In 1979, the Ear Research Foundation was established in Sarasota, Florida by President and Founder, Dr. Herbert Silverstein. The Foundation was created out of his desire to continue research and development, and to contribute to medical education in a private setting in the field of Otolaryngology. Mission: The Ear Research Foundation is a nonprofit (501c3) organization is dedicated to: Research into finding better treatments for hearing loss and balance problems, Education of physicians and the public, and providing Community Care. Research and clinical studies have been coordinated by Ear Research Foundation in partnership with Silverstein Institute to discover new diagnostic technologies and treatment for ear care, balance disorders, and tinnitus. -Research and clinical trials for advancement in ear microsurgery. -Testing of innovative medications and therapies for hearing issues and balance disorders -Discovering new understanding of otologic disease progressions. Community informational and professional training sessions since 1983. Fellows Program: One-year interactive clinical and surgical post-residency program for which 48 physicians have participated since 1983. Fellows remain connected leaders practicing Otology and Neurotology across the U.S. Professional conferences have been held annually since 2005 featuring notable guest speakers and hands-on training sessions. Over the last five years alone, nearly 300 physicians have attended from across the U.S., as well as many foreign countries including Argentina, South Korea, Palestine, China, Australia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Aruba, and Malaysia. Lunch and Learns: These talks are available to the general public covering topics related to common and unusual ear conditions. Since 2013, over 1,800 community members have attended 90 Lunch and Learns. CARE Hearing screenings, treatments, and surgical procedures and devices provided for those in need. Help Us Hear is a needs-based program for quality medical services and hearing devices for children, adults, and seniors. Since 2012, 98 individuals have received otological devices, implants, or other surgery or treatment through the Ear Research Foundation. Hearing screenings are given to over 1,200 preschoolers between the ages of 3 to 5 years annually. On average, 10% are referred for additional testing. Ear Research Foundation maintains a community presence and partnership with schools, human service, and health care organizations across Sarasota County.