Easterseals Crossroads Partners with The Indianapolis Public Library to Install Accessible Workstations at All Branch Locations

Workstations to ensure all library patrons have access to assistive technology

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (April 17, 2023) – The Indianapolis Public Library and Easterseals Crossroads are partnering on a project to install accessible workstations at all 24 Library locations throughout Indianapolis, Lawrence and Beech Grove to ensure all patrons have access to assistive technology.

Part of The Library’s digital inclusion roadmap to improve access to Library services and materials for persons of all abilities, the accessible workstations are currently available at the Eagle, West Perry, East 38^th Street, East Washington and Garfield Park locations.

The workstations offer a height-adjustable desk, large-key keyboard, large-print keyboard, trackball mouse with programmable buttons and arm supports. Software includes a text reading app, live transcription app, math app, magnification app and a screen reading app for people who are blind and visually impaired.

These tools can “read” information to patrons and respond to voice commands; and help people with learning disabilities or mobility limitations complete tasks such as writing a document or accessing the internet. These workstations are available for all patrons, with shorter use periods than other stations to decrease wait times.

“The framework for the accessible workstations took shape through site visits, conversations and online surveys with Library staff,” said Brian Norton, ATP, CEAS, director of assistive technology at Easterseals Crossroads. “The strategy was to use a small amount of technology to meet the majority of patron needs. This includes needs for vision, mobility, intellectual/cognitive and hearing impairments as well as language barriers. Built-in durable tools, devices and apps make the workstations user-friendly, intuitive and sustainable.”

“We strive to improve digital and technology inclusion and services for persons of all abilities,” said Shanika Heyward, director of innovation and technology at The Indianapolis Public Library. “We hope to increase the confidence of all of our patrons in using technology independently and to enhance their quality of life.”

The accessible workstations will be rolled out and installed at all 24 Library locations over the next several months.

Visit eastersealscrossroads.org for more about the services offered through Easterseals Crossroads. Visit indypl.org for more information about The Indianapolis Public Library.

 About Easterseals Crossroads

As one of 68 Easterseals affiliates, Easterseals Crossroads has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives for more than 85 years. Whether helping someone improve physical mobility, return to work or simply gain greater independence for everyday living, Easterseals Crossroads offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals. The agency provides top-quality, family-focused and innovative services tailored to meet the specific needs of the individuals served. For more, visit eastersealscrossroads.org.

 About The Indianapolis Public Library

The Indianapolis Public Library is the center of knowledge, community life, and innovation for residents of Indianapolis, Lawrence, Beech Grove, and Marion County, Indiana. Operating in 24 locations along with a Bookmobile, The Library provides materials, programs, and services in support of lifelong learning for residents of all ages and backgrounds.

Grant will help build a digital skills and employment training program for youth with disabilities

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (April 12, 2023) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, has been awarded a one-year $75,000 grant from Comcast NBCUniversal for the Comcast NBCUniversal Digital Literacy and Employment Program. This is the second year that Easterseals Crossroads has received funding for this project. The grant will help build a digital skills and employment training program for transition-age youth with disabilities.

The Comcast NBCUniversal Digital Literacy and Employment Program is for any young adult ages 18-24 with a diagnosed disability who is preparing to work in a competitive work environment. The project focuses on delivering targeted digital skills curriculum in the classroom combined with an internship that will allow each participant to demonstrate what they are learning in a real work setting.

“We are thrilled to receive a second year of funding so that we can continue the important work of providing young adults with disabilities training on Digital Literacy.  These skills are crucial for them to move from school successfully and safely to adulthood and manage both their work and personal lives” said Marjorie Duryea, Director, Employment Programs, Easterseals Crossroads.

Easterseals Crossroads is pleased to partner with national Easterseals and affiliates in Arkansas, Colorado, Greater Houston, New Hampshire and Washington State by sharing resources and best practices in offering digital learning opportunities for young adults with disabilities in our community.

Digital literacy and access to technology are two areas of strategic investment at Comcast NBCUniversal that empower people and create opportunities for those who need it most. Easterseals and affiliates throughout the country have been chosen by Comcast NBCUniversal for many grants and programs throughout the years.

About Comcast NBCUniversal  |  Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

Easterseals Crossroads Expands Services for Individuals with Brain Injuries

Brain Injury Program recently transitioned from Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana (RHI)

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (March 6, 2023) – Easterseals Crossroads is now expanding services for people with brain injuries after transitioning the vocational brain injury rehabilitation services program from Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana (RHI).

The new Resource Facilitation Program at Easterseals Crossroads identifies specific resources such as therapy, support groups, education options, transportation assistance and social services so individuals with brain injuries can live as independently as possible.

