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iodtempleu.bsky.social
Institute on Disabilities
@iodtempleu.bsky.social
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We're here for you. Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, College of Education and Human Development. Located in Philadelphia; serving all of PA. https://disabilities.temple.edu

Profile images: C2P2 program cohort + bronze owl sculpture at TU
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iodtempleu.bsky.social
Together, we can make a difference! Join us this #GivingTuesday to support our work with Pennsylvanians with disabilities as we create and share knowledge, change systems and society, and promote self-determined lives.

Learn more and donate: disabilities.temple.edu/about/giving
Someone makes "heart hands"framing the bronze owl mascot sculpture in Temple U's Founder's Garden
December 2, 2025 at 11:03 PM
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You still have time to register for today's 4 pm webinar, Putting the "AT" in Art! disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te...

"AT" is assistive technology. Art therapist Alex Lee will explore how adaptive tools and technologies can expand artistic possibilities and promote access to art making.
A person at a desktop easel uses their prosthetic arm to brush paint onto paper using an adapted grip. Colorful paint palettes are arranged on the table next to a vessel of water for brush cleaning. Text reads, Putting the "AT" in Art. November 20 at 12 pm or 4 pm. Free webinar. Alex Lee, art therapist, will explore adaptive tools and technologies to expand artistic possibilities and promote access to art making. Pennsylvania Tech Accelerator: Tools for employment, independence, and socialization.
November 20, 2025 at 6:19 PM
iodtempleu.bsky.social
What’s new in low vision and blind technology? The Institute's TechOWL program celebrates Assistive Technology Awareness Month with 2 presentations on Monday November 17.

9 am: Low Vision and Braille Technology Vendor Exhibit
2 pm: Using Smart Glasses for Daily Tasks
techowlpa.org/low-vision-a...
An adult wearing a Temple University t-shirt uses Smart Glasses while reading a document on the table in front of them. Text that reads, Low Vision and Blind Technology Event. November 17. What's new in low vision and blind technology?
November 11, 2025 at 7:39 PM
iodtempleu.bsky.social
Need to finish your C2P2 application? You have until November 25, but why wait?

C2P2 is leadership training in PA for:
🟣 Adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities / autism
🟣 Family members of a school-age child with intellectual/developmental disabilities /autism buff.ly/SFhPf9T
C2P2 2025 graduates, a group of mixed age, ability, race, and gender gathered for a group photo in front of a cherry red wall. Text that reads, C2P2 2026 applications due November 25.
November 7, 2025 at 11:04 PM
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November 2025 is Assistive Technology Awareness Month in Pennsylvania!

Read Governor Shapiro's proclamation and learn about the Institute's TechOWL program that helps people with disabilities find and access assistive technology devices and services. disabilities.temple.edu/news/2025/11...
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Proclamation by the Governor, with full text, ornate heading fonts, a Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Proclamation by the Governor, with full text, ornate heading fonts, and the governor's gold seal with Pennsylvania's coat of arms. Text that says, November is Assistive Technology Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. Full plain text available at the link in this post.
November 5, 2025 at 3:20 PM
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Share your vision for a more accessible Philadelphia! Join Liberty Resources and our TechOWL program for an important community conversation on shaping a more inclusive and accessible city for people with disabilities.

RSVP today at bit.ly/VisionPhilly or call 215-634-2000 ext. 124.
Logos of Liberty Resources, the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, College of Education and Human Development, and TechOWL, Technology for Our Whole Lives. Tuesday, November 4, 10 am - 12 pm. Ritter Annex, 1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19122. RSVP today at bit.ly/VisionPhilly or call 215-634-2000 ext. 124
October 30, 2025 at 2:42 PM
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Read our latest Supports Broker Newsletter for a story of self-advocacy, upcoming certification and recertification dates, a podcast recommendation, and more.

disabilities.temple.edu/programs-ser...
Text on a transparent gold background which reveals hints of a forest in autumn. The text reads, Supports Broker Newsletter. The Institute on Disabilities and the Office of Developmental Programs publish a quarterly newsletter for and about Supports Brokers. Read the current newsletter.
October 22, 2025 at 3:29 PM
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What options are available when an individual is unable to activate an AAC device using their fingers? On Wednesday, October 22 at 12 pm ET our AAC Awareness Month webinar topic will be "Access Granted: Exploring Alternative Access Modes for AAC."

