Access Vine

Unlocking possibilities through accessibility, cutting-edge technology, understanding disability laws, and empowering through consulting and training!

Access Vine, a deaf woman-owned company specializing in providing services for deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing nationwide announced a collaboration with the Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC) Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (ODHHS) to administer the HHSC Region 7 contract providing access and technology services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Amanda Tuite came up with the vision of Access Vine several years ago when she realized, "Imagine living in a world where no one knows your language and you must navigate through public challenges such as employment, medical care, public services, and your social life." Access Vine's focus is working with business entities to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities including people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or deafblind. Businesses, individuals, and entities interested in receiving services to ensure communication access and inclusion for the deaf and hard of hearing or late-deafened populations are encouraged to contact Access Vine via our website www.accessvine.co or email us: inquiries@accessvine.co.

11/21/2025

Have you ever wondered what your rights are when it comes to service animals?

Many people don’t realize that under the ADA, service animal handlers have strong protections that help them navigate public spaces safely and with dignity.

Here are a few important things to know:

• You can’t be charged pet deposits or fees
• You have full public access wherever the public is allowed
• You don’t need paperwork, ID, or certification
• Only two questions can be asked, and nothing more
• Housing providers also must follow these rules when someone requests a waiver for pet deposits or fees

If someone has a service animal, remember to speak to the person, not the animal, and avoid distracting the animal while they’re working. Being respectful goes a long way in creating a more accessible community for everyone.

If you’re unsure about your rights or need support with a situation, Access Vine is here to help. Contact us at inquiries@accessvine.co.

11/12/2025

🚨 Have you heard about Text to 911?

If you’re Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or unable to safely make a voice call, texting 911 can connect you directly with emergency services.

📱 How it works:

➡️ Open your text messages
➡️ Type 911 in the “To” field
➡️ Write your message: “I need help. There’s a fire at [location].”
➡️ Send and stay in the conversation until help arrives

💡 Remember: Call if you can, text if you can’t.
Keep your messages short, clear, and include your location right away.

👉 Availability varies by region.
If you’re in the U.S. and want to confirm if Text to 911 is available, contact Access Vine at inquiries@accessvine.co for guidance.

10/15/2025

Hey friends!

Our workshop is back by popular demand! 🎉

Join Karina Saunders, our DHH Access Specialist, for a FREE workshop: Making Zoom Accessible in ASL! 💻🤟

🗓 Nov 15 | 2–6 PM
📍 8818 Cullen Ln, Austin TX 78748

Learn how to make Zoom more accessible for Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. VRS providers will be there to share insights and answer your questions!

Got questions? Email karina@accessvine.co

Register here 👉 https://accessvine.typeform.com/to/PMduAVMr

This program is funded by the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, under Texas Health and Human Services.

[ID: Flyer for an event by Access Vine titled “Making Zoom Accessible in ASL.” The flyer announces a workshop about making Zoom meetings more accessible for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. Event details: Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 2 PM to 6 PM at 8818 Cullen Ln, Austin, TX 78748. It mentions that VRS providers will join the event. A photo of a smiling woman with long dark hair wearing a teal blouse is shown in a circular frame. The bottom text notes that the program is funded by the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services under Texas Health and Human Services.][EOM]

10/09/2025

💼 October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) 💼

Access Vine is proud to support inclusive employment practices that empower individuals with disabilities to thrive in the workplace. Deaf and Hard of Hearing professionals contribute innovation, skill, and diverse perspectives that strengthen organizations and communities alike.

This year’s theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” reinforces the importance of access, equity, and opportunity for all. When workplaces embrace inclusion, everyone succeeds.

[ID: Graphic with a black background featuring colorful vertical stripes in blue, light blue, white, yellow, and pink at the top and bottom. Bold white text in the center reads: “National Disability Employment Awareness Month.” The words “Employment” and “Awareness” are inside outlined boxes, with “Awareness” highlighted in teal. The Access Vine logo appears in the bottom right corner.][EOM]

10/08/2025

🎉 Access Vine is heading to MATA Expo on October 18th! 🎉

We’re excited to connect, share resources, and meet everyone in Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. Stop by and say hi; we’d love to see you there!

