[real-eyes] Free Assistive Technology Help Available

  • From: "Nancy Lynn" <freespirit52@xxxxxxxxxxx>
  • To: "Real Eyes" <real-eyes@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
  • Date: Fri, 31 Mar 2006 08:44:54 -0600



This is great.
Andy

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 21, 2006
                    Contact:

Dominic Calabrese

312/997-3662

Chicago Lighthouse Sets Up Assistive Technology Computer Help Desk

CHICAGO - In an effort to accommodate people with visual impairments in need
of technical support, The Chicago Lighthouse has established a telephone
assistive technology support line.


The toll free number for the new service is 888 TCL (825) 0080.

"We're excited to have an opportunity to make it easier for people with
visual impairments to take advantage of the many technological advancements
that are now more readily available," said William Bielawski, program
manager for adaptive technology and office skills training at The
Lighthouse.


Bielawski noted that any blind or visually impaired person could call the
support line regardless of what product they're using.

"It can be any hardware or software relating to assistive technology as long
as the customer is visually impaired," he said.


"We also encourage calls from teachers and other individuals who work with
people who are visually impaired as well as other interested parties."

Servicing the calls is Ray Campbell, a former engineer with Lucent
Technologies who now works in The Lighthouse's Adaptive Technology program.


"Our intent is to offer a one stop place where people who are blind or
visually impaired can get the assistance that they need," he said.

"I can listen to what JAWS or WindowEyes is saying and walk him or her right
through their problem."


Campbell added that if he can't resolve the issue over the phone, he will
schedule an on-site visit as long as the customer resides in the Chicago
metropolitan area.

The program was made possible when The Lighthouse successfully matched a
$41,000 grant from the Boeing Company Foundation.

"We're tremendously grateful to Boeing for their support and we intend to
use the help desk in strengthening our level of customer service and
showcasing The Lighthouse as a national leader in adaptive technology,"
Bielawski said.

Celebrating its centennial this year, The Lighthouse is one of the oldest
social service agencies in Chicago. It is regarded as the most
comprehensive agency of its kind in the Midwest and a model agency
nationally.

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