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THE MISSION OF THE GARTH HOMER SOCIETY IS TO CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDEPENDENCE, GROWTH AND PARTICIPATION IN THE COMMUNITY WITH PEOPLE WHO STRIVE TO OVERCOME DEVELOPMENTAL AND PHYSICAL OBSTACLES.

Computer Resource Centre

The Computer Resource Centre helps clients become part of a wired world. In 1996 the provincial government provided funds for two computers so that three new clients moving to the Garth Homer Society from integrated schools could continue what they had learned at school. Once other clients saw the new computers they wanted to try to use them and once they used them, they were hooked. The program quickly expanded when a significant donation from IBM was used to purchase more computers and a wider range of software. These days the CRC helps 66 clients in more than 146 booked sessions every week.

Amongst the most popular software in the CRC is the Puzzle Master. Clients love doing jigsaw puzzles on the computer screen and obviously use them to master dexterity and visual spatial skills. Since staff can use any picture to make a puzzle this program encourages clients to learn about other areas as well. For example, a client learning about traffic signs may have a puzzle of a yield sign. Or an Employment Services client who is about to start a job in a restaurant may work on a puzzle of the kitchen at that restaurant.

Other problem solving software and games are also very popular. For example, Sudoko improves math skills and Battleship improves communication and spatial awareness.

Employment Services clients can work on their resumes and word processing skills, Other clients learn how to use the Internet to research topics that interest them. For example, one client, Ron researches the weather forecasts and trends and posts his weather report on the bulletin board outside the CRC twice a week.

The CRC is equipped with two computers with touch screens for clients who are unable to work with a mouse, as well as an Intellikeys programmable keyboard which is a keyboard mouse and communication device all in one. If a client keys in a letter, word or sentence the board will audibly repeat it back reinforcing the skill, or if a client has difficulty seeing black figures on a white background an overlay changing the colours can allow that client to use the keyboard.

Clients in the CRC are always assisted by staff members who train them, find adaptive technologies and ensure the Internet is used appropriately. With that kind of assistance clients are able to check their e-mails, participate in social networking and interact digitally in the same way as the rest of the world.