[ID: Teal and white graphic announcing Access Vine’s participation in MATA Expo. Text reads: “Access Vine is heading to MATA Expo! Pasadena, Texas. October 18. See you there!” Access Vine logo appears in the top right corner, and a light silhouette of a city skyline is shown along the bottom.][EOM]

10/03/2025

🔥 October is Fire Safety Month 🔥

Did you know that most house fires are preventable? Protect your family and home with these simple steps:

1. Keep flammable objects out of reach of children and pets
2. Create and practice a fire escape plan
3. Never leave candles burning unattended
4. Avoid overloading electrical outlets
5. Regularly check for gas leaks

Small habits can save lives. Let’s work together to keep our community safe this Fire Safety Month.

💡 Want more safety tips or guidance? Contact us at inquiries@accessvine.co, because safety starts with access to smoke alerts. 🚨

[ID: Fire Prevention Month safety tips graphic. Tips include: keep an eye on burning candles, avoid overloading plugs, keep flammable objects out of children’s reach, have a fire escape plan, and always check for gas leaks. Illustrated with icons of a candle, overloaded plug, children with a no symbol, an evacuation plan, and a gas tank. Website: www.accessvine.co.][EOM]

09/23/2025

We’re excited to share that Governor Greg Abbott has proclaimed Deaf Awareness Week in Texas for September 22–27, 2025!

This week is a chance to celebrate Deaf culture, highlight accessibility, and honor the many contributions of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals across our state.

At Access Vine, we believe awareness leads to action. We can continue building communities where access and inclusion are part of everyday life.

[ID: Texas Governor Greg Abbott smiles in a professional portrait with the Texas Capitol blurred in the background. Beside him is text titled “Deaf Awareness Week Governor Greg Abbott’s Proclamation,” where he encourages Texans to support and celebrate those who are deaf or hard of hearing, thanking professionals and educators for their work. He officially proclaims September 22-27, 2025, as Deaf Awareness Week. At the bottom is the Access Vine logo.][EOM]

09/18/2025

We’re excited to share that our new website is officially live! 🌐

We are ready to connect you with the resources and advocacy you need.

Take a look around ➝ www.accessvine.co

[ID: Graphic announcing the launch of Access Vine’s new website. The design features a teal background with bold text that reads ‘Website Launch.’ In the center, a computer monitor displays the Access Vine website with a large comic-style burst overlay that says ‘NEW!’ At the bottom, the website URL www.accessvine.co is highlighted.][EOM]

09/11/2025

HHSC is hosting the 2025 Deaf Awareness Month Reception and Art Show on September 30.

The event will showcase a selection of visual artwork created by people who are deaf or hard of hearing from across Texas.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/48binf4

09/01/2025

Accessibility takes real effort and dedication. We’re lucky to have a team that truly cares about making sure our clients get the support they need.

Big thanks to our team and the community partners we work with every day. We appreciate you. Enjoy your well-earned break — Happy Labor Day!

[ID: This image is a Labor Day greeting graphic from Access Vine. It features the text “Happy Labor Day, Sep 1, 2025” in bold blue and teal lettering, with red and white stripes and blue stars resembling the American flag along the top and bottom edges. The background has light gray outlines of school and science-related icons. At the bottom center, the website www.accessvine.co is displayed.][EOM]

08/27/2025

I have a question for you….

[VD: Woman with medium brown hair wearing a berry blazer, sitting in a gray office chair signing the message using American Sign Language : Hey I have a question for you. Has anyone ever told you that its not worth it to fight for access. It’s not worth it to ask for a videophone. It’s not worth it to turn on captions. It’s not worth it. Don’t even bother to try. Let me tell you a little secret It is worth it. Why’s that? because YOU are worth it.][EOM]

08/12/2025

Amanda Tuite, CEO of Access Vine, is excited to share that Access Vine Resource Specialist Program now serves more communities.

We now serve Austin, Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Lubbock, Tyler, and Waco by providing support, resources, and accessibility guidance to Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals across Texas.

Our mission stays the same: ensuring everyone has the tools and access they need to succeed.

If you live in these areas and need support, we are here for you.

Access Vine’s Resource Specialist Program is funded by the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services under Texas Health & Human Services.

Address

Austin, TX

Website

http://www.accessvine.co/

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