Nora: (TRADE):
Nora is a 22 year old young woman born with cerebral palsy. She faces challenges when reading and has limited use of her left hand. Nora came to EmpowerTech with a great desire to get computer training so that she could be employed as an office assistant. By attending the TRADE classes, Nora developed skill in working with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. She developed one-handed typing skills to compensate for her motor challenges, and became adept at performing computer operations. When Nora got her initial position as an office assistant, she was delighted that she could now use her computer skills in the workplace.
Tracy (low vision):
Tracy came to EmpowerTech looking for help in using a computer to write her family's stories, because her failing eyesight had limited her ability to write. After visiting EmpowerTech, Tracy learned to use screen enlargement software. She can now for the first time see her words on the computer screen because the text is enlarged and easier to read. Tracy uses the program’s voice feedback feature when her eyes become too tired. Tracy is now able to write her family’s history and keep their legacy alive.
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Joey (pre-school program):
Joey is an active preschooler who has difficulty focusing on most classroom activities. When Joey uses the classroom computer, he is completely different. With great concentration, he is able to play a game involving letters and sounds. He expresses himself using a drawing program creating designs of intricately colored patterns.
Julia (low vision):
Julia is a very energetic totally blind adult who came to EmpowerTech’s Low Vision Program motivated to learn advanced computer skills. Her goal was to do customer service and sales work in her home office. Julia was already a good typist when she began the program, but wanted to learn the JAWS screen reading software that would allow her to use the computer more successfully. Julia completed the program and now has a computer at home complete with all of the software needed to scan and read documents, navigate the computer screen and use the Internet. She is now able to manage files on the PC and use Microsoft Word to create and edit documents.