National Assistive Technology Act Data System

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

2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made

3. Loan Type

4. Interest Rates

5. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed

6. Defaults

G. Notes:

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance

G. Notes:

I. Notes:

For this reporting year, only one request for a short-term device loan was made. Through a variety of social mediums, outreach, and awareness activities we continue to promote the availability of short-term devices. While there are limited AT items designated for short-term loans, every effort is made to fulfil the request of any person with a disability. Our goal is to increase access to assistive technology devices through a short-term loan program.

G. Notes:

C. Description of Training Activities

Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:

Provided educational training to 70 classroom teachers, administrators and assistants of the Head Start Program on St. Croix. The training was mandatory for staff as part of In Service which takes place three times a year. The 90 minute Power-Point presentation featured an in-depth training on power mobility for children, which are used as assistive technology. The presentation provided information on the Virgin Islands Assistive Technology Program and the different activities to include device demonstration, short-term loan devices. the re-use program and the interest buy-down cash loan program for financing, equipment, tools and services .

Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:

The assistant director of the Assistive Technology Program along with the assistant director of Clinical Services, physical therapist, and ATP at VIUCEDD provided a 90-minute presentation on Aging in Place and Assistive Technology. An overview of assistive technology definition, tools, devices, and services were covered, as well as an overview of Aging in Place definition and concerns. This transition related training focused on where an individual with the ability to grow older in the home they choose, while keeping some level of independence, for as long they can. (CDC's definition) The training highlighted different options for aging in place, whether it be their own home, with a family member, a senior living facility. The presentation including using mobility devices such as canes and walking sticks for balance, mobility and exercise. They were educated on features, adjustments and benefits of bilateral hiking sticks. Attendees were able to try each device. Two individuals are looking to purchase the ergonomic walking cane/stick. A collaboration with the DME specialist one of the local pharmacies was created, and items would be ordered for those who are interested in purchasing any of the canes or walking sticks.

Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:

Conducted a training titled: Creating Accessible Word Documents (part 1) This in-person training consisted for faculty members of the University of the Virgin Islands. Participants all used Office 365 learned basic procedures for creating an accessible Word document, to include how to structure the document, formatting, and font and sizing were covered in this session.

E. Notes:

B. Description of Technical Assistance

Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:

The director and coordinator of the Virgin Islands Center for Independent Living Center requested technical assistance with installation and technical assistance on the use of the telehealth equipment. The equipment is designated for use primarily by members the Independent Living Center, the disability community, as well as other residents who may need to connect virtually with their healthcare providers. TA also provided on connecting with other agencies who have similar equipment for training.

Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:

Technical assistant (TA) was requested by the Administrator of the Disabilities and Rehabilitation Services to provide specific information to staff including rehabilitation counselors and other staff of vocational rehabilitation. The TA provided an overview of VITRAID (Virgin Islands Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities) also known at the Assistive Technology (AT) program The assistance provided was directed to the transition from school to work/trade school. TA covered how to access AT services and resources to aid in transition to work, trade school or college. Other areas covered were referrals, assessments, device loans and demonstrations and training for individuals who qualify for vocational rehabilitation services. TA was interactive and practical

C. Notes:

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. VIUCEDD participated in the 3rd annual Disaster Preparedness and Chronic Disease Prevention Expo for Seniors and individuals with disabilities. The event was held at the University of the Virgin Islands on the St. Thomas and St. Croix campuses. The expo was hosted by the Office of the Governor ADA Office. VIUCEDD was one of the event sponsors and participating agencies. The event was held from 9:00am to 2:00pm on each day. Over 260 persons were in attendance Information and resources were designed and offered to Seniors and aging population, individuals with disabilities with the goal of being prepared for any disaster. Participating agencies included: AARP, American Red Cross, Department of Health, Chronic Disease Prevention Program, FEMA, VI Territorial Emergency Management, Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands, VI Water and Power Authority, Fire department Independent Living Center, and Human Services, division of Senior Citizens, WTJX, VIYA, VI Transit and others. VIUCEDD had the opportunity to talk about the iCanConnect program and had devices available to provide hands-on experience. One of the goals was to expand reach and enroll persons who qualify for the iCanConnect program This awareness activity was deemed high-impact as it was broadcasted and aired on the government channel, giving the general population an opportunity to learn about services from all participating agencies.

2. During the 51st Annual Agriculture and Food Fair of the Virgin Islands, the VIUCEDD staff participated at the event which was held the weekend of February 19-20, 2023. VIUCEDD focused on sharing information on the overall program activities to include VITRAID, VIATF and the upcoming CEU training series on Assistive Technology and Aging in Place. Some focus was placed on Covid-19 and staying safe. The VIUCEDD was one of many of the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) programs that showcased their activities. According to the organizers of this annual event where UVI is a major sponsor over 20,000 persons attended the three-day fair.

Notes:

AT this time, the Library for the Blind is the only public library that is open and functional on St. Croix. There is not a Library for the Blind in the St. Thomas/St. John district

Overview of Coordination/Collaboration Activities