Helen Keller Services (HKS)

We are proud to be featured in Forbes for our 2024 Accessibility Symposium & Awards, celebrating United Airlines for their exceptional dedication to accessible travel. From pioneering braille placards to developing inclusive digital platforms, United Airlines exemplifies innovation and leadership in accessibility. As our CEO, Sue Ruzenski, remarked: “United stood out in terms of the values they were putting forth. They walk the walk.” This recognition in Forbes underscores the impact of Helen Keller Services and our Accessibility Symposium in shaping conversations on accessibility across industries. United Airlines recognition with the AccessAbility Award highlights how major companies are prioritizing accessibility as a core value, driving transformative change Thank you to Steven Aquino for this outstanding coverage. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/ev6TftSk Missed the symposium? ?Watch the full event, including United's acceptance speech and other inspiring moments, on our YouTube channel: https://lnkd.in/ecB5uren #HelenKellerServices #Accessibility #Blind #DeafBlind #LowVision #Inclusion #InclusionMatters #AssistiveTechnology #Braille #Disability #DisabilityInclusion #UniversalDesign #UnitedAirlines #AccessibleTravel #AccessAbility

We were honored to welcome members of EY to the Helen Keller National Center during their annual EY Connect Day! The EY team experienced HKNC's comprehensive approach to vocational rehabilitation firsthand during a tour of our training facilities. In our Adaptive Technology Department, they witnessed participants engaging with cutting-edge assistive technologies, while our Communications Learning Center provided fascinating insights into braille and other adaptive communication methods. The visit featured vibrant discussions with HKNC participants and staff, where they shared valuable insights about workplace experiences, accommodation strategies, and fostering an inclusive environment. Did you know? EY's commitment to disability inclusion runs deep in their DNA - their co-founder Arthur Young was deaf and had low vision. Unable to practice law due to his hearing loss, Young's entrepreneurial spirit led him to help shape the modern accounting profession. Today, EY continues this legacy through their AccessAbilities professional network, which enables people of diverse abilities to do their best work and helps build the highest-performing teams. Their recent launch of the AccessAbilities Assistant Fund further demonstrates their ongoing commitment to workplace inclusion. Through meaningful exchanges about workplace success stories, overcoming challenges, and creating a true sense of belonging, this visit exemplified how corporate partnerships can advance disability inclusion for building a #BetterWorkingWorld. Thank you, EY, for your ongoing partnership and dedication to building an accessible future for all! Image Description: Members of EY stand together alongside HKNC staff for a group photo underneath a banner that reads DeafBlind Awareness. ? #EYConnectDay #DisabilityInclusion #Accessibility #DeafBlind #CorporateResponsibility #AbilityNotDisability #InclusiveEmployment #WorkplaceInclusion #GiveBack?

Our Fall 2024 Newsletter is out! Didn't receive it? Subscribe to our mailing list: https://lnkd.in/e2GTeq9D Fall 2024: Advancing Access & Unlocking Potential This autumn, Helen Keller Services drives our mission forward through innovative programs, technology solutions, and advocacy that empower individuals who are blind, DeafBlind, or have low vision to reach their full potential. Inside this edition: Our Accessibility Symposium & Awards reaches global audience. Insights from our dynamic NDEAM "Full STEAM Ahead" webinar panel. HKS leadership shapes national dialogue on DeafBlind representation at NIB Conference. Helen's 5K Run / Walk brings a community together to support Camp Helen Heller. Success stories: How the TEAM Program helped Kevin rediscover his broadcasting passion. Plus: Breakthrough adaptive technology solutions, voting rights initiatives, and more! Read the newsletter here: https://lnkd.in/efHktiyR Image Description: Helen Keller services CEO Sue Ruzenski sits alongside David D'Arcangelo and Doug Roland during a panel discussion about DeafBlind representation and the Feeling Through Studio learning platform at the NIB Conference. . . . #HelenKellerServices #DeafBlind #Accessibility #AccessibilityMatters #InclusionMatters?#DisabilityRights #CommunityImpact #BreakingBarriers #DisabilityAwareness #AdaptiveTechnology #AssistiveTechnology #AdvocacyMatters #DeafBlindAwareness

