Contact: Nancy Phalanukorn, 732-747-5310

Verizon Grant Funds Literacy Program for Learning Disabled

TECHConnection provides cutting edge assistive technology services, addressing literacy and language difficulties for individuals with learning disabilities.

Shrewsbury, NJ- The Verizon Foundation, in its ongoing commitment to literacy, has awarded a $6,000 grant to TECHConnection to expand the after-school program for students struggling with reading and writing in Monmouth and Ocean counties. TECHConnection provides cutting edge assistive technology services, addressing literacy and language difficulties for individuals with learning disabilities. In 1990, TECHConnection emerged as the assistive technology division of non-profit Family Resource Associates (FRA), with fully equipped computer labs at its headquarters in Shrewsbury, NJ. Staying on top of the latest advances in state-of-the-art technology over the last 15 years, TECHConnection has evolved into a leading provider of innovative and unique assistive technology solutions for individual students, as well as 145 public and private schools throughout NJ. One of the few providers in NJ working in this highly specialized field, TECHConnection’s very successful after-school programs provide critical reading, language, and learning solutions through a variety of computer programs and specialized equipment tailored to the specific needs of each student. The grant from the Verizon Foundation will expand the after-school programs for up to 50 students from age 8 and up, and includes special sessions for teenagers.

The key to TECHConnection’s success has been the creative and fun approach taken by their caring, professional staff. At the heart of every TECHConnection activity, is their commitment to empowering students through technology, while helping them to achieve their greatest level of educational achievement and independence. Using software that makes movies, greeting cards and photo calendars not only encourages learning, but also unleashes creativity. Special software is also used to develop spelling, organization, keyboarding and even money skills in an upbeat and fun learning environment. Family Resource Associates has been taking a holistic approach in serving families dealing with disabilities since 1979. For further information on the after-school literacy program, call 732-747-5310, or you can visit Family Resource Associates at www.frainc.org or TECHConnection at www.techconnection.org.

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