The Montana Association of the Deaf (MAD) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting, preserving, promoting, and advocating for the civil, human, cultural, and linguistic rights of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals in Montana. Founded in June 1912 by twenty-four Deaf individuals in Boulder, Montana, MAD began as a social gathering for isolated Deaf residents and evolved into a powerful legal and economic advocacy group.
The MAD board for the 2025–2027 term (per the website):
- President: Cam Tulloch
- Vice President: Andrew Kauffman
- Secretary: Anna Haslund
- Treasurer: Amanda Kauffman
- Senior Trustee: Brenda LeMieux
- Junior Trustee: Larry Eide
- Past President: Tyler Hansen
- GFCD Chapter Representative: Larry Edie
- MCD Chapter Representative: Kirk Hash Jr
- GAD Chapter Representative: Allen Nearhoof
- Member-At-Large: Noah Culver
Bylaws were updated in 2025.
MAD was founded in June 1912 in Boulder, Montana, by twenty-four Deaf individuals. Initially, the purpose was to create a social gathering for Deaf people who were isolated in their hometowns near and far and needed communication. Some years later, MAD became involved in advocacy for Deaf people legally and economically.
The organization has since grown to serve the entire state of Montana, hosting conferences every odd-numbered year with the site determined by member vote. MAD's advocacy scope covers communication, education, employment, and more for present and future generations.
- Mutual Assistance: Support for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing across the state
- Welfare Promotion: Promoting the welfare, education, and civil rights of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Intellectual Advancement: Encouraging intellectual, industrial, and social advancement of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Knowledge Dissemination: Sharing knowledge related to Deaf and Hard of Hearing education and employment capabilities
- Biennial Conferences: MAD hosts conferences every odd-numbered year. The 53rd Biennial Conference was held in Bozeman, Montana, featuring resources, workshops, and board elections.
- Chapter Meetings: Active local branches including the Missoula Club of the Deaf (MCD)
- Awards Committee: Annual awards program for community recognition
- Missoula Club of the Deaf (MCD) — Active local MAD chapter in Missoula
- Great Falls Club of the Deaf (GFCD) — Local MAD chapter
- Gallatin Association of the Deaf (GAD) — Local MAD chapter
- National Association of the Deaf (NAD) — National advocacy partner