In a significant move aimed at closing the digital divide for veterans with disabilities, Comcast has made a $65,000 donation in equipment and in-kind services to the Northwest Paralyzed Veterans of America (NWPVA) in Burien, Washington, transforming the organization’s facility into an assistive technology hub. The timing of this contribution, during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), underscores the growing recognition that access to digital skills is key to improving employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
For veterans with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities, accessing digital resources has often been challenging due to limitations in assistive technology and inclusive design. Comcast’s donation aims to address this, not just by providing upgraded hardware but also by supporting digital literacy training that will help veterans develop the skills needed to thrive in today’s economy. The upgrades reflect this year’s NDEAM theme, “Advancing Access and Equity in Employment,” and showcase the potential of technology to break down barriers to inclusion.
A Technology Makeover for Inclusion
Comcast’s contribution to NWPVA includes a range of cutting-edge assistive technologies designed to meet the diverse needs of veterans. Among the devices is the GlassOuse Assistive Device, which allows users to control computers using head movements and bite-clicks—an essential tool for individuals with limited mobility. Another addition is Dragon Speech Recognition Software, which enables hands-free typing, ensuring that veterans with dexterity issues can engage with digital content through voice commands. Other assistive features include high-visibility keyboards, adaptable mice, and height-adjustable desks, each designed with accessibility in mind.
The technology makeover doesn’t stop at hardware. Comcast worked closely with the Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP) to ensure the best possible fit between the veterans’ needs and the new technology. WATAP’s expertise in assistive technology has helped curate a facility that allows NWPVA members to not only access digital tools but also develop skills that can lead to new employment opportunities.
Bridging the Digital Divide
“Digital skills are no longer optional in the workforce; they are essential,” said Roy Novosel, U.S. Marine Veteran and Vice President of Engineering for the Comcast Pacific Northwest Region. “For individuals with disabilities, the barriers to accessing these skills are still significant, which is why this facility is so important. It’s about empowering veterans to participate in the digital economy, to learn new skills, and to have the tools they need to explore employment opportunities.”
For veterans with disabilities, particularly those in underserved communities, these upgrades represent more than just physical improvements. They provide the foundation for skill-building in an increasingly digital world. The facility is part of Comcast’s broader Lift Zones program, which aims to create free WiFi-enabled spaces for communities that lack consistent internet access. Through the Burien Lift Zone, veterans now have access to a fully equipped space to develop their digital competencies, a critical step toward bridging the gap in digital skills and employment.
A Broader Commitment to Digital Equity
Comcast’s contribution aligns with the company’s larger effort to promote digital equity, an effort that has only grown in urgency as the digital economy expands. Through its Project UP initiative and the Internet Essentials program, Comcast has helped connect millions of people to low-cost internet while providing free digital skills training. For individuals with disabilities, this is a crucial part of reducing the barriers to online education, job searches, and remote work—areas where digital accessibility has historically lagged.
“We are thankful for the investment Comcast is making to bring to life our vision for a facility that provides training in an inclusive and accessible environment to our veteran community,” said Joy Cochran, Vice President, Northwest PVA. “The financial support and complimentary WiFi service from Comcast combined with the WATAP consultancy are critical to providing the most relevant and impactful technology for our facility and members.”
Veterans and the Future of Accessible Employment
In addition to the technology upgrades, the Burien facility now features a mural designed by Charles Conner, a veteran artist, and painted by Comcast volunteers. The mural, which celebrates the resilience and service of veterans, adds a vibrant sense of community to the newly revamped space.
For Comcast, this initiative is part of a longstanding commitment to the military community, building on a legacy that dates back to its founder, Ralph Roberts, a U.S. Navy veteran. By supporting organizations like NWPVA, Comcast is helping to ensure that veterans with disabilities are not left behind as the digital economy grows.
As NDEAM continues to shine a light on the importance of disability inclusion in the workforce, Comcast’s donation serves as a reminder that assistive technology is a key piece of the puzzle. It’s not just about providing access to the internet—it’s about giving veterans the tools and skills they need to thrive in a connected world.
For more information on Comcast’s digital equity programs, visit https://corporate.comcast.com/education.
