ADEC is pleased to announce a substantial investment in enhanced cybersecurity to support the care of our individuals served. Today, more than ever, we are increasing the use of technology to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as their families.  Since the start of the pandemic, ADEC has dramatically increased the use of technology to better serve individuals and families. For example, the organization began utilizing telehealth services for some of its clients. Such services included music therapy, recreational therapy, behavioral services, wellness checks and even employment job coaching.

ADEC utilizes technology every day in the care of individuals served. Threats can compromise the integrity of data and systems.  Combined with the advent of virtual meetings and new telehealth services, ADEC is meeting the challenge of potential technology breaches. ADEC wants to ensure that client and organizational information are protected. Investing in the most current and best cybersecurity software and hardware and enhancing our existing platform is a vital step in helping to defend against external cyberattacks.

“Information security is extremely important to us,” said President and CEO Donna L. Belusar, Ph.D. “Our objective is to help make sure we have the best tools available to protect the organization and our clients from cyber threats.  Our new cybersecurity measures including protective hardware, next-generation software, and training will place ADEC in line with best practices.  Implementation has begun and will occur over the next few months.

“We are thankful for the Aux Chandelles funding through the Community Foundation of Elkhart County to make this a reality.  We look forward to a bright future for our individuals served through best practices across the agency, such as with this cybersecurity investment.”

Combined with a comprehensive disaster recovery plan and HIPAA policies, the new cybersecurity measures will allow ADEC to significantly improve its technology security practices into the future.