Tuesday, October 30, 2018

FREE Training on Successful Socializing!


Successful Socializing

Join us for this FREE training on successful socializing and learn about:
  • types of communication
  • developing relationships
  • tips for improving your social skills

Monday, November 5
2:00-3:00 PM
Online

Tuesday, November 6
2:00-3:30 PM
Able SC Midlands
Register Here!

For questions or accommodation requests,
contact Dori at dtempio@able-sc.org or
800-681-6805/TTY: 803-779-0949
 
 
 

 

Monday, October 29, 2018

United Spinal Newsletter October 2018


United Spinal Newsletter 
October 2018

Advancing Community Support for People with SCI/D
United Spinal gathered key affiliated chapter representatives in Orlando, Florida, October 11-13 for its 6th annual Chapter Leadership Meeting to strengthen programs, services and outreach to people living with spinal cord injuries and disorders nationwide.

Breast Cancer Screening for Women with Disabilities 
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, United Spinal urges women with disabilities to make every effort to get screened. Here’s useful information on finding accessible facilities and preparing for the exam.

Tips for Employers on Accommodating Job Seekers with Disabilities
Employers should take appropriate steps when applicable to remove barriers and make reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, whether they use wheelchairs and other mobility devices or live with impairments and require assistive technology.

So Many Wheelchairs, So Little Time
 
Today’s wheelchair users have so many choices that they often need the help of assistive technology specialists, therapists, and wheelchair providers in order to select the right chair and components. Check out the variety of wheelchair types available.

Surviving Modern Rehab
This month's New Mobility Magazine features two young Californians fighting to regain their independence after recent spinal cord injuries. Their unique stories on navigating the hurdles of health care and rehabilitation can make a difference in your own recovery or that of someone close to you. Read more.

REV UP The Vote!
United Spinal has partnered with the American Association of People with Disabilities to increase the political participation of the disability community while also engaging candidates and the media on disability issues. Let your voice be heard.


Thursday, October 25, 2018

Free ASHA Approved AAC Trainings


 
Date: November 26, 2018
Location: SC Assistive Technology Program, 8301 Farrow Road, Columbia, SC 29203, Poplar Building Resource Center (Directions)
Cost: Each Training is Free
Presenter: Loyal Truong, MS, CCC-SLP, ATP. Currently on the Learning Services Team with Tobii Dynavox
 
Solutions for Children with Complex Communication Needs
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
ASHA CEUs: .3 (Introductory Level, Professional Area)
 
 
Participants will gain understanding of the characteristics and supports needed for children with complex communication needs and gain exposure to the device and software features as well as educational supports from Tobii Dynavox. Participants will be given the opportunity to participate in interactive stations to complete hands-on activities with Tobii Dynavox products to facilitate learning, ask questions in the moment, and apply knowledge in practical ways. Participants will leave the session with an awareness of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) options as well as resources and practical tips that can be used immediately following the training!

Tips and Tricks with Snap + Core First
Time: 12:45 – 3:30 p.m.
ASHA CEUs: .25 (Introductory Level, Professional Area)
 

You are invited to attend and participate in the exploration of the Snap + Core First communication software from Tobii Dynavox. Using lecture and hands-on exploration activities, participants will learn about the communication solutions of Snap + Core First that support communication engagement, literacy and language growth. Techniques for customization, simplification, and implementation will be our focus. Each participant will leave the session with a handful of resources and practical tips that can be used the very next day!

Monday, October 22, 2018

Don't forget to sign up for the October Webinar!

 
Do not forget to sign up for October's webinar!
OCTOBER 31st @ 3 PM
 
 
We will be discussing wound prevention & care.

You don't want to miss this! We have Mary E. Hanley, DO, UHM, CWS-P, Medical Director of Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine at Roper St Francis with us!!!  Webinar will be OCTOBER 31st @ 3 PM EST.  We will be releasing instructions on how to join to all those who register with the link below.
 
YOU MUST SIGN UP TO JOIN THE WEBINAR!!
 

