SCILS Brings a High Tide of IL Energy to Brookings

SCILS would like to take this opportunity to thank the foundation for funding our request to purchase a new computer for staff and consumer use. . . . [It] has been in constant use since we received it in August. Our goal is to have staff, mentors and volunteers trained in the adaptive technology by next summer. We are also using the computer for program development for future funding and will use it to write grants.

Among SCILS' greatest assets are the partnerships and networking we have acquired in the last year. Having access to e-mail has made those connections stronger and more accessible.

SCILS is now operating under a Department of Labor Ticket-to-Work grant to provide mentor assistance to consumers who wish to return to work without losing their benefits. The computer has allowed SCILS to provide free one-on-one computer training in the following areas: keyboarding, Windows operating systems procedures, word processing, spreadsheets, file management, Internet use and e-mail communication.

SCILS also offers specialized training in adaptive technology for individuals with disabilities that includes screen magnification programs, Brain Train Vol. I and Vol. II, a computer screen reading program (JAWS), a speech-recognition program (Dragon Naturally Speaking), alternative keyboards and Windows accessibility options. Recently we added two typing programs, one of which allows the user to utilize the sound card to instruct, drill, practice and play games with typing lessons. It also allows the user to edit the included lessons or create new lessons of their own choosing.

SCILS staff just completed a two-month Internet class on benefit planning. We were able to do our homework and access class information from the Web site. It was much more productive to do training this way without having to travel and spend money on food, motels and traveling.

Recently SCILS hosted one of 10 monthly traumatic brain injury education sessions. Twenty-eight people (families, agencies, etc.) attended the first meeting. Many people got to see and hear about the Brain Train program and what it has to offer. This month SCILS has a larger advertisement in The Pilot, Brookings' local newspaper, and we were able to enlarge the font so visually impaired consumers could read the ad more easily. This ad states that we offer one-on-one free computer training for individuals with a disability and that we have adaptive technology software for those who need it.

We have one consumer who will start training with the Dragon Naturally Speaking software soon. This is perfect for him, as he has extremely sensitive hands due to glass splinters through his hands and feet. In the past, using the keyboard has caused him pain, burning, numbing and other unpleasant sensations. The adaptive technology allows him to access the computer by speaking commands to the computer without having to use the keyboard or mouse.

We work with consumers doing PASS plans, business plans and GANTT charts. GANTT charts are useful tools for analyzing and planning complex projects and for

• helping to layout tasks that need to be completed;
• giving a basis for scheduling when tasks will be carried out;
• allowing a plan to allocate resources needed to complete projects; and
• helping to work out the critical path for a proejct that must be complete by a particular date.

We have worked with three consumers filling out and submitting their financial aid online. They all expressed fear before doing it, but afterwards said that with support it was much easier.

Consumers have been successful because the computer has been available for them to search for college classes and many other research projects.

SCILS appreciates the Blanche Fischer Foundation for your support and belief in a new grass roots organization. Your generosity has made it possible to provide much-needed services to consumers on the South Coast of Oregon.