When Dianne Arbeiter entered a classroom, she recognized the unique potential of every student and believed each one deserved to be heard.
With 25 years of service in the Special School District (SSD) and as former head of the deaf and hard-of-hearing program, Dianne dedicated her career to ensuring every child, regardless of hearing ability, had the tools they needed to succeed.
Though we lost Dianne to cancer in 2001, her legacy continues through the Arbeiter Gift of Sound Fundraiser.
We invite you to join us in continuing her legacy.
The Growing Need
For many families, the cost of hearing aids, earmolds, and specialized audiological equipment is significant. These items are often not covered by insurance or public funding. As expenses increase, more students risk falling behind because they cannot hear their teachers or classmates.
Your support can make a difference.
Two Ways to Make a Difference
This year, the Special Education Foundation (SEF) offers two ways to support our audiology program. Every contribution directly benefits SSD students in our community.
1. Enter the Gift of Sound Raffle
Our annual raffle has returned. By purchasing a ticket, you not only have a chance to win prizes but also directly fund hearing aid repairs and replacement earmolds for children in need.
- The Prizes: We have curated a selection of gift cards and experience packages—from dinners and iconic St. Louis hotel stays to local “staycation” favorites and a golf outing.
- Each raffle ticket can help a student move from silence to active participation in class.
Browse our raffle and purchase tickets here.
2. Make a Direct Donation
If you prefer to donate directly, your contribution will help purchase essential equipment.
- $50 helps cover the cost of a new earmold.
- $120 or more contributes to vital audiological repairs and new hearing aids.
Donate to the Arbeiter Gift of Sound Today
Why It Matters
Sound is more than noise; it is a friend’s laughter, a coach’s instructions, and a parent’s voice. By supporting the Arbeiter Gift of Sound, you help remove barriers to a child’s education.
As Dianne Arbeiter’s colleagues and family intended when they began this fundraiser over two decades ago, we remain committed to honoring her memory by serving the students she cared for.
Will you help us reach our $10,000 goal? Together, we can make 2026 the year every student in the program receives the gift of sound.
