During the pandemic, technology went beyond doing business and socializing. Technology became a tool that many people and families served by Summit DD used for daily support. Our staff used video conferencing to conduct ISP meetings, check in on people or providers, and even do early intervention home visits with little ones. When technology is at its best, it is an amazing tool to help connect and engage us. But when there are problems or you need tech support, it can be a barrier. Drew Williams, Summit DD’s Director Community Supports and Development, knew there had to be a better way.
In late 2020, Williams reached out to a local tech support company, Techvrse for help. He saw an opportunity to support the people served by Summit DD who were experiencing technology issues and remove those barriers.
“We are so reliant on tech,” explained Techvrse founder and CEO, Bradley Van Tyne. “I started my company to help older people and those who needed that little extra [technology] help – so they weren’t left behind.” Van Tyne recognized the bulk of tech support companies currently out there only supported businesses or larger organizations. “I saw a gap and a need for local IT services [for individuals].”
Summit DD and Techvrse Team Up
The partnership to offer tech support for those served by the Agency launched in March 2021. Summit DD SSAs, RSSs and Developmental Specialists can now connect people and families on their caseloads to this new tech support. When Summit DD staff identify a tech support need by a person or family, they simply open a request ticket through our SSA department. Techvrse takes it from there.
“It’s important to keep people connected – especially during these times,” expressed SSA Supervisor, Kelly Wood. Wood manages the requests for tech support between Summit DD and Techvrse. “We now have the ability to help people [and families] trouble shoot everything from general computer issues and software questions, to recommendations for purchasing new computers or tablets. This will open new social, programmatic and employment opportunities for those we serve.”
While the partnership is just getting underway, Van Tyne is looking forward to supporting individuals and families with technology needs. “Even after the pandemic, there will still be a need for these services,” he said. He shared that the past year has changed the way we work and live. He expects some of these forms of connecting through technology will be here long-term. “I want to help make sure people aren’t left behind by technology,” he continued. “And this is exactly what I want to be doing.”
Need Tech Support?
If you are currently served by Summit DD and need tech support, please reach out to your Summit DD contact (SSA, RSS or Developmental Specialist). They can work with you to get the tech support you need through our Techvrse partnership.
