August 29, 2007 - 7:43pm
1 comment

YES Updates

OK aside from the stress at YES I have managed to accomplish some things. This is going to be a quick run down this time because I am at home and ready for dinner lol.

Me and fellow VISTA Pat enjoyed a nice visit from our leader Kevin. Beware if he is headed your way he comes equipped with video camera lol. Have fun filming Kevin.

OK here we go:
Accomplishments:

  • Ordered and received 4 Dell computers from Dell financial services. These will become the accessibility computers. Our old computers that I have been working to keep running just are not capable of handling the accessibility programs. The new Dells have P4 processors 1024 RAM 40G HD no sound cards but we will fix that. No Operating system but I will fix that as soon as they are hooked up.
  • Ordered and received Board Maker V6 for Windows - this makes communication boards using Mayer Johnson Symbols in other words if a person is unable to speak they can point to pictures or phrases to communicate.
  • Ordered and received Braille Keyboard Overlays - these will allow us to offer a braille keyboard.
  • Ordered not received yet Smart Cat Touch Pad - this is an alternative mouse that can be used as long as at least one finger can be used. Great for mobility disabilities (not to mention very affordable)
  • Ordered not received yet Intellikeys USB - alternative keyboard which can be customized for a very wide range of uses. Extremely universal for a wide range of disabilities.
  • Ordered not received Intellikeys Overlay Maker 3 - allows individuals to create custom overlays to suit ther accessibility needs for Intellikeys USB.
  • Located and installed free on screen keyboard called Click - N - Type - this little guy works with email, MS Word, browsing web, Board Maker V6, and I am still finding compatible programs lol.
  • Located and installed free Screen Magnifier - it is simply called "Magnifier" however the manufacturer list it as a different name on their website and I will have to provide that info later as I have it at my program and I am doing this report at home.

Currently working on:

  • Obtaining 14 more computers for my program. The expense is an issue and we are trying to get the funding.
  • Ensuring the completion of the new accessible location for the Biz Center. We hope to be finished by the 1st.
  • Ordering the rest of the accessible technology.
  • Meeting the committees needs as well as scheduling meetings and such for the committee.
  • Preparing a new program to be offered to the disabled members of our community. This program is under development by me and my supervisor.
  • Setting up and installing technology in the new accessible computers
  • Among the rest of my technical support and fund raising duties that are ongoing and daily.......anyone got a good way to relieve stress?????

Comment from Kevin Palmer on September 5, 2007 - 4:06pm

Kevin Palmer's picture

It was great to go over to Orange a few weeks ago and see the YES operation. The footage came out great. Keep checking the site because I think Ben is going to put some "promos" up on the homepage.

Also, how'd completion of the new accessible side of the building go?