National Assistive Technology Act Data System
Annual Progress Report - Full Report
Rhode Island 2023
General Information
Statewide AT Program (Information to be listed in national State AT Program Directory)
Lead Agency
Implementing Entity
Program Director and Other Contacts
Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director
Certifying Representative
State Financing
| Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include any State Financing? | Yes |
|---|---|
| Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include conducting a Financial Loan Program? | No |
B. State Financing Activities that provide consumers with resources and services that result in the acquisition of AT devices and services
1. Overview of Activities Performed
| How many other state financing activities that provide consumers with access to funds for the purchase of AT devices and services were included in your approved state plan? | 1 |
|---|
Activity 1
| How would you describe this state financing activity? | Telecommunications equipment distribution |
|---|
2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected
| County of Residence | Individuals Served |
|---|---|
| A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 110 |
| B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 0 |
| C. Total Served | 110 |
| Performance Measure | |
|---|---|
| D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 0 |
| E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 110 |
If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:
3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded
| Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Devices Funded | Value of AT Provided |
|---|---|---|
| Vision | 0 | $0 |
| Hearing | 102 | $38,019 |
| Speech communication | 2 | $1,898 |
| Learning, cognition, and developmental | 1 | $1,038 |
| Mobility, seating and positioning | 9 | $7,500 |
| Daily living | 0 | $0 |
| Environmental adaptations | 0 | $0 |
| Vehicle modification and transportation | 0 | $0 |
| Computers and related | 0 | $0 |
| Recreation, sports, and leisure | 0 | $0 |
| Total | 114 | $48,455 |
C. State Financing Activities that Allow Consumers to Obtain AT at Reduced Cost
1. Overview of Activities Performed
| How many state financing activities that allow consumers to obtain AT at a reduced cost were included in your approved state plan? | 0 |
|---|
D. Anecdote
Lucille is both HOH and has significant vision loss and was very distressed believing her phone was not working, and she was not feeling well and was worried if there was an emergency. We replace the phone with a phone that was better for her vision loss, but also discovered that her telephone line was not working. The phone would ring and ring when you called her but not go through, we were able to connect with Cox to make sure they were going out and know that she could not buzz them in, but she would be home all day the next day. She was so relived since her family is out of state and she had nobody to help her.
RL is an older gentleman with hearing loss. He is also a stroke survivor and has some difficulty with retaining new information that is presented to him. He was having difficulty learning how to operate his iPhone that was provided to him by ATEL. He has had visits with the ATEL staff for the purpose of training, but he was not able to retain the information and was having difficulty when he would need to troubleshoot the phone. ATEL learned that he has a friend who helps him almost daily and is willing to help him with the phone, but that friend is versed in the Android operating system and was limited in what he could do to assist RL with the iPhone. Upon further review it was also learned that RL was having an ongoing issue with seeing the lay out of the iOS (iPhone) display. The decision was made with RL to replace his iPhone with a larger Android. Although many find iOS easier to operate in this case the consumer was having difficulty retaining the information, he needed to master the phone. By replacing it with the Android operating system the consumer can now work closely with his natural supports to continue to learn the phone beyond the trainings that are provided by ATEL. This demonstrates why it is important the consumer’s support system be considered when selecting a device to use. Because his friend was not versed in iOS he could only do so much to help RL learn. When the Android phone was delivered the friend played an active role in getting the phone set up with me and was able to quickly change the ring tones to a pattern and volume level that RL would recognize.
E. Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| 1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 00 | 01 | 109 | 110 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 4. Subtotal | 00 | 01 | 109 | 110 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 00 | 01 | 109 | 110 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 00 | 01 | 109 | 110 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | NaN% | 100% | 100% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 102 | 92.73% |
| Satisfied | 07 | 6.36% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 01 | 0.91% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total Surveyed | 110 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
G. Notes:
Reutilization
A. Number of Recipients of Reused Devices
| Activity | Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity |
|---|---|
| A. Device Exchange | 04 |
| B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan | 57 |
| C. Total | 61 |
| Performance Measure | |
|---|---|
| D. Excluded from Performance Measure because AT is provided to or on behalf of an entity that has an obligation to provide the AT such as schools under IDEA or VR agencies/clients. | 00 |
| E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 61 |
If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance
B. Device Exchange Activities
| Type of AT Device | Number of Devices Exchanged | Total Estimated Current Purchase Price | Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Exchanged | Savings to Consumers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vision | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Hearing | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Speech Communication | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 03 | $5,000 | $0 | $5,000 |
| Daily Living | 01 | $1,500 | $0 | $1,500 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Computers and Related | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Total | 04 | $6,500 | $0 | $6,500 |
C. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassignment and/or Open Ended Loan Activities
| Type of AT Device | Number of Devices Reassigned/Refurbished and Repaired | Total Estimated Current Purchase Price | Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Sold | Savings to Consumers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vision | 01 | $500 | $0 | $500 |
| Hearing | 04 | $437 | $0 | $437 |
| Speech Communication | 09 | $3,069 | $3,069 | $0 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 01 | $200 | $200 | $0 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 21 | $2,930 | $0 | $2,930 |
| Daily Living | 94 | $6,915 | $4,668 | $2,247 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 15 | $974 | $900 | $74 |
| Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 02 | $56 | $0 | $56 |
| Computers and Related | 03 | $1,006 | $1,006 | $0 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 01 | $249 | $249 | $0 |
| Total | 151 | $16,336 | $10,092 | $6,244 |
D. Anecdote
Consumer was having difficulty getting in and out of her bed and could not afford a hospital bed. OSCIL received a call for a hospital bed donation. OSCIL was able to connect the two parties and complete the exchange of a hospital bed. The consumer is very satisfied and thankful to have this equipment.
E. Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| 1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 01 | 00 | 26 | 27 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 22 | 22 |
| 4. Subtotal | 01 | 00 | 48 | 49 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 11 | 11 |
| 6. Subtotal | 01 | 00 | 59 | 60 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 01 | 01 |
| 8. Total | 01 | 00 | 60 | 61 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 100% | NaN% | 80% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 59 | 96.72% |
| Satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 02 | 3.28% |
| Total Surveyed | 61 | |
| Response rate % | 96.72% |
G. Notes:
Device Loan
A. Short-Term Device Loans by Type of Purpose
| Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan | Number |
|---|---|
| Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) | 121 |
| Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding | 04 |
| Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation | 18 |
| Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity | 04 |
| Total | 147 |
B. Short-Term Device Loan by Type of Borrower
| Type of Individual or Entity | Number of Device Borrowers | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
| Individuals with Disabilities | 86 | 21 | 107 |
| Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 09 | 00 | 09 |
| Representative of Education | 21 | 04 | 25 |
| Representative of Employment | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 01 | 00 | 01 |
| Representatives of Community Living | 04 | 00 | 04 |
| Representatives of Technology | 00 | 01 | 01 |
| Total | 121 | 26 | 147 |
C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans
| Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days | 30 |
|---|
D. Types of Devices Loaned
| Type of AT Device | Number of Devices | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
| Vision | 13 | 07 | 20 |
| Hearing | 16 | 06 | 22 |
| Speech Communication | 22 | 01 | 23 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 28 | 01 | 29 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 05 | 12 | 17 |
| Daily Living | 85 | 10 | 95 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 16 | 00 | 16 |
| Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Computers and Related | 95 | 00 | 95 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 07 | 00 | 07 |
| Total | 287 | 37 | 324 |
E. Anecdote
Consumer contacted provider because her mom was visiting for her birthday from South Carolina. This would prove to be difficult, as her mother cannot walk well and would need assistance. Consumer is concerned how to trip would go as her mother needed a mobility device to help navigate seeing the sights and navigating the condominium complex the consumer lives in here in Rhode Island! Consumer called OSCIL and she was able to pick up a loan of a transport chair to for her mother to use during the trip. Both mom and daughter were so happy to be able to spend time together sight seeing.
