INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (February 29, 2024) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, has been awarded a grant from the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation for the Comcast NBCUniversal Digital Literacy and Employment Program. This is the third consecutive year that this funding has been provided to allow continuation of digital literacy and employment training services for transition-age youth with disabilities that will result in digital literacy skill building for participants.

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

“Digital literacy skills are critical for young adults with disabilities to maximize their opportunity for success and full inclusion at school, at work and in their leisure time, as they transition into the adult world,” said Easterseals Crossroads Director of Employment Programs, Marjorie Duryea. “Understanding how to use web browsers, search engines, email, text, and cyber security are essential skills to thrive in today’s digital world. Easterseals Crossroads is pleased to partner with national Easterseals and 12 other affiliates across the country 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 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.

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 Hosts “The Emily Talk” Focused on Interacting with People with Disabilities in Emergencies
Hear from first responder Tom Felter on Friday, March 8 from 2-4 p.m.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (February 29, 2024) – In honor of Disability Awareness Month, Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, joins first responder Tom Felter as he shares his insights and expertise about interacting with people with disabilities during emergency situations.

“The Emily Talk” is a free event taking place Friday, March 8 from 2-4 p.m. at the OneAmerica Tower, located at 200 N. Illinois Street in Indianapolis. Tom’s daughter Emily has a disability; and he draws from his personal experience and his professional life when presenting “The Emily Talk.”

First responders — as well as the general community — will benefit from Tom’s knowledge about effective interactions in emergency situations.

The event is sponsored by JPMorgan Chase and will provide a first-hand learning experience with Emily and her father. It will conclude with an open Q&A session moderated by Deanna Proimos, a physical therapist at Easterseals Crossroads.

To register for this free event, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-emily-talk-tickets-815794572527?aff=esc.

“The Emily Talk” began after Tom Felter learned of an incident where a young adult with Down syndrome was killed because he didn’t respond to commands in an emergency situation. Tom took his expertise as a first responder and a parent of a daughter with Down syndrome to create a program that teaches first responders and the wider community how to interact with people with Down syndrome, Autism and other disabilities.

Tom’s work through “The Emily Talk” inspired “Teacher of Patience,” a 30-minute Emmy Award-winning documentary about their story. Just like everyone else, Emily has good and bad days, and her unique ways of communicating her feelings are worth learning and listening to. Sometimes that takes patience, which is why Tom developed “The Emily Talk” for first responders and the greater community. Tom’s goal is to teach people how to be respectful of individuals with disabilities like Emily.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (November 21, 2023) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is excited to partner with eKeeper to match gift donations on GivingTuesday, which takes place Tuesday, November 28. eKeeper will match any donations made to Easterseals Crossroads on GivingTuesday up to $10,000.

Established in 2012, GivingTuesday leveraged the power of social media and collaboration among diverse organizations to promote charitable giving. It has since become a pivotal day for nonprofits, individuals, businesses and communities to come together, fostering a spirit of generosity and making a tangible impact on various causes and initiatives across the globe.

“eKeeper is a tremendous partner and advocate for Easterseals Crossroads,” said Easterseals Crossroads President and CEO David Dreith. “They truly went all in for ability with us this year as our GivingTuesday matching gift partner. Our agency is stronger when we work together with community partners like eKeeper to envision a more inclusive and accessible central Indiana community.”

eKeeper is a leading provider of adaptable IT solutions, striving to provide peace of mind with technology and extending its mission beyond business operations to positively impact the wider community. The company’s dedication to customer-centric values and strategic partnerships aligns with Easterseals Crossroads’ mission to empower individuals with disabilities.

To amplify its support of Easterseals Crossroads, eKeeper is matching gifts with a significant financial contribution, aiming to make an even greater impact on GivingTuesday. By supporting Easterseals Crossroads, eKeeper demonstrates its commitment to responsible corporate citizenship, contributing to the well-being of communities and embodying the values that define it as a trusted technology partner.

For more about eKeeper, visit www.ekeepersystems.com. For more about Easterseals Crossroads or to donate, visit www.eastersealscrossroads.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.

Easterseals Partners with Heartland International Film Festival on Disability Film Challenge

Free screening of Disability Film Challenge finalists on October 9

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (September 25, 2023) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is excited to partner with the Heartland International Film Festival to highlight the 2023 finalists of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge.

The Easterseals Disability Film Challenge was created in 2013 and launched in 2014 by actor, comedian and producer Nic Novicki, who has starred in the hit holiday children’s series, Santa Buddies, and has appeared in hit TV shows such as Boardwalk Empire and The Sopranos.

The week-long filmmaking contest 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. Open to all, the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge 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 Monday, October 9, at 7:30 p.m. The screening takes place at Glendale Landmark Theater 12, 6102 N Rural St. 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/64ecb7c9153c990ebefbcba6

“I am so excited to come to Indianapolis for the Heartland Film Festival for a special screening of the 10^th anniversary finalists that were shot earlier this year.,” Novicki said. “I created the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge to help accelerate change within Hollywood and to provide filmmakers and actors with tangible work experience and with an opportunity to tell authentic stories. We are proud of the amazing films produced over the past 10 years — viewed around the world — and the successes our participants have gone on to achieve.”

“The Easterseals Disability Film Challenge is one of the highlights of our year at Easterseals Crossroads, and we’re so glad the Heartland Film Festival will once again hold a screening of the latest and greatest from creators with disabilities,” said Easterseals Crossroads President and CEO David Dreith. “These short films pack entertainment, inspiration and humor into a wonderful evening.”

The 32^nd Heartland International Film Festival takes place October 5-15. 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.

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

Easterseals Crossroads Sponsors 2^nd Annual Ability Awareness Day at Indiana State Fair on July 30

Fair attendees can explore accessible gaming and adaptive sports

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (July 24, 2023) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is excited to return to the Indiana State Fair to present the 2^nd Annual Ability Awareness Day on Sunday, July 30. Easterseals Crossroads is partnering with Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana (RHI)/RHI Foundation, BraunAbility, Superior Van and Mobility and several other organizations.

Easterseals Crossroads and its partners will host several booths along State Fair Boulevard that day, designed for attendees to gain a better awareness of ability by experiencing accessible gaming, learning how to play an adaptive sport and exploring an adaptive vehicle, among other activities. The fair will also provide sensory-friendly Midway hours from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on July 30.

In addition, Easterseals Northern Indiana will be on site with their gaming team, Rise of the Phoenix, for demonstrations throughout the entire day.

“Gaming is a great way to break down social barriers, and our esports team is really excited for the opportunity to show off their skills at the Indiana State Fair,” said Paige Hart, esports coach for Easterseals Arc of Northeast Indiana. “We’ve been practicing quite a bit, while also learning about things like online safety, teamwork, time management and taking care of our physical health while gaming.”

During the duration of the Indiana State Fair, accessible transportation vehicles sponsored by Easterseals Crossroads will be available. Accessible transportation will help ensure all fair visitors have equal access to all the programs, buildings and exhibits.

“Since 1852, the Indiana State Fair has been a convening place for all Hoosiers,” said Easterseals Crossroads President and CEO David Dreith. “Once again, Easterseals Crossroads is a proud partner of the fair in recognizing Hoosiers of all abilities and the vital roles people with disabilities and their families play throughout the state. Ability Awareness Day on Sunday, July 30, will provide information, resources, games and activities. We’re proud to partner with the fair in leading the way for the inclusion of people with disabilities in all facets of our state.”

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/.