eSight Community News

May 01, 2008

National Telecommuting Institute (NTI)

NTI is an educational/job-matching non-profit organization. They are pioneering the development of telework jobs for Americans with disabilities. NTI's staff bridge the gaps between employers who have agreed to "go virtual," advanced communications technology, and vocational rehabilitation agencies to enable individuals with disabilities to train for and work online in environments that are easily accessible to them.

NTI prepares qualified individuals with disabilities primarily for work as customer service representatives, but also as technical support agents and medical transcriptionists. Equipped with voice and computer connections, NTI workers have provided service for customers of organizations and companies such as the Internal Revenue Service, AAA Roadside Assistance, and Meijer.

Job Seekers

If you would like to be considered for any of NTI's current or upcoming job opportunities, please go to their website http://www.NTIcentral.Org/ and fill out the online application

Employers

To learn how NTI can help your business or organization meet its staffing needs at minimal or no cost to you as an employer, contact Timothy Wear at NTI via email at twear [AT] nticentral.org

Posted by Nancy at 03:38 PM | Comments (0)

January 18, 2008

Job Central National Labor Exchange

JobCentral National Labor Exchange, is a replacement for America’s Job Bank. It is a service of DirectEmployers Association, a nonprofit consortium of leading U.S. corporations, in alliance with the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA). The Association's online services also include DirectEmployers.com, an Internet search engine dedicated exclusively to employment.

Posted by Nancy at 10:42 AM | Comments (0)

Disability and Occupation

Frank A. Smith and David Clark in Data Note 13: Disability and Occupation published by the Institute for Community Inclusion tell us:

"It is well-documented that people with disabilities have a significantly lower rate of employment than people without disabilities (36% versus 74% according to the 2006 American Community Survey (ACS). Less is known about the types of work they do. Using the occupational classification system within the ACS, researchers explored the prevalence of people with disabilities within occupational groupings and discuss its relationship to occupational growth.

"Datanote 13 takes a look at the areas in which people with disabilities are employed. The US Department of Labor projects that approximately 18.9M new jobs will be created between 2004 and 2014..."Professional and related" and "service" occupations are projected to have the greatest increase in number of jobs with over 5 million in each group. This could allow for increased opportunities for people with disabilities to work in these areas."

Posted by Nancy at 10:40 AM | Comments (0)

December 14, 2007

eSight's Top Ten List

The ten most read resources on eSight Careers Network during last week are:

1. Original Wildlife Paintings


2. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses


3. How to Build an Operating Budget for Your Small Business


4. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities


5. AT and T


6. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User


7. Professional Development Seminar Summary:
   Goldman, Sachs...


8. FAQ: When and How to Guide a Blind Person


9. eSight's NetWork News - What Employers Really Want To Know About Your...


10. Characteristic of Leadership: Beginning With the End in Mind - Moral...

Posted by Nancy at 10:01 AM | Comments (0)

November 21, 2007

Free brochures on the "Schedule A" hiring process

The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently published three helpful brochures that describe the Schedule A hiring process. Schedule A is special appointing or hiring authority that can be used to facilitate hiring individuals with disabilities into federal jobs.

Federal agencies fill jobs two ways, competitively and noncompetitively. Persons with disabilities may apply for jobs filled either way. Jobs filled competitively are advertised through vacancy announcements. Jobs that are filled noncompetitively do not have to be advertised. Instead, a selecting official can select a person with a disability who has a Schedule A certification and is qualified for the job.

The three EEOC publications listed below are available in electronic (.pdf and Word) form and in hard copy as well. To order one or more of these Schedule A quick reference guides send an e-mail to: LEAD.Initiative@eeoc.gov. Please indicate which guide(s) you are interested in, and whether you would like a hard copy or an electronic copy. For hard copies, please provide the mailing address to which you would like the brochures shipped.

• The ABCs of SCHEDULE A: For the Human Resources Professional;

• The ABCs of SCHEDULE A: For the Hiring Manager; and
  
  
• The ABCs of SCHEDULE A: For the Disability Program Manager and/or Selective Placement Coordinator.

  Find information about EEOC’s LEAD initiative - Leadership for the Employment of Americans with Disabilities.

  Additional resources on recruiting qualified job candidates with disabilities read the fact sheet Strategic Connections: Recruiting Candidates with Disabilities .
  

  Posted by Nancy at 02:10 PM | Comments (0)

  November 14, 2007

  Veterans' Employment & Training Service (VETS)

  

  The mission statement for VETS is to provide veterans and transitioning service members with the resources and services to succeed in the 21st century workforce by maximizing their employment opportunities, protecting their employment rights and meeting labor-market demands with qualified veterans today.

  Resources include:
  

  • Search Jobs

  • One-Stop Career Centers

  • Successful Transitions
    
    
  • The Transition Assistance Program for Veterans (TAP)

  • Military Skills Translator

  • Resume Writer

  • REALifelines for Injured Vets

  • Small Business Ownership

  • Helpful Links
  
  

  Posted by Nancy at 09:12 AM | Comments (0)

  October 26, 2007

  World Seido Karate Program for the Blind and Visually Impaired: NYC

  The Seido Karate Program for the Blind and Visually Impaired is now in its twentieth year. One of the jewels in the crown of the World Seido Karate Organization, the program has been featured on WNBC TV, New York One and other media outlets.

  Begun in 1987 under the auspices of Kaicho (Chairman) Tadashi Nakamura, the program has afforded blind and visually impaired people from all walks of life the opportunity to train under the preeminent martial arts master of our time in a safe and supportive environment. Over the years no fewer than seven students have been awarded the coveted black belt by Kaicho, one of whom is now a chief instructor in the program.

  The classes are offered free of charge and are taught exclusively by senior Seido members, all of whom have volunteered their services. Extremely dedicated to their students, these instructors take a personal interest in the progress and development of each and everyone of them.

  The classes take place at the World Seido Karate Organization Honbu (Headquarters) at 61 West 23rd St. (between Fifth and Sixth)in New York City. There is a general class every Thursday 4:30PM – 5:30PM and another one on Saturday 12:00PM – 1:00PM. Both of these classes are open to beginners. In addition, there is a kumite (fighting) class every Wednesday 5:00PM – 6:00PM for more advanced students. Gi’s (uniforms) and fighting equipment are provided free of charge.

  The students in the program are also invited to attend Kaicho’s weekly meditation classes alongside the general students, as well as the many special events such as beach training, summer camp and various seminars. And when they go for promotion they stand shoulder to shoulder with the general students, all of them being held to the very same exacting standards. Last but not least, students in the program compete enthusiastically every year against the general students in the annual fall tournament held at Hunter College, the proceeds from which go the Seido Juku Benefit Foundation – the nonprofit arm of the World Seido Karate Organization that funds the program for the blind as well as other similar programs.

  The current head of the program is Senpai Steven Meltzer. He can be reached at 917-750-7712. The minimum age for acceptance into the program is 15. There is no maximum age. The training, however, is quite rigorous, and anyone who wishes to join the program must submit to a screening interview and provide us with a signed statement from a medical doctor certifying that their health will not be adversely affected by that training.
  

  Posted by Nancy at 03:56 PM | Comments (0)

  September 06, 2007

  New and Improved Ways For Jobseekers with Disabilities to Connect with EARN

  The Employer Assistance & Recruiting Network (EARN) has recently enhanced its services for jobseekers with disabilities, including veterans, to support your efforts in connecting with employers. Through enhanced website functionality, EARN now offers you direct access to employers.
  
  View jobs currently posted on EARN.
  

