BridgingApps

This Military Appreciation Month, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of service members, veterans, and military families. 🇺🇸

Discover apps and resources that support accessibility, independence, and connection for the military community in our latest blog: https://bridgingapps.org/a-salute-to-military-appreciation-month/

Technology can create more than convenience. It can build confidence, independence, and connection.

In this new blog post, Hodari shares how accessible technology supported his journey of self-help and personal growth.

Read more:
https://bridgingapps.org/new-frontiers-in-self-help-and-connection-hodari-pattons-story/

🇺🇸 This Memorial Day, we honor and remember the brave service members who gave their lives in service to our country.

We also recognize the importance of supporting veterans and their families with access to valuable resources and benefits.

Our blog, VA Benefits 101, shares helpful information about healthcare, housing, education, and other key services available through the VA.

https://bridgingapps.org/va-benefits-101/

Today is Global Accessibility Awareness Day, a reminder that digital access matters for everyone.

For Edgar, accessible technology opened new doors at work and at home, making everyday tasks easier and helping him stay connected and independent. From screen readers to larger displays and digital skills training, the right tools can truly change lives.

Read Edgar’s inspiring story:
https://bridgingapps.org/seeing-success-edgars-journey-with-low-vision-and-technology/

Thank you Emerson for the generous grant supporting our BridgingApps and assistive technology program! 🩵 .

🎉 Happy 15th Birthday, BridgingApps! 🎉

For 15 years, BridgingApps has helped individuals and families use technology to build accessibility, independence, and connection. From digital literacy and accessibility training to employment support and everyday tech guidance, we’re proud to continue empowering communities through technology.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey! 💙

Read more about our 15-year milestone:
https://bridgingapps.org/happy-15th-birthday-bridgingapps/

Need a Body-Language Interpreter? Meet HapWare!

HapWare’s wearable assistive technology, ALEYE, helps visually impaired and neurodivergent users better understand nonverbal communication through touch-based haptics.

Recently, HapWare CEO Jack Walters visited BridgingApps to demonstrate how ALEYE translates gestures and facial expressions into tactile vibration patterns in real time, helping users stay connected and confident during conversations.

From smiles and handshakes to social cues often missed in everyday interactions, ALEYE offers an innovative new way to access body language privately and instantly.

Read the full story: https://bridgingapps.org/need-a-body-language-interpreter-meet-hapware/

Today is National Senior Fraud Awareness Day.

As AI becomes part of everyday life—from navigation apps to voice assistants—it’s more important than ever for older adults and caregivers to understand both the benefits and risks of emerging technology.

Our latest blog explores:
• What AI really is
• How AI voice scams target seniors
• Tips for safer technology use
• Ways AI can support independence and connection

Most importantly: if something feels suspicious, pause and verify before sending money or personal information.

Read more:
https://bridgingapps.org/ai-101-for-seniors/

Families of children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing can find valuable support, advocacy, and connection through Texas Hands & Voices 💙

Check out this resource spotlight from Texas Youth2Adult featuring the impactful work Texas Hands & Voices is doing for families across Texas.

Plus, explore the latest update on ABLE accounts in Texas and discover additional transition and accessibility resources available through TY2A.

Read more: https://www.texasyouth2adult.com/articles/view/Resource-Highlight-Texas-Hands--Voices

Can AI help support mental health? What are the risks? And how do we use it responsibly?

As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re exploring the growing role of AI in mental health and assistive technology. In this new post, expert Mason Granof discusses how AI works, why education is essential, and how healthy AI use patterns can make a difference.

Read Part 2 here:
https://bridgingapps.org/ai-for-mental-health-pros-cons-and-expert-opinions-part-2/