Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living (LVCIL)

02/14/2026

A huge shout out to the design students from Kutztown University!

Melanie Yurchak - Senior
Juliza Rodriguez - Senior
Hayley Lenhart - Junior
Jadyn Klinger - Junior
Starkey -Professor



LVCIlL is proud to once again to take part in the Kutztown University Designathon, where design students take 12 hours of their day to work with a non-profit on design work. It gives LVCIL some great professional design work that can be used and LVCIL an opportunity to talk about the Cil and promote accessibility in this type of work. The great thing is we can change and adapt them to fit our needs. Here are a few samples that you may see in the near future. What do you think?

Picture description:
Picture 1: Business card: Seth Hoderewski Executive Director 610-770-9781 sethhoderewski@lvcil.org in upper left corner, rainbow style images in upper right and lower left corners. Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living 713 North 13th ST. Allentown PA, 18102 in lower right.
Picture 2: Letter head: LVCIL logo and 713 N 13th st Allentown Pa 18102 V:610-770-9781 F: 610:770-9801 in upper left corner: Rainbow images in upper right and lower left comers, Lower left corner has "empowering all people to achieve independence" Lower right has www.lvcil.org
Picture 3: LVCIL logo between two blue waves, Yellow boarder on top and red border on bottom.
Picture 4: Mailer template -LVCIL 35th anniversary type logo. Left(blue) and right (yellow) sides borders have waves, top (dark blue) and bottom (red).

02/13/2026

An assistive tech tip from LVCIL’s AT and Accessibility Team:

TechOWL’s “Free Special Phones Program” provides telecommunication devices for individuals in Pennsylvania who have difficulty using a traditional phone due to a disability.

In order to qualify, the applicant must have an individual gross income of less than 200% of the federal poverty level ($31,920 as of January 2026). Please note: only the applicant’s income is considered, not the total household income.

Devices available include landline phones, cell phones, and tablets. In addition, special equipment such as a flashing or vibrating signaler can be added if needed.

As a reminder, this program only provides the phone. The individual is responsible for monthly service, and proof of service is required with the application.

For more information, or to schedule a demonstration of a phone, please contact the Accessibility and Assistive Technology Team at atinfo@lvcil.org or 610-770-9781 x123.

This information is brought to by LVCIL, the TechOWL Assistive Technology Resource Center serving Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, Schuylkill, Berks, and Luzerne counties.

Image description: A phone receiver and cell phone clipart image in a red circle

02/11/2026

An assistive tech tip from LVCIL’s AT and Accessibility Team:

Did you know that items like wheelchairs and shower chairs are considered Assistive Technology? LVCIL, in partnership with TechOWL, accepts donations of gently used devices. Staff inspects and sanitizes the device, then it is made available to those in need, free of charge.

🦽We are currently in need of foldable manual wheelchairs and shower seats (stools and transfer benches).

Please review the guidelines below to learn more about our expectations.

⭐ What makes a device acceptable to donate? Items must be gently used, clean and from a non-smoking household. All electronic devices must include a working battery and charger.

⭐ What makes a device unacceptable? Items that have soap scum, dust, hair, mold, rust, are held together by zip-ties, or include someone’s old slippers (true story).

⭐ We require appointments to donate or receive an item. If interested, please contact our team at atinfo@lvcil.org or 610-770-9781 x123.

This information is brought to by LVCIL, the TechOWL Assistive Technology Resource Center serving Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, Schuylkill, Berks, and Luzerne counties.

Image Description: The recycling symbol (Green arrows pointing clockwise in a triangular design).

02/09/2026

Dear Partners and Educators,

As your students prepare for their next chapter, we want to ensure those transitioning from high school to college have the support they need to thrive. We are currently seeking motivated candidates for the July 2026 SEED (Success Engagement Education Determination) cohort at Lehigh Carbon Community College.

The clock is ticking! The application deadline is March 20, 2026. We highly encourage students to submit their packets as soon as possible for two critical reasons:
1. Priority Review: We review applications in the order they are received. Early applicants move more quickly to the interview stage.
2. Limited Capacity: Once the cohort is full, qualified students will be placed on a wait list. Applying early is the best way to secure a spot.

