Mark Mather showed an interest in technology early on, but at school, they just didn't seem to know which way to channel it. He really wanted a computer at home, but the family was unable to afford one. One of Mark's social workers saw that initial interest and looked for an outlet or a place that would creatively channel Mark's interest in computers.

A phone call to LINC one autumn afternoon two years ago from Mark's social worker was the beginning of a long term relationship for Mark with LINC. Since that time, Mark has put LINC on his weekly schedule and makes sure he comes by to spend a few hours in the Resource Lab. Last year, Mark graduated from high school and is now working hard on attaining his independence. He works full time in the food service industry, but hopes to be employed in a job where he can use his technology skills.

Mark makes it a point to take advantage of LINC's Open Lab, using state of the art computers and accessories, every chance he gets. Mark has learned to navigate his way around the Internet quite efficiently, and uses it for research, consumer information, and keeping up-to-date on the latest technology. He has learned how to write information from the internet to a CD, creating collections of clip art, music, and free computer software and games.

As savvy as he has become with the software end of technology, Mark keeps himself busy on the hardware end as well. He has taught himself how to repair and maintain computers, install computer operating systems and various other applications. Mark received an old Macintosh that someone was going to throw away, and with his diligence and determination, he has amazingly given it another life. He has installed additional RAM, upgraded the operating system, and boosted the hard drive capacity. As a member of LINC, he utilizes the many titles in the software loan library and often times will give reviews of the software to LINC staff.

Mark is now 19 years old, and he says he is saving up for one of the latest and greatest models of Macintoshes in 2001. He plans on continuing his independent study at LINC and would like to attend college in the fall. Since Mark came to LINC to address his special needs, his self-esteem has risen, his self-confidence has soared, and his skills continue to improve. Mark is a perfect example of someone that has successfully worked through the LINC model to achieve independence and to improve his quality of life.®