Association of Lifelong Learners has been evaluating various ways to improve communications between presenters and members, plus guests, on hikes and walking tours. Groups can become too large or get spread out so some people cannot readily understand the presenter because of the distance. Additionally, people with a hearing impairment may have even more difficulty.

Recently, a Hearing Assist system, such as those used by professional tour groups, was purchased with a $1,000 grant provided by the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan and generous donations from last November’s Giving Tuesday fundraising event.

The system consists of 30 receivers and two transmitters along with associated microphones, earphones and other support items. The system allows up to two tour groups operating in the same area by using different channels. Presenters can easily be heard from 200 to 400 feet away.

Recently, ALL had the first opportunity to use the system while touring the Herman Vogler Conservation Area near Rogers City. Brittany Vanderwall, a forester assistance program forester for Presque Isle and Cheboygon counties, presented a program on Forest Ecology with a several mile walk through the area.

Members and guests enjoyed the entire presentation while being able to take photos, stop for a closer look at plants and trees or walk at a more comfortable pace. These devices will be used on various ALL outings in the future.

Other area groups may be able to utilize the devices if available.