents can be like.
Behind these experiences are people who generously give their time, enthusiasm and support to help make them possible.
By volunteering at CODA Camp, you could help create the same sense of belonging and connection that makes the CODA community so special.
Whether you're supporting activities, helping children feel welcome or simply being a positive role model, your involvement could make a meaningful difference.
And volunteering isn't limited to camp! There may also be opportunities to help with events, community projects and other activities.
If you're interested in getting involved, we'd love to hear from you.
