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The power and global reach of the Internet is far more significant than anyone anticipated decades ago when the concept was first discussed.
The website www.DisabledOnline.com is proof positive that an online content driven website reaches both disabled and able-bodied communities around the world.
Jay Cohen, Owner and Operator of www.DisabledOnline.com, founded the website, which received the 2007 Outstanding Website Award sponsored by the Disability Network.
"Sometimes, I receive e-mails from as far as New Zealand, Singapore, Israel, etc... It truly blows my mind to think how powerful the Internet is," Cohen explained.
Born with Muscular Dystrophy, Cohen understood the need to reach the masses with information and resources for people with disabilities. Searching and finding key words can be frustrating at times on your own, but Cohen has managed to organize every category of primary interest, even offering ideas for new postings or topics that have yet to be tapped.
Instead of using his fingers on the keyboard, Cohen uses voice recognition software to actively run the website, which is a full-time job he enjoys.
"My goal with Disabled Online is for it to become the premier website for people with disabilities," Cohen said. "A one-stop shop, if you will, where people from around the world can gather to interact, shop, share, research, and learn."
Cohen offers forums on a variety of topics including the arts, dance, film, television, music, education, employment, government, home, living, legal resources, advocacy, news, products, and travel, among others.
The best element of www.DisabledOnline.com is the ease of navigation as everything is simple to find or post. Cohen, with a background in Internet Communications, clearly knows how to make a system as easy as a click of the button in a rewarding environment with a variety of interactive tools and offerings.
Encouraging everyone to join his site, Cohen includes an open invitation on his home page welcoming "disabled users and their friends, family and co-workers." This effectively serves as education while bringing everyone together in an inclusive atmosphere.
"I wanted to have a site that, although it targeted the disabled community, it was all inclusive to everyone. One of the gripes I have with social networking are 'labels.' Why not just invite everyone and let the chips fall where they may? I suppose people feel more comfortable with familiarity, but to me that's boring. I find it exciting to meet people from all walks of life, regardless of limitations. This is a concept that we at Disabled Online embrace," Cohen said. "It certainly is my intention to also bring people with disabilities together. I know my site doesn't generate bonzo traffic like Yahoo or MSN... YET... but, I'm hoping over time... our following will grow. Actually, we have grown significantly since startup; it's now a matter of building on the momentum. People get thirsty for new content, it's my job to continually update and offer new material. Whether it be links to new sites, new articles, or just attracting new people, that's the key to building a successful online portal."
When asked what his hopes are for the disabled community, Cohen replied, "I think my hope would be to realize our potential. When united, our voice can be quite powerful. The Internet is a great tool to spread our message of equality and inclusion. Plus, I think it's important that we become more self-motivated, pushing ourselves to the limit, before asking others to do it for us. I really believe this is actually happening, I hope it continues," Cohen explained. "Speaking only for me, I don't want to 'need' from society. Instead, I want society to 'need' me. I think this is a mental approach more people with disabilities should try to adopt. Make ourselves capable of contributing first to society... whether it be professionally, socially, spiritually, etc. then, build from that. Start small if you have to... local community organizations perhaps. If that's too difficult, go online and network through social sites and other Internet portals. Eventually, there shouldn't be any separation or distinction... maybe it sounds irrational, but I truly believe it's possible."
In building the site and creating product links and suggestions, Cohen reminds the world that people with disabilities are consumers who do make an impact in the marketplace.
"I'd like companies to know that we are the largest minority in this nation. We cover the spectrum of gender, race, religion... you name it. Instead of ignoring us, you should consider catering to us. Now, saying that, we have to make companies realize this. Corporate America can be set in their ways... Money talks. So, how do we get them to recognize us? It isn't easy; it will take time. We first have to build up our own financial independence. I feel we can greatly benefit from the Internet," Cohen encouraged. "Finding employment opportunities online is becoming easier and more accessible."
Cohen is completely aware that the media often soft-shoes it around people with disabilities and it's not a realistic approach.
"I believe there is a public perception about people with disabilities that needs to be changed. I'm not a fan of 'politically correct.' I am more about being who you are, and if you don't like me, well, you wouldn't be the first," Cohen added. "People with disabilities are not all needy or looking for handouts or all angelic. This seems to be how we are portrayed by the media, but I know a couple disabled people who are complete jerks. In fact, I can be kind of a jerk at times myself, but you know what, I embrace that. Not the part about me being a jerk, but about being who I want, when I want. Being accountable for my behavior and allowing my character to define me as a person, good or bad, right or wrong."
This writer encourages everyone to visit www.DisabledOnline.com for a tour in enlightenment and education as the site is organized and offers easy navigation focused on a wealth of topics.
