The SOS Agency

Why I Still Show Up to Assignments (And What That Means for You)

taneshf — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 16:29:26 +0000

As the owner of The SOS Agency, you’d think most of my days are spent behind a desk managing schedules, contracts, and strategy. And while that’s true to an extent, what might surprise you is that I still regularly accept interpreting assignments myself.

Why?

Because I love it. Because I believe in it. And because it makes me a better leader for you.

Being out in the field allows me to stay deeply connected to the interpreting experience—the good, the challenging, and the moments of real impact. I witness firsthand what our interpreters are navigating each day, and that keeps me humble. It also gives me a level of empathy and insight that drives the decisions I make for this agency and ultimately, for your organization.

Not long ago, I walked into an assignment and the onsite contact began sharing, quite candidly, the poor service they had received from another agency for two years straight. The wrong professionals sent to highly sensitive situations. A lack of follow-through and professionalism. Hearing that broke my heart—but it also fired me up.

You deserve more than someone just “filling a slot.” You deserve a partner who takes this work seriously, who ensures the right interpreter is showing up for the right assignment, who cares about the outcome as much as you do.

At The SOS Agency, we take pride in getting it right—from the moment you submit a request to the moment the job is complete. We’ve built a team that’s not only skilled but supported, mentored, and aligned with our values.

And when I show up too, it’s not because I have to—it’s because I want to. Because it keeps me in touch with your needs. Because your satisfaction is our standard. And because nothing beats seeing the positive impact of clear, effective communication in real time.

Thank you for trusting us. We don’t take it lightly.

Warmly,
Tanesh Foster
Founder & CEO, The SOS Agency

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Still in the Field—and That’s My Superpower

taneshf — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 16:28:44 +0000

One of the most rewarding parts of my journey is that I get to wear two hats: agency owner and interpreter. And I love both. Running The SOS Agency is a passion, but staying connected to the work—showing up to assignments, standing alongside Deaf clients, and ensuring communication flows—is just as meaningful to me.

Being an interpreter allows me to stay grounded in the reality of the field. I see what interpreters see. I feel what interpreters feel. I understand the highs, the frustrations, the unpredictability, and—most importantly—the joy that comes with a successful interaction. It’s a constant reminder of why this work matters.

Not too long ago, I showed up for an assignment (and honestly, this happens more than I’d like), and the onsite contact began to share story after story about the poor service they had been receiving for the past two years. TWO YEARS. Some agencies just don’t care—my heart sank, and then… I got mad.

Mad because it doesn’t have to be like that. Because this community deserves better. Because the work we do as interpreters has a lasting impact, and being done carelessly is unacceptable.

That moment—those conversations—fuel my why.

I’m proud of the reputation The SOS Agency has built. We’re intentional. We care. We train, mentor, and support our interpreters so that when we show up, we show up right. And as the owner, I get to make decisions that influence how interpreting services are delivered. I get to lead a company that doesn’t just talk the talk—we walk it, side-by-side with the communities we serve.

It’s not always easy. But it’s always worth it.

And being in the field? That’s not just my background—it’s my superpower.

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The Power of Deaf and Hearing Interpreter Teaming: Enhancing Access Through Collaboration

taneshf — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:29:29 +0000

On March 22nd, The SOS Agency hosted a powerful workshop focused on Deaf and Hearing Interpreter teaming. This session highlighted how collaboration between Deaf and hearing interpreters enhances communication accuracy, cultural mediation, and overall accessibility.

Why Deaf and Hearing Interpreter Teaming Matters for Your Business

While many people assume that Deaf interpreters are only necessary when language deprivation is present, this is not the case. Our workshop highlighted the broad range of benefits that Deaf interpreters bring to a variety of settings, including:

Enhanced accuracy and cultural representation: Deaf interpreters ensure authentic language and cultural nuances are conveyed, resulting in clearer and more accurate communication.
Improved accessibility for diverse language needs: Deaf interpreters are highly skilled at working with diverse signing styles and individuals with varying language proficiency, ensuring no one is left behind.
Increased consumer confidence: When Deaf and hearing interpreters work together, consumers experience greater trust and comfort, knowing their communication needs are being fully understood and represented.

