Keith Cooper and Justin Shimizu have a lot to talk about thanks to the Sacramento Bee’s Book of Dreams.
Photo Credit: Autum Cruz, Sacramento Bee
In a world where communication is the key to success, Keith and Justin are at a disadvantage because they lack the ability to communicate verbally. That doesn’t stop them from being active members of the community, but it can make completing daily routines and living successfully more difficult. Thanks to exciting new technologies like the iPad, people like Keith and Justin now have the opportunity to use assistive communication devices and applications that increase interaction with the world around them. The only catch is the cost– innovation has as a hefty price tag. Both men are INALLIANCE participants, and as a nonprofit that has supported people with developmental disabilities for nearly 60 years, INALLIANCE fully understands the importance of being able to say what you want and need.
In early December, the Bee featured an article in the 2011 Book of Dreams highlighting Keith and Justin. Keith was recognized for his work as a Regional Transit employee, library volunteer and line dancer at Hart Senior Center, and Justin was credited as a volunteer at Southside Park and regular at the Meadowview Community Center. The story focused on how dedicated both of these men are to their communities and how much more they would flourish with the aid of communication devices. Thanks to the Bee and its readership, Keith received a GoTalk 20 and a Pen Friend and Justin received an iPad 2 with communication software.” Not only did Keith and Justin have their dreams fulfilled, but INALLIANCE received many phone calls from people eager to help,” said Executive Director Diana DeRodeff, “We have many participants who would benefit from assistive devices, and now we have many generous community members who are making it a reality.” Marie Harmon of Fair Oaks is one of those people. After reading the story, Marie donated a GoTalk 20 that will be used to allow another excited individual to connect with the world.
Fortunately, perceptions about disabilities have changed over the years. Inclusive programs like those offered by INALLIANCE have shown that people with developmental disabilities can “fit-in” to our community, but communication remains an issue. “In general, people still assume that if you don’t have language then you are not a capable adult, and we know this to be false. It is just a matter of finding a different kind language, and that is what Keith and Justin now have,” adds DeRodeff.
If you are interested in making a donation to INALLIANCE, please visit www.inallianceinc.com or contact 916-381-1300 x170.
http://www.sacbee.com/2011/12/06/4102276/book-of-dreams-devices-would-help.html
http://www.sacbee.com/2011/12/24/4143517/book-of-dreams-devices-open-world.html
