[NFBWV-Talk] WV Assistive Technology System (WVATS) February Update

[Ed McDonald]

WVATS COUNCIL UPDATE
FEBRUARY 2023


The next meeting of the WVATS Advisory Council will be held May 16, 2023, virtually via Zoom from 10-12.


WVATS NEWS
WVATS attended the Assistive Technology Industry Association Conference February 1-4 and was able to network with other AT programs around the country. WVATS got to see partners in person that they have been working with over zoom for some time now. Tech Owl was presenting on 3D printing and discussed with them the ins and outs of using a 3D printer. Tech Owl is one of WVATS' partners working with AT champions. WVATS also got to meet members of the National Center on Accessible Education Materials who have been working on the WV Accessible Education Materials project. 
WVATS presented to a WVU e-gaming major class. This class will allow people who are taking to be a part and learn how to develop video games. WVATS talked to them about accessibility and universal design. WVATS drew parallels to real-life accessibility and how that can translate to a virtual world.  WVATS was asked to come back every year and present on accessibility. 

OPPORTUNITIES
WVABLE marks its fifth anniversary in February. To celebrate, we are offering a free webinar: Five things you need to know about saving with WVABLE.
Join us for the FREE webinar celebration at NOON on Thursday, February 9, 2023. During this 30 minute webinar, you'll learn the basics about enrollment, eligibility, key benefits and why saving with WVABLE is important to individuals with disabilities. The webinar is FREE, but participants must register. To register, visit wvtreasury.com/wvable.
Fairness for All day is February 20th at 9:00 AM at the State Capitol. Lobby day is an annual event where their supporters travel to the state Capitol in Charleston to advocate for LGBTQ+ protections. You can RSVP to the event at this link: https://fairnesswv.org/2023/01/09/rsvp-for-the-fairness-for-all-lobby-day/  

THERE'S AN APP FOR THAT 
FuelService (free)
This app allows disabled drivers to find and get assistance with refueling their vehicles. Getting gas can be challenging for drivers so this app aims to solve any challenges by connecting you with attendants at gas stations who are able to help. Within the app you search and choose a gas station from a list or a point on the map, the app then will contact the gas station to ensure that they are able to assist you. Once it has been confirmed they are able to assist you, when you arrive the app will notify the attendant who is going to help. This app is completely free for both iPhone and android devices. 
Access Now (free)
This app is a community driven app that helps pinpoint accessible locations within your area. You can look up restaurants, museums, and attractions near you. You are able to view their accessibility ratings in rankings of: accessible, partially accessible, patio access only and not accessible. You are also able to submit your review and determination on if the venue or event is accessible. This app is completely free for both iPhone and Android devices.

SOCIAL MEDIA
You can find regular updates and information on our services and devices on the WVATS Facebook page (WVATS), Twitter (@WVAssistiveTech) and Instagram (wvassistivetechnologysystem). Like and share the social media posts to help increase our outreach throughout the state and help raise AT awareness and access.

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