In celebration of Assistive Technology Awareness Month, we’d like to recognize Evan! Earlier this year, Evan became Summit DD’s SMART Home Tech Champion after an extensive search and interview process. Evan now lives in the SMART Home and provides weekly tours to peers with developmental disabilities, community partners, and more. “I used to not see myself as someone with a disability. I separated myself from them in my mind. Now that I have met so many others through my tours, I realize we are all the same and we can help one another!” shared Evan.

“Evan is a pivotal member of our Tech Team. He shares his experience using technology and how he is able to do many more daily tasks on his own. During the tours, Evan makes people feel comfortable and really tries to understand what assistive technology can offer each person,” commented Jennifer Hudak, Summit DD Senior Manager of Service and Support Administration.

In addition to landing the SMART Home role, Evan also became Summit County’s official Tech Ambassador as part of the statewide Ohio Tech Ambassador initiative. “Through a collaborative partnership with We Thrive Together, we were made aware of this role. Naturally, we shared the opportunity with Evan. He interviewed and seized that employment opportunity as well,” Jennifer continued.

“Evan is the perfect person for this role! He’s friendly and gracious to everyone that enters the door of the Summit DD SMART Home,” shared Carmen Penedo, a Summit DD Service and Support Administrator that partners with Evan during the weekly tours.

“I struggle with anxiety, but this opportunity to meet lots of people has really helped me deal with those feelings in a positive way!” Evan concluded.

Are you interested in more information about assistive technology and receive Summit DD services? Contact your SSA for more information or you can reach out to Angela Burke, SSA Supervisor-Technology at 330-634-8143 or ab****@su******.org. You can also learn more about Summit DD’s SMART Home here!