“A brain injury can happen to anyone at any point during a lifetime,” said Easterseals Crossroads President and CEO David Dreith. “Comprehensive services are critical so that individuals with brain injuries can work, contribute and live their best lives. Easterseals Crossroads is proud to continue the great work begun by the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana in meeting the needs of those with disabilities throughout our state.”

“A person living with a brain injury is capable and valuable to the community,” said Easterseals Crossroads Director of Brain Injury Resource Facilitation Services Amy Miller. “Sometimes a person just needs support and accommodations. Adult services at Easterseals Crossroads have long been positioned to serve individuals with brain injuries through day service options, employment services and assistive technology solutions. This transition from RHI perfectly aligns with the existing array of service delivery within Easterseals Crossroads. The transition will create new opportunities to more fully meet the needs of individuals living with disabilities in our community and state.”

Resource facilitation is a robust community-based public health model proven to improve outcomes in both acute and chronic brain injury. The services at Easterseals Crossroads are available to individuals who qualify for vocational rehabilitation, giving them the opportunity to work with a team of brain injury professionals to achieve return-to-work or return-to-school goals.

“The majority of people we work with are five to 10 years post injury, and many never knew they had a history of brain injury,” Miller said. “Our program provides brain injury-specific education to individuals with brain injury and their families or caregivers; helps individuals identify, obtain and navigate needed services and supports; promotes brain injury-informed care with other providers; and ensures collaboration, integration and coordination between providers and community-based resources.”

The Easterseals Crossroads Brain Injury Resource Facilitation team includes six resource facilitators, one psychotherapist and one brain injury coping skills (BICS) specialist.

For more information about brain injury services, contact Amy Miller at amiller@eastersealscrossroads.org. Visit eastersealscrossroads.org for more about the services offered through Easterseals Crossroads.

First Bingo Bonanza since 2020 returns on Friday, February 3

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (January 18, 2023) – Bingo Bonanza is back! Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, has partnered with Century 21 Scheetz to bring back the popular Bingo Bonanza event to benefit children’s programs and services at Easterseals Crossroads. (License 000834)

Bingo Bonanza takes place Friday, February 3, at Northside Events & Social Club, located at 2100 E. 71^st Street in Indianapolis. Doors open at 6 p.m., with dinner at 6:30 p.m. and bingo at 7:15 p.m.

There will be seven games of bingo for exciting prizes valued up to $1,000 per game. There will also be crazy contests in between games for added fun, but cash is required. Individuals must be 21 years of age or older to attend; identification must be presented and checked at registration.

Tickets are $55 in advance only and include three game cards for each of the seven games along with a buffet dinner and two drink tickets. Due to charity gaming laws, tickets can only be purchased via cash or check. A limited number of tickets are available; so purchase early.

 To purchase tickets by mail, checks should be sent to Easterseals Crossroads, Bingo Bonanza, 4740 Kingsway Drive, Indianapolis, IN, 46205. Please make checks payable to Easterseals Crossroads.

For more information, contact McKenzie Stewart at 317-466-1000 x2605 or mstewart@eastersealscrossroads.org.

Indianapolis, January 11, 2023 – Easterseals Crossroads received 195 granted passes from the IndyGo Foundation to allow students, job seekers, and employees with disabilities to access the public bus system. The IndyGo Foundation helps our community thrive by connecting people through accessible, equitable, and inclusive mobility solutions.

In partnership with IndyGo and the PNC Foundation, the IndyGo Foundation provided bus pass grants to 79 local nonprofit organizations on Jan. 10. Including this grant, the IndyGo Foundation announced the distribution of 27,308 bus passes to nonprofit organizations in Marion County, totaling more than 111,000 days of free transportation.

Some of the granted bus passes will be used to provide bus training to students with disabilities.  The remaining passes will be provided to job seekers and employees with disabilities and military veterans who are receiving services from Easterseals Crossroads.

David Dreith, President and CEO, stated, “Access to safe and reliable transportation is the number one priority for people with disabilities and veterans who want to pursue their life’s goals through employment. The IndyGo Foundation’s generous donation of bus passes will help kickstart the careers of many talented workers.”

“Bus passes are one of the greatest needs of nonprofit organizations as they are an easy way to provide clients with immediate assistance,” said IndyGo Foundation Executive Director Emily Meaux. “The bus pass grants have become a hallmark of the IndyGo Foundation and we are thrilled to expand the program this year to serve more in our community.”

For more information about the work of Easterseals Crossroads, please visit https://www.eastersealscrossroads.org/.  For more information about the IndyGo Foundation, visit indygo.net/foundation/.

Free screening of Disability Film Challenge winners and finalists on October 11

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (October 4, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is excited to partner with the Heartland International Film Festival to highlight the 2022 winners and finalists of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge.

