The Whole Person's Accessible Resource Hub
Our promise at The Whole Person is to provide resources to all people with disabilities. One essential factor for this is making everyday technology more accessible.
Thanks to a grant received from the UPS Foundation, the charitable arm of UPS, we were able to create a dedicated space at our Missouri office that features a variety of accessible devices, adaptive equipment, software, and supplies.
Our Community Resource Room carries the vital tools in our efforts to empower people with disabilities to achieve gainful employment and independence. All resources and devices are available to the public for people who do not have computers and accessible software at home.
With there being a wide variety of disabilities, that means there are very specific capabilities needed to make technology accessible for individuals. Let us give the full details on the assistive devices and software we carry in our Community Resource Room:
NVDA Screen Reader
The NVDA Screen Reader is a powerful software created to cater to the needs of computer users facing the challenge of visual impairments. Whether you are searching the web, working with spreadsheets, checking emails, etc., this software ensures accessibility for all essential computer tasks. This intuitive screen reader vocalizes the content that matches the mouse cursor’s location, providing users with an auditory interface for easy interaction with their computers. With the NVDA Screen Reader, users can confidently engage in digital activities, with the help of its assistive features and user-friendly design.
Magnifier
The Magnifier on Windows computers is essential for computer users with low vision, providing screen reading assistance across a wide range of tasks. With its primary function being to enlarge on-screen content, it operates like a traditional magnifying glass — making text and images easier to read for individuals with visual impairments. By seamlessly integrating into everyday digital needs, the Magnifier ensures users can work, communicate, and engage online with greater ease and confidence.
Speech Recognition
Our Speech Recognition software improves how we communicate with computers by enabling hands-free control through spoken word. With this feature, users can navigate their devices simply by speaking commands out loud. Whether the goal is to open applications, compose emails, or surf the web, this tool helps individuals work quickly and easily, removing the need for manual input. By using the power of voice, this software enhances accessibility for individuals with physical disabilities and offers a convenient and user-friendly interface for all users.
Merlin Enhanced Vision CCTV
The Merlin CCTV is an assistive technology designed to assist individuals with visual impairments, letting them zoom in on physical items with ease. Think of it as a modern version of those overhead projectors from school days. Here are the main capabilities:
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Ability to zoom in heavily on documents, photos, and more
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Easy to adjust the height and placement of document
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Adjustable color and brightness settings
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Anti-glare settings to improve image quality
Sorenson Video Phone
The Sorenson Video Phone facilitates smooth telephone conversations through sign language interpretation, helping to bridge the gap for individuals with hearing impairments. It translates sign language into spoken words for the person on the other end, and vice versa. In addition to this, the video phone promotes inclusivity in telecommunications, reaffirming the importance of equitable communication for all individuals, regardless of hearing ability.
Large Print Keyboard
The Large Print Keyboard features enlarged, bold, and high-contrast fonts to assist low-vision users in navigating computer tasks more comfortably. This device streamlines computer tasks for users with visual impairments by prioritizing clarity and legibility. It makes it easier to identify letters and symbols, all while empowering the user to navigate the digital device with confidence and efficiency.
Ergonomic Keyboard
The ergonomic keyboard is designed to enhance comfort and reduce strain for users with specific disabilities. The keyboard is separated into halves, allowing each hand to operate independently. Users can customize the distance and angle between the two halves according to their ergonomic needs, creating a flexible typing experience. This innovative approach is especially helpful to those who may not have as much mobility in their arms and wrists.
Trackball Mouse
The trackball mouse is designed with ergonomics and accessibility in mind. Compared to traditional mice that require movement, the trackball remains stationary while users move the cursor by rolling the trackball with their fingers or palm. This design offers a more comfortable and customizable experience, particularly for individuals with mobility impairments or conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Microsoft Office
Additionally, Microsoft Office can be accessed for free! This is the online version only, containing slightly fewer features than the program version.
If you need to use Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc., we have you covered!
Visit our Missouri office!
If you or anyone you know would benefit from access to the devices and software hosted in our Community Resource Room, visit our office and we’d be happy to show you how to operate them. We’re here to help you get the resources you need to live independently.
If you have any questions or concerns about the technology, you can ask our Front Desk or reach out to the following department:
IT Department: (816) 561-0304 ext. 12274
Interested in a building tour? Schedule a walk-through with Natalie Holmgren. You can reach her at 816-214-9734 or nholmgren@thewholeperson.org.