F. Access Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 57 | 03 | 40 | 100 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 04 | 00 | 01 | 05 |
| Subtotal | 61 | 03 | 41 | 105 |
| Have not made a decision | 10 | 00 | 04 | 14 |
| Subtotal | 71 | 03 | 45 | 119 |
| Nonrespondent | 01 | 00 | 01 | 02 |
| Total | 72 | 03 | 46 | 121 |
| Performance on this measure | 85.92% | 100% | 91.11% | |
G. Acquisition Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| 1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 02 | 00 | 02 | 04 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 01 | 00 | 01 | 02 |
| 3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 13 | 13 |
| 4. Subtotal | 03 | 00 | 16 | 19 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 06 | 06 |
| 6. Subtotal | 03 | 00 | 22 | 25 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 01 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| 8. Total | 04 | 00 | 22 | 26 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 100% | NaN% | 72.73% | |
H. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 131 | 89.12% |
| Satisfied | 10 | 6.8% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 06 | 4.08% |
| Total Surveyed | 147 | |
| Response rate % | 95.92% |
I. Notes:
Device Demonstration
A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type
| Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services |
|---|---|
| Vision | 14 |
| Hearing | 14 |
| Speech Communication | 06 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 10 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 10 |
| Daily Living | 13 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 05 |
| Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 |
| Computers and Related | 09 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 02 |
| Total # of Device Demonstrations | 83 |
B. Types of Participants
| Type of Participant | Decision-Makers | Other Participants | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 43 | 03 | 46 |
| Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 04 | 09 | 13 |
| Representatives of Education | 28 | 88 | 116 |
| Representatives of Employment | 03 | 00 | 03 |
| Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 01 | 01 | 02 |
| Representative of Community Living | 04 | 07 | 11 |
| Representative of Technology | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 83 | 108 | 191 |
C. Number of Referrals
| Type of Entity | Number of Referrals |
|---|---|
| Funding Source (non-AT program) | 15 |
| Service Provider | 08 |
| Vendor | 05 |
| Repair Service | 00 |
| Others | 01 |
| Total | 29 |
D. Anecdote
An individual and a family member came in to see demonstrations of two AAC apps: TD Snapp and Dialogue AAC. The individual was able to trial both apps and understand the difference in the features to help them make the determination about what was most appropriate for the individual.
E. Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 25 | 02 | 38 | 65 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 03 | 00 | 10 | 13 |
| Subtotal | 28 | 02 | 48 | 78 |
| Have not made a decision | 02 | 02 | 01 | 05 |
| Subtotal | 30 | 04 | 49 | 83 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 30 | 04 | 49 | 83 |
| Performance on this measure | 93.33% | 50% | 97.96% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 134 | 70.16% |
| Satisfied | 42 | 21.99% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 15 | 7.85% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total | 191 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
G. Notes:
Overall Performance Measures
Overall Acquisition Performance Measure
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| 1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 03 | 01 | 137 | 141 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 01 | 00 | 01 | 02 |
| 3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 35 | 35 |
| 4. Subtotal | 04 | 01 | 173 | 178 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 17 | 17 |
| 6. Subtotal | 04 | 01 | 190 | 195 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 01 | 00 | 01 | 02 |
| 8. Total | 05 | 01 | 191 | 197 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 72.25% | 72.96% |
| ACL Performance Measure | 85% | |||
| Met/Not Met | Not Met | |||
Overall Access Performance Measure
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 82 | 05 | 78 | 165 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 07 | 00 | 11 | 18 |
| Subtotal | 89 | 05 | 89 | 183 |
| Have not made a decision | 12 | 02 | 05 | 19 |
| Subtotal | 101 | 07 | 94 | 202 |
| Nonrespondent | 01 | 00 | 01 | 02 |
| Total | 102 | 07 | 95 | 204 |
| Performance on this measure | 88.12% | 71.43% | 94.68% | 90.59% |
| ACL Performance Measure | 90% | |||
| Met/Not Met | Met | |||
Overall Satisfaction Rating
| Customer Rating of Services | Percent | ACL Target | Met/Not Met |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied and satisfied | 96.81% | 95% | Met |
| Response Rate | 98.43% | 90% | Met |
Training
A. Training Participants: Number and Types of Participants; Geographical Distribution
| Type of Participant | Number |
|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 1,137 |
| Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 204 |
| Representatives of Education | 716 |
| Representatives of Employment | 08 |
| Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 01 |
| Representatives of Community Living | 55 |
| Representatives of Technology | 10 |
| Unable to Categorize | 22 |
| TOTAL | 2,153 |
| Metro | Non Metro | Unknown | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,174 | 959 | 20 | 2,153 |
B. Training Topics
| Primary Topic of Training | Participants |
|---|---|
| AT Products/Services | 2,138 |
| AT Funding/Policy/ Practice | 00 |
| Combination of any/all of the above | 01 |
| Information Technology/Telecommunication Access | 04 |
| Transition | 10 |
| Total | 2,153 |
C. Description of Training Activities
Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:
During this reporting period, TechACCESS provided an overview of how smart home technology can support independent living. This training took place at a monthly meeting at the MS Dream Center. Approximately 50 Individuals attended. The training was aimed at participants learning about the types of technology available, their functions, tips and tricks for using smart home technology, and how to get help funding devices. At this training, different types of smart home technology was presented ranging from remote TV doorbells to a tablet running all the lights in a home. This training was presented to to individuals to help them learn how utilizing assistive technology in the home and lead to increased independence.
Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
A training session through the East Bay Educational Collaborative was offered to Para Educators. This training focused on Literacy support tools offered such as software, apps and extensions in the Chrome browser, to utilize on a laptop (Mac or Windows/PC) or Chromebook. Literacy Support technologies from various companies, including Texthelp, Don Johnston, Bookshare and Learning Ally were presented. Additionally, Comprehensive Literacy tools were presented. These tools offer features such as Text-to-Speech with highlighting while reading on the internet, book or a document. It is important that Educators learn the most up to date tools. Para educators have a role to be a supported for students in class that require additional technology tools. Adaptation and modifications provide text to speech output, screen readers, changes in visual fields on screen, and other executive function apps and extensions that will assist students in classroom work productivity. This training was well received and more trainings like this will be scheduled.
Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:
Jeannine is a long-time client of the ATEL program, but due to issues with her old Captel we had to replace. We brought to different Captel models so she could decide which would work better for her. She wanted to try the new touchscreen model, the Captel 2400i. She has never used a touchscreen device before it took some practice on how to apply the correct pressure to be able to use the screen. After practicing for a little bit, she got the hang of how to navigate through the different screens and was so excited she was able to use the new technology
D. IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure
| Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received | Number |
|---|---|
| IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies | 04 |
| Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented | 00 |
| No known outcome at this time | 00 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 |
| Total | 04 |
| Performance Measure Percentage | 100% |
| ACL Target Percentage | 70% |
| Met/Not Met | Met |
E. Notes:
Technical Assistance
A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance
| Education | 08% |
|---|---|
| Employment | 00% |
| Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 89% |
| Community Living | 03% |
| Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) | 00% |
| Total | 100% |
B. Description of Technical Assistance
Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:
ATEL is continuing to expand the new ATEL Tech Time. The Program it is continuing monthly trainings at the following locations: Burrillville (Library, and 3 senior housing complexes), Glocester Senior Center, Lincoln Senior Center, Pawtucket Senior Center, Coventry Senior Center, and the Meadows Senior housing complex in N. Smithfield. We will be adding a day at the Warwick Library to provide individuals an opportunity to learn about Captioning Apps for both in person and telephone conversations. We also are going to be partnering with underserved populations at PACE and Nursing Homes to try to reach older adults that may need technology but are unaware of resources.
Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
The Rhode Island Assistive Technology Partnership has a great relationship with the Rhode Island Department of Education. Both programs try to work together to ensure that all schools have the proper knowledge and training to help provide its students with the most up to date and useful assistive technology. During this reporting period, TechACCESS provided an Assistive Technology Overview to parents of the North Kingstown Special Education Local Advisory Council. The presentation included an extensive overview of what types of AT services are available to students and what devices are available. There was also an in depth discussion about AT funding sources for students in Transition.
C. Notes:
Public Awareness
Public Awareness Activities
Public Awareness Narratives
Describe in detail at least one and no more than two innovative or high-impact public awareness activities conducted during this reporting period. Highlight the content/focus of the awareness information shared, the mechanism used to disseminate or communicate the awareness information, the numbers and/or types of individuals reached, and positive outcomes resulting from the activity. If quantative numbers are available regarding the reach of the activity, please provide those: however, quantative data is not required.
1. Rhode Island has worked tirelessly to educate on all things assistive technology. As part of this, we have just begun to hold a Assistive Technology Awareness Day. During this reporting time, Rhode Island held our second annual AT Awareness Day. This event is aimed at celebrating AT awareness and education. This year the event was held at Rhode Island College and open to the public. Approximately 84 people registered for the event and it was very successful. The Assistive Technology Access Partnership invited different agencies that support and promote the AT movement across the state to come and set up a table with demonstration and information on their agency. Additionally, one member from the community was recognized for their efforts with Assistive Technology awareness and presented with an award. This event we received very positive feedback on the event and have already begun to plan to expand the event for next year.
2.
