Where It's AT – Assistive Technology Blog

The Great Lakes ADA Center in collaboration with the ADA National Network invites you to register for the upcoming Ask an ADA Professional Webinar session titled “Communication Requirements under the ADA”

Date:  Wednesday, July 13, 2022

Time:   2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Eastern Time Zone (verify the start time based on where you will be participating from)

Description: 

During this 60-minute session, individuals will have the opportunity to ask ADA professionals questions about Communication Requirements under the ADA. To ensure your question is answered during the session, individuals are highly encouraged to submit their questions ahead of time via the registration website (option to submit questions is available once you have registered for the session).

Speakers:

Stacy Hart, ADA Trainer, Information and Outreach Specialist, New England ADA Center

Maggie Sims, Project Manager, Rocky Mountain ADA Center

Rebecca Williams, Lead Information Specialist, Southeast ADA Center

Registration Required:   Registration for this session can be found on the schedule page at www.accessibilityonline.org/adapro.  If you do not have an account with our system you will be required to establish one before registering.

Registration deadline:   Tuesday, July 12, 2022

Human Generated Captioning and Sign Language Interpreters will be available. Participation in the program is via the Zoom webinar platform or via telephone.

CEUs: Certificate of Attendance, ACTCP

Questions should be directed to webinars@adaconferences.org

Tests require a smartphone/app to be used

The Biden-Harris Administration has launched a new initiative to expand the availability of at-home tests that are more accessible for people who are blind or have low vision. The tests work with a compatible Bluetooth-enabled smartphone and a free app to provide users with audible instructions and audible test results. Read more about the tests.

How to get the tests:
Order online or by calling 1-800-232-0233.

• Each order will include two rapid-antigen tests that are more accessible for people who are blind or have low vision.
• Orders will ship free, while supplies last.  

Because supplies are limited, please order the more accessible tests only if you do not have options for using the standard tests. If you have someone you trust who can help you administer the test and interpret results (in person, or through a video platform like FaceTime or Zoom), or can use assistive technology (such as AIRA or Be My Eyes), please order the standard tests.

This initiative complements the Administration’s efforts to expand production of more accessible tests and work with private sector partners on the development of new accessible tests. 

Need more assistance? 
The trained staff at the Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) can provide additional assistance with:

• Ordering tests.
• Understanding instructions for test administration and test results.
• Providing alternative instructions for traditional at-home tests for people who are unable to access, read, or understand the manufacturer’s version.
• For those who cannot use an at-home test, DIAL operators can:
  • Assist with ordering “swab and send” kits to collect a sample and mail it back for results.
  • Connect callers to local organizations for assistance locating other testing options in their community, including in-home testing programs or transportation or companion support to visit a community-based testing site.

Call 888-677-1199 Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern) or email DIAL@usaginganddisability.org.

CLICK HERE to register for the Virtual Tour of the Maryland Accessible Telecommunications and Assistive Technology Programs!

Thursday July 7, 2022 from 9-11am

Free, but registration required

Technologies play an essential role in our everyday life, and for individuals with disabilities, they help increase their independence and capacity to engage fully in daily activities, and in academic and vocational programs. With technological advances, many assistive technology devices and telecommunication services are now available to assist individuals with disabilities in overcoming the challenges that largely result from difficulties in acquiring the requisite skills needed to perform a particular task. This virtual tour of both the Maryland Assistive Technology (AT) Library and the Maryland Accessible Telecommunications program will offer participants the opportunity to see and learn about some of the newest ATs on the market, and how AT can best help them, their friends and families, and individuals with disabilities remove barriers associated with task and communication performance. Participants will also learn about AT services, financial loan programs and the loan application process, and how to advocate for AT use at home, school and agencies, and in the community. Instructional Level: Introductory

During this session, you will:

• Identify the crucial factors lenders are evaluating now
• Learn how to position your business for financing in the coming months and years
• Network with a wide range of DMV lenders and access resources all in one virtual room

Featured Organizations:

• National Disability Institute: Community Navigator Pilot Program
• Small Business Administration
• Veteran’s Business Outreach Center
• Women’s Business Center
• SCORE
• TEDCO

Featured Funding organizations and institutions:

• The Disability Opportunity Fund
• Maryland Capital Enterprise
• Latino Economic Development Center
• Life Asset
• M&T Bank
• USDA
• And more!

Register Now: https://mdsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/17184

Linux administration is a high-demand job skill offering competitive pay, which is easily accessible for blind people. In addition, most existing training is also accessible without having to add special instructions for how to use Linux with a screen reader. The NFB has answers about what resources can get you started.

The National Federation of the Blind is excited to present an accessibility boutique all about Linux on Tuesday, June 28 from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. eastern time, the Center of Excellence in Nonvisual Accessibility will present David Hathaway to share the ins, the outs, and the whys about this powerful, free operating system. David runs a school in Malaysia which teaches Linux administration to blind people, preparing them to sit for the LPI Certification, as well as for diverse jobs in information technology.

Take advantage of this free opportunity. Register today!