Thursday, October 18, 2018

Casting Calls Extended


OPEN CALLS FOR “COST OF LIVING”
AT TRUSTUS THEATRE

Trustus Theatre is partnering with Able SC and seeking two actors with disabilities to portray two characters in our upcoming production of “COST OF LIVING,” winner of the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 23 at 7 pm | Saturday, Oct. 27 at 3 pm
WHERE:  Trustus Side Door Theatre * 520 Lady St. * Enter through the glass doors on the Huger St. side of the building.



ABOUT THE AUDITION

THE CHARACTERS:
  
ANI, 40s. female. Pronounced “Ah-nee”. She is in a wheelchair. Severe incomplete spinal cord injury following an automobile accident. Quadriplegic. Though some of the fingers of one hand are still partially functioning. [played by actor living with disability]

JESS, 20s. female. First generation child of an immigrant. Has a hard time keeping her feelings and opinions to herself.
 
JOHN, 20s. male. He is in a wheelchair. He is handsome. John has cerebral palsy. A kind of halted way of speaking. Otherwise, he is determinedly polished. Comes from wealth and wears it well. [played by actor living with disability]

EDDIE, 40s. male. An unemployed truck driver. When he slips into sadness, he bounces back fast. He would have made a great uncle.
 
THE STORY:

One of the most powerful shows of 2018 comes to the Trustus Side Door theatre. Eddie, an unemployed truck driver, reunites with his ex-wife Ani after she suffers a devastating accident. John, a brilliant and witty doctoral student, hires overworked Jess as a caregiver. As their lives intersect, this play delves into the chasm between abundance and need and explores the space where bodies—abled and disabled—meet each other. [Note: Both ANI and JOHN appear in bathing scenes.]

WHAT TO PREPARE:

Auditions will be cold-readings from the script. Read the script here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cmRQJgWNC966T1Iq5LLBYqmFxezbKYJm/view

SCHEDULE INFORMATION:


The show runs FEBRUARY 22 – MARCH 2, 2019


Rehearsals would begin 4-5 weeks prior to opening. Rehearsals are evenings during the week, and one day per weekend (weekend scheduling varies per show at Trustus).

COMPENSATION:

Actors are paid $150 for the full run of the show.

QUESTIONS/INFO:


Contact Artistic Director Chad Henderson at chad@trustus.org

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

Web Access: EdTech 2018

EdTech 2018 Accessibility and AT Sessions


How Assistive Technology Impacts Communication
Session ID: 246
A demonstration of various assistive technologies by people who use them for everyday life and communication. Come see, and ask questions of experienced users to learn more about different technologies. See augmentative communications devices, screen magnifiers, screen readers, mobile devices and other technology that makes a difference. Moderated by Janet Jendron. Participants: David Bundy, Kim Wooten, Denise James, Kimberly Tissot, Ruben Alvarez
Date: 10/24/18
Time: 2:15 - 3:15
Room: MR203

Inclusive Teaching and Learning: Access Ability Through Universal Design for Learning
Session ID: 235
Presenter: Clayton Copeland
This session shares recent research findings exploring the impact of accessibility/integration of tools and resources that facilitate multimodal learning for students. It offers concrete strategies for implementing accessibility and multimodal tools and resources into courses. Participants will discuss and practice skills for creating accessible courses designed to meet student needs.
Date: 10/24/18
Time: 10:30 - 11:30
Room: MR102-A

South Carolina Web Testers Program
Session ID: 247
Presenters: Janet Jendron, Denise James, Boris Klaric
Learn more about the evolving SC Web Testers Program, under the administration of Able South Carolina and Access South Carolina IT (ASCIT). Testers who use assistive technology and some who don't, evaluate websites and other information and communication technology for accessibility and usability. Testers? findings include accessibility issues, descriptions of the testers? successful and unsuccessful experiences in accessing information, basic explanations of accessibility/usability principles involved, and resources for correcting barriers. Tests are uniquely designed for the agency/organization's budget and needs. Come with specific questions for administrators and site testers.
Date: 10/24/18
Time: 10:30 - 11:30
Room: MR104-B