Information And Assistance
| Types of Recipients | AT Device/ Service |
AT Funding | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 143 | 173 | 316 |
| Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 64 | 82 | 146 |
| Representative of Education | 110 | 14 | 124 |
| Representative of Employment | 15 | 04 | 19 |
| Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 19 | 19 | 38 |
| Representative of Community Living | 42 | 53 | 95 |
| Representative of Technology | 18 | 06 | 24 |
| Unable to Categorize | 05 | 05 | 10 |
| Total | 416 | 356 | 772 |
Referral Types:
It is priority in Rhode Island to collaborate, develop, and promote strong partnerships to continue to spread awareness about AT services and supports to ensure we continue to receive community referrals. This summer Rhode Island ATEL program, an ATAP provider, developed a ATEL Tech Time Summer Program. This program's goal was to reach out to underserved populations such as the elderly to provide AT assistance. During this reporting period, Tech Time received referrals statewide. Information, training, and support were provided at close to 25 locations. One location began to refer other locations and Tech Time was able to reach close to 400 individuals. These locations were predominantly senior centers and elderly housing complexes throughout the state. Tech Time visited all the locations referred and split between a morning and afternoon sessions. The various trainings were to older adults trying to learn technology, as well as educating them on Apps and Accessibility features to help make their devices more user friendly. Additionally, Tech Time Introduced these older adults to the free resources funded by the OHA GetSetUp program for individuals 55 plus to take online training. Information was also provided to them about online support for Cyber Seniors which is another virtual resource. Students from the University of RI Engaging Generations Program also provides in person AT supports to a limited area in the state.
Referral Sources:
The Rhode Island ATAP providers receive referrals from many different resources across the state. Providers continue to have a vast social media presence. Platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram are utilized for referrals and professional development. Assistive Technology Education and Information is disseminated through partners such as RI Department of Education, RI Library Systems, Local School District Personnel, RI Parent Information Network, Local Senior Centers, Sister State Agencies like BHDDH (Behavioral Health), and other adult service providers. Additionally, because Rhode Island is such a small state, all At services are provided statewide.
Notes:
Coordination/Collaboration and State Improvement Outcomes
Overview of Coordination/Collaboration Activities
| Coordination/Collaboration activities are not required. You may report up to two MAJOR coordination/collaboration activities for this reporting period. How many will you be reporting? | 1 |
|---|
A. Coordination/Collaboration
1. As concisely as possible, describe the partnership initiative. What activities/services were provided? Who are the major collaborating organizations and what is their role? Who is served/benefited? What funding was used to implement the initiative?
Rhode Island has worked tirelessly to educate on all things assistive technology. As part of this, we have just begun to hold a Assistive Technology Awareness Day. During this reporting time, Rhode Island held our second annual AT Awareness Day. This event is aimed at celebrating AT awareness and education. All four ATAP partners planned this event, along with members of our RICAT board. This year the event was held at Rhode Island College and open to the public. Approximately 84 people registered for the event and it was very successful. The Assistive Technology Access Partnership invited different agencies that support and promote the AT movement across the state to come and set up a table with demonstration and information on their agency. Additionally, one member from the community was recognized for their efforts with Assistive Technology awareness and presented with an award. This event we received very positive feedback on the event and have already begun to plan to expand the event for next year. ATAP funds were used for event.
2. As concisely as possible, describe the measurable results of the initiative and any lessons learned. How did access to AT change as a result of the coordination/collaboration/partnership? How did awareness of AT change as a result of the partnership? How did the reach of the state AT program change as a result of the partnership? What made the partnership successful? What would you change or wish you had done differently? Provided funding/resources are available, will the initiative continue or is this a one-time event? What advice would you give for replication of the initiative? Please include URL for initiative if available.
This partnership was successful. Approximately 8-10 community organizations presented. This was a great opportunity for individuals who attended to not only learn about different types of Assistive Technology but to also learn about what agencies provide what services. Next year, we plan to expand the event by advertising utilizing social media. We also plan to invite more community partners.
3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?
Education; Community Participation and Integration; Information and Communication Technology / Remote Connectivity;
4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?
Demonstration; Information & Assistance; Public Awareness; Technical Assistance;
Overview of State Improvement Activities
| State improvement outcomes are not required. You may report up to two MAJOR state improvement outcomes for this reporting period. How many will you be reporting? | 00 |
|---|
Additional And Leveraged Funds
A. Leveraged Funding for State Plan Activities
| Fund Source | Amount | Use of Funds | Data Reported |
|---|
For any leveraged funding reported above for which data could not be reported, please describe the extenuating circumstances that precluded data from being reported and efforts to remediate the situation in future reporting periods.
B. Public Health Workforce Grant Award |
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All Section 4 AT Act grantees were awarded $80,000.00 in supplimental Public Health Workforce grant funding to increase the full-time equivalent (FTE) of staff withing the disability and aging network for public health professionals. Please document the status of these funds below. |
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C. Describe any unique issues with your data in this section (e.g., the reason why you were unable to report the number of individuals served with additional or leveraged funds).
Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance . Saved: Tue Feb 13 2024 14:13:57 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)