Created in 2013 by actor, comedian and producer Nic Novicki and launched in 2014, the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge gives filmmakers — with and without disabilities — the opportunity to collaborate to tell unique stories that showcase disability in its many forms, inviting aspiring storytellers to creatively write, produce and complete short films. The week-long filmmaking contest, which is open to all, provides a platform for new voices in the entertainment industry.

Heartland International Film Festival is offering a free screening of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge winners and finalists on Tuesday, October 11 at 7:30 p.m. The screening takes place at Deboest Lecture Hall at Newfields, located at 4000 N. Michigan Road in Indianapolis. Nic Novicki will be at the screening to present this year’s lineup. Order your free screening tickets by visiting: https://tickets.heartlandfilmfestival.org/schedule/free-screening-easterseals-disability-film-challenge-finalists-6318bf039d2eee00296464b0.

“I am so excited to come back to Indianapolis for the Heartland Film Festival. Every year it is such an honor to screen our finalist films at such a prestigious film festival alongside films that will end up being in the running for Oscars and Golden Globes consideration,” Novicki said. “This exposure helps provide opportunities for our film challenge participants, and that has always been the mission and the reason I created the film challenge.”

“Easterseals Crossroads is delighted to support the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge’s participation in the Heartland Film Festival,” said Easterseals Crossroads President and CEO David Dreith. “These amazing filmmakers and actors with disabilities are leading the way to 100 percent equity, inclusion and access for all people with disabilities and their families.”

The 31st Heartland International Film Festival takes place October 6-16. Heartland Film is a nonprofit arts organization that runs the 11-day Heartland International Film Festival in October, the Academy Award®-Qualifying Indy Shorts International Film Festival in July, the Truly Moving Picture Award and other year-round programs. Based in Indianapolis, Heartland Film was founded in 1991 with the mission to curate, promote and celebrate thoughtful and engaging films from diverse perspectives.

Easterseals Crossroads Hosts Community Day to Highlight Community Resources

Saturday, October 1, at John Boner Neighborhood Centers

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (September 26, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is hosting a Community Day Event, presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and in partnership with JPMorgan Chase, at John Boner Neighborhood Centers on Saturday, October 1.

This free, family-friendly event takes place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at John Boner Neighborhood Centers, located at 2236 East 10^th Street in Indianapolis. Easterseals Crossroads will provide free, on-site child development checkups; share information about employment services for individuals and families living with disability; and offer information about support services for veterans facing homelessness.

“As a leading provider of services for people with disabilities in central Indiana, we realize not all people have equal access to what they need. Community Day events highlight resources available to people from a variety of partner organizations within the area,” said David Dreith, President/CEO of Easterseals Crossroads.

“We are grateful for this important partnership with Easterseals Crossroads,” said James Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of the John Boner Neighborhood Centers. “This essential effort supports our IndyEast Promise Neighborhood initiative that promises access to great schools and whole-family support to ensure a successful transition from cradle to career.”

An exhibit hall of community partners will offer book giveaways, information on programs for adults and children, games, food and fun. Highlights include food box distribution courtesy of Gleaners Food Bank and Eskenazi Health and diaper distribution courtesy of Indiana Diaper Bank as well as a financial journey information session hosted by JPMorgan Chase. In addition, HealthNet will be on site with a mobile unit, offering BMI, blood pressure and glucose screenings along with information and interactive games. The first 150 people also receive free lunch.

“Attending these Community Day events at the neighborhood centers sponsored by Easterseals Crossroads has been a wonderful way to connect with families and provide information and resources about Adult & Child Health,” said Carla Orr, team lead with Adult & Child Health. “As a vendor attending the event, I have gained information from the other vendors to share with my agency and have appreciated building relationships with the team members at the neighborhood centers.”

For more about Easterseals Crossroads or to donate, visit www.eastersealscrossroads.org.

About John Boner Neighborhood Centers

John Boner Neighborhood Centers inspires neighbors and partners to improve the quality of life on the Near Eastside by providing tools for change and growth. To learn more about John Boner Neighborhood Centers, visit jbncenters.org.

Easterseals Crossroads Hosts Community Day to Highlight Community Resources

Saturday, September 17, at MLK Center in Indianapolis

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (September 12, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is hosting a Community Day Event, presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and in partnership with JPMorgan Chase, at MLK Center on Saturday, September 17.

This free, family-friendly event takes place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at MLK Center, located at 40 W. 40^th Street in Indianapolis.

Easterseals Crossroads will provide free, on-site child development checkups; share information about employment services for individuals and families living with disability; and offer information about support services for veterans facing homelessness.

In addition, an exhibit hall of community partners will offer book giveaways, information on programs for adults and children, games, food and fun. Highlights include food box distribution courtesy of Gleaners Food Bank and Eskenazi Health and diaper distribution courtesy of Indiana Diaper Bank as well as a financial journey information session hosted by JPMorgan Chase. The first 150 people also receive free lunch.