School District Website Requirements and Considerations - State/Federal
Session ID: 126
Presenter: Valarie Byrd
District websites are a resource to communicate with district communities and they have statewide and national outreach. These websites include some content that is required by state and federal regulation
Date: 10/24/18
Time: 1:00 - 2:00
Room: MR102-C


How Parents with Disabilities Navigate School Systems
Session ID: 226
Parents with disabilities face unique challenges when accessing physical sites and electronic information related to their children's education. Join an enlightening discussion by parents with years of experience accessing schools and electronic information on websites and online education. Learn how they navigate the system, face and overcome challenges. Moderated by Janet Jendron. Participants: Ruben Alvarez, David Bundy, Kimberly Tissot, Kim Wooten, Denise James
Date: 10/24/18
Time: 1:00 - 2:00
Room: MR104-B


Assistive Technology Supports for Chrome Users
Session ID: 145
Presenter: Madalina Tudora
This workshop will provide valuable, ready-to-use solutions for all learners. We will review Chrome apps, extensions and add-ons that can help students with reading, writing, grammar, note-taking, organization, and more. Free resources available for immediate implementation will be shared.
Date: 10/24/18
Time: 2:15 - 3:15
Room: MR102-C


Various Technologies That Assist Students with Special Needs
Session ID: 230
Presenter: Valeska Gioia
This session will focus on various technologies that can assist students with learning disabilities and special needs. I will demonstrate free and low-cost technologies that can assist students with decoding, comprehension, written productivity, math, and much more. Teachers will learn about resources that they already have available in their classroom for assistance with helping their students learn using the Universal Design for Learning concept.
Date: 10/24/18
Time: 2:15 - 3:15
Room: MR104-A


Creating Accessible Documents for the Web
Session ID: 62
Presenter: Michael Simmons
This session will demonstrate techniques for creating documents which meet accessibility standards as required by Section 508. In addition techniques will be shown to test document accessibility and repair issues which are flagged.
Date: 10/25/18
Time: 8:30 - 9:30
Room: MR203


Using Google Chrome Accessibility and Extension to Engage Struggling Learners
Session ID: 129
Presenter: Meghan Blackburn
Google Chrome accessibility options and extension can be useful in addressing the needs of students in both general education and those with more specific needs in special education. Learn more about those options and the academic tasks they address.
Date: 10/25/18
Time: 11:00 - 12:00
Room: MR202-B

Exploring iOS Built-In Accessibility Features
Session ID: 203
Presenter: Elizabeth Moore
Come explore all the ways you can make your iOS device more accessible. We will explore built-in features to aid with vision, literacy, learning and more! Bring your iOS device and let's start exploring!
Date: 10/25/18
Time: 1:45 - 2:45
Room: MR102-A


Using iPad Accessibility and Apps to Engage Struggling Learners
Session ID: 130
Presenter: Meghan Blackburn
iPad accessibility options and apps can be useful in addressing the needs of students in both general education and those with more specific needs in special education. Learn more about those options and the academic tasks they address.
Date: 10/25/18
Time: 1:45 - 2:45
Room: MR202-B

Assistive Technology Services? Where do we start?
Session ID: 172
Presenter: Rebecca McKenzie Appling
Assistive Technology!?! Where do we start??? Come hear how one school district has expanded their assistive technology services to reach students with a variety of disabilities and needs. Learn about our referral process, sample evaluations tools, IEP recommendations and accommodations, progress monitoring of is assistive technology interventions, and staff training.
Date: 10/26/18
Time: 9:00 - 10:00
Room: MR203

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

Monday, October 15, 2018

Join us at the Easley Benefits Workshop!


Disability Benefits & Employment Workshop
  • Are you interested in going to work or increasing your earnings?
  • Do you need information on how working will affect your disability benefits? (SSI & SSDI)
  • Do you want to connect with local agencies that can assist with finding a job and providing supports?

