The computer outreach program provides computers to those who are living with multiple sclerosis and are restricted to their homes or are living in long term care facilities. This unique program enables these individuals to remain connected to the world beyond their homes despite financial constraints that preclude them from purchasing computers or assistive technology.
Often, individuals living with MS who reside in long term care facilities are much younger in age than the typical population in those facilities; they are eager to participate in social media or online support networks. They are hungry for the social contact modern day technology provides; they are interested in gathering information on their disease from the Internet, continuing their education and connecting with loved ones. They want to grow, learn, and move their lives forward.
For qualifying members, the computer outreach program provides:
- a laptop or desktop computer, pre-loaded with adaptive software and configured to each user’s specific needs
- each recipient will receive training on software and technology, as well as access to Dell in-home support with additional limited support from the Chapter
- speech recognition software, webcam and Skype capabilities
HOW YOU CAN HELP: DONATE
The program is sourced by generous donations from those who offer their used computers/equipment to the program. Donated items should meet these suggested requirements are as follows:
- 1.5ghz CPU or higher
- 1 gb RAM or higher (DDR or SDRAM)
- Windows XP Operating System or later
- CD ROM or DVD ROM Drives
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Flat Screen Monitors (No CRT's)
iPads
*Printers, scanners and fax machines cannot be accepted.
About the computer outreach program:
The chapter is grateful to Phillip Duffel and the Somerset Patriots Baseball Club for their generous donations of computers and funding for this valuable program!
The New York City- Southern New York Chapter collaborates with The New Jersey Metro Chapter’s Computer Outreach Program that is implemented by their volunteer Dennis Huntley. Dennis assesses the usefulness of the computers/equipment and then the chapter distributes them to the clients who requested them. As the program grows the National MS Society is looking for additional Computer Outreach Program volunteers who would be willing to aid Dennis in the role of refurbishing donations, loading software and assistive/adaptive technology and helping to train people living with MS on the new technology and media. They should be willing to follow up with recipients of the equipment on a monthly basis through Skype, email, website and phone calls.This position will work closely with our programs and services staff. An IT background is helpful but not required. The position requires knowledge of the following:
Windows-based machines
How to connect a machine to the internet via Ethernet or wireless
Re-image donated machines with licensed software
Troubleshoot issues regarding any equipment
Social media, including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube
Adaptive/assistive and free software such as Dragon Speech Zoom Text, Skype
Although this volunteer position is unpaid, the National MS Society will reimburse driving mileage and tolls and any other expenses incurred while fulfilling this position.
For more information about this program please call 212-463-7787, Option 1.
The technology expertise and efforts of volunteer Dennis Huntley is truly appreciated!