InvoTek rolls out “Be Extraordinary” program

Alma-based InvoTek, Inc., a small research and development company, has announced a program designed to help people with severe disabilities reach a specific life goal.

The “Be Extraordinary” program gives people with high spinal cord injuries or other life-changing conditions a way to gain more independence and become more involved with family and friends.

Founded in 1988, InvoTek specializes in applying technology to the needs of people with severe disabilities.

“Twenty-two years ago I was volunteering with a speech pathologist working with children who could not use their voice to communicate effectively,” said Tom Jakobs, InvoTek president. “That experience didn’t just change me, it transformed me. I realized I had to use my engineering and business skills to give a voice to those who struggle to communicate.”

Be Extraordinary is being piloted in Arkansas in cooperation with the Arkansas Spinal Cord Commission (ASCC). ASCC case managers contact InvoTek with the names of people who have a life goal but need technical assistance to accomplish that goal. The goal can be wide ranging — improved participation in their health care, access to books,
better communication with family or friends, the ability to advocate on their own behalf, or accomplish an educational or vocational goal.

InvoTek, the case managers, and the client create a plan incorporating technology and services to help the client reach his or her goal. Then, InvoTek and the client work to raise tax-deductible donations through the InvoTek website, the client’s network of friends, and contributors interested in helping someone help themselves. Once the project is complete, the client “pays it forward” by mentoring others, helping educate people on severe disabilities, blogging or product testing.

InvoTek is currently working with clients in Van Buren, Mulberry, Paragould, Tupelo, Emerson, Camden, and the Little Rock metro area.