  Greater Access

  For the first time, you can now sign up with EARN directly to receive job alerts and post your resume. You no longer need to work through service provider organizations to connect with EARN, although you still have that option. You can search and opt to receive e-mail alerts of jobs posted on EARNWorks by employers with a specific interest in hiring people with disabilities. You can also post your resume to apply to job postings quickly and easily, as well as have EARN identify job opportunities for you.
  

  More Job Leads

  EARN has enhanced its offerings for and increased its outreach to employers. This translates into more job leads for you.
  

  Improved Job Postings

  You can now view contact information and application instructions for most job postings on EARNWorks. Employer information is kept anonymous only when employers request EARN recruit on their behalf. Once you sign up, you can also have customized job alerts notify you when jobs are posted in your desired locations and occupational categories.

  The revamped EARNWorks went live this month, and already employers have posted more than 700 jobs from across the nation. Here are just a few examples of organizations posting jobs with EARN: JP Morgan Chase, U.S. Department of Agriculture, AT&T, Union Pacific, CACI, Calibre, and Hilton.

  Help Spread the Word

  Tell your colleagues, friends, local disability organizations, and the veteran’s community about EARN’s free services which make it easier for employers and jobseekers to connect. Consider linking to http://www.earnworks.com if you have a website or are part of a social networking site.

  Posted by Nancy at 06:57 PM | Comments (0)

  September 04, 2007

  Frequently Asked Questions on Disability and Employment Issues

  The Labor Department's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) frequently receives questions from the public regarding various disability and employment issues. Recently, ODEP compiled a list of typical inquiries, and posed them to the agency's Acting Assistant Secretary, Karen M. Czarnecki.
  

  Posted by Nancy at 09:48 PM | Comments (0)

  August 09, 2007

  DBTAC - Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center - National Network of ADA Centers

  The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) has established 10 regional Centers to provide information, training, and technical assistance to employers, people with disabilities, and other entities with responsibilities under the ADA.

  The Centers act as a "one-stop" comprehensive resource on ADA issues. View the brochure to find your regional center or visit, www.adata.org or call 800-949-4232 V/TTY

  Posted by Nancy at 07:09 PM | Comments (0)

  July 12, 2007

  Paving the Way to Work: A Guide to Career-Focused Mentoring for Youth with Disabilities

  Career-focused Mentoring for Youth: The What, Why, and How

  The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) has developed a fact sheet on career-focused mentoring for older youth and young adults with disabilities.

  This fact sheet explains the importance of career-focused mentoring and features a table of mentoring activities that assist youth in achieving skills to transition successfully into adulthood. The fact sheet is based on a guide that ODEP produced with the National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth, Paving the Way to Work: A Guide to Career-Focused Mentoring for Youth with Disabilities.

  
  Download The Complete Guide

  Posted by Nancy at 04:13 PM | Comments (0)

  June 26, 2007

  ICD Training Program -- Medical Office Administrative Assistant : NYC

  Students Learn Using State-of-the-Art Equipment
  Leading To A 71% Placement Rate

  Convenient Start Dates Every 3 Months:

  
  
  • July 9th
  
  
  • September 4th
  
  
  • November 5th

  This program provides students with the required skills for employment in administrative positions with a variety of healthcare facilities. These positions include Medical Receptionists, Billing Clerks and Medical Records Technicians.

  Curriculum Includes:
  

  • Medical Office Procedures
  
  
  • Medical Filing and Records Management
  
  
  • Medical Terminology
  
  
  • Medical Insurance and Coding
  
  
  • Medical Billing and Collections
  
  

  Following the completion of 3 months of classroom instruction, students are provided with a targeted employment internship for another 3 months. Through the internship, students gain practical experience that enables them to use and improve skills that have been developed through class activities. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate.

  Please Contact:

  Daria Benson,
  Associate Director, Training Services
  (212) 585-6033
  
  dbenson@icdnyc.org

  Posted by Nancy at 04:56 PM | Comments (0)

  May 28, 2007

  Workplace Technologies for People with Disabilities

  Employment focused guide on how employers and service providers can utilize assistive technology to make workplaces and service centers accessible to people with disabilities. Contains illustrations of many different types of assistive technologies including descriptive text on the use of these technologies. Document is in .pdf format.

  Posted by Nancy at 05:20 PM | Comments (0)

  May 22, 2007

  Making It Easy to Do the Right Thing (DVD)

  Disability Responsiveness Training developed by the Health and Disability Commissioner in association with Diversityworks Group.

  The DVD has been designed to help you increase your responsiveness to the disability sector and understand the issues you, as a provider of health or disability services, need to consider when working with disabled service users.

  The resource contains:

  • information and philosophies on disability and impairment;

  • interviews with disabled professionals (including 2 hours of extended footage);

  • interactive learning techniques;

  • best practice examples;

  • tools and strategies for implementing inclusive, respectful and non-discriminatory policies and procedures; and

  • ways to ensure that your service supports and protects the rights of disabled people.

  Comedian Philip Patston and actress Minnie Baragwanath present you with an entertaining and informative way to rethink ideas about impairment and disability, shift perceptions about disabled people and encourage creative thinking for anyone committed to inspiring, innovative and effective designs for inclusive services.

  Text copy of the training booklet and transcripts of the extended interviews at
  http://diversityworks.co.nz/projects/hdc-dvd/downloads/

  Learn more at
  http://diversityworks.co.nz/projects/hdc-dvd/

  Posted by Nancy at 06:55 PM | Comments (0)

  April 11, 2007

  Self-Employment Technical Assistance, Resources, & Training

  Start-Up-USA (Self-Employment Technical Assistance, Resources, & Training) provides online seminars, webcasts, fact sheets and links to small business resources for individuals with disabilities interested in pursuing self-employment.

  Sign up for free e-mail updates from Start-up USA on the latest information on training, technical assistance, and resources related to self-employment at http://www.start-up-usa.biz/listserv/subscribe.cfm

  Start-Up Sites include Alaska, Florida and New York.

  Posted by Nancy at 09:32 AM | Comments (0)

  April 01, 2007

  Questions and Answers About Blindness and Vision Impairments in the Workplace and the Americans with Disabilities Act

  A fact sheet from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) addresses questions related to the rights of workers who are blind or visually impaired at http://www.eeoc.gov/facts/blindness.html
  

  Posted by Nancy at 06:01 PM | Comments (0)

  Business Tax Credits & Deductions for Employment of People with Disabilities

  Three tax incentives available to help employers cover accommodation costs for employees and/or customers with disabilities, making their businesses accessible for everyone are available at http://www.worksupport.com/Topics/fastfacts2.asp
  

  Posted by Nancy at 06:00 PM | Comments (0)

  March 19, 2007

  Self-Employment Technical Assistance, Resources, & Training (START-UP / USA)

  START-UP/USA provides technical assistance to support self-employment and small business ownership among people with disabilities. It includes a series of Webcasts on using SSA's Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS) to support small business ownership, developing a business plan, as well as information for veterans with disabilities.

  This information is now available at:

  http://www.start-up-usa.biz/

  Additional self-employment/ entrepreneurship resources are available at: http://service.govdelivery.com/service/view.html?code=USODEP_41&format=Web

  Posted by Nancy at 10:31 AM | Comments (0)

  Emergency Preparedness

  State reports from the Working Conference on Emergency Management and Individuals with Disabilities and the Elderly is now available. This information includes recommendations on ways to ensure that people with disabilities are included in the emergency preparedness planning process.

