Talking TAD
Newsletter of Technical Aid
to the Disabled 
 
June 2010

Practical solutions - Optimising abilities

Issue No. 7
Greetings!  

In an era of fast-paced technology and development it would be easy to think that practical equipment and simple modifications were a thing of the past.
 
However, this week we delivered our first iPad modification. Our client asked us to create an iPad mount to attach to his wheelchair to allow him to use the iPad as a communication tool on his own. As he is unable to use the iPad with his hands, we have also created a special mouth device to operate it. This is a great example of how TAD can make technology more accessible to someone with a disability.
  
Our first Volunteer Open Day was a success. Held during National Volunteer Week in May, it was an opportunity for existing and new volunteers to come together and for us to acknowledge their efforts.
 
Volunteers gathered to hear free talks on a variety of topics and to exchange ideas over lunch. It was our first, but definitely not the last, National Volunteer Week event TAD will hold. Thanks to all who participated.
 
As many of you are already aware we are in the midst of our Winter Appeal. It is one of our biggest fundraising drives each year and we hope you will consider showing your support. 
 
Plus we're still selling first aid kits and Entertainment Books!
 
Volunteer Open Day 
Happy reading!   
 
 
Regards,
 
 
Natalie Peterson
Communications Officer
Winter Fundraising Appeal
Fundraising
 
vol 
winter appealThank you to everyone who has contributed to the Winter Fundraising Appeal or in response to the request on the membership renewal forms. The generosity of our donors and volunteers is greatly appreciated.
 
This year the appeal focuses on the needs of our Computer Support Service. For the first time, there will be telephone follow-up to the appeals.
 
People who have received an appeal letter, but not donated in recent months, will receive a phone call seeking their support.
 
Please consider joining our donors, if you have not already done so. 
 
Freedom Wheels featured in NSW BikePlan
Communications
 
nvw
TAD is featured in the latest NSW BikePlan, just released by the State Government.
 
NSW BikePlan
When the State Government started preparing the new NSW BikePlan, TAD was approached for information about our Freedom Wheels Modified Bike Service.
 
They were keen to feature Freedom Wheels as a case study to show an alternate bike activity.
 
The NSW BikePlan outlines how the NSW Government will work in partnership with local councils, communities and businesses to grow bike-riding over ten years.
  
Lions Help Get Wheels Moving in Illawarra
Freedom Wheels
hun Facebook
 
Five local children are almost ready to ride thanks to our sponsor Amway and Lions Clubs in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions. 
 
When the Wollongong Lions Club heard about the Freedom Wheels program, they called on other Lions Clubs in the region to put some money together to help the families pay for the bikes. At this stage, 10 Lion and Lioness clubs are involved in the project, with more likely to join in the future.

Peter Howe, Lions Zone Chairman, said they were more than happy to support the program.
 
"It is a pleasure to help local families get a Freedom Wheels modified bike for their child. This is a special service to the community and together, the Lions Clubs, will endeavour to help more children with a disability discover the joy of riding a bike," he said. 
 
The bikes will be delivered to each family in the next few weeks and we hope to share photos of the delivery in the next newsletter.
 
Quick Links
In This Issue
Winter Appeal
NSW BikePlan
Illawarra kids get moving
Vote for TAD
Entertainment Books
Save The Date
Book Sale
First Aid Kits
Vote for TAD
Communications 
 
 Local Business Awards
 
TAD is once again nominated in the Parramatta Local Business Awards.
 
TAD is competing in the 'Specialised Business' category. Last year we were finalists - let's see how well we can do this year. Every vote counts!
 
Entertainment Book 
Fundraising
 
 Local Business Awards
 
 
We are now selling Entertainment Books.  
 
Take advantage of great discounts at restaurants, cafes, attractions and everyday services - all in one book!  For every Entertainment Book bought from us, TAD gets a donation.
 
SAVE THE DATE!
35th Anniversary 
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To celebrate our 35th Anniversary we are holding a special dinner on Friday, October 15th
 
To ensure you receive an invitation click here.
Give us your old books!
Fundraising 
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We are collecting books for a book sale at the end of the year. If you have some books to donate phone (02) 9912 3405.
Buy a First Aid Kit and Support TAD
Fundraising 
 
 Facebook
 
TAD is now selling First Aid Kits, with a percentage of each one sold going towards the work we do. The one pictured above is only $10.
 
To order phone (02) 9912 3405 or email fundraising@tadnsw.org.au
CEO Position
Message from Joy 
 
I need to tell you that I have made the difficult decision to leave TAD. I have been offered the position of General Manager at a day care program for adults with severe and profound intellectual disabilities. I have greatly enjoyed my work and continue to hold everyone at TAD in very high regard. Best wishes to everyone and all the very best for the future.
 
The job is advertised on our website. Visit www.tadnsw.org.au/jobs
Join Our Mailing List!
About Us

TADNSW can assist in all aspects of everyday living, including equipment to assist the development of young children, tools and devices for education, work, recreation, daily living and personal care, and aids to assist older people retain mobility and independence. In some cases we may also modify a commercially available item to suit individual needs.

TADNSW's solutions make a world of difference to children and adults with disabilities.
 
Help us continue to make a difference by making a donation today. Visit the website www.tadnsw.org.au or give us a call (02) 9912 3400.
Feedback
 
Finally, if you have any feedback or suggestions on how we can improve the information provided to you, please send your comments to: communications@tadnsw.org.au