Organization
NARBE Foundation
The NARBE Foundation is a family-founded nonprofit in Rhode Island that builds and freely distributes open-source assistive technology — primarily switch-accessible games and low-cost switch hardware — for people with severe physical disabilities and complex communication needs who have very limited interaction options.
About
The NARBE Foundation was founded by Ari and Nancy — a brother and sister-in-law caregiving team — after their family member Ben was diagnosed with TUBB4A-related leukodystrophy, a rare and complex neurological condition that affects motor control and communication. When they searched for tools to help Ben access the digital world, they found that most assistive technology focused only on basic communication. Ben wanted more: to play games, browse the internet, watch his favourite shows, and truly connect with the world. NARBE was created to fill that gap — and to make what they built freely available to every family navigating similar barriers.
The organisation is headquartered in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, and operates with a small team of builders, caregivers, and community members who share a commitment to open-source, accessible-by-default technology.
What They Do
- SwitchedGames: A growing library of free one- and two-button switch-accessible games and interactive tools, designed for players who have very limited interaction options — including people who are nonspeaking, quadriplegic, or have severe motor impairments
- Switch Kits: Low-cost hardware kits (assembled and shipped by the foundation) that map physical switches to keyboard inputs, enabling computer access for people who cannot use standard input devices. Applications reopen quarterly; kits are provided at no cost to recipients
- Open-source hardware: GitHub-published hardware configs (including the Benny's Trinkey setup using Adafruit Trinkey boards) so families and makers can build their own adaptive switches
- Community Discord: An active server for families, caregivers, and makers to share DIY accessibility knowledge, troubleshoot setups, and collaborate on new tools
- Trusted resources directory: A curated list of vetted AAC platforms, switch hardware suppliers, and gaming accessibility resources
Who They Serve
The NARBE Foundation specifically targets the underserved population of people with "complex needs and very limited interaction options" — individuals for whom most mainstream AT falls short. This includes people who are nonspeaking and have severe motor impairments, people with complex neurological or neuromuscular conditions, and families and caregivers supporting them. All software and documentation is freely available; hardware kits are distributed at no cost through an application process.
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