  This information is now available at:

  http://www.disabilitypreparedness.gov/

  Posted by Nancy at 09:59 AM | Comments (0)

  January 08, 2007

  DOJ On-Line Course On Reaching The Disability Market

  The U.S. Department of Justice's Disability Rights Section's has an online course for businesses, "Reaching Out to Customers with Disabilities." The course explains how the ADA applies to businesses in ten short lessons. Putting these lessons into practice enables businesses to both comply with the ADA and attract the disability market. The course is at http://www.ada.gov/reachingout/intro1.htm

  Posted by Nancy at 11:57 PM | Comments (0)

  December 20, 2006

  AHEAD's E-Text Solutions Group Perspective on the Issues of Textbook Access

  The Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD) has been working strategically with the publishing industry and other stakeholder groups over the last several years to promote ready, usable access to text materials for students with print-related disabilities. AHEAD's E-Text Solutions Group has focused on policies, procedures, best practices, and training in the area of digital text access to standard print materials and is focused on identifying a coordinated national accessible materials solutions framework. As part of this effort AHEAD has adopted a Position Statement crafted by it's E-Text Solutions group.

  The comprehensive paper provides an interpretation of relevant U.S. laws and an analysis of current issues related to the conversion of printed materials for individuals with disabilities that impact there ability to use traditionally printed materials. While acknowledging the publishing community's concerns and rights, AHEAD takes the position that reproduction of course texts into digital formats is a fair use of copyrighted materials in this context. To read this paper in its entirety visit http://www.ahead.org/etext/etext_positionstatement.htm . The Webpage contains a downloadable Microsoft Word copy of the paper; AHEAD invites you to forward this information to others who may have interest in this important work.

  Posted by Nancy at 12:22 PM | Comments (0)

  Associates for World Action in Rehabilitation and Education (AWARE)

  New informational comprehensive self-help website for those with vision loss; their family and friends: www.visionaware.org

  AWARE's new website provides a broad range of self-help resources that include:

  • Information and links on eye disorders and diseases, such as cataract, macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy---the leading causes of blindness and vision loss in older Americans.

  • An overview of the professionals who are specially educated to provide 'vision rehabilitation services' to adults with vision loss.

  • How to locate vision rehabilitation services in your area.

  • How to cope with the emotional impact of vision loss.

  • How to maximize the use of your remaining vision.

  • A wide array of adaptations so you can continue everyday activities, such as personal self-care, writing, reading, meal preparation, household tasks, and shopping.

  • How to feel safe moving around your home or traveling outside.

  • The importance of lighting and environmental adaptations.

  • How to continue enjoying sports, home mechanics, crafts, and other leisure or recreational activities.

  • Consumer organizations; support and self-help groups; organizations that serve older adults in general; and other disability groups.

  • Government and private organizations that provide services to people who are 'blind' or have 'low vision.'

  • Where to find useful adaptive equipment.

  • How to respond to questions children ask about vision loss.

  • What's happening to people of different ages who are blind or have low vision and living in other parts of the world.

  Associates for World Action in Rehabilitation and Education (AWARE) was founded in 1990. Their prime mission is to broadly promote self-help vision rehabilitation hints and adaptive techniques, and disseminate information on services and independent living resources to individuals with vision loss, their family members, and those who work with them.

  For more information about AWARE, contact: Anne.Yeadon@visionaware.org

  Posted by Nancy at 11:18 AM | Comments (0)

  August 15, 2006

  CRITICAL INFORMATION FOR AIR TRAVELERS WITH DISABILITIES,THOSE WITH MEDICAL CONDITIONS, AND MATURE PERSONS

  The intent of this message is to alert potential air travelers with disabilities, those with medical conditions, and the mature of the elevated threat level, encourage them to take proactive and necessary steps to alleviate potential adverse impacts, and provide connections to further information and assistance.

  The following quotes are extracted from DHS Secretary Michael
  Chertoff's press conference yesterday:

  • "In light of the nature of the liquid
    explosive devices which were designed by the
    plotters, we are temporarily banning all
    liquids in carry-ons in aircraft cabins.
    That means no liquids or gels will be
    allowed in carry-on baggage. Any liquids or
    gels have to be checked as part of baggage
    to go into the hold. There will be
    exceptions for baby formula and medicines,
    but travelers must be prepared to present
    these items for inspection at the
    checkpoint, and that will allow us to take a
    look at them and make sure that they're safe
    to fly."

  • "Today, air traffic is safe. And air
    traffic will remain safe precisely because
    of the measures we are adopting today.
    People should be patient, but they need not
    cancel their travel plans. They simply need
    to be aware there may be some delays and
    they may want to check with their carriers
    to see whether they ought to adjust their
    arrival times at airports."

  Overall guidance to travelers with disabilities is located on the
  web site of the Department of Homeland Security's Transportation
  Security Administration (TSA) at: http://www.tsa.gov. This
  guidance includes tips specific to those with disabilities and
  medical conditions.

  TSA's Checkpoint Security Screening Procedures for persons with
  disabilities, individuals with medical conditions, and the mature
  have not changed as a result of the current threat situation.

  All disability-related equipment, aids, and devices continue to
  be allowed through security checkpoints once cleared through
  screening.

  Items permitted beyond the checkpoint include: Wheelchairs;
  scooters; crutches; canes; walkers; prosthetic devices; casts;
  support braces; support appliances; service animals; any and all
  diabetes-related medication, equipment, and supplies; orthopedic
  shoes; exterior medical devices; assistive/adaptive equipment;
  augmentation devices; ostomy supplies; medications and associated
  supplies; hearing aids; cochlear implants; tools for wheelchair
  disassembly/reassembly; personal supplemental oxygen; CPAP
  machines; respirators; CO2 personal oxygen concentrators; baby
  apnea monitors; Braille note takers; slate and stylus; tools for
  prosthetic devices; and any other disability-related equipment.

  Current restrictions prohibit liquids, gels, or lotions (except
  baby formula/milk and medications) through the security screening
  checkpoints and onboard the aircraft. This includes common
  items, such as, but not limited to: beverages, perfume/cologne,
  shampoo, shaving cream, suntan lotion, creams, toothpaste, hair
  gels, saline solution. Such items are recommended for transport
  in checked baggage.

  It is also recommended that those with medications only take the
  amount of medication essential to sustain them until arrival at
  their final destination. Additional medication can be placed in
  checked baggage or mailed to their final destination. This will
  help speed up the screening process and avoid additional delays.

  Travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and the mature
  may want to consider the following:

  • Arriving at the airport well in advance, 2-3 hours prior
    to flight;

  • Following all published rules on carry-on items and
    medications;

  • Viewing TSA website tips for persons with disabilities and
    medical conditions and other TSA screening advisements located on
    TSAs website under "Our Travelers,"

  • Bringing documentation on medications, devices, medical
    condition where possible. This is not a requirement and will not
    exempt a passenger from the screening process.

  • Packing medications in a clear bag separate from other
    carry-on items/bags;

  • Exercising patience with the lines, delays, and stringent
    screening procedures.

  For additional information on transportation security, the
  Transportation Security Administration Contact Center may be
  reached at:

  1-866-289-9673 (Voice/Relay)
  tsa-contactcenter@dhs.gov (Email)
  http://www.tsa.gov (Web)

  For concerns about potential rights violations, contact the TSA
  Office of Civil Rights at:

  1-877-336-4872 (Voice)
  1-800-877-8339 (TTY)
  tsa-contactcenter@dhs.gov (Email)

  For information about overall air travel accessibility, contact
  the Air Carrier Access Act Hotline of the Department of
  Transportation at:

  1-800-778-4838 (Voice)
  1-866- 754-4368 (TTY)
  airconsumer@ost.dot.gov
  http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov (Web)

  - - - - - - - - - -

  Olegario D. Cantos VII, Esq.
  Associate Director for Domestic Policy
  The White House
  Washington, DC 20502
  ocantos@who.eop.gov [Email]

  Posted by Nancy at 04:22 PM | Comments (0)

  New EEOC Publication Addresses Employment Rights Of People With Hearing Loss

  The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission recently issued a Q&A Fact Sheet
  on the application of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to job applicants and employees who are deaf or who have hearing impairments.

