EmpowerTech offers a broad array of programs that bring modern technology into the lives of people with disabilities.
They include:
Assistive Technology Exploration -- An exploration session offers children and adults with disabilities and their families an opportunity to explore with an Assistive Technology Specialist educational software and assistive technology in a collaborative environment. This is not a formal assessment but a starting point to identify technology that may help individuals become more independent at home, school or work. Services are offered one-time and are free of charge.
Assistive Technology Assessment -- Assistive Technology Assessments are designed to evaluate what technology options will help the client achieve their individual goals. The assessment, sometimes referred to as an evaluation, is client centered and does not evaluate the individual person, but rather his/her ability to use a particular device or software program. This is a fee-based service and clients may be referred from Regional Center, the Department of Rehabilitation or a school district. Following the Assessment, a written report is provided, offering recommendations on both technology and future training as appropriate for the needs and goals of the particular client.
School Programs -- Under contracts with local public school districts and private schools, EmpowerTech brings assistive technology to children in grades K-12. EmpowerTech offers hands-on exploration and offers assistive technology assessments and evaluations to students with special educational needs. Please contact Melody Ram at (mram@empowertech.org) for information on this program.
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Pre-School Children’s Programs -- The goal of EmpowerTech’s pre-school program is to provide preschool children with special needs technology tools for future educational success and for successful transition to kindergarten and elementary school. Located at pre-schools in Santa Monica, the program takes place in mainstream and special needs classrooms, offering opportunities in learning basic computer skills, software exploration and facilitating cooperative learning. For additional information on this program, please contact Judy Nahman-Stouffer (jnahmanstouffer@empowertech.org).
Low Vision/Blind Services -- The goal of EmpowerTech’s Low Vision/Blind Services Program is to assist individuals who are blind or visually impaired in developing the skills necessary to go back to school, pursue employment and/or gain a greater measure of independence. The program provides computer training and assistance to each client in determining the type of computer, hardware, software and assistive technology that would be most helpful. The class is vendored by the Department of Rehabilitation. For more information about the program, please contact Bruce Johnson (bjohnson@empowertech.org).
TRADE -- (Technology Related Accommodation Development and Empowerment) The goal of TRADE is to equip adults with disabilities to be competent in using computers with the support of assistive technology. The TRADE program includes two tracks. One is for adults who wish to increase their employability as they learn touch-typing, Internet use, and the basics of Microsoft Office applications. The other is geared toward students who wish to work at their own pace to develop skills in using the Internet and Microsoft Office applications. The TRADE program is vendored by the Regional Center and the Department of Rehabilitation. For further information on TRADE, please contact Eric Larsen (elarsen@empowertech.org).
Programs for Older Adults -- In collaboration with the Culver City Senior Citizens’ Association, our staff offers a free weekly open computer lab at the Culver City Senior Center for center members. The goal of the program is to support individuals as they use the Internet, correspond via email and conduct personal business on-line.
Open Access Lab -- Every Wednesday afternoon, we open our facilities to allow individuals of varying ages with disabilities to access the internet, play games and access their email. The Open Access Lab is offered free of charge.