Why I Started Deaf Roamer — A Van, A Storm, and A Mission for Change

When I started Deaf Roamer, I wasn’t trying to build a brand—I was trying to fill a gap no one else saw.

It began after Hurricane Irma hit Florida. We lost power for ten days. My outdoor experience helped my family get through it—we cooked meals, stayed calm, and even helped neighbors who were struggling. But something happened during those days that changed my life.

I heard about a Duracell truck giving out free batteries in our area, so I went to check it out. They had all kinds of batteries—but none for hearing aids.

And that hit me hard.

There are nearly 2 million deaf and hard-of-hearing people in Florida alone, and over 3 million in California. And yet, even in a crisis, our needs are often overlooked.

That was the moment Deaf Roamer was born.

What Deaf Roamer Is All About

Today, I live full-time on the road in a van I converted myself—with the support of my wife and two kids. But this isn’t just about travel. This is about advocacy on wheels.

Deaf Roamer is a platform where I:
– Raise awareness for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community
– Collaborate with brands who value inclusivity
– Promote assistive technology and accessible tools
– Host and attend events that welcome everyone
– Inspire others to explore the outdoors safely with the right gear and tech

My goal is to build a community where people and businesses don’t just include the deaf community—they celebrate it.

A Bigger Vision: Helping During Crisis

While the heart of Deaf Roamer is connection and awareness, I want to go further.

I envision using the Deaf Roamer van as a mobile relief hub during natural disasters—equipped to provide power, Wi-Fi, hearing aid batteries, and basic support to deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals when they’re most vulnerable.

It’s a big idea, but one that could truly make a difference when it matters most.

The First Big Partnership

In 2024, Agile Offroad brought me on as an ambassador. But they didn’t just sponsor me—they listened. They learned about the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. They made custom merch in ASL. They asked questions, stayed curious, and took real steps to make van life more inclusive.

That’s what real partnership looks like. And I’m looking for more of it.

If You’re a Brand Who Wants to Make a Difference…

I’m not here to collect sponsors. I’m here to partner with people and companies who believe accessibility isn’t a “nice to have”—it’s a responsibility.

I can help your brand:
– Reach deaf and hard-of-hearing communities with authenticity
– Integrate accessibility into your product or message
– Share your mission in a meaningful way

Let’s work together to make sure no one is left out—whether it’s on the road, in a storm, or in a story.

Want to connect?

]Email: gregg@deafroamer.com
] Instagram: @DeafRoamer
]Website: www.deafroamer.com