  Posted by Nancy at 02:36 PM | Comments (0)

  July 21, 2006

  Free Guidelines from WGBH - Create Accessible DigitalMaterials

  Guidelines for Creating Accessible Digital Media Published by WGBH

  Boston, MA (July 2006). The WGBH National Center for Accessible Media (NCAM), a division of public broadcaster and access technology pioneer WGBH Boston, announces publication of "Accessible Digital Media: Design Guidelines for Electronic Publications, Multimedia and the Web."

  These guidelines, providing step-by-step solutions for making a variety of electronic media accessible to users with sensory disabilities, are now available free of charge at http://ncam.wgbh.org/publications/adm/ .

  A free CD containing the guidelines is also available; e-mail access@wgbh.org to order single or multiple copies.

  These guidelines are the culmination of the "Beyond the Text" project http://ncam.wgbh.org/ebooks, conducted by NCAM and funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) of the U.S. Department of Education . Project staff studied methods for integrating accessible multimedia into e-books and digital talking books (DTBs), and the results of this research have been incorporated into the guidelines. The document is a greatly expanded version of recommendations first published in 2000 and revised in 2003, under projects funded by the National Science Foundation.

  "Accessible Digital Media: Design Guidelines for Electronic Publications, Multimedia and the Web" presents solutions to accessibility obstacles in a format designed to educate and assist digital publishers as well as Web and content developers. As with tools previously created by NCAM, including MAGpie (free, do-it-yourself captioning and audio description software) and CaptionKeeper (a tool for migrating captions created for analog video to digital formats), NCAM anticipates that the ready availability of these guidelines will help accelerate the creation of e-books, DTBs, software and Web sites with accessible images, multimedia, interactivity, data tables, graphs, and mathematical and scientific expressions.

  Geoff Freed, project manager for "Beyond the Text," comments, "While the guidelines focus largely on content creation for educational materials, the solutions and recommendations are not restricted to academic settings. Lifelong learning is expected of every individual in the 21st century and advancement in the workplace is often tied to learning new skills and concepts. Corporate trainers and knowledge-management experts in all fields utilize interactive and Web-based content for professional development, and learning materials of all types now include multimedia- movies and audio clips and a variety of interactive elements."

  Those interested in building accessibility into digital materials may also want to review the results of another NCAM initiative which promotes the design of accessible learning management systems, used by many schools, universities and workplaces. NCAM's Specifications for Accessible Learning Technologies (SALT) Partnership established an accessibility working group within the IMS Global Learning Consortium (IMS). This work, producing specifications for a universally designed infrastructure for adaptable learning systems, will result in an international standard from the International Organization on Standardization (ISO).

  Please contact NCAM if you have comments about these guidelines or suggestions for future revisions. We also encourage you to visit NCAM's Web site http://ncam.wgbh.org to explore other ongoing access initiatives.

  About NCAM NCAM is part of the Media Access Group at WGBH, which also includes: * The Caption Center, which first developed captioning for TV in the early '70s and, * Descriptive Video Service(r), a TV access service launched in 1990 to offer description of on-screen action, settings, costumes and character expressions to people who are blind and visually impaired.

  Since its founding in 1993, the National Center for Accessible Media has been the R&D pioneer in the field of media access, advancing the accessibility of all forms of media in a wide range of venues, including movie theaters, the Internet, digital television and mobile media in the home, classroom, workplace and community.

  For additional information about all of NCAM's activities and the projects, please visit http://ncam.wgbh.org.

  CONTACT:
  Mary Watkins
  Media Access Group at WGBH
  mary_watkins@wgbh.org
  phone: 617 300-3700
  voice 617 300-2489 TTY

  Posted by Nancy at 02:03 PM | Comments (0)

  Google Accessible Search

  Google has released a search engine that enables the blind to find information on the Web more easily. Accessible Search has been developed by T.V. Raman, a Google research scientist who is himself blind. The visually impaired have so far been able to surf and read internet pages with the help of screen readers. In the past few years, however, the sites have been added all kinds of graphics and video, which impedes the screen readers.

  The challenge before Google was to develop an algorithm distinguishing accessible from inaccessible pages. The new engine is in fact not made to exclude inaccessible pages but to rank accessible ones higher.

  According to Raman, who worked at IBM Research before joining Google about a year ago, by developing better ways of measuring accessibility, Google could eventually offer consumers with specific disabilities ways to do more customized searches.

  Google Accessible Search is built using Google Co-op technology, which enables users to create specialized searches by topic. Raman hopes that the visually impaired people will take part in the tests and in this way help Google finish the tests and improve the engine.

  Posted by Nancy at 11:58 AM | Comments (0)

  July 20, 2006

  2006 Social Security Administration (SSA) Red Book

  The Red Book serves as a general reference source about the employment-related provisions of Social Security Disability Insurance and the Supplemental Security Income Programs for educators, advocates, rehabilitation professionals and counselors who serve people with disabilities.

  The Red Book has recently been updated, and is now available at
  http://www.socialsecurity.gov/redbook/eng/main.htm

  Posted by Nancy at 06:44 PM | Comments (0)

  March 07, 2006

  Just One Break, Inc. (JOB)

  JOB has moved. Their new address is:

  570 Seventh Avenue (6th Floor) at 41st Street
  New York, NY 10018-1653

  Their phone and fax numbers, as well as email addresses, remain the same:
  

  212 785-7300 (Voice)
  212 785-4513 (Fax)
  212 785-4515 (TTY)
  jobs@justonebreak.com

  Just One Break, Inc. has been providing employment services for people with disabilities for over 57 years.

  Never a fee for a placement.

  Posted by Nancy at 11:16 AM | Comments (0)

  February 28, 2006

  Open Enrollment at Carroll Tech

  Did your new year resolutions include learning to more effectively use your computer? Should it have? Starting the second week in March, the Carroll Center for the Blind Carroll Tech distance learning project will be offering its complete series of online courses either as instructor lead or self-paced or both. If you use JAWS, Window-Eyes, ZoomText or MAGic, you will find something new to learn and use.

  Learn to use Excel to keep your records; Outlook to email with your friends and co-workers; PowerPoint to create presentations for school or the office; and the Duxbury Braille Translator to convert print documents into braille.

  Thanks to the generosity of our funders, individuals pay only $100.00 for each course and schools, rehabilitation agencies and employers can arrange for either single user or group user packages for their students, clients or employees.

  Registration is now open and classes start soon. If you work best when there is a schedule of dates and times for lessons, take an instructor lead course. If you need to have the flexibility of completing several lessons in a single week and then no lessons during the next week or cannot attend an on-line audio chat during the work day, you should register at carrolltech.org for a self-paced course. In either case, now is the time to make your plans to take a Carroll Tech course and continue your education in the use of accessible computer technology.

  
  The following is a listing of the courses now available:

  • Introduction To Excel With JAWS, Instructor Lead and Self-Paced

  • Introduction To Excel With MAGic, Instructor Lead and Self-Paced
    
  • Introduction To Excel With ZoomText, Instructor Lead and Self-Paced
    
  • Introduction To Outlook With JAWS, Instructor Lead and Self-Paced
    
  • Introduction To PowerPoint With JAWS, Instructor Lead and Self-Paced
    
  • Intermediate Excel With JAWS 6.x and has value for 7.x, Self-Paced Only
    
  • Windows for TVIs: Achieving Mouselessness, Self-Paced Only
    
  • Using The Duxbury Braille Translator, Instructor Lead and Self-Paced
    
  • Using Accessible Graphing Calculator, Self-Paced Only
    
  • Using TGD Pro, Self-Paced Only
    
  • Online Public Access Catalog, Self-Paced Only

  Read the syllabus for the class you are interested in and get details about how to register.
  

  Posted by Nancy at 06:29 PM | Comments (0)

  November 09, 2005

  eSight's Top Ten List: 11/4/05

  The ten most read resources on eSight Careers Network during last week are:

  1. Hire People Who Resolve "Easy Mark" Situations for Themselves
  2. Linking Top Talent with Disabilities with Leading Employers
  3. Audio Files, Additional Resources for eSight's "Transferring Disability...
  4. Aptitude Test
  5. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  6. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  7. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  8. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  9. How to Cope Effectively With Difficult People at Work
  10. Networking as a Job Search Strategy

  Posted by Nancy at 11:55 AM | Comments (0)

  October 25, 2005

  eSight's Top Ten List: 10/14/05

  The ten most read resources on eSight Careers Network during last week are:

  1. Aptitude Test
  2. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  3. ENABLE Enterprises
  4. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  5. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  6. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  7. Addressing Concerns About Your Disability In A Job Interview
  8. Access Your Computer Anywhere in Your Home
  9. First Payment for Doubt's Benefit
  10. 20 False Assumptions to Tackle as an Equal Opportunity Employer
  
  

  Posted by Nancy at 10:41 AM | Comments (0)

  October 17, 2005

  eSight's Top Ten List: 10/14/05

  The ten most read resources on eSight Careers Network during last week are:

  1. Aptitude Test
  2. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  3. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  4. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  5. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  6. Creative Survivors Add Elasticity to Your Workforce
  7. 20 False Assumptions to Tackle as an Equal Opportunity Employer
  8. Self-determination: New Opportunities, New Responsibilities
  9. Building Rapport With Your Supervisor
  10. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning

  Posted by Nancy at 12:56 PM | Comments (0)

  October 11, 2005

  eSight's Top Ten List: 10/07/05

  The ten most read resources on eSight Careers Network during last week are:

  1. Creative Survivors Add Elasticity to Your Workforce
  2. Aptitude Test
  3. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  4. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  5. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  6. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  7. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  8. 20 False Assumptions to Tackle as an Equal Opportunity Employer
  9. How to Effectively Scan a Book
  10. Access Your Computer Anywhere in Your Home

  Posted by Marten at 04:57 PM | Comments (0)

  October 02, 2005

  DIALOGUE Magazine Begins Bimonthly Publication

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

  CONTACT:
  Carol M. McCarl, Publisher
  DIALOGUE: A World of Ideas for Visually Impaired People of All Ages
  E-mail: magazine@blindskills.com
  Phone: 800-860-4224

  Providing Even More Tips and Resources for Coping with Vision Loss

  (Salem, OR September 30, 2005.) With a 44-year history of providing the news, information and resources that empower people experiencing vision loss to adjust to a different life situation and achieve their goals at school, at work, at home and in the community, DIALOGUE magazine has become a bimonthly publication in 2005. Changing from a quarterly to a bimonthly enables publisher, Carol M. McCarl and editor, Karen Lynn Thomas, to increase the number of practical articles related to living with low vision, assistive technology, and careers as well as provide timelier updates on the latest aids and devices. Highlights from recent issues include articles on finding support groups, driving with low vision, adapting the home environment, purchasing the best tech tools, and stories of people who are blind who are successfully employed in education, government and business, including a blind legislator serving his fifth term in the state legislature. Upcoming issues will feature articles about services for veterans blinded by war, service-related accidents or disease, traveling with guide dogs, and a holiday gift guide full of got-to-have-it gift ideas for people who are blind or visually impaired. Fred Sanderson, a longtime DIALOGUE subscriber says: "What is unique and noteworthy about DIALOGUE magazine is that it is the only publication targeted at blind readers that provides resources that readers can use to enrich their lives. It's packed with valuable information and practical hints for making tasks easier.

  DIALOGUE magazine is an outstanding publication that provides information not easily obtained anywhere else." DIALOGUE magazine, now published six times a year, is available in large print, braille, cassette, diskette, and e-mail formats. For more information or to subscribe, call 800-860-4224 or visit www.blindskills.com.

  Blindskills, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that provides support and encouragement to visually impaired people through its many publications and services.

  In addition to DIALOGUE, Blindskills publishes WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE? and PROMISES TO KEEP, a cassette and booklet for newly blind people and their friends and families, and JOB HUNTING RESOURCES FOR PEOPLE WITH VISION IMPAIRMENTS, a handbook designed to assist visually impaired job seekers to explore careers, write a resume, prepare for interviews, and locate job opportunities. Call or visit www.blindskills.com for more information.

  Blindskills, Inc. P.O. Box 5181, Salem, OR 97304-0181
  

  Posted by Karen Thomas at 11:50 AM | Comments (0)

  September 26, 2005

  The 30-Day Placement Plan: A Road Map to Employment

  There are many steps to finding and getting the right job, and this process can be challenging. Many job seekers have found that breaking the job search down into a series of small, workable tasks makes the process much more manageable. It also gives the job seeker a sense of accomplishment when each task is completed. A 30-Day Placement Plan is one way to keep tasks in order. The 30-Day Placement Plan published by the Institute for Community Inclusion is available online at
  http://www.communityinclusion.org/publications/pub.php?page=ib21.
  

  Posted by Karen Thomas at 08:39 PM | Comments (0)

  September 19, 2005

  Know The Law: Policy, Legislation and Regulations Relating to Employment and Youth With Disabilities

  Information is crucial in today’s business environment. This maxim especially applies to legal aspects of employment. While you don’t need to be an expert, you should be aware of and have a basic understanding of the policy, laws, and regulations concerning people with disabilities and the workplace.

  Go to National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability.

  Posted by Karen Thomas at 12:40 PM | Comments (0)

  Tip Sheets For First Responders For People With Disabilities

  “Tips For First Responders” is an 11-page, color-coded, laminated 4.5 x 5.5-inch field guide that contains quick, easy-to-read information on how to assist persons with a wide range of disabilities, including Seniors, People with Service Animals, People with Mobility Challenges, People with Mental Illness, People who are Blind or Visually Impaired, People who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, and People with Cognitive Disabilities.
  You can see the tip sheets at:
  http://cdd.unm.edu/products/TipsForFirstResponders.htm

  Posted by Karen Thomas at 12:32 PM | Comments (0)

  September 13, 2005

  Emergency Preparedness and People with Disabilities

  http://www.dol.gov/odep/programs/emergency.htm
  

  Posted by Karen Thomas at 08:06 AM | Comments (0)

  New Fact Sheets Available from the Office of Disability Employment Policy

  The Office of Disability Employment Policy has updated six fact sheets on the following subjects: mentoring, disability data and research resources,
  interviewing tips for job candidates with disabilities, recruiting employees with disabilities, and an overview of the Job Accommodation Network.

