ASPIRE - Devices for the Disabled
Donation protected
Hi, my name is, Dan Thompson
I am attempting to help disabled individuals to become more employable, keep existing jobs and enhance independence and/or self-esteem
I am a retired totally blind Assistive Technology Teacher after working in the field for 30 years and using Assistive Technology since the 1970's.
Below is a list of items I am attempting to make available.
Ten Victor Reader Treks stream New Generations: This is a GPS, book storage, and recording device all in one.
Cost $599.00 each, if, ordered before October. $700.00 if ordered after October.
Total cost of $5990.00 before October or 7,000.00 after October.
5 Blaze Ez Hand held digital recorder and scanner @ $600.00 each or $3,000.00
Total.
Five Braille writers from Perkins School for the Blind: $800.00 times five equals $4,000.00
Ten boxes of braille paper for $29.00 a box and $290.00 dollars for ten boxes.
Ten slate and styluses at $15.00 each or a total of $150.00.
Five laptops @ $700.00 each equals $3,500.00
I directly contact all recipients receiving equipment and provide one on one free training, and they must prove competency on the device before they may take their computer or assistive tech device home.
Since I've started the ASPIRE Go Fund Me Campaign in May 2017, eleven individuals between ages 30 and 65 have now experienced fundamental changes in their lives. Three who were afraid to leave their apartments are now exploring the neighborhood with the help of GPS devices designed specifically for blind and low vision persons. The other seven are either volunteering in their community, have returned to taking college classes, or significantly gained new independence around their homes.
Words will not express my gratitude for all those who were instrumental in making these dreams come true via financial or equipment donations.
I’ve been asked questions such as…
"why bother with those over 55, They should just retire and enjoy life. They had their chance.”
And
"Isn't there a grant for that?"
"Perhaps you are trying to help the wrong people. If they couldn’t make it in college or find a job, how can ASPIRE help."
My answer is both personal and conviction.
In 1973, I was told it would be a waste of state funding to send me to college. I was reaching for a dream totally out of my ability.
Fortunately, God blessed me with a wrestling coach, who installed a "never quit" attitude. The greatest power of encouragement in this world was my Wife who also never gave up on me.
Five years later, a new Rehab Counselor who believed in the impossible took a chance. College was finished with honors projects taken in every class. Thirty-five years later, I am joyfully retired and trying to give back.
If you’d like to learn more about Dan, and his story as to why this is such a passion for him, make sure to check back soon, for a link that will take you to his story.
For now, please, think about how you might be able to help, and select from one of the donation choices.
Thanks for reading, and contributing, and Blessed may you be.
Organizer
Dan Thompson
Organizer
Jacksonville, IL
