By 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people will live with some degree of hearing loss, with more than 700 million requiring hearing rehabilitation. When left unaddressed, hearing loss is associated with impaired communication, speech, and cognition. Furthermore, those with hearing loss often face discrimination, leading to poor employment, education, and social outcomes. Fortunately, charities are working tirelessly to improve the well being of people with hearing loss. So, we had to ask: what are the best charities that combat hearing loss?

The best charities that combat hearing loss are the Hearing Health Foundation and the American Hearing Research Foundation. Charities such as the Starkey Hearing Foundation and the National Council on Aging seek to combat hearing loss for vulnerable populations.

Whether you want to educate children on hearing loss prevention, ensure that those with hearing loss in developing countries have access to quality hearing care, or help an older adult better understand their treatment options, there is a charity for you. Keep reading to learn more about what the best charities that combat hearing loss are all about, how they work, and what your best way would be to contribute.

Here’s What All the Best Charities That Combat Hearing Loss Have in Common

The charities on this list were chosen based on their mission, impact, transparency ratings, and achievements.

They operate primarily throughout the US and Canada, but some combat hearing loss internationally.

Many of these charities provide educational content to raise awareness of hearing loss prevention, while others provide social opportunities for those living with hearing loss. Some cater to specific populations like children. Others work to ensure that vulnerable populations, including people in developing countries, have access to quality hearing healthcare.

Some of the charities below focus on providing support to older adults as they navigate hearing loss, while others focus on advocacy and policy change.

Yet, they all share the same goal of combatting hearing loss.

These Are the 9 Best Charities That Combat Hearing Loss in 2025

Below are our favorite charities that combat hearing loss (you can click on their link to directly jump to their section in this article):

Best Charities That Combat Hearing Loss

Hearing Health Foundation

American Hearing Research Foundation

Starkey Hearing Foundation

National Council on Aging

Hearing Loss Association of America

AARP Foundation

Hearing Charities of America

Hearts for Hearing Foundation

Central Institute for the Deaf

(At the end of this article we’ll also share our six-step approach on how you can select the best charity to support.)

Hearing Health Foundation: Investing in Hearing and Balance

The Hearing Health Foundation was founded in 1958 by Collette Ramsey Baker to support hearing and balance research after a cutting-edge operation restored her hearing. Today, the charity funds groundbreaking research into the prevention and treatment of hearing loss. 

The Hearing Health Foundation holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“A world where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy life without hearing loss and tinnitus.”

Hearing Health Foundation

The Hearing Health Foundation combats hearing loss by partnering with and funding scientists who work to prevent, treat, and ultimately cure hearing and balance conditions. For example, their Hearing Restoration Project is an international collaboration of scientists researching the regeneration of hair cells to cure hearing loss and tinnitus. In addition, their Emerging Research Grants program provides support for hearing and balance research in the early stages. Furthermore, their Keep Listening campaign promotes hearing loss prevention by broadcasting public service announcements on television and social media.

The Hearing Health Foundation is the largest nonprofit funder of hearing and balance research based in the US. They have funded research that has led to some of the most important developments for the prevention and treatment of hearing loss, including cochlear implants. For example, in the 1990s, their advocacy efforts led to universal newborn hearing screening legislation, which was adopted by 45 states in the US.

You can donate to the Hearing Health Foundation via their website. You can also create your own fundraiser.

American Hearing Research Foundation: Funding Hearing Innovation

The American Hearing Research Foundation was founded in 1956 by Dr. George E. Shambaugh to fund research on hearing loss and balance disorders. Today, the organization works to better understand hearing and balance, and educate people on hearing loss prevention. 

Charity Navigator gives the American Hearing Research Foundation a 4-star rating. GuideStar gives the charity a Gold Seal of Transparency. 

“Making new discoveries possible for more than 60 years.”

American Hearing Research Foundation

The American Hearing Research Foundation combats hearing loss by providing seed grants for novel research to better understand and overcome hearing and balance disorders of the inner ear. Their Research Committee chooses 5 to 10 projects to fund a year, prioritizing proposals that include groundbreaking research ideas. For example, in 2002, they funded research that led to the discovery of the human deafness gene. They also work to educate the public about hearing loss prevention through their bi-annual newsletter and their website.

Since their founding, the American Hearing Research Foundation has funded hundreds of projects to advance the understanding of hearing and balance disorders and combat hearing loss. Between 2010 and 2023 alone, they funded 123 projects with over $2.9 million in grants. They also create public service announcements to combat hearing loss. For example, in 2023 they released a video explaining sudden sensorineural hearing loss on 132 Public Broadcasting Stations, reaching over 4.1 million viewers within 3 months.

