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Dennis Larned
 Dennis Larned was born with cerebral palsy. He has a severe speech impediment and has never been able to speak clearly enough so that people could understand him. Throughout his childhood in southern New Jersey, Dennis was filled with thoughts, ideas, opinions, and feelings that he could not express. Through assistive technology, Dennis was able to find his voice. He attended classes at Temple University in Philadelphia to learn how to use a device, aptly called a Liberator. This technology allowed him to "speak" by pushing icons that are programmed to repeat a variety of words and phrases. He could even pre-program the device to compose, for example, a speech or presentation.
Dennis, who had lived with his mother and siblings for 27 years, "wanted the chance to live on my own and learn to become independent." With the help of the Disabilities Resource Center's Supportive Living Program, he was able to move into his own apartment. Living on his own was only the beginning of his adventure. After Dennis finally found his voice, he pursued an ambitious undertaking - enrolling in Atlantic Cape Community College. It took him ten years, but in 2002, Dennis received his associate degree. The Disability Resource Center's Career Quest vocational staff is currently working with Dennis to find employment. He hopes to use his degree in computer science and his experience using various types of software in a paid position. He has been contacting several agencies and businesses to volunteer his time to get more experience. Dennis now uses an even more sophisticated device, the Pathfinder. He can connect this device to his computer to use various software programs and to learn new ones. This helps keep his computer skills sharp.
In 2002, Dennis was awarded the Donald J. Sykes Award for Outstanding Individuals with Disabilities in Atlantic County, New Jersey, in recognition of his contribution to the community in dispelling myths about people with disabilities.
Dennis is now enjoying an active and productive life. He volunteers his time working for his church, at the food bank in his community, and for the Disabilities Resource Center. In fact, he will soon be compiling and publishing the Center's Consumer Newsletter. He rides his bike to perform errands and visit his friends. With his sense of humor and his terrific personality, Dennis is a resonating voice, putting a song in the hearts of everyone who knows him.
Submitted by Jan Midgette
Supportive Living Program Personal Care Counselor
Disabilities Resource Center
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