Our recent NDEAM webinar brought together an extraordinary group of blind and DeafBlind STEAM professionals who are redefining what’s possible in their fields. If you didn't get to join us, you can watch the replay here. ? Moderator Gus Chalkias led a powerful discussion with Chancey Fleet, who's making spatial information accessible through 3D printing at NYPL, Dr. Sara B. Coleman, EdD, whose research is opening new paths in STEM education, Aaron Graham, who's creating more inclusive digital experiences, and Joe DiNero, who's helping individuals master adaptive technology while ensuring digital spaces are accessible through his work as HKSB's Assistant Program Director of Assistive Technology Services and Head Digital Accessibility Tester at UsableNet. ? The conversation moves from practical workplace strategies to emerging technologies, while tackling important truths about advocacy, mentorship, and building successful careers. Their personal stories and insights offer a blueprint for creating more inclusive STEAM workplaces. ? Don't miss this important discussion - watch now and check out our detailed summary at https://lnkd.in/etvfQ34c. ? Link image description: NDEAM webinar thumbnail shows headshots of Chancey Fleet, Dr. Sara Coleman, Aaron Graham and Joe DiNero in squares over a decorative background. ? #NDEAM #Accessibility #DisabilityEmployment #Inclusion #AssistiveTechnology #AssistiveTech #STEM #STEMCareers #InclusiveWorkplace #DigitalAccessibility #UniversalDesign #DisabilityAdvocates #AccessibilityMatters #WorkplaceDiversity

Join Helen Keller Services this Sunday, November 3rd at the Sands Point Preserve as our community comes together for Helen's 5K Run/Walk! Our USATF-certified course winds through a scenic landscape, while the festivities come alive with live music, an art installation, future guide dog puppy demonstrations, and an amazing vendor village for a morning of celebration and connection. This year, we're raising funds to support Camp Helen Keller, our 5-week summer program on Long Island for children who are blind or have low vision. Through specially adapted activities our camp creates an accessible environment where 50 campers experience everything from swimming and sports to music, dance, and STEM activities. Here, they build confidence, discover their talents, and forge lifelong friendships. Details: November 3, 2024, Start Time: 9:30 am Check in at: 7:45 am – 9:00 am Sands Point Preserve 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point N.Y. Register today at https://lnkd.in/e4mCqBcB Thank you to our event sponsors: CCP Office Technology Solutions, Innovative Venture Partners, DARE YOU, Chief Graphix, SMG Accountants Bookkeepers & Advisors, and the Baking Coach. And a big shout out to our community supporters who make this event truly special - from Bach to Rock performing at the finish line to Jersey Mike's fueling our runners. With awards across multiple categories and exciting raffle prizes, there's something for everyone. Runners and walkers of all abilities are encouraged to join.?Bring your dogs and strollers too, as everyone is welcome at this family-friendly event. Register today at https://lnkd.in/e4mCqBcB Image Description: A square photo collage with the Helen’s 5K Run/Walk 2024 logo and the phrase, “Join us to support Camp Helen Keller” in the center surrounded by eight images of campers participating in camp activities including swimming, arts & crafts, horseback riding, zip lining, and obstacle courses. #HelenKellerServices #5KRunWalk #CampHelenKeller #Inclusion #LongIsland #5KRun #5KWalk #NonProfitFundraiser #Blind #LowVision #VisionLoss #DeafBlind #USATF #5K #Fundraiser #LongIslandEvents #SandsPointPreserve

Proud to see Helen Keller Services leading the conversation on voting accessibility in New York. Through our collaborative voter education seminar with SAFMAN CONSULTING SL, we brought critical information directly to our blind, low vision, and DeafBlind community members. With 40.2 million disabled voters in the US eligible to vote in 2024 - representing one in six eligible voters - ensuring equal access to the polls is a necessity. Important reporting from Brooklyn Reader highlights this impactful partnership and the critical work being done to remove barriers for disabled voters. Read how we're working to make every vote count: https://lnkd.in/exQUxuXm #HelenKellerServices #VotingRights #Accessibility #DisabilityRights #DeafBlind #LowVision #VoteNYC #AccessibilityMatters #AccessibleVoting #Vote2024 #VoterRegistration