Join us at
Easley SC Works
Wednesday, October 17
1:30-3:30 PM
1774 Powdersville Rd, Room 103
Easley, SC 29642

Please make accommodation requests by October 10 by contacting hiremesc@able-sc.org or 800-681-7715/TTY: 864-235-8798

This event is coordinated through the efforts of Hire Me SC. Hire Me SC is a campaign that promotes a culture of inclusion across the state of South Carolina, one in which employment for every individual, disability or not, is the norm rather than the exception. Hire Me SC is supported through funding from the Administration for Community Living at the US Department of Health and Human Services.

Friday, October 12, 2018

Be Prepared!

Be prepared!

SCATP is here when you need durable medical equipment and assistive technology after a disaster. We also want to help you be prepared for a disaster before it happens.
 
Here are some quick tips to prepare for an emergency:
  • Make sure all assistive technology, including cell phones, communication devices, and wheelchairs, are fully charged. Have extra batteries ready.
  • Identify accessible transportation in the event of an evacuation.
  • Create an emergency kit that includes assistive technology devices or medical equipment that you may need.

For a complete guide on how to prepare for an emergency, visit https://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs

Download the SC Emergency Manager, the official app of South Carolina Emergency Management Division, to help prepare for emergencies:
If you need medical equipment, please contact Alli Upchurch at SCATP at 803-935-5273 or alli.upchurch@uscmed.sc.edu .

Tuesday, October 09, 2018

Join Us for the Columbia Buddy Walk!


Be a Rock Star!

Join us Sunday, October 21 at Saluda Shoals Park for the Columbia Buddy Walk
to raise awareness while promoting acceptance and inclusion
of those with Down syndrome.
  

Have a child or sibling with Down Syndrome?
 
Register your Special Buddy for free and get his or her name added to the official
walk t-shirt. And they get a t-shirt for free, along with special recognition at the walk.
  


Monday, October 08, 2018

Don't forget to sign up for the October Webinar!

 
We will be discussing wound prevention & care.
 
 
You don't want to miss this! We have Mary E. Hanley, DO, UHM, CWS-P, Medical Director of Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine at Roper St Francis with us!!!  Webinar will be OCTOBER 31st @ 3 PM EST.  We will be releasing instructions on how to join to all those who register with the link below.
 
YOU MUST SIGN UP TO JOIN THE WEBINAR!!
 

Tuesday, October 02, 2018

FREE Webinars on Assistive Technology

 
Free webinars from around the web - all K-12 this month

Apps, Extensions, and Tech Tools for ADHD Brains from ADDitude
October 3, 2018 at 10am Pacific, 1pm Eastern


Feature Match… What’s That? from AbleNet
October 4, 2018 at 11am Pacific, 1pm Eastern


How Do I Develop Switch Skills? from AbleNet
October 17, 2018 at 12pm Pacific, 3pm Eastern


What do you know about twice exceptionality? Ground breaking tools for addressing the needs of the twice-exceptional student from AbleNet
October 24, 2018 at 12pm Pacific, 3pm Eastern


From SETC:

10/02: Switch Access for Early Switch Users at 3:30pm Pacific, 6:30pm Eastern

10/03: Fast ForWord at 3:30pm Pacific, 6:30pm Eastern

10/04: Supporting Writers across Platforms with Co:Writer Universal
            at 12pm Pacific, 3pm Eastern


10/08: AT Chatter - Core Vocabulary at 12pm Pacific, 3pm Eastern

10/09: AAC Implementation - parent buy-in at 12pm Pacific, 3pm Eastern

10/10: Explore Snap + Core First at 12pm Pacific, 3pm Eastern

10/17: Protecting Student Data Privacy in Apps
            at 3:30pm Pacific, 6:30pm Eastern

10/18: Core Vocabulary for Group Games at 12pm Pacific, 3pm Eastern

10/22: Designing UDL Lessons using the Microsoft Platform
            at 3:30pm Pacific, 6:30pm Eastern