  Cultivating Leadership: Mentoring Youth with Disabilities

  Customized Solutions for Today’s Workforce: The Job Accommodation Network

  Exploring the Issues: Disability Research Resources

  Finding Facts and Figures: Disability Data Resources

  Interviewing Essentials: Strategies for Creating a Positive Impression

  Strategic Connections: Recruiting Job Candidates with Disabilities
  

  Posted by Karen Thomas at 07:30 AM | Comments (0)

  September 06, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List:: 9/2/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. Webliography for Locating Job Candidates With Disabilities
  2. Aptitude Test
  3. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  4. 20 False Assumptions to Tackle as an Equal Opportunity Employer
  5. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  6. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  7. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  8. AT and T
  9. Vocational Rehabilitation, or Mainstream Counseling: Which Is Right for...
  10. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Telltale Signs of Inclusion
  
  

  Posted by Nancy at 07:41 PM | Comments (0)

  August 29, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 8/29/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  2. Aptitude Test
  3. 20 False Assumptions to Tackle as an Equal Opportunity Employer
  4. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  5. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  6. Answers to Your Questions About Screen Magnification
  7. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  8. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  9. AT&T
  10. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Telltale Signs of Inclusion

  Posted by Marten at 03:19 PM | Comments (0)

  August 22, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 8/21/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. 20 False Assumptions to Tackle as an Equal Opportunity Employer
  2. Aptitude Test
  3. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  4. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  5. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  6. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  7. What's the Best Way to Develop Keyboard Skills?
  8. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Telltale Signs of Inclusion
  9. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  10. AT&T

  Posted by Marten at 12:05 PM | Comments (0)

  August 16, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 8/12/05

  The 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. 20 False Assumptions to Tackle as an Equal Opportunity Employer
  2. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  3. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  4. The Back Door Into Adulthood
  5. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  6. JC Penney
  7. Blossoming of the eBook and What It Means to Blind and Visually Impaired...
  8. Aptitude Test
  9. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  10. Career Objective/Job Objective

  Posted by Marten at 04:38 PM | Comments (0)

  August 01, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 7/29/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Avoiding Condescension
  
  
  2. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  
  
  3. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  
  
  4. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  
  
  5. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  
  
  6. Aptitude Test
  
  
  7. Essential Career Marketing Tactic: Writing Effective Letters of...
  
  
  8. Book Recording Services for Students, Employees
  
  
  9. JC Penney
  
  
  10. Emergency Plans That Include Workers With Disabilities

  Posted by Nancy at 05:12 PM | Comments (0)

  July 26, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 7/22/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. Obvious Limitations, Hidden Potential
  
  
  2. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Avoiding Condescension
  
  
  3. Book Recording Services for Students, Employees
  
  
  4. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  
  
  5. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  
  
  6. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  
  
  7. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  
  
  8. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  
  
  9. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  
  
  10. Employing, Serving All Equitably: The Nordstrom Way

  Posted by Nancy at 10:45 AM | Comments (0)

  July 19, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 7/15/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Avoiding Condescension
  2. How to Target Your Resume for Specific Jobs
  3. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  4. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  5. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  6. As Unseeing on TV: What Can You Believe About Blind Characters on TV and...
  7. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  8. What to Do About Blindisms That Can Prevent You From Getting a Job
  9. Build a Career Using Your Voice
  10. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...

  Posted by Nancy at 05:48 PM | Comments (0)

  July 16, 2005

  Help employers manage the changing workforce

  As workforce professionals know, the most successful companies have identified strategies to retain, retrain, and hire a diverse employee base. The ForEmployers.com website helps businesses tap into a growing labor pool that includes people with disabilities. Whether the concern be age-related conditions, injuries on the job, or bringing on new staff with disabilities, ForEmployers.com can help. Topics include accommodations, demographic data, and success stories. We encourage workforce professionals to use ForEmployers.com as an information source for businesses in your network, and we welcome your feedback. Visit ForEmployers.com at
  http://www.foremployers.com/.

  Posted by Karen Thomas at 09:32 PM | Comments (0)

  July 12, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 7/08/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Avoiding Condescension
  2. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  3. The Nuts and Bolts of Preparing Your Resume
  4. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  5. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  6. How to Build a Vast Personal Network of Supporters
  7. Make Sure Your Job Postings Reach Job Candidates With Disabilities
  8. Adaptive Technology in a Machine Shop
  9. Build a Career Using Your Voice
  10. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...

  Posted by Nancy at 12:30 PM | Comments (0)

  July 05, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 7/01/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. India's First Blind Computer Programmer
  2. How to Build a Vast Personal Network of Supporters
  3. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  4. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  5. HSBC Bank Canada: Diversity, Commitment and Innovation
  6. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  7. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  8. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  9. Understanding Your Employee's Visual Impairment
  10. How To Foster a Work Environment That Values Employees With Disabilities

  Posted by Karen Thomas at 06:50 PM | Comments (0)

  July 03, 2005

  Disability Employment in the UK

   The June 2, 2005 issue of COMMUNITY CARE magazine, a leading publication in the UK, explores employment of people with disabilities in an article titled
  “Under Occupied.” The authors, Michael Hirst and Patricia Thornton, examine the employment of people with disabilities, particularly in the public sector,
  in light of new laws requiring employers to promote the equality of people with disabilities in the UK. The article can be accessed online at www.communitycare.co.uk.

  Posted by Karen Thomas at 04:30 PM | Comments (0)

  June 28, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 6/24/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  2. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  3. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  4. How to Build a Vast Personal Network of Supporters
  5. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  6. How to Effectively Scan a Book
  7. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  8. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  9. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Unique Confidence-building Experiences
  10. Emergency Plans That Include Workers With Disabilities

  Posted by Karen Thomas at 05:32 PM | Comments (0)

  June 20, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 6/17/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. How to Build a Vast Personal Network of Supporters
  2. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  3. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  4. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  5. Professional Development Series
  6. How to Build an Operating Budget for Your Small Business
  7. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  8. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Tapping Job Candidates Who Have...
  9. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  10. A FreedomBox PassKey

  Posted by Nancy at 06:47 PM | Comments (0)

  June 14, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 6/10/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. A FreedomBox PassKey
  2. Index to eSight Phone Conferences
  3. Troubled Tribute
  4. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  5. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  6. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  7. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Tapping Job Candidates Who Have...
  8. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  9. How to Build an Operating Budget for Your Small Business
  10. Build a Career Using Your Voice

  Posted by Nancy at 03:10 PM | Comments (0)

  June 06, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 6/3/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Tapping Job Candidates Who Have Transformed Vulnerability Into Authenticity
  
  
  
  2. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  3. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  4. How to Build an Operating Budget for Your Small Business
  5. Blossoming of the eBook and What It Means to Blind and Visually Impaired...
  6. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  7. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  8. Straight Talk: What to Say to Co-workers About Your Disability
  9. Index to eSight Phone Conferences
  10. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User

  Posted by Nancy at 10:05 AM | Comments (0)

  June 01, 2005

  The National Business Incubation Association - NBIA

  Small-business assistance programs often have specialized missions, and their clients' unique needs require customized approaches. Whether your program helps technology companies, aspiring artists, or entrepreneurs in isolated areas, you will find books to help you help them at the NBIA Bookstore.

  The National Business Incubation Association (NBIA) is the world's leading publisher of business incubation books, many of which address strategies for specialized incubators that can be applied to other entrepreneur-assistance programs. The NBIA Bookstore also carefully reviews offerings from outstanding publishers to bring you high-quality books on entrepreneurship topics including specialty foods and microenterprise. The NBIA Bookstore stocks numerous books that are difficult to obtain through major bookstores or even libraries. Any of these valuable resources can help you more effectively serve your clients' needs.

  Visit the NBIA Bookstore at http://www.nbia.org/store. Or, to request a catalog, call (740) 593-4331 or email publications@nbia.org.