Ready for some paw-some motivation? Join Maricar and her guide dog Cliff for the Helen Keller Services 5K Run / Walk! This family-friendly event welcomes everyone - runners, walkers, kids, pets, and strollers! Sunday, November 3rd, 2024 9:30 AM Start Time (Check-in: 7:45-9:00 AM) Sands Point Preserve 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY Your participation helps us reach our fundraising goal in support of Camp Helen Keller - a free 5-week summer program for blind and low vision children ages 4-15. Rain or shine, every step you take helps create unforgettable experiences for these campers! Register now at helenkeller.org/5krunwalk Video Description: Maricar, a DeafBlind staff member at HKNC, signs her message while her guide dog Cliff sits beside her. Video transcript: Hi, my name is Maricar and I am here with my best friend, my guide dog, Cliff. Come and join us for the Helen Keller 5K Run / Walk. It's happening on Sunday, November 3rd at 9:30 AM. The walk will be raising money for Camp Helen Keller. Bring your family. Bring your friends. Bring your kids. Bring your dogs. And even your strollers. So come join us. We're gonna have a great time! #HelenKellerServices #5K #5KRun #5KWalk #5KRunWak #NonProfit #Fundraiser #LongIslandNY #DeafBlind #GuideDog #USATF #CharityRun #CharityEvent #AmericanSignLanguage #ASL #LongIslandEvents #SandsPointPreserve

We had a fantastic time at NYPL's Accessible Community, Culture, and Technology Fair last Friday! This annual event brings together organizations, innovators, and community members to showcase accessible technologies and connect people with vital resources and support services. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to chat with Gus, Marcia, and our team at the Helen Keller Services for the Blind table to learn about our innovative technology initiatives - including our TEAM, Teen Tech, and Certified AccessAbility Testing Programs. We loved being part of this vibrant gathering alongside other organizations dedicated to enhancing inclusivity for individuals who are blind, have low vision, or are DeafBlind. Special thanks to The New York Public Library and the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library for hosting this important community event! Image Description: Group photo of HKSB staff sitting and standing behind an event table with brochures, flyers and other handouts on it. #HelenKellerServices #Accessibility #Blindness #LowVision #DeafBlind #AssistiveTechnology #AssistiveTech #InclusiveTech #NYPL #CommunityEngagement #Inclusion #InclusionMatters #NYPL | Gus Chalkias

Thank you to everyone who joined Helen Keller Services yesterday for our 2024 Virtual Accessibility Symposium & Awards! We were thrilled to bring together industry leaders, technology experts, and advocates who are driving accessibility forward across products, services, and workplaces. During our awards ceremony, we celebrated companies setting new standards in accessibility. Congratulations, United Airlines! Check out their acceptance of the Helen Keller Services AccessAbility Award to learn how they're transforming the flying experience for passengers with disabilities.?United is truly leading the way in making travel accessible to all. Video transcript: We're honored to accept this award on behalf of United Airlines for our advancements in cabin accessibility.?Our mission is to ensure travel is accessible to all, and we've made great strides, particularly for passengers with visual disabilities, by being the first U. S. airline to introduce Braille in our cabins and tactile placards for non-braille readers. Our commitment extends to our in flight entertainment and mobile app enhancements, supporting a range of assistive technologies. We've also implemented new tools and policies to better serve our wheelchair-using customers, including a digital filter for aircraft accommodation and a fair refund policy for necessary flight changes. Internally, our business resource group, Bridge, champions an inclusive workplace, mirroring our dedication to customers with disabilities. This award reaffirms our belief that accessible travel benefits everyone. Thank you for recognizing United Airlines’ efforts to ensure that every journey is possible for every traveler. #HelenKellerServices #Accessibility #AccessibilityMatters #Blind #DeafBlind #LowVision #Inclusion #InclusionMatters #AssistiveTechnology #Braille #Disability #DisabilityInclusion #UniversalDesign #UnitedAirlines #AccessibleTravel #AccessAbility

The 2024 Helen Keller Services Accessibility Symposium & Awards starts at 12pm ET. Tune in below. https://lnkd.in/eXMCU6v8