The Chicago Lighthouse's assistive technology support line helps blind and visually impaired people in the United states and Canada successfully resolve many computer problems. New inquiries are welcome.

The HelpDesk was made possible when The Lighthouse successfully matched a $41,000 grant from The Boeing Company. Ray Campbell, is the technician in the Lighthouse's Adaptive Technology program, who operates the support line. A former engineer with Lucent Technologies, Campbell notes that his assistance has been well received across the country.

William Bielawski, program manager for adaptive technology and office skills training at The Lighthouse notes that any blind or visually impaired person could call the HelpDesk regardless of what product they're using. "It can be any hardware or software relating to assistive technology as long as the customer is visually impaired," he says. "We also encourage calls from teachers and other individuals who work with people who are visually impaired as well as other interested parties."

Campbell points out that he can listen to what screen readers like JAWS or WindowEyes are saying and walk the caller through their problem.

Anyone with a question may call the HelpDesk's toll free number, 1.888.825.0080.

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