When to Hire a Deaf-Hearing Interpreter Team

Deaf-Hearing interpreter teams are invaluable in high-impact and complex settings where accuracy, clarity, and cultural mediation are critical. Here are some examples of when to hire a team:

Catastrophic News and Emergency Announcements:

During public safety briefings, such as hurricanes, wildfires, or mass emergencies, Deaf interpreters ensure vital information is accurately conveyed.
They help prevent miscommunication or confusion in life-threatening situations.

Legal and Court Proceedings:

Deaf interpreters are essential in legal settings, especially when working with Deaf individuals under the age of 18.

Healthcare and Mental Health Settings:

In medical environments, Deaf interpreters clarify complex medical jargon and ensure accurate communication of symptoms and treatments.
In mental health settings, they help interpret emotional cues and cultural nuances that hearing interpreters may miss.

Televised and Virtual Events:

Major news networks often hire Deaf interpreters during broadcasts and press conferences to enhance accessibility.
Virtual events benefit from Deaf-Hearing teams to ensure clear and consistent communication.

What This Means for Your Organization

When you partner with The SOS Agency, you’re not just hiring interpreters—you’re investing in a higher level of accessibility and quality communication. Deaf-Hearing interpreter teams:
Improve accuracy and comprehension for Deaf consumers.
Ensure cultural and linguistic integrity in every interaction.
Provide a better experience for both Deaf and hearing participants, ensuring inclusivity and equity.

Partnering for Greater Accessibility

At The SOS Agency, we are committed to providing your business with skilled, qualified, and dynamic interpreter teams. Our focus is on delivering exceptional service through collaboration, flexibility, and adaptability—just like water.

If you’re interested in enhancing accessibility at your next event, meeting, or service, reach out to us today. Let us help you ensure clear, inclusive, and accurate communication for everyone.

Contact Us: The SOS Agency

Phone: 1-866-414-3555

Email: [email protected]

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Be Like Water: The Power of Deaf and Hearing Interpreter Teaming

taneshf — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:20:11 +0000

On March 22nd, we had the privilege of hosting an insightful workshop focused on Deaf and Hearing Interpreter teaming, presented by Jeremy Quiroga, CDI. It was a fantastic opportunity to strengthen our skills, expand our knowledge, and reflect on the essential collaboration between Deaf and hearing interpreters.

Be Like Water: The Art of Adaptability

One of the most powerful takeaways from the workshop was the concept of “Be Like Water.” This philosophy, popularized by Bruce Lee in the film Enter the Dragon, teaches us about adaptability, fluidity, and resilience. In the context of interpreting, it reminds us to be flexible and responsive—shifting seamlessly to meet the needs of the Deaf consumer, the environment, and the interpreting team.

Bruce Lee famously says:

“Be formless, shapeless, like water. You put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle. Water can flow or it can crash. Be water, my friend.”

As interpreters, we strive to “be like water”—adapting to the linguistic and cultural needs of the moment. Whether providing clarification, shifting interpreting modes, or ensuring accuracy through collaboration, this mindset allows us to deliver fluid, dynamic, and effective communication.

The Power of Teaming: It’s More Than Language Deprivation

A key takeaway from the workshop was the versatility and necessity of Deaf interpreters in a variety of settings—not just when language deprivation is present or sign language users from other countries. While Deaf interpreters are often called in for consumers with limited language proficiency, their expertise enhances accuracy, cultural mediation, and message integrity in numerous scenarios.

Teaming Models We Explored

We also reviewed several models of teaming that strengthen the interpreting process.

Consecutive Interpreting Process: The Deaf interpreter receives the message, processes it, and then relays it. All messages consistently go through the CDI.
Simultaneous Interpreting Process: Both interpreters work in real time, with the Deaf interpreter expressing the message simultaneously.
Expressive Loop: The Deaf interpreter provides support with only expressive communication.
Receptive Loop: The Deaf interpreter provides support with only receptive communication.
Clarification Process: The Deaf interpreter takes on a consultative role, verifying unclear content, ensuring accuracy, and confirming the consumer’s comprehension. The CDI does not interpret the messages consistently but rather pauses to clarify and expand as needed.

Why Does This Work Matters?

Together, we provide a higher level of service by:
Preserving cultural and linguistic integrity.
Improving message accuracy through real-time feedback and clarification.
Ensuring that Deaf consumers receive communication that reflects their full range of expression and meaning.
Supporting a standard of excellence that goes beyond basic interpretation.

