The Michigan chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is seeking nominees for its annual da Vinci Awards.
The Awards “recognize and celebrate the most innovative adaptive and assistive technologies that enable equal access and opportunity for all people, regardless of ability,” according to a news release about the program.
Nominations are being accepted through July 31 at davinciawards.org or youtube.com/davinciawards. The Awards are divided into five categories:
- Communication/educational aids
- Environmental adaptation/daily living or work aids
- Prosthetics/orthotics/controls
- Transportation & mobility
- Recreation & leisure
A lifetime achievement and a Spirit of da Vinci award will also be presented to “standouts in the field of assistive technology and the disability community.”
Past technology winners include Bruno Independent Living Aids’ automotive seat and Independence Technology’s iBOT power chair. Lifetime achievement award winners have included Dr. Rory Cooper and Lt. Col. Paul Pasquina.
The fee of $99 per application is tax deductible, with proceeds from the awards program benefiting the National MS Society’s Michigan chapter. A panel of judges representing the technology and disability communities will evaluate the submissions, but a People’s Choice award will also be given to the finalist receiving the highest number of YouTube votes.
