Assistive Technology Enhances Independence... all year round

November 2023

E-News

The Empowering World of Assistive Technology

UCP's AT equipment is available for all ages. Above, Jeremiah C and his mom react to the donation of a pediatric stander.

November is Assistive Technology (AT) Awareness Month--an ideal time to showcase some of the innovative, independence-enhancing equipment and devices made widely available by UCP.

The beauty of Assistive Technology is that its impact results in greater independence for the user. And with that greater independence comes increased self-confidence and, often, the development of enhanced social skills. The result is an all-around better quality of life… for the user and their families.

A perfect example is Mr. Parke, who recently visited UCP's AT display at the Hearing Loss Expo in Camp Hill.

Changing Hands:

Giving New Life to Used Items

Changing Hands restores, refurbishes, and redistributes durable medical equipment and assistive technology devices to Pennsylvanians of all ages with all types of disabilities to enhance independence --at home, school, work, and in the community.

The equipment and devices we've redistributed include low-tech items such as sock aids, canes, manual wheelchairs, and bedside commodes to communications systems and power wheelchairs that utilize sophisticated technology.

If you are looking for equipment, or have equipment to donate, contact Changing Hands at atucp@ucpcentralpa.org or 717-737-3477. Learn more.

Changing Hands is an equipment exchange and reuse program of UCP Central PA that is supported in part by TECHOWL. TECHOWL is the Commonwealth’s Assistive Technology Act Program at the Institute on Disabilities, Temple University, and is funded through a grant from the Administration on Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

70th Anniversary Highlight

Assistive Technology Then... and Now

AT Specialist Jackie Wardle, UCP's longest-serving employee at 35+ years, explains the impact of AT from the very beginning, "I learned the value of assistive technology early on in my career at UCP when I first worked with participants who were more physically involved. Building them an adaptive switch gave them the ability to control a toy, a tape recorder, or other device. A simple switch gave them independence in new areas, which was incredibly meaningful."

UCP's AT services, in particular, have evolved with the times and the staff work diligently to keep up with the rapid pace of technology. Here's an example of a voice carry over phone then and now. A voice carry over phone enables individuals with a hearing loss to use their own voice over the phone, and provides a transcription of what the person on the other end of the line is saying.

THEN:

Voice Carry Over Phone with built-in display

NOW:

Voice Carry Over Phone with digital display

Grant A Wish this Holiday Season

Wishing alone doesn't make it so.

Your generosity does.

The 2023 UCP "Wish List" reflects the needs and interests of children and adults with disabilities (and in some cases, their families) from across our service area.

There's something to fit every budget, along with the benefit of knowing exactly how your money is being spent. Best of all, you can have a positive impact on someone's life this holiday season. Learn more.

2023 UCP/SchmidtKramer

Golf Tournament Recap

A quick recap, and a sincere THANK YOU, to everyone who had a hand in making the latest UCP/SchmidtKramer Annual Golf Tournament such a resounding SUCCESS!

Last month, 118 golfers enjoyed beautiful weather and breathtaking views from high above the Susquehanna River. There was great camaraderie amid the competition on a challenging course, and a delicious BBQ feast to end the evening. Between sponsorships, advertising, foursome and individual ticket sales, and proceeds from a raffle and silent auction, the tournament raised a net of $29,345!

Special thank you to SchmidtKramer for their event sponsorship, and to the SchmidtKramer staff for their time volunteering on the course! Enjoy the photos from the 2023 Tournament.