Continuing the Journey

As we reflect on this workshop, let’s carry the “Be Like Water” philosophy into our daily practice. By remaining flexible, adaptable, and collaborative, we enhance the quality of our services and strengthen the Deaf-Hearing interpreter partnership.

Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to this enriching experience. We look forward to seeing you at future workshops as we continue to grow and evolve together!

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The Interpreter Shortage Is Real!

taneshf — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 18:58:59 +0000

At The SOS Agency, we take pride in our ability to provide interpreters at a moment’s notice. We understand that life doesn’t always go as planned—especially in medical and mental health settings, where urgent needs arise without warning. However, as the demand for interpreters continues to grow, securing services in advance is more important than ever.

Why Is There an Interpreter Shortage?

The shortage of qualified interpreters is a nationwide issue. Several factors contribute to this challenge:

Increased Demand: As accessibility awareness grows, more organizations recognize the importance of qualified interpreters, increasing the need for services.
Limited Interpreter Pool: Becoming a skilled interpreter takes years of training and experience, and the number of certified professionals isn’t keeping pace with demand.
High Specialization Needs: Some settings—such as medical, legal, and mental health—require interpreters with specialized knowledge, making last-minute coverage even more difficult.

How You Can Help

We are committed to serving our clients, even on short notice, but we encourage you to submit your interpreter requests as early as possible. This helps ensure:

Interpreter Availability: The earlier you request, the better chance we have of securing the best interpreter for your needs.
The Right Match: Advanced notice allows us to provide an interpreter with the appropriate skill set for your specific setting.
Seamless Service: Avoid delays and last-minute stress by planning ahead whenever possible.

Our Commitment to You

Even with the growing demand, The SOS Agency remains dedicated to providing top-notch service. We continue to expand our network of highly skilled interpreters and prioritize urgent requests when life happens unexpectedly. Your communication needs matter to us, and we will always do our best to accommodate you.

Need an interpreter? Submit your request today!

Request online: thesosagency.com/request-services/

Email us: [email protected]

Thank you for trusting The SOS Agency—we’re here to serve you!

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PSA: Don’t Be Afraid to Hit Decline!

taneshf — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 18:37:09 +0000

At The SOS Agency, we completely understand that interpreters have busy schedules. When we send out availability requests, we know that you may not always be available—and that’s okay! However, we’ve heard from many interpreters that they hesitate to hit “Decline” because they fear it sends a negative message to the agency. Let us be clear: it doesn’t! In fact, we prefer you to hit decline rather than leaving us wondering if you’ve seen the email, which leads to follow-ups via text.

Why Hitting Decline Helps Everyone

Clarity for Scheduling – When you hit decline, we immediately know to move on and find coverage elsewhere. This helps us serve our clients efficiently and ensures assignments are filled quickly.
Less Follow-Up Needed – If we don’t hear from you, we have to assume you may not have seen the request. That means additional follow-ups via email or text, which take time for both you and us.
No Hard Feelings!– Declining an assignment does NOT mean you are turning down work in general. It simply means you aren’t available for that request.

We Do Make Exceptions for Text Requests

We understand that some interpreters prefer receiving requests via text due to their workflow or email constraints. We do take note of that and will continue to text those interpreters.

The Bottom Line

Don’t be afraid to hit decline! It helps keep our scheduling process smooth, reduces unnecessary follow-ups, and ensures everyone’s time is respected. So the next time you see an availability request that you can’t take, go ahead and hit that button—no worries, no pressure, just clarity!
Thank you for being a valued part of The SOS Agency!

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The Disabled Access Credit: A Valuable Resource for Businesses

taneshf — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 18:07:52 +0000

As part of The SOS Agency’s commitment to helping our clients thrive, we want to shine a light on a valuable tax incentive that can make a big difference for businesses – especially those focused on accessibility and inclusivity: The Disabled Access Credit.

What is the Disabled Access Credit?

The Disabled Access Credit is a tax credit designed to help small businesses cover the costs of making their operations more accessible to individuals with disabilities. This is an incentive provided by the IRS to encourage businesses to invest in accessibility improvements, ensuring that people with disabilities can fully participate in the workforce and enjoy the services businesses provide.

