Viability, Inc., a human service provider, announces Project (VR)², a Virtual Reality training program dedicated to enhancing access to employment for people with disabilities and other disadvantages. The program is dedicated to providing participants with a sense of empowerment and inclusivity. This first-of-its-kind project will help people who are chronically under-served and marginalized build the vital skills required to advance their ability in gaining and maintaining employment. Project (VR)² is where vocational rehabilitation meets virtual reality (VR). Partners of the effort include; Link To VR, Cleanbox Technology, Bodyswaps, and the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, (MRC).
Link To VR, an XR media agency in Boston, MA was hired by Viability to deploy Bodyswaps, a VR training program based out of London. Bodyswaps offers a soft-skills simulator, much the same way other companies offer flight simulators. “Immersive VR learning provides an opportunity for individuals who are otherwise overlooked in the employment world. Access to training and work experiences virtually builds confidence and readiness which will better equip participants to hold jobs providing them with income and a sense of purpose.” says Kristin Rotas, Viability Director.
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To optimize the virtual experience, Viability and Link To VR worked with Oculus Business to leverage a business-class version of the Quest 2 headset. In order to ensure a safe and effective deployment during COVID-19, Link To VR brought in Nashville-based, Cleanbox Technology, Inc. as a partner in the project. Cleanbox uses targeted UVC technology to eradicate 99.999% of viruses, bacteria, and fungi, decontaminating the headsets and making them safe for reuse.
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Viability’s vision for Project (VR)² expanded significantly when the MRC provided assisted funding. Together, they are pioneering a new training initiative and encouraging states to bring about technological changes to their current rehabilitation efforts. Viability called on Link To VR, to manage the deployment. “We were honored to play a role in such a transformative project. In addition to leveraging technology which can increase the speed of training by over 400% (PwC), Project (VR)² delivers content in a way that participants find fun and engaging,” said Edward Zemba, CEO, Link To VR.
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