You can donate to the American Hearing Research Foundation via their website. You can also sign up to receive their newsletter.

Starkey Hearing Foundation: Supporting Hearing Health in Developing Countries

The Starkey Hearing Foundation was founded in 1984 by William F. Austin to provide the gift of hearing to people in need. Today, the organization works worldwide to ensure nobody is impeded by hearing loss.

The Starkey Hearing Foundation holds a Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Alone we can’t do much. But together, we can change the world.”

Star

The Starkey Hearing Foundation combats hearing loss in developing countries by focusing on training, education, and capacity building to increase access to hearing healthcare services. For example, in 2016, they opened the Starkey Hearing Institute in Zambia, providing full-year, accredited, professional ear and hearing health training to community health workers. As another example, they sponsor academic research in partnership with leading institutions to build knowledge of hearing loss and hearing healthcare globally. Moreover, their Global Advocacy Initiative engages hearing health professionals around the world to advocate for hearing health and support governments in developing hearing health policy solutions.

Since their inception, the Starkey Hearing Foundation has increased access to hearing health for over 1.5 million people across more than 100 countries. For example, their Starkey Hearing Institute has graduated 83 students from 18 African countries. Furthermore, they helped Kenya develop its first National Strategy for Ear and Hearing Care in 2016 and have since expanded to other low- and middle-income countries, including Ghana, Gambia, and Nigeria.

You can donate to the Starkey Hearing Foundation via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission through Planned Giving or by attending an event.

National Council on Aging: Helping Older Adults Navigate Hearing Loss

The National Council on Aging was formed in 1950 by the National Social Welfare Assembly in response to the rising cost of healthcare and mandatory retirement. Today, they continue to champion the needs of every person as they age, including those suffering from hearing loss. 

The National Council on Aging holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Aging with dignity shouldn’t be a stroke of luck.”

National Council on Aging

The National Council on Aging combats hearing loss by empowering older adults with the knowledge and resources they need to minimize its negative impact on quality of life. For example, they help mitigate the financial burden of hearing health maintenance by providing tips for utilizing Medicare benefits and accessing financial aid. They also provide extensive information about updates to the field of hearing health, including the availability of over-the-counter hearing aids and the impact of hearing loss on mental health. They also provide tips for living with hearing loss, from fun ideas for hearing loss-friendly activities to finding a competent hearing health provider.

Since their founding, the National Council on Aging has supported millions of people through their aging journey, including those with hearing loss. For example, in 2023 alone, they impacted more than 2.3 million lives, including empowering seniors to take charge of their hearing health. In the same year, they helped 63,800 adults save a total of $22.8 million on services and products for healthy aging, including hearing aids, diagnostic testing, and checkups. Moreover, in 1965, they successfully advocated for the laws that created Medicare, Medicaid, and The Older Americans Act. 

You can donate to the National Council on Aging via their website. In addition, you can join their advocacy efforts.

Hearing Loss Association of America: Fighting Hearing Loss through Education, Advocacy, and Community

The Hearing Loss Association of America was founded in 1979 by Howard E. Stone, who lost his hearing during World War II. He created the organization after experiencing the lack of services available to those with hearing loss. Today, they are the leading organization for people with hearing loss in the US.

The Hearing Loss Association of America holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Leading the charge for hearing health.”

Hearing Loss Association of America

The Hearing Loss Association of America combats hearing loss by providing educational content about preventing hearing loss and hearing restoration options. For example, their Hearing Loss Basics content includes information about symptoms and diagnosis of hearing loss, hearing loss prevention, and how to prepare for audiology appointments. Additionally, they support those already suffering from hearing loss through educational content such as technology to restore hearing, auditory training programs, and financial assistance. Furthermore, their network of local and state chapters offers people with hearing loss the opportunity to connect with other members of the hearing loss community on a local level. 

Since their founding, the Hearing Loss Association of America has impacted thousands of people with hearing loss. For example, their advocacy efforts have led to important victories for those with hearing loss, such as Over the Counter Hearing Aid Legislation. For example, in 2021, more than 4,700 people participated in Walk4Hearing events in 19 cities across the US, raising over $1 million to support people with hearing loss. In the same year, they hosted the first-ever Externally-Led Patient-Focused Drug Development Meeting on Sensorineural Hearing Loss, giving members of the hearing loss community a chance to provide input to shape the development of future treatment.

