Prospective employers and community members can help students with disabilities a number of ways.
Assistive Computing Technology (ACT) is a grassroots initiative formed in 2000 by six representatives from Information Technology Services, Center for Access-Ability Resources, Housing and Dining Services, University Libraries, and the Illinois Dept. of Health and Human Services. Several student representatives have participated over the years, as well as interested faculty.
ACT meets on the first Wednesday of every month in the Holmes Student Center Blackhawk East room in the lower level cafeteria (or other location to be determined). The group meets at 11:30 for a brownbag lunch, and an informal meeting begins at 12:00 noon. There is no agenda, no minutes are recorded, and no official roster exists. The opportunity is set aside each month to promote an open dialogue about technology needs and available resources. Members from all service and academic divisions are encouraged to participate. Attendance is not required, but is guaranteed to make participants feel part of a very worthwhile endeavor.
To be included on the mailing list, write to: pcpd@niu.edu
Employers and agencies can work with NIU Career Services to provide internship opportunities. Internships for students with disabilities not only help the student gain important working experience, their presence helps to raise awareness and dispel myths that may otherwise prevent people with disabilities from succeeding in a chosen field. Employers who are interested in providing a workplace that is rich in cultural diversity will truly benefit from this experience.
The Presidential Commission on Persons With Disabilities sponsors events that are designed to elevate awareness about the issues associated with disability in society. Because funding for such activities is limited, we often seek support from local service agencies and businesses in the form of door prizes or funding that will allow us to invite nationally-recognized speakers or entertainment.
Occasionally there are opportunities for regional organizations to work with the university community on mutually-beneficial projects. For example, grant funding is available for assistive technologies for our regional library, research programs that would benefit the development of products and services, and events to help elevate awareness within our shared community. If you would like to join the PCPD or members of the university of community on an initiative, or if you know about a funding source that may be of interest, please contact the PCPD today.