Community Inclusion through TEchnology (CITE)

Maine CITE is a statewide program helping people with disabilities increase their independence in all areas of life through assistive technology.

Disability Pride Month:
Assistive Technology for Every Ability

The warm days of July have arrived, making it a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you are preparing for holiday celebrations, working in the garden, or heading to the beach, do not forget to stay cool by drinking plenty of water and taking breaks in the shade. Be sure to check out our archived webinar: Keeping Cool and Hydrated in Extreme Heat.
July is Disability Pride Month! This month celebrates the strengths, achievements, and contributions of people with disabilities while recognizing that disability is a natural part of human diversity. It also marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26th, which helps protect the rights of people with disabilities. Take time this month to learn, listen, and help create a more inclusive community for everyone.

Did you know that assistive technology is for everyone? While many people associate assistive technology with disability, these tools and devices can make everyday tasks easier, safer, and more accessible for everyone. From grabbers that make reaching easier to hearing devices, magnifiers, speech-to-text apps, and adaptive kitchen tools, AT helps people of all ages and abilities live more independently. You may even be using assistive technology every day without realizing it!

Explore the AT4Maine Loan Library to discover assistive technology that can help you find the right solution for your needs.

Learn more and get involved:

AT Spotlight 

Visit Maine CITE’s AT lending library AT4Maine.org
Xbox Adaptive Controller – This controller is designed for gamers with limited mobility to help make video gaming accessible. This controller features large programmable buttons and 19 ports to attach alternative switches, buttons, or joysticks to create a unique gaming setup!

Battery Operated Scissors– These scissors can cut through paper and other craft supplies by pressing a button. They are also switch-adapted, meaning an external switch can be attached, so those with limited reach and mobility can turn them on and off. They can also be used on a tabletop while placed in their mount.

All-Turn-It-Spinner – Instead of rolling dice, press a button to spin them! This device can be activated by pressing a large button or using the external switch jack to plug in any adaptive switch to suit the player’s needs. It is YOUR turn!

Switches at Maine CITE – Did you know that we have nearly 50 different types of adapted switches in our demonstration and loan library? Check them out at AT4Maine.org, or see us for a demonstration!

Want to learn more about AT?
 Contact Maine CITE, and we will help!

 

AT Reuse Program

Maine CITE’s AT program partner, ALLTECH, recycles gently used durable medical equipment that has been donated. The items are cleaned, refurbished, and offered at a very low cost at the ALLTECH store in Portland. This month, we are featuring:

Rolling Bed Trays – $20
  • Multiple brands available. 
  • Featuring angle and height adjustment.

RAZ Mobile Shower-Commode Chair – $100 
  • Offers tilt-in-space, lateral supports, and leg rests
  • Supports up to 250 lbs.
  • Manufacturer website.

Contact Darren at ALLTECH:
207-232-6421
dsmart@spurwink.org

 

Upcoming Events                           

  • July 3: Maine CITE office closed – Independence Day
  • July 7: Maine CITE digital accessibility training to Coastal Maine Regional Broadband (CMRB).
  • July 8: Webinar: Creating Online Content (Part 3): This webinar builds on our previous sessions by sharing tips for making social media posts accessible to everyone and discussing the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Demonstrations will be on a MacBook Pro. Use this link for more information and to register.
  • July 9: AT Problem Solvers meeting.
  • July 14: Maine CITE presenting to UMaine’s UDL & AT.
  • July 16: AT Advisory Council meeting.
  • July 17: Maine CITE training to new vocational rehabilitation counselors.
  • July 22: Webinar: Exploring Assistive Technology for Students with Blindness and Low Vision: This webinar will provide an overview of assistive technology tools that can support access, learning, independence, and participation for students who are blind or have low vision. Use this link for more information and to register.
  • July 23: Maine CITE digital accessibility training to CDC Division of Population Health Equity.
  • July 24: Maine CITE office closed – Staff Retreat

Maine CITE is a free resource available to all Mainers.
We provide Information & Assistance, AT-focused Group Training or Professional Development,  AT Device Loans, and AT Demonstrations.

 

Connect with Us!
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