Winter 2006 Newsletter, Volume 1 Issue 1

What is TAPloan anyway? by Gretchen Fox

Technology Assistance Program is through the Virginia Department of Deaf and Hard of Hearing and that allows Virginians an opportunity to try out devices that assist persons with hearing and speech disabilities to live more independently. IEC displays and provides information about these devices and can loan them out and assist persons with applying for their own device. It is a great way to “try then own” equipment.

from Winter 2006 Newsletter

by Gretchen Fox

Information and Referral by Connie Sampson

My primary focus is to assist those with disabilities by providing them with appropriate information and referral services. This serves as one of our primary tools to assist you to gain or maintain your involvement in your community. I assist individuals by providing information for them to gain employment, to continue educational goals, to understand and use their health insurance to their maximum benefits, to locate accessible housing, and to access the appropriate community services to meet their needs. Our services will continue to excel with the involvement of our disability community with which we work. You have the right to exercise your voices and I encourage all of you to do so. Your involvement should not only be within your community but nationally as well by attending very important conferences and seminars. Our new newsletter will post these events and if you are interested in attending please contact IEC for further information. …..Remember People “You have the Power”. Happy 2006 and Beyond

from Winter 2006 Newsletter

by Connie Sampson

How YOU can make a Difference in YOUR Community by Gretchen Fox

I am facilitating a community advocacy group that is hands-on involved within the community to break down barriers for people with disabilities. The group provides opportunity to discuss current issues, attend trainings/conference/workshops in the area, and allows for you to make a difference with your community. If you are interested in being a part of this group, please call Gretchen at the IEC office 703-257-5400. We will be holding our first meeting at the end of February.

from Winter 2006 Newsletter

by Gretchen Fox

What Makes a Good Day? by Roberta McEachern

At the end of the day on December 28th I was really happy about the day’s outcome.

So what makes a good day?

A Good day is when you wake up and give thanks for the day whether sunshine, rain, or snow.

Continue reading the What Makes a Good Day? by Roberta McEachern article

There’s a New Kid in Town by Mary D. Lopez, Ph.D.

I was introduced before I even arrived and have been received very warmly. I feel thoroughly welcomed and quite at home already! Thank you.

Continue reading the There’s a New Kid in Town by Mary D. Lopez, Ph.D. article

IEC’s “Fragrance Free” Policy

In order for IEC to be accessible to ALL persons with disabilities, we have a fragrance-free policy.  We ask that all persons who come into our office be free of perfume, cologne, scented body spray, lotion, etc.  Thank you for your cooperation!

State Reports: How Budget Cuts Will Affect Services in Virginia

from the Coalition of Human Needs website:

In December, the House of Representatives approved a budget bill that makes severe cuts to services for low and moderate-income families. The Senate made small modifications to the bill and now the House must reconsider the bill.

Continue reading the State Reports: How Budget Cuts Will Affect Services in Virginia article