Northwest

HKNC Regional Network

Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Montana, Wyoming

Contact Info:

Kirsten Hille (Regional Representative)
Voice/Text: 516-479-4822 (Office)
VP: 541-897-2289
khille@helenkeller.org

Penny Perry (Administrative Assistant)
Voice: 516-650-2096
pperry@helenkeller.org

Kirsten Hille

Regional Representative Kirsten Hille

Our regional offices bring HKNC resources to you.

Your regional representative knows all about the programs and services that are available to DeafBlind individuals, their families and service providers in your state and beyond, and can help you find and access the ones that are right for you.

Whether you’re interested in learning about support services near your home, would like to take advantage of the technology available through the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program or want to explore the possibility of training at our national headquarters, your regional representative is your link to all that HKNC has to offer ─ consultation, advocacy, assessment, training, referrals and more.

Meet the representatives and specialists in your region.

A woman with long straight hair smiles into the camera

Kirsten Hille

Regional Representative

Kirsten Hille has a proven track record of success in various roles, showcasing strong management skills and exceptional communication abilities across her career. At the Iowa School for the Deaf, where she served as a Residential Counselor, Kirsten supervised Deaf/HH and/or blind/visually impaired students, ensuring their social, physical, and intellectual development through instructional and recreational activities. She played a pivotal role in preparing students with life skills for employment or continuing education and contributed to the development of new approaches and practices for student growth.

Previously, at Mosaic – Omaha, Kirsten held the position of Direct Support Manager – Residential, where she effectively managed staff, scheduling, training, and goal tracking to maintain high standards of client care in Supported and Assisted Residential homes.

Her professional journey also includes impactful roles as a Sign Language Interpreter at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and as a Communication Specialist at the Iowa School for the Deaf. In these positions, Kirsten provided vital interpretation services and supported educational initiatives for Deaf/HH students.

Kirsten holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where she graduated with honors. She also completed the Sign Language Interpreter Program at Iowa Western Community College, also with honors.

Kirsten’s work with DeafBlind individuals has instilled a deep commitment to providing quality services and fostering collaboration with communities, families, and state partners. She aims to leverage these experiences and skills towards enhancing Pre-Employment Transition Services (PreETS) and employment services, ensuring inclusivity and empowerment for individuals to live and thrive in their chosen communities.

Ask your regional representative about:

  • The National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program
  • Local services and referrals
  • On-site assessment, consultation, and training
  • Making connections with other individuals and families within the DeafBlind community
  • Technical assistance and in-service training
  • Plans for youth transitioning from educational programs to post-educational services
  • Educational materials and presentations about the capabilities and preferences of people with combined vision and hearing loss

Local & Community Services

Are you interested in getting involved in the DeafBlind community in the Northwest Region? Your regional representative can provide information about social gatherings, conferences, listservs and more. Check this space for announcements about upcoming events or contact your regional representative to request email notifications.

How Can We Work Together?

Start the conversation about how we can work together to make your dreams and goals a reality.