Who is Eligible for the Disabled Access Credit?

This tax credit is available to small businesses with fewer than 31 full-time employees and gross receipts of $1 million or less in the previous year. The credit applies to businesses that incur expenses to make their physical locations, goods, or services more accessible to people with disabilities.

What Expenses Can Be Covered?

The Disabled Access Credit can help cover a wide range of costs associated with accessibility. Some examples of eligible expenses include:

Modifying existing facilities to make them accessible, such as installing ramps or widening doorways.
Providing accessible parking spaces or signage.
Purchasing equipment or services that improve accessibility, such as adaptive technology or specialized software for employees or customers.
Hiring interpreters for communication with customers who are deaf or hard of hearing.

For businesses in the interpreting and accessibility fields, such as ours, the credit may be especially useful for investing in services or technology that can help improve communication and meet the needs of customers with disabilities.

How Much Can You Claim?

The Disabled Access Credit allows businesses to claim up to $10,250 in qualifying expenses. Here’s how the credit breaks down:

If your business has expenses up to $250,000, you can receive a maximum credit of $10,250.
The credit is 25% of the first $10,000 of qualifying expenses, for a total of up to $2,500.
For businesses with gross receipts of less than $250,000, the total amount of expenses eligible for the credit may be increased.

How to Apply for the Disabled Access Credit

You will need to file IRS Form 8826, which is specifically designed for this purpose. The form can be filed along with your regular business tax return. Be sure to keep detailed records of any expenses related to accessibility improvements, as the IRS may request supporting documentation.

Why It Matters for Your Business

Making your business more accessible positions you as a company that values inclusivity and diversity. By taking advantage of the Disabled Access Credit, businesses can improve their physical spaces, services, and reputation, all while receiving financial support to offset the costs.

For businesses in sectors such as education, healthcare, or public services, where communication accessibility is crucial, this credit can be a game-changer in ensuring equal access for all customers, employees, and community members.

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Tax Season Doesn’t Have to Be Dreadful: Year-Round Tips for a Stress-Free Filing

taneshf — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 18:02:04 +0000

For many, tax season brings a wave of stress and last-minute scrambling. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? With a little preparation throughout the year, you can breeze through tax time with confidence. Here are some simple yet effective tips to keep your finances in order and make filing your taxes a stress-free experience.

1. Keep Track of Your Income & Expenses

We know you’re receiving multiple 1099s and W-2s from the many agencies and employers you’ve worked with throughout the year. Trying to track them all down at the last minute can be overwhelming. Keep a running log of all your earnings and expenses so everything is in one place when tax season arrives.

Pro Tip: Use apps like QuickBooks, Expensify, or a simple spreadsheet to track your financial activity in real time.

2. Set Up a Tax Savings Account

Avoid the shock of a big tax bill by setting aside money throughout the year. If you’re self-employed or have multiple income streams, putting aside a percentage of each payment into a dedicated savings account can prevent financial strain when it’s time to pay your taxes.

Pro Tip: A good rule of thumb is to save around 25-30% of your income for taxes if you don’t have withholdings.

3. Stay on Top of Tax Deductions & Credits

Many people miss out on valuable tax deductions simply because they don’t keep track of them. Whether it’s business expenses, home office deductions, or charitable contributions, maintaining records will ensure you maximize your refund or lower your tax liability.

Pro Tip: Keep receipts and categorize expenses throughout the year. Taking photos of receipts and storing them in a digital folder can also be a lifesaver.

4. Make Estimated Tax Payments

Staying on top of these payments prevents underpayment penalties and a huge bill at tax time.

Pro Tip: Set reminders for quarterly payment deadlines: April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15.

5. Maximize Retirement Contributions

Contributing to tax-advantaged retirement accounts like a 401(k) or an IRA can reduce your taxable income. The more you contribute (within IRS limits), the more you can potentially save on taxes while securing your financial future.

6. Work with a Tax Professional

If taxes feel overwhelming, consider working with a CPA or tax professional. They can help you find deductions, ensure accuracy, and even strategize ways to save on taxes in the future.

Final Thoughts

We know you’ve been juggling multiple jobs and income sources, but tax season doesn’t have to be dreadful! By staying organized, planning ahead, and making small financial adjustments throughout the year, you can take control of your taxes and reduce stress when filing time rolls around.