RSVP: buff.ly/AEo5Vdq
Photo: Orange and gold autumn leaves appear translucent before a gray sky. Text: AAC Awareness Month Webinar Series. October 22 at 12 pm: Access Granted: Exploring Alternative Access Modes for AAC. Logos for the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, College of Education and Human Development and for Tech Owl.
October 21, 2025 at 10:16 PM
iodtempleu.bsky.social
Join us December 3 on Main Campus and learn about Leadership & Career Studies, Temple University's inclusive four-year college program for students with intellectual disability. Tour Temple's campus after the session!

RSVP today: disabilities.temple.edu/information-...
View of Temple's campus with sunlight streaming through the wings of a bronze owl sculpture perched atop a Temple "T" among blooming red flowers. Students walk amid leafy trees in the background, with red and white Temple flags overhead. Text: December 3 Information Session. Leadership and Career Studies, Temple's inclusive 4-year college program for students with intellectual disability.
October 13, 2025 at 4:40 PM
iodtempleu.bsky.social
October 16: Learn about Adaptive Gaming! Webinars at 12 pm and 4 pm Eastern.
RSVP: disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te...

🔴 Adaptive controllers and accessibility settings for Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation
🔴 Social and functional benefits of gaming, potential barriers, how to get started
Photo of a Black gamer with limb difference enjoying a session while using adaptive controllers. Text: Adaptive controllers and accessibility settings for Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation. Social and functional benefits of gaming, potential barriers to access, and how to get started. Pennsylvania Tech Accelerator. Tools for employment, independence, socialization.
October 9, 2025 at 4:56 PM
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Two new career opportunities are open for applications at the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, College of Education and Human Development. We're searching for:

🔴 Grants Administrator
🔴 Administrative Specialist

Learn more and apply: disabilities.temple.edu/careers-at-iod
People walk along Temple's Pollett Walk, a brick path running alongside trees, garden plantings, and a stone building that flies Temple's cherry red flag with a Temple "T."
October 9, 2025 at 3:52 PM
iodtempleu.bsky.social
C2P2 2026 application period is open! C2P2 offers free leadership training for:
▪️ Adults in PA with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism
▪️ Family members of a school-age child in Pennsylvania with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism. buff.ly/SFhPf9T
Photo: C2P2 2025 graduates, a group of mixed age, ability, and gender, pose together in front of a cherry red wall. Graphic: Institute on Disabilites at Temple University logo. Text: C2P2 2026 - Apply Today
October 7, 2025 at 6:14 PM
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Want to learn about augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) or increase your knowledge? On October 8 at 12 pm Eastern our webinar topic will be "Getting Everyone on Board: Increasing Buy-in for AAC Across Teams and Settings." Join us!

RSVP: disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te...
Photos: Students using AAC devices and wheelchairs mingle and chat outdoors on Temple's campus with others. One student holds their tablet that displays picture and text icons for communication. Text: AAC Awareness Month Webinar Series. October 8 at noon: Increasing Buy-In for AAC Across Teams and Settings.
October 7, 2025 at 2:36 PM
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Today at 12 noon Eastern Time our topic will be Funding AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) Across the Lifespan. We'd love you to join us!

Sign up: disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te...
Photos: Students using AAC devices and wheelchairs mingle and chat outdoors on Temple's campus with others. One student holds their tablet that displays picture and text icons for communication. Text: AAC Awareness Month Webinar Series with Speech-Language Pathologists Wednesdays at Noon this October. Institute on Disabilities logo.
October 1, 2025 at 2:37 PM
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Reading disabilities can present significant challenges, but tools and technologies are transforming the landscape of accessibility. Tools for Reading is now available in our PA Tech Accelerator archive, with ASL and text captions plus full transcript.

