Holley Family Village 

Our Story

The Holley Institute was established in 1993 in response to a critical need: support for families learning their child was Deaf or Hard of Hearing.

At that time, newborns were not universally screened for hearing loss. Many parents—often hearing themselves—didn’t learn about their child’s deafness until months or even years later, after language delays had already set in. Resources were limited, interpreters were not always available, and families often had to navigate this journey on their own.

The Institute began its work at Ascension Hospital (now located at Henry Ford St. John Hospital), where a dedicated committee ensured families had access to newborn hearing screenings. Today, our trained volunteers continue this vital work, screening approximately 3,500 infants each year and helping families receive information and support as early as possible.

In 1996, we expanded with the opening of Holley Family Village, a 214-acre retreat in Brooklyn, Michigan. This lakeside space was created as a welcoming place for families to gather, learn, and connect. Here, children and parents could strengthen communication skills, find support, and build lifelong connections.

Over the years, our programs have grown to include immersive Family Weeks, year-round ASL classes, the Community Health and Literacy Program (CHLP), Family Literacy Weekends, and more! 

For more than 30 years, The Holley Institute has been dedicated to empowering families and children through language, education, and connection—building a world where Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals and their loved ones are seen, supported, and celebrated.