The Connecting Point

Volume 3 Issue 17 December 5th, 2005

In This ISSUE:

1) Microsoft Accessibility Resource Centers Available
2) Disability History Exhibit (Available at PAVE)
3) University of Washington - Research Project on Autism
4) Bellevue Community College (BCC) in Washington State has launched the nation's first higher education degree program for students with developmental disabilities
5) Disability Network Newsletter available on line

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1) Microsoft Accessibility Resource Centers Available - Twenty-Six Microsoft Accessibility Resource Centers are now available throughout the U.S. to show you what's possible with accessible technology solutions available on today's computers. Whether you have reduced eyesight, wrist/arm discomfort, or hearing loss, these centers can show you accessibility options and assistive technology products that can add to your computer skill and proficiency.

To find a center near you, visit: http://www.microsoft.com/enable/centers/ .

Each center is equipped with video demonstrations and accessibility tutorials that show you how to make computing easier, more convenient, and more comfortable. You'll find staff experts in computer technology and accessibility—so you'll be able to ask questions and learn how to adjust your personal computer. Free Microsoft Accessibility Resource CD Sets are available at each center—so you can take information with you to use after your visit to the center.

2) Disability History Exhibit (Available at PAVE) - The Disability History Exhibit was purchased by Self Advocates of Washington with grant funds from Pierce County Human Services, Developmental Disabilities. The twenty-one panel exhibit traces perceptions, attitudes, services, struggles, and achievements in the history of persons with developmental and other disabilities. The exhibit brings viewers through an illustrated timeline, chronicling societal interpretations of disability through moral, medical and civil rights view-points. The exhibit is color-coded to easily trace models throughout history. Uses plain language and hundreds of images, this exhibit connects historical themes in disability to societal values and the treatment of people with disabilities throughout the ages. The powerful visual images are useful for workshops, conferences, and disability events.

The History Exhibit is being kept in Washington PAVE lending library and can be used, free of charge, by organizations that support people with disabilities in Pierce County, Washington. The Exhibit may also be used at state-wide conferences and conventions. The exhibit is displayed accordion style on five 8 foot tables, which are stored in sturdy easy to move carrying cases with wheels. Hook Velcro on back of panels also allows for easy mounting to fabric walls or displays.

If you are interested in using the exhibit or have questions, contact PAVE at 253-565-2266 (v/tty) or 1-800-572-7368 (v/tty ) or send an email to wapave9@washingtonpave.com .

3) University of Washington - Research Project on Autism
The University of Washington has recently embarked on a new research project on autism. A team of child development specialists in the disciplines of radiology, psychology, psychiatry, and speech and language are working together to better understand face processing in adults with autism. They hope that the information gained in this study will lead to a better understanding of the causes of autism as well as to improve treatments for the condition.

They are currently seeking 18-45 year-old adults who carry a diagnosis of autism or Asperger's Disorder. The study will be conducted at the University of Washington Autism Center in Seattle. Individuals will be administered a wide array of cognitive, linguistic, social, behavioral, and neuropsychological measures. In addition, they will participate in an evaluation of brain functioning, using EEG, MRI, and eye-tracking methodologies.

Participants will receive up to $225 for completing all of these visits. For more information call 1-888-288-6162.

4 ) Bellevue Community College (BCC) in Washington State has launched the nation's first higher education degree program for students with developmental disabilities. - With an expanded curriculum of 52 separate courses, the college's Venture program now offers a 90-credit Associate in Essential Studies degree through which high-functioning individuals with learning, cognitive and intellectual disabilities can demonstrate mastery of an established body of knowledge and gain the skills for lifetime success. Potential students and their families wishing more information may visit the program's website at http://www.bcc.ctc.edu/venture or contact Cynthia Johnson at cjohnson@bcc.ctc.edu .

5) Disability Network Newsletter available on line – the November 2005 edition of the disability Network Newsletter is available at, www.diversityworld.com It contains current employment information resources and essays for people with disabilities and the organizations that support them. It also explores many issues that impact employment and business opportunities for people with disabilities. Past issues are available on line.

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