Application Essentials: To be considered, the application packet must include:
• Completed Application & Essays: Focusing on career goals and persistence.
• Documentation: High school evaluation report and/or IEP.
• Recommendations: Two written recommendations from mentors, counselors, or teachers (recommendations from parents/guardians cannot be accepted).

Program Highlight: Selected students will begin their journey with the mandatory Summer Bridge program in July at our Schnecksville campus. This program is vital for students who demonstrate a high level of independence and a desire for academic success.

Submission: Completed applications can be emailed to Michelle Mitchell at MMitchell@LCCC.edu or mailed to the Schnecksville campus (Educational Support Services, SH 150).
Thank you for your continued support in helping our students succeed.

Picture description: SEED LCCC logo with with words: Success Engagement Education Determination

02/09/2026

Resource alert:

Please help us spread the word! A great opportunity is now open for self-advocates and parents. PADDC LEAF Scholarships offer up to $750 to attend leadership, education, or self-advocacy events happening between February 1 and March 31. Don’t miss this chance to grow, learn, and lead! Our website shares the application details: https://www.paddc.org/grant-funding-opportunities/leaf-scholarships/

02/09/2026

An assistive tech tip from LVCIL’s AT and Accessibility Team:

When an expensive device or piece of Assistive Technology is out of reach, there could be an alternate solution and TechOWL may be able to offer suggestions!

For example, many people use lift recliners to move from a sitting to standing position safely. However, the cost of these chairs range from hundreds of dollars into the thousands, making it unrealistic for most people to purchase them out of pocket.

TechOWL’s Lending Library has lift assist cushions available to borrow for 5 weeks. These Carex cushions come in power or manual styles and have a weight limit of 300lbs. While they cannot be purchased through TechOWL, these seating options come with a much smaller price tag (many styles are under $200). Access the library at www.techowlpa.org/library.

For more details or for assistance with placing a request, contact atinfo@lvcil.org or 610-770-9781 x123.

This information is brought to by LVCIL, the TechOWL Assistive Technology Resource Center serving Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, Schuylkill, Berks, and Luzerne counties.

Image Description: A power seat assist device featuring a black cushion which lifts up from the base at approximately a 45-degree angle.

02/06/2026

An assistive tech tip from LVCIL’s AT and Accessibility Team:

NFC tags are small stickers you can tap with your phone to make something happen. They’re simple, low cost, and helpful for many people with disabilities.

How they help:
• Play audio instructions or reminders
• Open apps or websites with one tap
• Control smart home devices
• Label items for people who are blind or have low vision

Who can benefit: People with low vision, memory challenges, mobility difficulties, or anyone who wants quick, easy shortcuts.

Examples:
• A tag on a medication bottle that plays a reminder
• A tag by the door that turns on lights
• A tag on an appliance that gives safety steps

Check out WayAround tags being used to support an individual’s vision goals here: https://www.wayaround.com/solution/

This information is brought to by LVCIL, the Tech OWL - Technology for Our Whole Lives Resource Center serving Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, Schuylkill, Berks, and Luzerne counties.

Photo of smart phone showing use of app providing information about the shirt shown.

02/06/2026

Please check out this survey from LVCIL friend Dr. Josie Badger related to Medicaid, Disability, and What’s at Stake in PA.


Hello,
Important decisions about Medicaid are being made right now in Pennsylvania—decisions that affect healthcare, home care, personal assistance, and daily supports people with disabilities and families rely on.
Too often, these decisions are made without hearing from the people most affected. That’s why we’re asking you to complete a short survey and share it widely.
This survey is about real life—what Medicaid means to you, which supports are non-negotiable, and what happens when services are delayed, reduced, or taken away. You don’t need to be a policy expert. Your lived experience is the expertise.
Please take the survey here: Survey Link

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdYh724zd1x9ahUZ2CTRkzhGjzKT8yYlhSVsnECyUS4CjL15g/viewform