“As a leading provider of services for people with disabilities in central Indiana, we realize not all people have equal access to what they need. Community Day events highlight resources available to people from a variety of partner organizations within the area,” said David Dreith, President/CEO of Easterseals Crossroads.

“Not everyone can easily access the things they need for their family – and may not even know what is available to them. Meeting people where they are, in their neighborhood, is essential,” said MLK Center Executive Director Allison Luthe.

For more about Easterseals Crossroads or to donate, visit www.eastersealscrossroads.org.

About MLK Center

The MLK Center mission is to create a meaningful impact on the lives of those in the neighborhoods served, through quality, multi-generational programs that build community, invest in youth, empower families, advocate for neighbors and provide a peaceful space to connect. To learn more about the MLK Center, visit https://mlkcenterindy.org/.

Easterseals Crossroads Sponsors Ability Awareness Day at Indiana State Fair on July 31

First-ever Ability Awareness Day includes sensory garden, adaptive sports

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (July 11, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, has recognized the need and created a public platform for creating ability awareness. The first-ever Ability Awareness Day will be held at the Indiana State Fair on Sunday, July 31. Easterseals Crossroads is partnering with Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana (RHI)/RHI Foundation, Bosma, Superior Van and Mobility, BraunAbility, JPMorgan Chase and Engledow Group, among other groups and organizations.

Easterseals Crossroads and its partners will host several booths along State Fair Boulevard that day, designed for attendees to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities — through enjoying sensory-friendly Midway hours, experiencing a sensory garden, learning how to play an adaptive sport and exploring an adaptive vehicle, among other activities.

“As a leading service provider and community resource for people with disabilities, we realize the need for inclusion, diversity and equity in all aspects of daily living,” said Easterseals Crossroads President and CEO David Dreith. “The Indiana State Fair has a 130-year history of welcoming all Hoosiers, and we are thrilled to partner with them on the first-ever Ability Day to open the fair. This long-awaited event will include a significant gathering of partners providing resources, information, contests, activities and fun! Hoosiers will not want to miss this day created to celebrate and recognize the ability of everyone in our state.”

Easterseals Crossroads is still looking for volunteers for Ability Awareness Day at the Indiana State Fair. If interested, please fill out the form here: https://bit.ly/3IEmm5j. Volunteers must be 18 years and older; but those 16 and older may volunteer with parents.

Easterseals Crossroads Hosts Community Day to Highlight Community Resources

Saturday, June 11, at Edna Martin Christian Center in Martindale-Brightwood

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (June 2, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is hosting a Community Day Event presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and in partnership with JPMorgan Chase at Edna Martin Christian Center on Saturday, June 11.

This free, family-friendly event takes place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Edna Martin Christian Center’s Leadership and Legacy Campus, located at 2259 Ralston Avenue in Indianapolis.

Easterseals Crossroads will provide free, onsite child development checkups; share information about employment services for individuals and families living with disability; offer information about support services for veterans facing homelessness; and highlight career opportunities at Easterseals Crossroads.

In addition, an exhibit hall of community partners will offer book giveaways; information on programs for adults and children; games; and food box distribution courtesy of Gleaners Food Bank and Eskenazi Health. Highlights include a meet and greet with Indiana Pacers Mascot Boomer from 12-1 p.m. as well as a financial journey information session hosted by JPMorgan Chase.

“As a leading provider of services for people with disabilities in central Indiana, we realize that not all people have equal access to what they need. Community Day events highlight resources that are available to people from a variety of partner organizations within the area,” said David Dreith, President/CEO of Easterseals Crossroads.

“We’re excited to partner with Easterseals Crossroads to bring so many wonderful community resources together for our Martindale-Brightwood neighbors,” said Trina Boyd, Family Ministries Coordinator/Social Capital Coordinator at Edna Martin Christian Center. “With a free lunch for our first 250 guests, games, crafts and a chance to meet Boomer, the Indiana Pacers Mascot, it is bound to be a great event!”

About Edna Martin Christian Center

The Edna Martin Christian Center’s mission is to invest in the lives of all in Martindale-Brightwood and surrounding neighborhoods through community-driven opportunities that foster stability, growth and a vision of hope. The Edna Martin Christian Center is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where individual differences are respected, appreciated and recognized as qualities that enrich the environment in which we work and serve.

To learn more about Edna Martin Christian Center, visit ednamartincc.org.

 About Easterseals Crossroads

As one of 68 Easterseals affiliates, Easterseals Crossroads has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives for more than 85 years. Whether helping someone improve physical mobility, return to work or simply gain greater independence for everyday living, Easterseals Crossroads offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals. We provide top-quality, family-focused and innovative services tailored to meet the specific needs of the individuals we serve. For more, visit eastersealscrossroads.org.

 For more about Easterseals Crossroads or to donate, visit www.eastersealscrossroads.org.