Thanks to a cooperative partnership with Central Carolina Community College, LCI opened its Assistive Technology Center in 2005, providing participants with new tools for personal and economic success. Computers equipped with speech-recognition systems, innovatively-designed keyboards and magnification software unleash the creativity of those who would have found it difficult to use more traditional equipment.

Of course, there are plenty of other forms of adaptive technology available in the center, and training provided by experienced instructors is as important as the machines, themselves. But, whether the disability has been a lifelong challenge or the result of an accident last month, the Assistive Technology Center benefits everyone.

For participants, the Assistive Technology Center means new control over their lives, greater self-confidence and more opportunity for education and employment.

For employers, the center provides a resource to help existing employees return to work after an injury; allows disabled employees to find avenues for advancement in the company; opens a broad pool of enthusiastic potential employees; and offers a way to expand diversity in the workforce.

The Assistive Technology Center was established with a grant from the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust and is a licensed vendor for assistive technology produced by Ai Squared and Kinesis Computer Ergonomics.

for more information. Contact Julie Dutchess, Assistive Technology Coordinator, at 919.775.3439 ext. 221, or send e-mail to jdutchess@lciinc.org.