Start today, and next year’s tax season will be a breeze!

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2024 Year in Review

taneshf — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 17:01:29 +0000

As 2024 draws to a close, The SOS Agency reflects on some incredible milestones. Here’s a look back at what we achieved together in this remarkable year.

Celebrating 5 Years of Impact

In 2024, we marked five years in business with an unforgettable celebration. We hosted an event for our interpreters, clients, and customers to honor their unwavering trust and partnership. This milestone wasn’t just about longevity—it was about recognizing the collective effort that’s fueled our success and the vibrant community we’ve built together.

Empowering the Next Generation of Interpreters

This year, we expanded our commitment to shaping the future of interpreters:

Developed a Mentoring Program: We launched a structured mentoring program to connect a seasoned interpreter with newcomers to the field. This initiative fosters knowledge-sharing, builds confidence, and helps interpreters grow in their careers.
Hosted “What’s Next After the ITP?” Workshop: Designed for interpreting training program (ITP) students and recent graduates, this free workshop offered insights into transitioning from the classroom to a professional interpreting career.

Driving Diversity and Inclusion

Since 2020, we have proudly funded BIPOC interpreters to take their national interpreting exam. This initiative reflects our dedication to increasing representation and opportunity in the interpreting field. We believe that diversity enriches our profession and strengthens our ability to serve diverse communities.

Expanding Services and Reach

This year brought significant growth in our service offerings:

CART Expansion: We broadened our Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) services, providing accessibility for more clients in academic, corporate, and community settings.
VRI On-Demand: We introduced on-demand Video Remote Interpreting (VRI), offering clients immediate access to interpreters for urgent and virtual needs.
New Contracts: Securing local and federal contracts allowed us to extend our services to even more clients and settings, solidifying our reputation as a trusted partner in the industry.

Welcoming New Talent

To meet the growing demand for our services, we:

Hired new staff members
Onboarded more interpreters

Overcoming Challenges

Growth doesn’t come without its hurdles, and 2024 was no exception:

Software Transitions: Switching to a new software system—twice—tested our adaptability and resilience.
Interpreter Shortage: Balancing the rising demand for services amid a nationwide interpreter shortage required creativity and careful planning.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we step into 2025, we are more excited than ever for what’s to come:

Continuing to expand our on-demand VRI services and CART services.
Building stronger partnerships with clients through tailored solutions and ongoing innovation.
Hosting additional workshops and events to support interpreters and strengthen our community.
Expanding our mentoring department.

Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey

To our interpreters: Each time you accept an assignment, you make our mission possible.
To our clients and customers: Your trust inspires us to push boundaries and deliver excellence.
To our staff: Your passion and hard work drive our success.

Thank you for an unforgettable 2024. Here’s to a bright future ahead—together!

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Gratitude and Growth: A Thanksgiving Reflection from The SOS Agency

taneshf — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 14:47:38 +0000

As we gather around tables filled with family, friends, and delicious food this Thanksgiving, The SOS Agency takes a moment to reflect on the power of gratitude and connection. This year, we are especially thankful for the incredible community of interpreters, clients, and partners who make our work meaningful.

Gratitude for Our Interpreters

Our interpreters are the heart and soul of The SOS Agency. Their skill, professionalism, and dedication ensure that language barriers don’t stand in the way of understanding and opportunity. Whether interpreting for educational settings, medical appointments, or corporate meetings, their work fosters inclusion and equity in every space they enter.

Gratitude for Our Clients

To our clients, thank you for trusting The SOS Agency to provide access. Each request you make helps create a world where everyone can participate fully and confidently.

Celebrating Growth

This year brought exciting milestones for The SOS Agency. Growth is only possible through collaboration, and we are grateful for every conversation, project, and partnership that brought us closer to our goals.

A Season of Giving Back

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we’re also committed to giving back. We have announced our new scholarship winner and will participate in multiple donation drives to give back to the Deaf community.The SOS Agency believes in sharing our success to uplift others.

Looking Ahead with Gratitude

As the holiday season begins, we look forward to continuing to serve our community with the same passion and dedication that have defined The SOS Agency from the start. We celebrate the connections that unite us and the opportunities we create together.

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