"Eldy-Sentiamoci in rete" is the new project promoted by Associazione Eldy Onlus. The aim of this project was to overcome virtual barriers that prevent some groups of people to use of innovative technology.
This project was the evolution of "Eldy - Keep in touch on the Net", a software, created for elderly and visually handicapped persons to allow them to learn how to use technology in an easy and funny way, thanks to intuitive interface, big buttons and guided paths.
The new software (completely free) was made especially for blind and sight impaired people, to allow them to be included in social life and to keep in touch with the Community.
The new version was made up with Eldy software and a vocal synthesizer able to read the words on the screen, and using some combinations of buttons, even this category of people can benefit from the use of internet, e-mail, chat, futher reducing digital divide. .
Associazione Eldy, in collaboration with the Province of Vicenza, has organized free courses to train some Volunteers to assist blind people at the beginning of their computer experience. It represented a positive chance for many young people to help people to be more integrated in this world, where the use of technology has become a basic element, creating a Community where everyone, even with handicap, can interact.
The project was indicated by the EU as innovation project directed to the reduction of the digital divide and won the Italian "Handimatica Award" for digital inclusion.
For Associazione Eldy this was an important step in order to make people understand the significance of integrating people with some handicaps, because they also have the right and the ability to play an important role in the society.
Main results, benefits and impacts
 The project had a relevant impact on the local reality. At least 40 volunteers were trained and helped many blind and sight impaired to use this new technology.
More than 50 blind and sight impaired were satisfied and happy to be able to use the computer like other people.
Lessons learnt
In every project, the main scope is the benefit of PEOPLE. Without volunteers spending some time helping blind and sight impaired people and without continuous motivational support, even the best project would be a failure.
Scope: National