Welcome to the June edition of the Tools for Life Newsletter! We are excited to share all that is happening across Tools for Life (TFL) as we kick off summer and celebrate our 2-year newsletter anniversary. Thank you for being an active ally of Tools for Life and the community and for staying informed with us!
In this issue, you will find photos of the TFL team in action, highlights of upcoming events and awareness days, program updates, webinar announcements, and the latest research and educational resources. We hope these updates keep you informed, energized, and inspired as we continue making an impact across Georgia.
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On May 5, the Tools for Life team had the opportunity to participate in the 2026 Senior Tech Summit. During the event, we hosted an exhibit table showcasing assistive technology. Gerontologist Sal Kibler, Occupational Therapist Rachel Scarboro, and TFL Program Director Jennifer Ro served on a panel and presented to more than 500 stakeholders.
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On May 11, the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation (CIDI) and TFL provided a presentation and tour of the lab, highlighting how their work supports workplace access and collaboration. In return, CIDI learned more about the role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) as spaces that foster equity, strengthen connections across identities, and enhance how organizations serve their communities.
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Sarah Endicott, CIDI Researcher, hosted an informative exhibit table at the 2026 Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) Conference at Georgia Tech’s Global Learning Center on May 12. She engaged with OMSCS students and alumni, sharing information about CIDI’s resources and programs.
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TFL hosted the Georgia State University Rehabilitation Counseling program on May 11. Outreach Coordinator Tori Adamson presented information about assistive technology solutions, services, and strategies. The class then received a tour of the TFL Assistive Technology Lab by AT Lab Specialist Justin Fuller-Green.
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TFL and CIDI had a great time at the Shepherd Center’s Global Accessibility Awareness Day event on May 20! It was wonderful connecting with patients, caregivers, and staff while sharing assistive technology resources focused on digital accessibility.
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Jennifer Ro delivered a guest lecture to the University of Georgia AAC class on May 21, focusing on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Her session explored and compared various AAC apps and devices and discussed key considerations for effective implementation.
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Also on May 21, TFL hosted the Ubuntu Community Catalyst and Ubuntu Book Club, where participants gathered to discuss relevant local authors and books focused on veterans and mental health. It was a wonderful opportunity for community members to come together, and attendees also received a high-level presentation and tour of the lab from Christie George, Tori Adamson, and Justin Fuller-Green.
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For Your Awareness in June |
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Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month
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| | Learning Disabilities Awareness Week
June 15-21
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Olmstead Act Anniversary
June 22
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| National Deaf-Blind Awareness Week
June 25-July 1
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Research, Education, and Resources |
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Join the free monthly meetings of the Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (GLS) Peer Support Group for information, resources, and encouragement on living with blindness and low vision! Learn how to advocate for yourself, hear from guest speakers, and connect with others in a friendly and supportive environment.
The group meets on Zoom on the third Wednesday of each month, January through October, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
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On June 17, the peer support group will host Hal Simpson from Georgia Blind Sports as a guest speaker! Come prepared to ask questions and take notes.
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Whether you are newly blind, newly diagnosed with a progressive condition affecting your vision, or have been living with visual impairments for years, you can benefit from participating in the GLS Peer Support Group.
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Voice Input Technology Usage by Employees with Physical Disabilities Survey |
Part of the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) on Accommodations, Employment Supports and Success for People with Physical Disabilities (ACCESS-PD) |
Are you someone with a physical disability who uses or has used voice input/control technology? Do you train others to use it? Help us by participating in a 15-minute online survey to assist researchers at Georgia Tech in understanding how these technologies serve as workplace accommodations. Then, join us for a webinar on June 10 to see how your experiences compare with others and learn new tips!
If you have any questions, contact Karen Milchus at karen.milchus@design.gatech.edu or (404) 893-0393.
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Call for Volunteers with Lekotek of Georgia |
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Whether you have just a few hours to give or you're looking for ongoing volunteer work, Lekotek has an opportunity that's right for you. Make a difference this summer with one or both of the upcoming camps!
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Please visit our Research, Education, and Resources webpage to learn more about other community opportunities!
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Although based in Atlanta, Tools for Life serves the entire state of Georgia. Through our free demonstrations and loans, our team helps Georgians of all ages and disabilities access assistive technology solutions and services, so they can live, learn, work, and play independently in the communities of their choice.
Contact the Tools for Life team by email at info@gatfl.gatech.edu or by phone at (404) 894-0541 for more information about our services.
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