The Disability Resource Center of Fairfield County has provided unique, consumer-directed services both for individuals and for the communities of Fairfield County since 1981. As the Center has grown and expanded over the years, so has the definition of "community"--a concept that now includes the internet, cyberspace and the information highway. DRCFC is committed to including residents of these new "communities" in its efforts to remove the barriers that society presents to persons with disabilities

DRCFC will utilize this website and other electronic initiatives to afford access to a broad range of services.

DRCFC now offers:

* An online database of questions and answers about assistive technology.

* The DRCFC Message Board, which is a FREE support service, discussion forum, and/or message board provided by the Disability Resource Center of Fairfield County, Inc. This service is available to everyone statewide, nationwide, and worldwide with Internet access. The goal of the DRCFC Message Board is to bring people with disabilities, those who work with people with disabilities (privately, and on the state, local, and federal levels), and those simply interested in advising, mentoring, and making a positive difference in the lives of individuals together to communicate with each other, discuss relevant issues, and share resources, advice, support, and inspiration.

* A presence on social media sites, including MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter.

 As DRCFC undertakes this initiative, it is also important to be aware that many of the same attitudinal, financial, and physical barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from fully participating in traditional communities can also prevent access to virtual communities. DRCFC is committed to removing these barriers through:

* Concurrent with development efforts to support and expand these electronic initiatives, DRCFC commits to seeking funds to provide persons with disabilities with the tools and training necessary to access this and other online resources.

 As the Disability Resource Center of Fairfield County undertakes these new and exciting programs, we are aware that the challenges we face must be addressed in collaboration with other efforts already underway. DRCFC will continue to support a wide range of additional internet and electronic communications initiatives including: