Community Interpreting Fund
Ronald Symon & David Still Memorial
Community Interpreting Fund
The Ronald Symon and David Still Memorial Community Interpreting Fund (CIF) was established to provide pro bono interpreting for Deaf, hard of hearing, and DeafBlind individuals for community interpreting services in underfunded or unfunded sectors. Following a donation from the estate of Ronald Symon, Still Interpreting Inc. matched the donation and created the fund in the summer of 2026. To ensure the CIF can continue supporting the community for years to come, the initial contribution has been invested to allow the fund to grow and create a lasting impact over time.
Ronald Symon
Ronald Symon attended the Jericho Hill School for the Deaf and remained actively involved in several local Deaf community organizations throughout his life. Having experienced limited access to interpreting services in his youth, Ronald came to deeply value the access provided by sign language interpreters later in life. He believed that access to services could enrich the lives of Deaf community members. Following his passing in May 2025, Ronald’s estate was divided according to his wishes among several organizations connected to the Deaf community, including Still Interpreting Inc. His generous donation provided the catalyst for creating the fund and for this reason, the fund is named after him.
David Still
David Still was a co-founder of Still Interpreting Inc., Sign Language Interpreter, and interpreter educator. The fund bears his name to honour his extraordinary legacy as a visionary leader, educator, mentor, and advocate who dedicated his life to advancing the field of ASL-English interpretation and accessibility. Beyond his work with the agency, David was a passionate educator, a founding member of both CASLI and WAVLI, and a driving force behind the development of professional standards in the interpreting field. Known for his generosity, humour, and unwavering commitment to lifelong learning, David inspired countless interpreters through his teaching, mentorship, and leadership. The fund is named in recognition of David’s lasting impact on the interpreting community and to continue supporting the enhancement of accessibility which he championed throughout his life.
Timelines
Spring 2026
Still Interpreting was notified of the disbursement from Ronald's estate. Discussions and planning to create the Ronald Symon and David Still Memorial Community Interpreting Fund (CIF) began.
Summer 2026
Still Interpreting receives the funds and matches the donation to create the initial CIF. Funds are invested to start generating interest. Furthermore, policies, procedures, and criteria for management and provision of pro bono services are being developed.
Fall 2026
Funds for the CIF will remain invested to generate additional funding. Information about the criteria for pro bono services and how to apply will be shared with the community.
Early 2027
Requests for pro bono interpreting services open. Funds will remain invested to continue to generate interest income and allow for long-term funding for the CIF.