You can donate to the Hearing Loss Association of America via their website. You can also volunteer with a local chapter, or help out at a Walk4Hearing event near you. 

AARP Foundation: Guidance for Older Adults with Hearing Loss

The AARP Foundation was founded in 1996 to receive and distribute federal funds on behalf of the American Association of Retired Persons. Today, the organization remains dedicated to ensuring continued economic opportunity for older, vulnerable adults, such as those with hearing loss.

The AARP Foundation holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“For a future without senior poverty.”

AARP Foundation

The AARP Foundation combats hearing loss and improves outcomes for older adults with or at risk of developing hearing loss by providing resources and information. For example, their AARP Hearing Center provides advice for seniors struggling with their hearing, including tips on preventing further hearing loss, foods that support hearing health, and guidance on adjusting to life with hearing aids. Moreover, the organization encourages their members to be proactive about their hearing health by providing free access to the National Hearing Test, a phone-based assessment of hearing loss.

Since their founding, the AARP Foundation has increased economic opportunity for and protected the finances of millions of vulnerable older adults, serving almost 950,000 individuals in 2022 alone. For example, they helped 3,528 eligible older adults enroll in and access health care benefits, saving each beneficiary about $3,373 annually. Furthermore, their workforce programs helped generate more than $125 million for financially vulnerable seniors.

You can donate to the AARP Foundation via their website. You can also support the organization by volunteering.

Hearing Charities of America: Hearing Loss Prevention Through Awareness

Hearing Charities of America was founded in 2010 as an initiative by Sertoma to support those impacted by speech and hearing disorders. Today, they remain committed to communication in every community.

Hearing Charities of America holds a Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Creating a hearing healthy world through collaborations and raising awareness.”

Hearing Charities of America

Hearing Charities of America combats hearing loss through programs that promote hearing health awareness, hearing loss prevention, and equitable access to hearing aids. For example, their SAFEEars program, which includes Kids are Listening for children in 3rd through 6th grades and Listen Up for 6th,7th, and 8th grades, educates students about hearing loss prevention and encourages them to protect their hearing. As another example, they help organizations fundraise and raise awareness of hearing loss via Celebrate Sound, their turn-key fundraising project toolkit. Furthermore, their Hearing Aid Project brings organizations together to fulfill specific roles in the process of getting hearing aids to those who cannot otherwise afford them.

Since their founding, Hearing Charities of America has partnered with several leading hearing health organizations to benefit those impacted by hearing loss and promote hearing loss prevention. For example, their partnership with Sertoma provides for two distinct scholarships, representing the largest program of its kind. As another example, their National Hearing Aid Project utilizes the resources of several organizations, including the Hearing Health Foundation, Harris Communications, and Audicus. 

You can support Hearing Charities of America by making a monetary donation, donating hearing aids, or organizing a Celebrate Sound event.

Hearts for Hearing Foundation: Compassionate Care, Groundbreaking Research

The Hearts for Hearing Foundation was founded in 2003 by Joanna T. Smith, Dr. Teresa Caraway, and Dr. Stan Baker to fund hearing aids for children with hearing loss. Today, the organization provides comprehensive hearing health services to adults and children.

The Hearts for Hearing Foundation holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Where compassionate care meets the research needed.”

Hearts for Hearing Foundation

The Hearts for Hearing Foundation combats hearing loss by providing comprehensive hearing care and conducting research. For example, they provide resources for parents about early signs and symptoms of hearing loss and offer hearing testing so that hearing loss can be diagnosed as early as possible. As another example, they work with adults to design tailored solutions to hearing loss based on the cause, including protecting against occupational hearing loss. Furthermore, they conduct and publish influential research on topics related to combating hearing loss, like the efficacy of pediatric hearing aids, cochlear implants, and frequency-lowering processing.

Since their founding, the Hearts for Hearing Foundation has become recognized as one of Oklahoma’s leading nonprofits. For example, in 2023 they received a $200,000 grant from the Masonic Charitable Foundation and a $250,000 grant from the same organization in 2024. In the same year, they were named a finalist for the Oklahoma Nonprofit Excellence Awards, an honor given to just 21 charities out of almost 19,000 that were considered.

You can donate to the Hearts for Hearing Foundation via their website. You can also fundraise on the organization’s behalf, or attend an event.

