Established in 1982 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Betty and Leonard Phillips Deaf Action Center emerged from a community need. Sandi and Jeffrey Kallenberg recognized this need while involved with a National Theatre of the Deaf production through the Shreveport Regional Arts Council (SRAC). Their concern, shared by Mrs. Kallenberg's parents, Betty and Leonard Phillips, her brother Fred Phillips, and their families, led to the founding of the Center.

From its humble beginnings in a borrowed office, the Center has grown to operate in a 4,550 square foot facility designed to meet the unique communication needs of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard-of-Hearing (DDBHH) community. Today, a team of eight full-time staff members, a dedicated Board of Directors, and volunteers work to fulfill our mission to empower the community by providing comprehensive services that promote equal access in every aspect of their lives.