Mid Oregon Credit Union installs RightHear system to improve access for visitors who are blind, low-vision

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Mid Oregon Credit Union, the only locally headquartered financial institution in Central Oregon, has announced a pioneering step towards enhanced access to its facilities with the installation of the RightHear Accessibility system at all seven branch locations.

The member-owned financial cooperative is now fully accessible to people who are blind and visually impaired. With the implementation of the RightHear system, Mid Oregon continues to build upon its award-winning commitment to providing excellent service to all members of the community.

The RightHear system offers a user-friendly experience, empowering individuals with visual impairments to explore and engage with their surroundings seamlessly. Upon entering the premises, users can easily access audio instructions and directions through their smartphones, guiding them to key points of interest such as restrooms, teller windows, entrances, and more. The information can be delivered in up to 26 languages, ensuring that the solution meets the needs of the diverse population residing in Central Oregon.

Key features of the RightHear system at Mid Oregon include:

• Real-Time Audio Assistance: The RightHear mobile app, available for both iOS and Android, provides users with real-time audio guidance and information about branch services.
• Orientation Assistance: Users can effortlessly acquire better orientation, receive audio descriptions about their surroundings, and easily locate important areas, enhancing their overall experience and independence.
• Event and Service Information: The RightHear system is capable of delivering detailed information about upcoming events, and any relevant announcements, ensuring that everyone is well-informed when they arrive at a branch location.

"Mid Oregon believes that everyone should have equal access to affordable and convenient financial services," said Kyle Frick, VP Marketing at Mid Oregon. "With the installation of RightHear, we are taking a significant step in improving access for all members, including those who are blind or low vision. The implementation of the RightHear system aligns with our ongoing dedication to supporting our community and leading the way in providing better convenience through enhanced technology."

Idan Meir, Co-Founder and CEO of RightHear added: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Mid Oregon in their commitment to accessibility and inclusion. By embracing innovative solutions like RightHear, organizations and businesses can create welcoming environments that cater to diverse visitor needs and preferences.  Our mission is to make the whole world more accessible, one building at a time, and thanks to partners like Mid Oregon, our mission continues to move forward.”

Mid Oregon Credit Union is a full-service, member-owned financial cooperative headquartered in and serving Central Oregonians since 1957. With over 48,000 members in Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Wheeler, Lake, and North Klamath Counties and over $736 million in assets, Mid Oregon partners with members to meet their financial needs and to help them achieve their dreams. Mid Oregon was named a Top Workplace in Oregon and Southwest Washington for 2022 and 2023. It was also ranked the #1 credit union in Oregon by Forbes for 2023 and 2024, and received the Bend Bulletin’s Best of the Best of Bend Community Choice Award in the credit union category for 2023. For more information about its services and branch locations in Bend, La Pine, Madras, Prineville, Redmond, and Sisters, please visit midoregon.com.

RightHear is a leading provider of indoor orientation and audio format signage systems that empower people with visual impairments to acquire better orientation in public and private spaces independently. The RightHear system combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly mobile apps to help businesses and organizations to achieve greater ADA Compliance and to ultimately create more inclusive environments for all. To learn more about the RightHear system installation at Mid Oregon Credit Union, please contact: Darren Gladstone, US Operations Director, RightHear; darren@right-hear.com; phone: 240-789-9008.