  Posted by Nancy at 05:31 PM | Comments (0)

  May 31, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 5/27/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  2. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  3. How to Build an Operating Budget for Your Small Business
  4. Overcoming Fear and Isolation
  5. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  6. Pillars of Self-esteem: Principle Four - Self-assertiveness (Part A)
  7. Ross, William
  8. Has Disability Made You a Workaholic?
  9. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  10. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User

  Posted by Nancy at 01:16 PM | Comments (0)

  May 24, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 5/20/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  2. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  3. How to Build an Operating Budget for Your Small Business
  4. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  5. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  6. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Creating a Level Recruiting Field
  7. Use Journaling in Your Career Development
  8. Wireless Keyboard Options for the Blind Computer User
  9. Building Skill Categories, Using Aptitude Testing to Find Your Career...
  10. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning

  Posted by Nancy at 12:02 PM | Comments (0)

  May 23, 2005

  A Practical Guide to Accommodating People with Visual Impairments in the Workplace

  The Computer Center for Visually Impaired People at Baruch College has produced a book called "A Practical Guide to Accommodating People with Visual Impairments in the Workplace".

  It is available in print and on disk.

  This guide can be valuable to jobseekers because it provides a simple and easy-to-follow roadmap for employers to use to create a workplace that is friendly to people who are blind or visually impaired.

  To order this book, please call 1-800-490-6609 or
  email ccvipbookorder@baruch.cuny.edu.
  

  Posted by Nancy at 03:23 PM | Comments (0)

  The Anti-Discrimination Center

  The Anti-Discrimination Center is a nonprofit civil rights organization working to prevent and remedy discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations.
  

  The Center provides assistance to people with disabilities who believe they have been discriminated against due to their disability, in their search for housing or in obtaining a reasonable modification or accommodation, or in an employment situation or public accommodation.

  Phone: 212-346-7600
  E-mail center@antibiaslaw.com

  Posted by Nancy at 01:57 PM | Comments (0)

  May 17, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 5/13/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Creating a Level Recruiting Field

  2. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...

  3. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career

  4. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses

  5. Use Journaling in Your Career Development

  6. Emergency Plans That Include Workers With Disabilities

  7. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
     
     
  8. Blossoming of the eBook and What It Means to Blind and Visually Impaired...

  9. How to Effectively Scan a Book

  10. Bungled Bluff
      

  Posted by Nancy at 06:39 PM | Comments (0)

  May 11, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 5/6/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:
  

  1. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  2. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Creating a Level Recruiting Field
  3. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  4. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  5. Bungled Bluff
  6. Pillars of Self-esteem: Principle Four - Self-assertiveness (Part A)
  7. Blossoming of the eBook and What It Means to Blind and Visually Impaired...
  8. How to Build an Operating Budget for Your Small Business
  9. eSight Interview: What a Hiring Manager Says He Seeks in a Job Candidate
  10. Typical Accommodations for Workers With Visual Impairment: Transportation ...

  Posted by Nancy at 11:20 AM | Comments (0)

  May 02, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 4/29/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Creating a Level Recruiting Field
  2. Use Journaling in Your Career Development

  3. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  4. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  5. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  6. As Unseeing on TV: What Can You Believe About Blind Characters on TV and...
  7. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  8. Turn Your Disability Into an Advantage as a Business Leader
  9. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Unique Confidence-building...
  10. What to Do About Blindisms That Can Prevent You From Getting a Job

  Posted by Nancy at 11:24 AM | Comments (0)

  April 27, 2005

  Graduate Scholarships for Women With Disabilities

  The Ethel Louise Armstrong Foundation offers scholarships to women graduate students with physical disabilities who are enrolled in a college or university in the United States.

  Deadline: June 1, 2005

  Scholarships range between $500 and $2,000.

  Requirements: To be eligible, an applicant must be a woman with a physical disability who is currently accepted into a graduate program working toward a Masters degree or above at an accredited college or university in the United States. In addition, the applicant must be active in a local, state, or national disability organization -- either in person or electronically -- which is providing services and/or advocacy for people with disabilities.

  Visit the Ethel Louise Armstrong Foundation Web site for complete program details and application materials.

  Posted by Nancy at 09:31 AM | Comments (0)

  April 26, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 4/22/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Breaking Accessibility Barriers
  2. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  3. When You and Your Boss Are Out of Sync
  4. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  5. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  6. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  7. What Employers Really Want to Know About Your Disability
  8. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  9. Essential Career Marketing Tactic: Making Appointments by Telephone
  10. eSight Interview: What a Hiring Manager Says He SeeUse eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career

  Posted by Nancy at 06:45 PM | Comments (0)

  Including People with Disabilities in Emergency Planning

  WASHINGTON—The National Council on Disability (NCD) has released a report "Saving Lives: Including People with Disabilities in Emergency Planning" recommending immediate federal changes in emergency planning for people with disabilities.

  According to NCD chairperson Lex Frieden, “Saving Lives: Including People with Disabilities in Emergency Planning," provides an overview of steps the Federal Government should take to build a solid and resilient infrastructure that will enable the government to include the diverse populations of people with disabilities in emergency preparedness, disaster relief, and homeland security programs. This infrastructure would incorporate access to technology, physical plants, programs, and communications. It also would include procurement and emergency programs and services.”

  The decisions the Federal Government makes, the priority it accords to civil rights, and the methods it adopts to ensure uniformity in the ways agencies handle their disability-related responsibilities are likely to be established in the early days of an emergency situation and be difficult to change if not set on the right course at the outset. By way of this report, NCD offers advice to assist the Federal Government in establishing policies and practices in these areas. This report provides examples of community efforts with respect to people with disabilities, but by no means does it provide a comprehensive treatment of the emergency preparedness, disaster relief, or homeland security program efforts by state and local governments.

  Posted by Nancy at 11:01 AM | Comments (0)

  Personal Assistant Referral Service

  Assistant Referral Service matches disabled assistance users and assistants in their hometown or in other parts of the world, for live-in or part-time positions or as travel companions. Assistants help with the activities of daily living, such as getting bathed and dressed, going shopping, driving, etc.

  Search the Database for Assistants

  Offer a new job
  
  Search for jobs

  Apply for jobs
  

  Posted by Nancy at 10:48 AM | Comments (0)

  April 19, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 4/15/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. eSight Interview: What a Hiring Manager Says He Seeks in a Job Candidate
  2. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  3. Use Journaling in Your Career Development
  4. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  5. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  6. As Unseeing on TV: What Can You Believe About Blind Characters on TV and...
  7. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  8. How to Effectively Scan a Book

  9. Book Recording Services for Students, Employees
  10. Blind Training: How Does It Prepare People for Employment?
  
  

  Posted by Nancy at 12:43 PM | Comments (0)

  Hands On Banking - Money Skills You Need For Life

  Wells Fargo Bank has developed a training program with modules for youth and adults.

  A free copy of the CD can be requested by calling Wells Fargo at (866) 650-6228. It is also on the web, if your computer will allow you to download the Macromedia Flash Player program, at www.handsonbanking.org

  Posted by Nancy at 10:45 AM | Comments (0)

  April 12, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 4/8/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  
  
  1. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Unique Confidence-building...
  
