Bham local is the first in Alabama to have this unique talking device—how it makes a difference

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I love learning about United Ability and all of their amazing services, and recently, I got to know Christopher—he’s been coming to United Ability for speech and outpatient therapy for about five years now, and he’s loved by all his friends and therapists who work with him.

Christopher has Autism, but his ability to work (and be a great candidate) is not hindered by his disability. In fact, he’s the first person in Alabama to have a unique communication device to help him on his job.

Keep reading for Christopher’s story!

Christopher landed a job with United Ability’s Summer JET Program

Summer JET (Job Exploration Training) is a program for teenagers with disabilities through United Ability Employment Services. It matches local employers with eligible participants for on-the-job training, mentoring and work experience.

Christopher has worked at Hibbett Sports and St. Vincent’s East in Birmingham via the Summer JET Program.

Christopher loved Summer JET so much that this year, he’s headed back to St. Vincent’s!

“I work in the summer at St. Vincent’s East. I help on the floor with the team. I strip the beds and get them ready. I check the rooms and help keep things clean. I like my job because I’m helping people and working hard.”

Christopher

His favorite part of his job? Easy: being a team player.

“I like helping people and being part of the team. I like staying busy and having something to do. I feel good when I do a good job.”

Christopher

Christopher has a lot to say + this unique device helps him

Christopher taps an icon on his VIA Nano, and it speaks a pre-recorded message that he curates. (Callie Morrison / Bham Now)

To give him a little extra boost in communicating on the job, Christopher uses the VIA Nano—a small and durable communication device that allows Christopher to talk to others.

Fun fact: Christopher’s ViaNano is the first third-party funded system in the state of Alabama.

Here’s a rundown on how the VIA Nano works:

• Christopher, with the help of United Ability, inputs messages to speak while communicating with others. All Christopher has to do is tap on the corresponding icon!
• It’s an iPhone with its own language system + amplifier so people can hear Christopher whether he’s at home, on the job or at a busy restaurant.
• If his family chooses to unlock the iPhone, Christopher can use it as a phone + text family or use any apps he needs while working.
• It goes around his neck, so Christopher doesn’t have to carry around a heavy iPad-sized device.

“I use my talker to talk to people at work. I ask questions if I need help. I tell people what I’m doing or if something is done. My talker helps me say what I want.

My talker is small, and I can take it with me everywhere. I use it to talk at work and at home. I feel proud because it’s mine and it helps me a lot.”

Christopher

Ability Clinic offers intentional services to people with disabilities

The Ability Clinic provides complex primary care services and on-site specialty care for children and adults with medical conditions such as:

The pediatric and adult care provided by United Ability therapists is intentional—I’ve seen firsthand how big of an impact the staff makes on kids and adults, and Christopher is no exception.

“We started working with Christopher in the clinic, knowing that he needed a job someday. We did routine things around here like stocking all of our rooms with supplies.

He replicated some of that in Applied Behavioral Analysis, and then he was ready to go to work, which gave him confidence in knowing what he brings to the table.”

Meredith Hankins, Speech-Language Pathologist/AAC Specialist, United Ability

Meredith isn’t the only one impressed by Christopher’s communication skills. (Callie Morrison / Bham Now)

Christopher is one of many amazing testimonials that come out of United Ability.

The Birmingham organization embraces “Possibility Beyond Disability,” meaning that they recognize every individual, regardless of their physical or mental challenges, possesses unique strengths, talents and potential.

Take it from Chris: United Ability provides life-changing services that enhance independence and growth.

Keep up with United Ability + how they empower individuals to live out their full potential, regardless of ability.

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