ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY AT CHAPTERS
EMPLOYEE TEACHES COMMUNITY VIRTUAL REALITY (VR) GAMING CLASS AT THE ARC ONTARIO
“Through teaching the class, I got to see the kids' creativity in action,” said John. “It was great to see the class working together to accomplish their individual goals. They were sharing helpful tips, giving each other items inside the game, and watching other players’ backs,” he continued. “It was fun to watch the class experience Virtual Reality. In fact, one participant loved playing a VR game that was quite difficult, but he never gave up, and by the end of the six-week class he had gotten so good at that game – it was truly remarkable.” John looks forward to teaching more classes in the future, and he encourages other staff members at the agency to share their talents with the world around them and help make a difference in the lives of others. “I never thought I’d be the type of person who’d teach a class, but now I see it differently,” said John. “We’ve all got talents, interests, and hobbies, and I don't think people realize how valuable it can be to share them with others,” he continued. “There are so many talented and knowledgeable people across our agency who have so much to share. I would encourage everyone to take a moment and ask themselves, ‘Do I know anything worth teaching?’ The answer is almost certainly yes.”
At The Arc Ontario, many employees consider the agency more than just a job. It is a place that celebrates differences and comes together to enrich the lives of those they support, ensuring that they have the resources and supports necessary to blossom and realize their full potential. The agency is always searching for new ways to grow and expand its offerings to the community. The Arc Ontario encourages staff members to share their own unique abilities and talents whenever they can. John DeCicca, a PC Technician at The Arc Ontario’s main facility, answered that call and chose to share his talents after work to teach a Virtual Reality (VR) Gaming class to children and young adults with disabilities. “I’ve made some great memories playing video games with friends, and I wanted to help others make similar memories,” said John. “Video games can be a great way for people to socialize and make new friends while having a ton of fun,” he continued. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities often face challenges with socialization and relating with peers. That is why The Arc Ontario offers a variety of exciting classes and activities to the community for people to learn new hobbies, develop new skills and socialize with like-minded individuals.
TRC UTILIZES VIDEOCONFERENCING
Technology is making it possible for different
Day Habilitation Programs at The Resource Center
(Chautauqua) to take part in activities at the same time. Using a device called a
Meeting Owl, an activity taking place at one program can be shared through videoconferencing with our other Day Programs. Here, staff and self-advocates at our Dunkirk Day Program create galaxy sensory bottles by following along via the Meeting Owl.
6 17
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online