Watch: disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te...
Text: August 21 at 12 pm or 4 pm. Tools for Reading. This webinar will dive into the latest innovations designed to support people with reading disabilities. With Jennifer West, Temple University Disability Resources and Services. PENNSYLVANIA Tech Accelerator WEBINAR SERIES — TOOLS FOR Employment, Independence, and Socialization. Image of a younger adult using headphones and a notebook computer. Image of an older adult tapping on their tablet and using headphones. Images of an e-reader resting on a keyboard.
September 19, 2025 at 2:25 PM
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Wednesday webinars at noon for AAC Awareness Month this October: Speech-Language Pathologists from our TechOWL program will present one-hour sessions to help participants enhance their knowledge of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

Register:
disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te...
Photos: Students using AAC devices and wheelchairs mingle and chat outdoors on Temple's campus with others. One student holds their tablet that displays picture and text icons for communication. Text: AAC Awareness Month Webinar Series with Speech-Language Pathologists Wednesdays at Noon this October. Institute on Disabilities logo.
September 18, 2025 at 8:15 PM
iodtempleu.bsky.social
SEPTEMBER 18 PA Tech Accelerator Webinar - join live at 12 noon or 4 pm Eastern

TOPIC: Alternative Access and Switches

PRESENTER: RESNA Certified Assistive Technology Professional Mike Marotta will explore alternative access and switches

REGISTER: disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te...
A grinning Black wheelchair user uses a joystick switch. A person holds a mobile phone and uses an app. Text: September 18 at 12 pm or 4 pm. Alternative Access and Switches. PA Tech Accelerator Webinars, Tools for Employment, Independence, and Socialization. Logos for Pennsylvania Tech Accelerator and the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University.
September 11, 2025 at 5:20 PM
iodtempleu.bsky.social
Disabled voters are part of every community, but barriers that prevent many people with disabilities from accessing their right to vote still exist.

It's Disability Voting Rights Week, and there are many ways to join this cross-disability movement! aapd.com/disability-v...

#RevUp2025
“Disabled voters are part of every community.” The background shows an AANHPI mother and daughter in a bonding moment. A banner at the bottom reads: Disability Voting Rights Week, aapd.com/disability-voting-rights-week.
September 8, 2025 at 4:59 PM
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Save the date: The 2025 Disability Summit will be held on September 25 from 9 am to 5 pm at Temple University's Howard Gittis Student Center. Open to the public and registration required. Come learn and build community!
Text over a geometric design: Save the Date: 09-25-2025. Disability Summit 2025. Change. Challenge. Celebrate. Mark your calendar and save the date for the 2025 Disability Summit at the Howard Gittis Student Center at Temple University on September 25, 2025 from 9 am to 5 pm. Logos: State Rep Joe Hohenstein, The Arc of Philadelphia, Institute on Disabilities at Temple University College of Education and Human Development, KenCrest, Special Olympics Pennsylvania, Comcast NBCUniversal, Vision for Equality
August 25, 2025 at 2:10 PM
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FRIL Day on Inclusion and Transition

2 days, 2 locations. Join online if you prefer!
Sign up today: disabilities.temple.edu/programs-ser...

Tues, 9/9 Temple U Center City Philadelphia
Weds, 9/17 Temple U Harrisburg

🎤 Panel
🗨️ Speaker
🥙 Networking + lunch

Funded by @paddc.bsky.social
Two people in a kitchen happily sharing cupcakes. At least one is disabled. In person or online. FRIL Day on Inclusion and Transition. September 9 in Philadelphia. September 17 in Harrisburg. 10 am to 3 pm.
August 22, 2025 at 3:58 PM
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Ready for it? Speak now to attend the brand new Tech Accelerator webinar this Thursday the 21st. Long story short, we've got a blank space where you can RSVP. Before August slips away.

