Greetings from Disability Rights & Resources!
Please take a moment to check out our June newsletter and visit us on our website, Facebook, and Twitter. We’ve got some very exciting things in store, so stay tuned for information about upcoming events and projects!
Women-Owned Small Business Offers Cutting Edge, “Green” Sign Language Interpreting Services
It was after watching a news story about a middle school student who is deaf that Theresa Von Loh and Linda Deichsel decided to establish their company, Virtual VRI (Video Remote Interpreting). This particular student was in a mainstream classroom envrionment for several years without access to Sign Language interpreters because none were available in her small, rural town. Teresa and Linda are both nationally certified by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, and all of their contractors are as well. In addition, they have many years of interpreting experience in a wide variety of settings.
Needless to say, Teresa and Linda are incredibly passionate about the Video Remote Interpreting services they provide, and they offer the most cost effective hourly rates in the VRI industry. Since VRI is offered via the internet instead of the interpreter having to drive to the location, the service is also eco-friendly.
To access Virtual VRI services, all that is needed is a web-cam equipped computer, iPad, iPhone, or Android and a high-speed internet connection to download the web conferencing system they utilize. Facetime can also be used. VRI works in a variety of settings, such as college classes, doctor or counseling appointments, meetings at Vocational Rehab or Centers for Independent Living– just about anywhere high-speed internet is available. For more information, please visit their website (virtualvri.com) and check out their newest YouTube video.
A Word on Accessibility and Apple Products, from Mike Norris
Much continues to be said about the accessibility features available on the iPhone and iPad. Indeed, there are several accessible features that prove very useful to people who are blind or visually impaired. These features include screen magnification and Voice Over, an interactive speech program. These began shipping with the iPhone 3, but they do work more efficiently on the iPhone 4. Furthermore, the local Apple Store provides training as a part of the iPhone package they sell, and you can purchase a Braille manual from the National Braille Press that addresses all of the aforementioned accessibility features. You can also contact Mike Norris at Disability Rights & Resources for additional information– (205) 251-2223 ext. 114.
The Magic City Chocolate Challenge is Upon Us!
The Disability Rights & Resources Junior Board has been very busy planning the inaugural Magic City Chocolate Challenge (you’ve probably seen the posters around town!), which will take place at Cantina Pepper Place from 5-9pm on Thursday, June 27. The event will feature an assortment of chocolate dishes (tasting portions) from local bakers and chefs, with happy hour drink prices all evening and an ongoing raffle! Tickets are $5 and can be purchased here. Proceeds from the event go towards Disability Rights & Resources’ new facility in the Civil Rights District. Cantina is located at 2901 2nd Avenue S #110, Birmingham, AL 35233. If you have questions or would like to be a participant in the event, there’s still time! Check out or website or contact the Disability Rights & Resources Junior Board at brianburrows@bellsouth.net.
Happy Anniversary! Looking Back at the Last Year
On May 25, 2013, Disability Rights & Resources celebrated the one-year anniversary of moving into its new home in the Civil Rights District. The building was a dream several years in the making, serving as a model of Universal Design and equal access. Along with the building came some other big changes–a new name, a new image, expansion of services, new staff, and new neighbors. The last year has been an incredibly exciting and challenging one, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds as we continue to settle into our new home!
Mark Your Calendars!
June 19: Montgomery Center for Independent Living “Chat and Chew” 11-1, Montgomery
June 27: Magic City Chocolate Challenge, 5-9 pm at Cantina Pepper Place
Disability Rights & Resources Technology Lab Open Mon-Fri 8:30-4:00
* Please note that Disability Rights & Resources is a fragrance-free environment, and we ask that you refrain from wearing any scented products while visiting our facility. Thanks!
