[NFBWV-Talk] WVATS January Update

[Ed McDonald]

January Update from West Virginia Assistive Technology System

WVATS NEWS
WVATS has kicked-off the AT Champions program in conjunction with Mid-Atlantic ADA. The deliverable the Champions were asked to complete was either borrowing a device from our lending library or highlighting a piece of technology they already use in their daily lives. Mark decided to borrow a Xbox Adaptive Controller along with a few different switches to try out. You can watch his video on Facebook and our other social media platforms. Hope showed off her iPhone she uses daily with its accessible features built in as well as two apps she uses that help her in her environment. You can watch Hope's video on Facebook as well as our other platforms. 
Our application to the Reeve Foundation was fully funded. WVATS will be receiving $30,000 to purchase adaptive bikes to loan out soon. These adaptive bikes will be located in two stations around the state. Wamsley Cycles will be a partner here in Morgantown and is located near a bike trail. Challenged Athletes is the other partner and they are located in Snowshoe. We will be advertising this more once the weather gets a little warmer. 

OPPORTUNITIES
West Virginia University Day at the Legislature day is taking place on Tuesday, January1st from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the West Virginia State Capitol. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, explore interactive exhibits, and discover the importance of civic engagement. Don't miss the opportunity to learn more about WVU and WVU Extension programs. For more information visit Day at the WV Legislature 
Insurance Day at the Capitol hosted by Big I WV- Independent Insurance Agents of WV on January 23rd and 24th at 12 p.m. They are leading the way and advocating for the industry about key legislative issues. To find more information visit their Facebook Event here. 
State Use Day at the Capitol is Thursday, January 12th. WVADE members along with WVARF will be visiting the State Capitol to discuss the services offered by our CRP's to the state with WV Legislators. Information can be found on the website. 
The Special Olympics WV Polar Plunge is happening in various spots throughout the state. January 28th kicks off the event in Wheeling, with the proceeds raised going towards providing year-round sports training and competition for thousands of athletes with disabilities. You can plunge as an individual or plunge as a team! To get more information and to register visit SOWV Polar Plunge website.
The CED's Traumatic Brain injury program is hosting speaker Sara Miller to speak about Tackling Traumatic Brain Injury: Increasing Prevention in Athletes on January 11th at 7 p.m. at Morgantown Brewing Company. Information can be found on the CED Event Page.

THERE'S AN APP FOR THAT 
Google Assistant (free)
Available on Android and iOS devices. Google Assistant works as the title states, "a virtual assistant," for the user's device. The app offers a personalized experience and helps to understand text and audio content. There are features such as voice search, voice device control, voice command, and more. The AI technology can be used for scheduling events, setting alarms, adjusting device settings, or even playing games.
Accessibility Spark ($99 per month)
Accessibility Spark offers a variety of features that can be used for specific needs on a created website. The main function of the app is to learn and analyze personally created websites and identify accessibility violations found. There are multiple accessibility adjustments that can be made by using this app that include inverting colors, text size and spacing, page structure, and other features. By using AI technology, the website will scan and adjust issues according to ADA and WCAG standards.



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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