Join a live session at 12 noon or at 4 pm Eastern disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te...
Text: August 21st at 12 pm or 4 pm. Tools for Reading. This webinar will dive into the latest innovations designed to support people with reading disabilities. With Jennifer West, Temple University Disability Resources and Services. PENNSYLVANIA Tech Accelerator WEBINAR SERIEs — TOOLS FOR Employment, Independence, and Socialization. Image of a younger adult using headphones and a notebook computer. Image of an older adult tapping on their tablet and using headphones. Images of an e-reader resting on a keyboard. Background image: orange glitter.
August 18, 2025 at 3:44 PM
iodtempleu.bsky.social
In July, Nova McGiffert, Healthy Sexuality Project Coordinator at the IOD, presented a poster she authored with Sexuality Educator Izzy Kaufman. "How to Build Healthy Relationships for the Path Ahead" offers strategies to help youth build relationship skills. Request digital version: iod@temple.edu.
Photos 1 & 2: Nova, standing with her poster titled How to Build Healthy Relationships for the Path Ahead and smiling, has short wavy hair in an assymetrical cut and wears a magenta blazer over a leopard spot dress. Small groups of people talking have conversations in the large hotel conference room with other posters on display. 3: The Institute's information table in front of a window with a view of leafy trees, has a branded tablecloth covered with printed information sheets, fidget toys, keychains, notepads and pens, and candy treats. 4: The poster How to Build Healthy Relationships for the Path Ahead on display in a conference room has a photo of two wheelchair users high-fiving in a home setting and a photo of three young adult friends getting a selfie. Its main headings are Why Focus on Healthy Relationships During Secondary Transition, and Strategies for Teaching and Learning About Healthy Relationships. Strategies are listed in bullet points for educators, self-advocates, and families and caregivers.
August 11, 2025 at 3:42 PM
iodtempleu.bsky.social
Please mark your calendar for the 2025 Disability Summit at Temple University's Howard Gittis Student Center on September 25, 2025 from 9 am to 5 pm. 

This event is open to the public and registration will be required.
Text over a geometric design: Save the Date: 09-25-2025. Disability Summit 2025. Change. Challenge. Celebrate. Mark your calendar and save the date for the 2025 Disability Summit at the Howard Gittis Student Center at Temple University on September 25, 2025 from 9 am to 5 pm. Logos: State Rep Joe Hohenstein, The Arc of Philadelphia, Institute on Disabilities at Temple University College of Education and Human Development, KenCrest, Special Olympics Pennsylvania
August 4, 2025 at 4:58 PM
iodtempleu.bsky.social
Inside the IOD: This week, our staff and collaborators published a review on the healthcare experiences of LGBTQ people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
1/2
Screenshot of the Social Science & Medicine journal abstract on Elsevier's website. Title: the healthcare experiences of LGBTQ people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the United States: A scoping review. Authors: Taye M. Hallock, Patrick J.A. Kelly, Aidan Campagnolio, Makhari Dysart, Rebecca Fulop, Izzy Kaufman, Nova McGiffert, Sally Gould-Taylor. Keywords: Health equity, Healthcare access, Intellectual and developmental disability, LGBTQ, Scoping review, Transgender
July 24, 2025 at 7:49 PM
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Missed the live session? We got you! Tools for Hearing is now available on our website with ASL, captions, and transcript. Discover technology that's assisting the way we approach hearing loss. disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te...
Tools for Hearing recording is now available with ASL, captions, and transcript. We'll explore a range of innovative tools designed to enhance communication, accessibility, and overall quality of life for individuals with hearing loss. Pennsylvania Tech Accelerator Webinar Series - Tools for: Employment, Independence, Socialization. Logo: Institute on Disabilities at Temple University College of Education and Human Development. Icon 1, next to the text, "Employment": Person sitting at computer. Icon 2, next to the text, "Independence": Person with arms raised, inside a circle with an overlapping checkmark and other symbols that add sparkle. Icon 3, next to the text, "Socialization": Four separate people connected by short curved lines creates a circle.
July 14, 2025 at 5:31 PM