Central Institute for the Deaf: Inclusion for Children with Hearing Loss

The Central Institute for the Deaf was founded in 1914 by Dr. Max Aaron Goldstein to teach deaf children how to speak. They were the first spoken language school dedicated to children with hearing loss, and continue to provide students with the most promising and progressive teaching techniques.

The Central Institute for the Deaf holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Listen. Talk. Read. Succeed.”

Central Institute for the Deaf

The Central Institute for the Deaf combats the negative impacts of hearing loss by utilizing the most current and cutting-edge techniques and treatments available to help deaf children learn to vocally communicate. Through live and virtual sessions, they provide individualized therapy programs to children as early in life as possible to prepare them to attend their own local kindergarten and elementary schools. They also offer instruction in a classroom setting which includes peers with typical hearing development, so students can learn the nuances of social and behavioral interactions. Furthermore, their affiliation with Washington University School of Medicine ensures that their students benefit from the most progressive techniques and treatments available.

Since their founding, the Central Institute for the Deaf has impacted the lives of thousands of deaf children and their families. Many of their students have gone on to study at some of the top colleges and universities in the US, and are enjoying successful careers in their chosen professions. In 2022 alone, they provided 949 virtual therapy sessions and 400 live sessions to children across the US. And that same year, supported hearing devices for 194 children. 

You can donate to the Central Institute for the Deaf via their website. You can also volunteer at their campus or attend an event.

How Can You Select the Best Charities to Support?

The charities on the list are, we deem, the best charities that combat hearing loss. However, you may have a particular charity you want to support. Let’s look at what you can do to ensure your contribution has the most significant impact.

• Check out the charity website. Charities that are worthy of your donations are transparent in their mission and their figures. Familiarize yourself with their history, mission, and values. Their website usually is the best place to start.
• Identify the charity’s mission. Without a goal, the charity is likely to fail. If the charity’s mission isn’t clear, it’s probably worth looking for a charity that does have a clear mission. 
• Check if the charity has measurable goals. An effective charity has clear goals. You want to know your donation will help the charity reach its goals. But if it doesn’t have targets, it’s likely to fail or squander your gift. The charity should be able to account for its spending and supply evidence of the work they do.
• Assess the successes or goals the charity has achieved. You wouldn’t invest in a business if it kept missing its targets. In the same way, charities are like this too. If no one is assessing a charity’s progress in reaching its targets, the chances are they’re not making a substantial positive change.
• Check the charity’s financials and stats. Trustworthy organizations will publish financial statements and reports each year. Some might be exempt from having to do so, but they should be able to provide them to public members who are interested in donating.
• Locate sources who work with or benefit from the charity. Word of mouth and first-hand experience of a charity’s work lets you know the charity’s quality. If you’re able to do so, check out the charity for yourself or speak to someone familiar with it. This way, your donation will go to the right place. 

How Can You Best Support These Charities?

After you’ve made your decision, it’s time for you to decide on how you’d like to help the charities you’ve chosen. Check how you can help – each charity runs specific programs that have unique aims. Find out what the aim of such programs is and whether they are right for you. 

Here are a few ways you can help your chosen charity:

• Donate money. You can find donation pages on the websites of most charities. Your donation can be a one-time payment, or you can set it to be deducted regularly at different intervals. You can mostly pay via credit card, but some charities also take PayPal or Bitcoin payments.
• Buy their official merchandise. Charities can also raise money by selling merchandise. So, you can support them by buying the mugs, shirts, caps, pens, pencils, and any other such items they may be selling. Ideally, you should buy as much as you can to share and spread the word about the charity’s activities.
• Engage in volunteer work. As you’ve seen from our descriptions above, some charities engage in a lot of local and grassroots programs. You can help by taking on and organizing the program in your local area.
• Help their fundraising efforts. You can spread the word about the charity in your workplace, school, church, etc., and hold creative fundraising drives on social media or offline within your small circles.
• Share their stories. Most charities have compelling stories that you can share with your audience to attract more people to the cause.

Final Thoughts

Now it is up to you to select the charity that resonates most with you. And whichever charity you end up choosing and contributing to, we are sure that they will immensely appreciate your support. Hopefully, the information within this article has made this selection process a bit easier for you to support charities dedicated to combatting hearing loss—based on the causes that matter most to you.

Stay impactful,

PS: Finally, I want to leave you with a thought-provoking TED talk from Dan Pallotta, a leading philanthropic activist and fundraiser, about what is wrong with the way we think about charities – and what we can do about it:

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