Cali Willcockson iPad will help Cali pursue her dreams.  Mom calls iPad “most wonderful tool.”

Keith Butler

Portable ramp enables kindergartener to get outside and play.  Mom appreciates the practical solution to family’s challenge.

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Where Are They Now?

The Eric Fund is honored each year to help incredible children and adults with disabilities maximize their potential and live their dreams. Our award winners are like family to us, and as such, we like to keep up with them to see how they are doing. Here are some updates on past winners and how the equipment provided by The Eric Fund has continued to help them lead independent lives on their own terms.

Benjamin Glantz

In 2006, Benjamin Glantz, then a 14-year-old with severe hypotonia and motor planning dysfunction, received an augmentative communication device from The Eric Fund.

The Dynavox V equipment was essential

for Benjamin to express his needs and interact socially. His mother Linda says that it “made a world of difference in his ability to function in school, to interact with people and to organize himself.”

Advanced technology now allows Ben to use an iPad for his communication needs. When he graduates in June from Katherine Thomas High School in Rockville, Maryland, Ben hopes to build vocational skills and attend classes at Montgomery College.

Ben’s Legacy

Now that Ben is able to use an iPad, he and his family have generously donated the equipment to another student, Gabriella Silver, a 19-year-old with cerebral palsy and bilateral deafness.

A very social young woman, Gabriella is able to communicate and engage with others. She especially enjoys school, horseback riding, swimming and using her computer.

The Dynavox will allow Grabiella continuity when she exits the school system in a year and a half, leaving her assistive technology device behind.

Her mom, Janice, points out that this “is truly an example of recycle, reuse, and repower someone with the gift of communication!”

Emily Scott

iPad will help 14-year-old overcome her biggest daily hurdle...

communication.

Joseph Moore Voice-activated telephone helps grant winner remain connected to emergency services, family and community.

Delores Dabney Eric Fund grand opens doors for recipient...literally.  Assistive device opens doors.

Anthony Green Software helps Maryland man move toward college and employment.