We want to hear from:
• People with disabilities
• Family members
• Like-family supporters (friends, neighbors, chosen family)
Survey responses will be used immediately for advocacy with Pennsylvania leaders to help protect critical Medicaid supports.
Your voice matters. Completing and sharing this survey helps make sure disability and family voices are part of decisions being made right now.
Thank you for taking the time to share your voice — and for helping protect our communities.
Thanks,
Dr. Josie Badger DHCE, CRC

Medicaid decisions are being made right now in Pennsylvania because of federal funding cuts and new rules. We know that all cuts to Medicaid can hurt people. This survey does not assume that cuts are acceptable. The goal of this survey is to clearly identify a short list of Medicaid services and sup...

02/04/2026

Want to practice driving in an affordable, safe, controlled environment to build driving skills and confidence before hitting the road?

LVCIL's Driving Simulator can help! Our Driving Simulator offers extended practice opportunities, with hands on practice and corresponding lessons about essential driving skills.

🚗 For more information or to schedule your first session, contact:

(610) 770-9781 ext. 157
DrivingSimulator@lvcil.org

Image description: flyer with image of person using driving simulator and contact information to learn more.

02/04/2026

An assistive tech tip from LVCIL’s AT and Accessibility Team:

“Assistive technology can open doors for students with disabilities — but many schools still struggle to provide the tools students need. A new report highlights four major barriers: limited awareness of AT options, not enough training for teachers, stigma around using AT, and financial challenges.

These barriers matter, because the right tools can help students learn, communicate, and fully participate in the classroom.”

Read the full article: https://bit.ly/3LOMzUM

This information is brought to by LVCIL, the TechOWL Assistive Technology Resource Center serving Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, Schuylkill, Berks, and Luzerne counties.

Assistive technology can help students with disabilities, but schools face challenges using it to its full potential.

02/03/2026

LVCIL is honored to be a grant recipient for the Cars & Kids – Because We CARe Gala on March 21, 2026 at Wind Creek Bethlehem—and you can help us make an even bigger impact!
When you purchase your ticket, you can choose which nonprofit you’d like to support. The organization that sells the most tickets will receive a larger grant award, so every ticket truly matters.

🎟 Buy through our link:

https://onecau.se/_evn3w1

Or, if you purchase on the main ticketing page, select LVCIL during checkout so we receive credit.

Join us for an unforgettable night—and help us bring more support to the people we serve. 💙

Tickets available now | Sponsorships available

Lehigh Valley Auto Show

Picture description:
Cars & Kids
Greater Lehigh Valley Auto Dealer Association and logo
Because we CARe
Inaugural Community Gala
3.21.26
Wind Creek Bethlehem
Scan the QR code or use the link below to purchase your ticket through Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living. Your ticket helps this organization receive funding through the Care & Kids, Because we CARe foundation.
https://onecau.se/_evn3w1
LVCIL logo in QR code
Cocktails Dinner Live entertainment Grant Recipient Celebration
Sponsorships Available
For more information, contact Dan Moyer
610-972-5496 dmoyer2@ptd.net
Lehigh Valley Auto Show Logo

https://onecau.se/_evn3w1

02/03/2026

Eat for good!

On Sunday February 22nd, PJ Whelihans Pub and Restaurant will be doing a Dine and Donate for LVCIL.

LVCIL will earn 15% back!

Times 11am to 10pm.

Take a flyer into the restaurant or if ordering to go mention LVCIL's name!

Pj's is located at 4595 Broadway, Allentown Pa

Flyer description:
Eat for good!
Help us earn 15% back
Sunday February 22nd 11am-10pm Take-out or dine in
LVCIL's 35th Anniversary logo - Empowering persons with disabilities for 35 years
Help support LVCIL by eating at P.J. Whellihan's
Please bring this flyer with you if dining in. If ordering to go, please mention our organizations name.
Allentown - P.J Whelihans pub and restaurant
Pjspub.com
Stay connected - Facebook - Insta
Don't miss HALF PRICE WING NITE at Pj's every Tuesday 3p-10p