1502 B Williamson Road NE, Roanoke, VA 24012 w 540-342-1231 (v/tty)

BRILC Core Services

Information and Referral

Center staff members identify resources, services, and service providers in public, private, and community organizations. Information is provided on accessibility, housing, recreation, transportation, and other organizations dealing with disability issues. Center staff members regularly make referrals. 

Registries are maintained that provides local options for affordable/accessible housing, personal assistants, and interpreters.

An up-to-date collection of resource material on disability-related issues and services is available to the general public in the Center’s library. 

Community Advocacy

Activities of the Center have influenced positive changes in local and state legislation and the enforcement of existing laws to promote and ensure civil rights of people with disabilities.

Technical Accessibility Assistance

The center offers assistance to businesses, agencies and individuals wishing to make their facilities and/or services more accessible to all consumers. Staff members make site visits and prepare a written summary with recommendations for the most economical and efficient method to become totally accessible.

Community Education and Awareness

Center staff are available upon request to do presentations about disability-related issues and concerns of persons with disabilities.

• Housing Assistance – Assistance to individuals with disabilities who are homeless or who need to locate affordable, accessible housing.
• Employment Services – Assistance with obtaining employment and work related issues. Social Security and other benefits counseling.
• Disability Rights – Information about your rights and evaluation of local businesses, organizations, etc. to ensure that all accessibility guidelines are followed.
• Assistive Technology – Equipment provided on a loan basis and also assist consumers in obtaining their own equipment.
• Consumer Service Fund – Potential "last resort" grant funds for assistive technology, home modifications, etc.
• Assistive Technology Loan Fund – Loan funds for assistive technology, home modifications, etc.
• Technology Assistance Program – Devices for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing or who have speech disabilities.
• Community Action Advocacy Groups – Community needs of persons with disabilities are identified and strategies are developed to address those needs.
• Support Groups – Recreational activities mutual encouragement, and assistance in identifying and addressing personal and local needs.
• Computer Instruction – Instruction in e-mail, basic computer keystrokes, Microsoft Word, and the utilization of accessible computer software.
• Transition – Collaboration with school systems and other agencies to assist students with disabilities in transition from middle school to high school and post graduate opportunities.
• Personal Assistance Services