  
  2. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  
  
  3. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  
  
  4. Hot Type, Cold Reality
  
  
  5. Emergency Plans That Include Workers With Disabilities
  
  
  6. Use Journaling in Your Career Development
  
  
  7. As Unseeing on TV: What Can You Believe About Blind Characters on TV and...
  
  
  8. Webliography for Locating Job Candidates With Disabilities
  
  
  9. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  
  
  10. How to Effectively Scan a Book

  Posted by Nancy at 05:05 PM | Comments (0)

  April 04, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 4/3/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week:

  1. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Unique Confidence-building...
  2. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
  3. Use Journaling in Your Career Development
  4. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
  5. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
  6. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
  7. "Swimming in the Mainstream" Insight: Breaking Accessibility Barriers
  8. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
  9. Characteristic of Leadership: Beginning With the End in Mind - Moral...
  10. You Can Make a Difference

  Posted by Nancy at 12:45 PM | Comments (0)

  IMNO (International Mentoring Network Organization)

  Description:
  IMNO is a nonprofit organization that gives help and direction to the career development of aspiring professionals around the world through professional mentoring. Individuals can access the IMNO Web site to study the advice of successful professionals and apply the principles they learn in their own careers. This mentoring is provided to anyone, anytime, anywhere.

  URL: http://www.imno.org/default.asp

  Posted by Nancy at 12:12 PM | Comments (0)

  March 31, 2005

  General Accessible Travel and Accommodations Information

  You'll find information about lodging, transportation, restaurants, attractions, maps, travel agents who specialize in disability issues, and much more. This site is an excellent resource for people with disabilities who travel for business or pleasure.

  Go to http://gatorsport.phhp.ufl.edu/travel_general.html

  
  

  Posted by Nancy at 10:23 AM | Comments (0)

  NCD Launches New Disability Listserv

  WASHINGTON-The National Council on Disability (NCD) has launched a new disability listserv that will provide critical information on issues affecting people with disabilities, including a monthly newsletter known as the NCD Bulletin, news releases, legislative updates, and other newsworthy items.

  The NCD listserv will be maintained by the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO), which currently operates 19 government listservs http://listserv.access.gpo.gov/. Use of GPO as the site administrator will help maintain system integrity. To subscribe to the NCD's listserv, send the following command: SUBSCRIBE NCD-NEWS-L (FIRSTNAME LASTNAME) to LISTSERV@LISTSERV.ACCESS.GPO.GOV or go to http://listserv.access.gpo.gov/ and click on Online mailing list archives, then select NCD-NEWS-L and complete the short subscription form.

  NCD is an independent federal agency making recommendations to the President and Congress to enhance the lives of people with disabilities and their families. In 1986, NCD first proposed and then drafted the original ADA.

  NCD's overall purpose is to promote policies, programs, practices, and procedures that guarantee equal opportunity for all individuals with disabilities, regardless of the nature or severity of the disability; and to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve economic self-sufficiency, independent living, and inclusion and integration into all aspects of society.

  NCD is currently working on a series of reports known as "Investing in Independence," which interrelate with centerpiece initiatives presented in President Bush's New Freedom Initiative. These reports focus on transitioning people from social security income to work; long-term supports and services; the impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act; and, financial incentives related to employment and living independently.

  For more information, contact Mark Quigley at: 202-272-2004 or 202-272-2074 TTY or visit NCD's award-winning Web site at http://www.ncd.gov

  Posted by Nancy at 09:56 AM | Comments (0)

  March 30, 2005

  Accessible Movie Theater Guide for NYC

  The Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities has surveyed movie theaters in New York City for their accessibility.

  Their accessibility guide to movie theaters in New York City
  is available at http://nyc.gov/html/mopd/html/movies.html

  
  

  Posted by Nancy at 02:31 PM | Comments (0)

  March 29, 2005

  eSight's Top 10 List: 3/28/05

  Here is the list of the top 10 most-read resources from eSight Careers Network for last week.

  1. Book Recording Services for Students, Employees
     
  2. Use eSight as a Dynamic Tool for Managing Your Career
     
  3. As Unseeing on TV: What Can You Believe About Blind Characters on TV
     
  4. Share the Load: You Don't Have to Be the Weakest Link Due to Your...
     
  5. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Blind Employees But Were...
     
  6. Use Journaling in Your Career Development
     
  7. 10 Steps to Build Strengths and Eliminate Weaknesses
     
  8. High Turnover Antidote: Hire Employees With Disabilities
     
  9. Three O*Net Career Exploration Tools for Career Counseling and Planning
     
  10. How to Effectively Gain Public Recognition of Your Inclusion Efforts

      Posted by Nancy at 02:35 PM | Comments (0)

      March 15, 2005

      Financial Aid for Students with Disabilities, 2005 Edition

      The HEATH Resource Center of George Washington University's Graduate School of Education and Human Development produces an annual financial assistance resource guide that includes information to help people with disabilities get financial aid for post-secondary education. The 18-page guide covers all the basics, from grants and loans, to work-study and scholarships. It covers disability-related topics such as what counts as disability-related expenses, how vocational rehabilitation and financial aid work together, and how Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) fits into the picture. It also contains a list of financial assistance sources and a financial aid checklist.

      http://www.heath.gwu.edu/Heath%20Website/PDFs/FinancialAid05.pdf

      Posted by Nancy at 01:40 PM | Comments (0)

      March 14, 2005

      The Access Builder

      The Computer Center for Visually Impaired People at Baruch College (CCVIP) has just released the first issue of its official newsletter, "The Access Builder".

      This issue contains a message of welcome from the President of Baruch College, Dr. Kathleen Waldron, as well as articles about recent awards, classes and events that have taken place at CCVIP. It also includes an Alumni Profile of Mr. Matthew Sapolin, the Executive Director of the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities.

      Future issues will provide resources for purchasing assistive technology, tips for computers users and an update on our new course in applied statistics in audio-tactile format.

      The Access Builder is available on-line in text and PDF formats at our website www.baruch.cuny.edu/ccvip/. To obtain a copy of the newsletter in Braille or large print, call (646) 312-1420.
      

      Posted by Nancy at 05:39 PM | Comments (0)

      Navigating Medicare and Medicaid, 2005

      Resource Guides for People with Disabilities, Their Families, and Their Advocates

      The Kaiser Family Foundation released new guides, prepared by Bob Williams and Henry Claypool of Advancing Independence and Jeff Crowley of the Georgetown University Health Policy Institute, that explain the role of Medicare and Medicaid for roughly 20 million children, adults and seniors with disabilities.

      These guides offer a basic introduction to the Medicare and Medicaid programs, including answers to questions such as:

      How do people with disabilities apply for coverage under Medicare or Medicaid?

      What is Medicare's policy for covering durable medical equipment?

      Where can people with disabilities turn if they need help in applying for Medicaid?

      How do people with disabilities appeal Medicare coverage decisions?

      Can a person with a disability who has Medicare and/or Medicaid be employed and still keep their coverage?

      These guides are available online in both PDF and HTML formats.

      Navigating Medicare and Medicaid, 2005

      Keeping Medicare and Medicaid When You Work, 2005

      Information provided by the Medicare Policy Project
      Publish Date: 2005-02-07

      Posted by Nancy at 04:30 PM | Comments (0)

      Tricks of the Trade for Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments

      AFB Press has announced the publication of:

      "Itinerant Teaching: Tricks of the Trade for Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments, Second Edition," by Jean E. Olmstead.

      It has been completely updated.

      If you’re a teacher of visually impaired students who is always on the move—handling a substantial caseload, and providing services all over the map to students of different ages with different needs—this is the book for you. Consider it your personal mentor to help you make the most of your day and manage the entire school year. To read more about this publication, visit our bookstore at www.afb.org/store.

      
      Available in paperback and on ASCII disk.
      Order your copy today at www.afb.org/store
      Or call 1-800-232-3044; International customers, call 412-741-1398.

      Posted by Nancy at 04:28 PM | Comments (0)