10/23: TouchChat Introduction and Customization
            at 3:30pm Pacific, 6:30pm Eastern

10/24: Digital Math:  Let’s check out what’s new!
            at 3:30pm Pacific, 6:30pm Eastern

10/25: Universal Protocol for Accommodations in Reading (uPAR)
            at 3:30pm Pacific, 6:30pm Eastern


10/29: Beyond Requesting: I Have More to Say at 12pm Pacific, 3pm Eastern

10/29: Closing the Gap Recap: What is New in the World of AT!
            at 3:30pm Pacific, 6:30pm Eastern


11/01: AT Chatter: OT Collaboration at 11:30am Pacific, 2:30pm Eastern
 
AT Resource Pick of the Month
 

The Perkins School for the Blind offers a series of webinars on assistive technology. You can also opt to get CEUs for watching the webinar. Check it Out!
 

Monday, October 01, 2018

Call for Applications: Editor, Inclusion


Editor Search, Inclusion, 2018

The American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities seeks applicants for the position of Editor of its online, peer-reviewed journal, Inclusion, for a term of four years that will begin on January 1, 2020.

About the Journal

Inclusion is an online, peer-reviewed, quarterly journal, now in its sixth year of publication. Inclusion provides a multidisciplinary forum for the discussion of interventions and strategies that promote the full inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in society.
The audience for this journal includes administrators, clinicians, policymakers, and other professionals interested in intellectual disability and related developmental disabilities. The Journal contains original articles that describe promising practices in services and supports, education, training, professional development, case studies, and public policy considerations. The Journal is especially interested in papers that present emerging evidence. Articles should be evidence-based, provide a reasoned analysis, and might suggest insights and innovations. Anecdotal narratives, persuasive essays, and other materials that lack an evidence base will not be accepted.
 
Qualifications and Responsibilities

Qualifications for the position are an established record of scholarship in the disabilities field, managerial skills necessary to oversee the editorial cycle, and the ability to attract and retain respected experts to the editorial advisory board.
The main responsibilities of the Editor of Inclusion consist of the following:
  • overseeing the peer review of approximately 100 manuscripts per year
  • soliciting high-quality manuscripts from potential authors, deciding which manuscripts to publish, and assisting authors develop their manuscripts for publication;
  • selecting a sufficient pool of expert peer reviewers to reach conclusions and make decisions on manuscripts in a timely fashion;
  • identifying and appointing qualified members to an editorial advisory board; and
  • providing a clear vision for the direction of the Journal.
Applicants must have clear employer or institutional support for this activity for the duration of their appointment, including release time and general office support. AAIDD does not pay for office space or release time, but will provide basic financial support for the Editor of Inclusion. Because the support offered by different institutions varies widely, interested individuals are encouraged to contact the appropriate office of their employer to ensure the feasibility of his or her application.
 
Application Process
 
Interested individuals should prepare and submit an application packet via email. The application packet must include the following:
  • Letter of Application that describes your qualifications for the role of Editor of Inclusion, such as past experience as an editor or member of an editorial team, history of scholarship in the field, and demonstrated capacity to manage deadlines and to attract and retain contributors to projects.
  • Vision Statement that provides a clear description of the vision you have for Inclusion under your leadership. The statement should set forth your goals and plans for the content of the Journal and how you will operationalize your plan.
  • Vita or Resume that accurately portrays your experience and publications, indicates your current affiliations, and lists your current contact information.
  • Evidence of Institutional Support, which may be a letter of support or other documentation from your employer that describes the level of support (release time and general office support) available should you be selected for the position.
Applications will be reviewed by the Search Committee immediately after the submission deadline. Interviews will be conducted by phone. The selected candidate will be expected to disclose any potential conflicts of interest prior to appointment and annually thereafter throughout his or her term of service.
 
Contact
 
Applications will be accepted via email only. Send application packets to Margaret Nygren, EdD, CEO and Executive Director, at mnygren@aaidd.org by January 4, 2019.