Pictured: Disabled Online Website Owner and Operator Jay Cohen.
The website www.DisabledOnline.com is proof positive that an online content driven website reaches both disabled and able-bodied communities around the world.
Jay Cohen, Owner and Operator of www.DisabledOnline.com, founded the website, which received the 2007 Outstanding Website Award sponsored by the Disability Network.
"Sometimes, I receive e-mails from as far as New Zealand, Singapore, Israel, etc... It truly blows my mind to think how powerful the Internet is," Cohen explained.
Born with Muscular Dystrophy, Cohen understood the need to reach the masses with information and resources for people with disabilities. Searching and finding key words can be frustrating at times on your own, but Cohen has managed to organize every category of primary interest, even offering ideas for new postings or topics that have yet to be tapped.
Instead of using his fingers on the keyboard, Cohen uses voice recognition software to actively run the website, which is a full-time job he enjoys.
"My goal with Disabled Online is for it to become the premier website for people with disabilities," Cohen said. "A one-stop shop, if you will, where people from around the world can gather to interact, shop, share, research, and learn."
Cohen offers forums on a variety of topics including the arts, dance, film, television, music, education, employment, government, home, living, legal resources, advocacy, news, products, and travel, among others.
The best element of www.DisabledOnline.com is the ease of navigation as everything is simple to find or post. Cohen, with a background in Internet Communications, clearly knows how to make a system as easy as a click of the button in a rewarding environment with a variety of interactive tools and offerings.
Encouraging everyone to join his site, Cohen includes an open invitation on his home page welcoming "disabled users and their friends, family and co-workers." This effectively serves as education while bringing everyone together in an inclusive atmosphere.
"I wanted to have a site that, although it targeted the disabled community, it was all inclusive to everyone. One of the gripes I have with social networking are 'labels.' Why not just invite everyone and let the chips fall where they may? I suppose people feel more comfortable with familiarity, but to me that's boring. I find it exciting to meet people from all walks of life, regardless of limitations. This is a concept that we at Disabled Online embrace," Cohen said. "It certainly is my intention to also bring people with disabilities together. I know my site doesn't generate bonzo traffic like Yahoo or MSN... YET... but, I'm hoping over time... our following will grow. Actually, we have grown significantly since startup; it's now a matter of building on the momentum. People get thirsty for new content, it's my job to continually update and offer new material. Whether it be links to new sites, new articles, or just attracting new people, that's the key to building a successful online portal."
When asked what his hopes are for the disabled community, Cohen replied, "I think my hope would be to realize our potential. When united, our voice can be quite powerful. The Internet is a great tool to spread our message of equality and inclusion. Plus, I think it's important that we become more self-motivated, pushing ourselves to the limit, before asking others to do it for us. I really believe this is actually happening, I hope it continues," Cohen explained. "Speaking only for me, I don't want to 'need' from society. Instead, I want society to 'need' me. I think this is a mental approach more people with disabilities should try to adopt. Make ourselves capable of contributing first to society... whether it be professionally, socially, spiritually, etc. then, build from that. Start small if you have to... local community organizations perhaps. If that's too difficult, go online and network through social sites and other Internet portals. Eventually, there shouldn't be any separation or distinction... maybe it sounds irrational, but I truly believe it's possible."
In building the site and creating product links and suggestions, Cohen reminds the world that people with disabilities are consumers who do make an impact in the marketplace.
"I'd like companies to know that we are the largest minority in this nation. We cover the spectrum of gender, race, religion... you name it. Instead of ignoring us, you should consider catering to us. Now, saying that, we have to make companies realize this. Corporate America can be set in their ways... Money talks. So, how do we get them to recognize us? It isn't easy; it will take time. We first have to build up our own financial independence. I feel we can greatly benefit from the Internet," Cohen encouraged. "Finding employment opportunities online is becoming easier and more accessible."
Cohen is completely aware that the media often soft-shoes it around people with disabilities and it's not a realistic approach.
"I believe there is a public perception about people with disabilities that needs to be changed. I'm not a fan of 'politically correct.' I am more about being who you are, and if you don't like me, well, you wouldn't be the first," Cohen added. "People with disabilities are not all needy or looking for handouts or all angelic. This seems to be how we are portrayed by the media, but I know a couple disabled people who are complete jerks. In fact, I can be kind of a jerk at times myself, but you know what, I embrace that. Not the part about me being a jerk, but about being who I want, when I want. Being accountable for my behavior and allowing my character to define me as a person, good or bad, right or wrong."
This writer encourages everyone to visit www.DisabledOnline.com for a tour in enlightenment and education as the site is organized and offers easy navigation focused on a wealth of topics.
Pictured: Disabled Online Website Owner and Operator Jay Cohen.
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