Note: VIRS ~ONLY~ provides sign language interpreters (not interpreters for any foreign spoken languages.) Although VIRS does not provide an emergency/after-hours on-call service, a list of interpreters and their contact information can be found on their website.
The Vermont Interpreter Referral Service (VIRS) was founded in 1992. It has grown steadily as awareness of the Service, its effectiveness, and the implications of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) have grown. Initially established with federal funds as a pilot project, the Service is currently funded with a grant from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and with funds generated from finder’s fees.
VIRS provides state-wide interpreter and CART referral services for American Sign Language (ASL)/English interpreting assignments in settings such as governmental, mental health, medical, legal, employment, educational, civil and recreational. VIRS serves all Vermonters, both hearing and deaf, in need of securing a sign language interpreter. Communication is a two way street. Interpreters allow hearing persons to access communication with deaf and hard of hearing people as well, so in fact the interpreter is there for all parties.
VIRS also provides advocacy for deaf clients and serves as an informational resource throughout the state.