Testimonial by Mike Reid: Before I was introduced to who is now my good friend Marc Cowgill, I had little understandings about what is inside a computer case. This is only one of the many, many facets of what empowerment has done for me (fixing PC's)
Empowerment to me is like a tree that comes from it many branches. Every empowerment session worked like a fertilizer to nurture the inner confidence and enthusiasm within myself and for me to independently choose and become aware of new opportunities. Technology is awesome when its considered in this kind of system! I wish there were more positive programs like this going on with technology.
Mental people (and the public in general) are not robots, and this empowerment model helped me to push my creative limits, rather than being narrowly limited to a stern hope to gain employment. I feel I have something to look forward to, even though I can't hold down a conventional job. I can honestly say this has been an ongoing process of fascination and something that transcends a passing fad or interest. If you're like me the effects this can have on you are real and lasting! Join the ranks!! :)
PS-Not only does this foster new opportunities but also enhances previous interests and new ways to use them with computers. I like to make music and computer empowerment has helped me use free software to do things I didn't even know was available. Thats what its about its like going on a modern exploration or voyage without feeling like you're going without a map or all alone. Even if the map is missing, its full of unseen excitement. Dreams can come true!
Blacksburg Computer Empowerment helps mentally challenged individuals acquire computer hardware and facilitates their personal empowerment as they gain the skills needed to communicate with others and to find critical information via the internet.
Empowerment News from Marc: I'm delighted to be unveiling this new BCE site and to be watching this young organization come together. I'm impressed by both the great need for computer empowerment and also the generous, helping spirit others have shown in their words of encouragement and offers of assistance.
The challenge for BCE is considerable, yet it is such a joy to answer this calling together with others lending a hand. One of my favorite moments is when a person in empowerment realizes that he or she can share the skills learned with others. The empowerment can have a "cascading" sort of effect where the positive and affirming energy generated is spread beyond those immediately involved. Most of the volunteers involved in BCE began as novice participants and gradually developed the ability to share their computer gifts with others. Their lives are not only enhanced by technical ability but they have found a new way to strive for the advancemnent of others.
I'd love to see everyone spend a few moments making sure that the promise of digital awareness is attainable by all. Let's reach out to everyone on the wrong side of the digital divide and welcome them into a future of knowledge, access, and vitality. BCE works in this direction on a small scale, one empowerment session at a time. Sometimes the going is slow, as the computer can be an intimidating and frustrating contraption to get a handle on. Other times, a smile appears and I hear "Didn't you say this computer has a DVD player?"
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