Our Vision Services Suite

A primary initiative of Assistive Technology Services is our comprehensive suite of services related to differing stages of vision loss. This work is made possible by the Chattanooga Ophthalmological Foundation. The initiative offers training on devices, independent living skills, adjustment to blindness support groups, orientation and mobility training, device loans, as well as advocacy for accessibility best practices in physical and digital spaces.

Cooking Without Looking

This class provides training on how to independently navigate a kitchen, with the aim being to build confidence in a space that can often be intimidating for individuals experiencing blindness. Participants will learn how to safely chop and prepare ingredients, locating techniques, how to label appliances, how to safely use heated elements, and be introduced to devices that make navigating the kitchen easier.

Job Access With Speech (JAWS)

This unique class introduces individuals to screen readers and how to use them to operate a computer and surf the Internet.

Support Groups

Whether you have been blind your entire life or are experiencing vision loss for the first time, coping with changes in your vision can be difficult. We offer a safe environment to talk about your experience, in a collective of individuals experiencing the same thing. These support groups are also led by instructors who are blind.

Orientation & Mobility

This training teaches individuals with vision loss locating techniques and provides real world experience navigating public transit and orienting in new public spaces.

Low Vision Art Classes

Through a partnership with another Signal Centers program, the Hart Gallery, individuals will work with gallery staff, including an art therapist, on developing their artistic voice and using creative expression to process their vision loss.

Filling a Need in the Community

Digital Literacy

Technology has become increasingly important for seniors who want to stay connected with family members, pay bills online, or take advantage of telehealth options. Assistive Technology Services (ATS) assist seniors with digital literacy skills and accessibility features so they can continue living as self-sufficiently as possible. Our Assistive Technology Professionals (ATP's) will work directly with each participant or in small like groups to explore existing technology or create modifications that can make access for those older adults easier and more efficient.

Device Demonstration

Our ATP's are experts in assistive devices and can refer you to the technology solution that best meets your needs. Come in for a demonstration of a particular device and flatten the learning curve in a low pressure, casual, friendly environment. We are here to help connect you to the technology you need.

Helping You Find the Perfect Fit

Device Loan

Depending on the need, assistive devices can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. This provides an enormous barrier for those seeking more independence. Assistive Technology Services (ATS) has access to a wide range of technology available for loan. Whether you want to try before you buy, or are just exploring your options, our device loan program is an excellent, no-risk way into the world of assistive technology. We are also capable of referring you to specific vendors that offer more permanent, low-cost solutions as well.

Reutilization

In many cases, our Assistive Technology Professionals (ATP's) can refurbish older technology to meet today’s standards. This helps us get low-cost technology into the hands of the people that need it.

Custom-Built Devices

In some instances, our ATP's can 3D print low-tech solutions to meet your needs. Whether you need dexterity assistance for holding utensils, or have a child that is quickly outgrowing fitted equipment, a consultation can reveal whether a custom-built device is the right fit for you.

Lending Library

Through individual donations and with the help of community partners, we have amassed a large collection of devices that can be loaned to the public. For a catalog of available devices, click the link below:

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Teaching the Community about Accessibility

One of our best teaching tools to introduce community members to the world of accessibility is our toy adaptation workshops. We partner with individuals and corporate groups to switch adapt toys, which we then give away for free to the community. Switch adapting is the process of reconfiguring a toy to be adaptable to a child's fine motor capabilities. Volunteers are taught how to locate the wiring inside the toy, build a universal switch, solder the switch into the toy's electronics, and sew the toy back together.

Not only does toy adapting introduce the community to the idea that lived experiences, especially when it comes to motor function as a result of a disability, are incredibly varied, adapted toys introduce children with disabilities to the idea that their environment can be manipulated by enabling technologies. These fundamental ideas then pave the way for more complex technologies like home and workplace adaptations.

Signal Centers Accessibility Awareness Summit

The Signal Centers Accessibility Awareness Summit is an annual accessibility event that inspires transformative conversations about the inclusion of individuals with different abilities, the latest accessibility innovations, and ideas. This event is held in conjunction with Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) and features an inspirational speaker. The purpose of GAAD is to get everyone talking, thinking, and learning about inclusive digital access and the more than one billion people with disabilities.

Notable keynotes include:

• Haben Girma, a disability rights lawyer and the first Deafblind graduate of Harvard Law School
• Valerie Fletcher, the Executive Director of the Institute for Human-Centered Design
• Chris Downey, an award-winning architect and founder of Architecture for the Blind

Summer Experiences for Children and Youth

Assistive Technology Services offers two specialty camps throughout the summer:

Chatter Camp

Chatter Camp serves children ages 5-16 years who are nonverbal, or have communication challenges, and use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. The curriculum supports the frequent and effective use of the students’ personal technology. Students spend a week of camp together with highly qualified educators and volunteers learning how to use the Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP) software to communicate effectively and efficiently. Chatter Camp is funded, in part, by Friends of Special Children.

EnVision Camp

Vision Camp is specially designed for elementary-age children, teenagers, and young adults who are blind or have low vision. Campers will be introduced to different low-vision technologies and learn orientation and mobility skills. In addition, campers can participate in recreational activities such as cooking, canoeing, horseback riding, and other community outings. These activities encourage peer bonding, independent living, and community experiences.