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 Thanks to a major contribution from Unum, the Orange Grove Center has renovated a classroom to include a much-needed new lift system that allows people with significant physical disabilities to actively participate in education and vocational training.
“This new device opens the door to countless opportunities for people with disabilities to be involved, learn and have fun,” said Kyle Hauth, executive director of Orange Grove. “This system gives them so much more ability and freedom than they’ve ever had.”
The renovated classroom is the first phase of Unum’s $105,000 pledge to Orange Grove’s capital campaign. The insurance company plans to install new lift systems in two other classrooms over the next two years.
“We’re excited to support this new system because it emphasizes what they can do instead of what they can’t,” said Bob Best, executive vice president of Unum. “As a provider of disability insurance, we’re especially committed to helping people with disability reach their full potential.”
A ribbon-cutting to mark the re-opening of the room was held on Tuesday, July 13. A plaque with the inscription, “Unum Learning Place,” has been permanently affixed outside the classroom. Unum executives, as well as city officials and Orange Grove parents, staff and board members, were on hand for the ceremony. The company has been a major supporter of Orange Grove Center over the years, with contributions toward many of the programs and services offered to individuals with disabilities.
  
 
The most significant feature of the renovated classroom is the Liko Lift, an overhead motorized tracking system. The “railroad track” feature allows students to be placed in or connected by a sling that slides back and forth across the ceiling, granting lift access to almost all corners of the room. The device will allow each person to participate more actively since they will be supported in a standing position.
“The lift replaces the traditional floor lift, which must be rolled from place to place,” said Becca McClure, physical therapist for the center. “Because it has no base on the floor, it is easier to maneuver a client in the lift around obstacles in the classroom, and it also frees up floor space so that the area can be used more for client-based activities.”
The lift system will also help make transfers safer and more efficient for both the individuals and the staff members. The lift system reduces potential issues with worker’s compensation, back injuries and other related matters. The device was installed by Jackson Medical Supply of Jackson, Tenn.
Additional features of the system include:
•Access for clients to be picked up and transferred directly to toileting facilities via passage through a specially designed gate that links separate tracks systems in each room (This eliminates the need for switching belts from one track to another.)
•A more secure form of transfer than a regular floor lift
•Easier access to a variety of equipment resources that have traditionally been difficult to reach with a standard floor lift, because of the configuration of bases and wheels on each
The classroom is also outfitted with new curtains, flooring and walls. There are also specifications in place for preparation for natural disasters, such as an earthquake or tornado.
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