Weedsport’s 3D printing class is currently working with the ARISE Program to create 3D printed tools and objects to help disabled people in achieving everyday tasks. The ARISE Program is a non-profit organization focused in the Syracuse and Finger Lakes region. Their mission is utilizing technology and innovation to create a better environment for everyone, especially for those who may be physically disabled. They base their organization off of the belief that people with disabilities outside of their control deserve equal opportunity to embark on their own paths and work their way towards their independent goals, and also hold the right to make personal decisions for themselves. This is something that the ARISE Program has been working on since 1979.

The ARISE website mentions that they are an Independent Living Center, meaning that they are ‘consumer-controlled, community based, non-residential, non-profit, and cross-disability focused.’ In other words, they are directed by people with all kinds of disabilities. They are located within the communities they work with, they advocate independent living as much as possible and they help people with all kinds of disabilities of all ages.

In order to find out more about what this amazing organization is working on with Weedsport student, representatives of the Johnny Green sat down with a member of the class to get his take on the program. This is what Weedsport senior Skylar Tracy said about the program:

How would you describe what the 3D Printing class is collaborating on with the Arise Organization?

“The class and the ARISE organization are working on a program where we create adaptive design products focused on helping the disabled to be more independent in all kinds of aspects.”

What are members of the program making to help the disabled?

“There are a lot of products being made,one of them is a product that is designed to hold water bags on the backs of wheelchairs.”

What are you personally working on?

“Me and my partner are currently working on designing an easy access handle for a paddle.”

Why do you think it is good for kids to work with organizations like ARISE?

“I think it is good idea for kids to have the opportunity to work with an organization like ARISE because it presents a lot of learning opportunities in terms of designing and creating products that serve the purpose of helping people who are disabled.”

And finally how do you feel that you have personally benefited from working on this project with ARISE?

“I feel I have benefited by my participation in this program just because of how much I have learned and the skills I have aquired by overcoming challenges along the way in the design process.”

(*to find out more about the ARISE organization, you can visit their website at http://www.ariseinc.org/ )