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Blind/Visual Impairment Heading

Computer & Assistive Technology Training

for the Blind /Visually Impaired

This program is for those wishing to learn skills necessary to remain or enter the workforce. LINC offers FREE training to working-age adults that will equip them with the tools necessary to attain or retain employment.

Training and services available include:

  • Basic computer training using Assistive Technology (AT) software that provides speech output and/or magnification. This includes training in the Windows operating system, word processing, spreadsheets, email and internet.
  • Assistive Technology training using the most popular AT devices on the market today. These include; optical and electronic magnification devices, scan-to-speech systems, voice note takers, voice-output PDA's and a variety of daily living aids.
  • Pre-employment skills training - Resume writing and interview skills. Peer support for those adjusting to a new visual impairment.

        .and much more!

 

Computer Literacy Heading

LINC provides one-on-one training in computer literacy focusing on the Internet and E-mail. This program is available free of charge for persons with disabilities, as space allows.

This program is made possible through the LINC Internship Program. In collaboration with area colleges, LINC staff interviews possible interns with the appropriate background to assist in teaching the Computer Literacy Program.

Contact the agency for an interview if you are currently in college and seeking an internship. There are several areas in which you can help.

 

Deaf/HOH heading

Direct services are available through LINC for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Services included, but are not limited to the following:Peer counseling

*Personal Advocacy
*Independent Living Skills
*Support Groups
*Workshops for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
*TTY Training

American Sign Language (ASL) classes are offered twice a year. This program offers the ability to communicate with the Deaf and hard of hearing that use sign language as an alternative to communicate. Classes range from beginning to advance signing. Classes are held weekly for 12 weeks. The class schedule varies. There is a $60.00 fee per course or $5.00 per class. Payment is due at the first class. Materials are provided. To pre-register for the next course, email lbernth@lincinc.org. 

For individuals who have lost their hearing later in life, referred to as late-deafened, information, resources and peer counseling are available. Assistive devices, such as CART (real-time captioning), oral interpreters, and information on closed captioning at area movie theaters is available. 

Amplified Phone Testing
The Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation (ITAC) now has 35 selection centers throughout Illinois where a person can visit and test the newest amplified telephone. To qualify for a free phone you must be an Illinois resident, have a working standard land-line phone service in their home, and be certified by their physician or a certified audiologist as deaf or hard of hearing and unable to use a standard phone.  For more information on the services available through ITAC and eligibility, please contact Libby at lbernth@lincinc.org

Sorenson Video Relay
Use of the new Sorenson Video Relay Service is available at LINC for the deaf and hard of hearing as another mode of communication. This service helps give a variety of ways in which to communicate. This new technology is another assistive device available in the deaf and hard of hearing community.  It is also used to break down barriers as a tool for those who are not exposed to the deaf community to communicate with them.

TTY Training for individuals and businesses is available FREE of charge at LINC at 235-9988 (v) or 235-0451 (tty/video phone).

Resources and contacts for services are also available for Individuals who are deaf & blind. LINC is currently in the progress of increasing our offerings to this disability area.

 

Technical Assistance Heading

LINC provides valuable technical assistance services for businesses and non-profit organizations in understanding and complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Assistance is available in the following areas:

  • Accessibility Studies
  • Disability Sensitivity Training
  • Disability Etiquette
  • Translate printed material into Braille/alternative format
  • Support Services
  • Information & Resource Referral
  • TTY Training
  • Sign Language Classes/Beginning & Advanced
  • Understanding the Deaf Culture

The ADA requires businesses and organization that offer a service to the public to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. LINC helps define what a reasonable accommodation is and how to meet this need.

Tax breaks and incentives are available to an employer who hires employees who have a disability.

 

Mental Health Heading

LINC, as a center that promotes independent living, began offering support services that focus on mental health recovery. These programs are not be used as a replacement for treatment service. Instead these programs offer support and guidance through your recovery.

Woman to Woman Support Group focuses on Woman to Woman Support Group is run by people who live with mood disorders and their loved ones. The group is advised by a health care professional and a Certified Recovery Support Specialist. FREE educational materials, a lending library, mental health literature, and information on area mental health services are also available. This support group is co-sponsored by the Depression Bipolar Support Alliance. See Support Groups for meeting details.


The Wellness Recovery Action Plan course is now taught at LINC. This popular mental health recovery plan is a wellness and relapse prevention program for people who experience symptoms of mental illness.


Pathways to Recovery, a 12-week course using evidence-based "Strength Approach" which utilizes a person-centered, self-help approach toward recovery. This is the first time this course has been taught in St. Clair County. The course will be offered in the fall of 2008.

A 3-week workshop series, Freedom Self Advocacy, will be held in early 2009. The series focuses on how to protect the rights of those with mental illness and assert their own preferences. Participants will learn how to advocate for themselves by combating discrimination and inadequate or harmful treatment.


Recovery-Based Workshops are sponsored by LINC throughout the year. The workshops are conducted on the premise that each individual's own responsibility and that each path to wellness is uniquely their own.

Medicare Heading


Medicare D Drug Specialists
LINC professional staff have been trained to provide informational presentations and assistance on Medicare D to area organizations and other professionals working with persons with disabilities and seniors in the tri-county area. LINC is also available to assist consumers and area senior citizens with plan options, paperwork & other specifics of the Medicare D Program.

Youth and Family Advocacy Heading

Youth & Family Advocacy
A Youth and Family Advocate is available to assist parents with children who have disabilities in regard to their child's educational needs. This includes information on IDEA (special education law covering rights and responsibilities), Individual Education Plan (IEP's) planning and process, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Additionally, assistance is available with a child's rights to an appropriate education, parent and school communication and transitioning from school to the workforce.

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