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:

The DC Office of Aging provided additional funding for “Safe at Home”, which offers home accessibility modification grants that reduce the risk of falls, and reduce barriers that limit mobility. This program offers up to $10,000 for eligible seniors (80% of AMI) and persons with disabilities. Given some overlap with the AFP program, some our potential consumer base will use this funding option to obtain assistive technology devices.

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

G. Notes:

I. Notes:

The AT Device Loan program includes AT devices that range from high-tech to low tech items that may be used in a variety of settings (home, community, school, work). The equipment that can be borrowed is limited because the DC AT Resource Center uses the same assistive technology devices to conduct demonstrations. The AT Device Loan program is the only statewide program device loan that is cross-age and cross¬ disability.

G. Notes:

B. Description of Training Activities

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

The AT Specialist provided training to 25 graduate level speech language pathology students enrolled in an assistive technology course at the University of the District of Columbia. The training covered the basics of assistive technology and focused on how the speech language therapist is called upon to support AT users in the classroom and in community living. Hands on training was also provided on adapted hardware and software with particular attention given to augmentative and alternative communication devices. Participants reported that the training provided valuable insight and “real world” knowledge.

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

The AT Consultant provided training to seven direct service staff at the Lt. Joseph P. Kennedy Institute of Catholic Charities as a part of their supported employment program to discuss readily available technology for adults with disabilities in the workplace and vocational learning environment. This training was entitled “What’s in your Toolkit!”, and the staff learned how assistive technology could assist various employees on job sites and with learning workplace skills. As they brainstormed, ideas of how the technology could be used on the go helping the workers to become more independent. Next, there were questions and request for further apps and online resources. Also, technical assistance was requested to assist with implementation strategies both in the classroom and workplace.

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

E. Notes:

ATPDC receives additional funding from the Mid-Atlantic ADA Center to provide specialized training sessions related to AT@ Work, Emergency Preparedness and Assistive Technology, AT for Hospitality and AT and the Aging Workforce. This data is reflected in this reporting period training activities.

B. Description of Technical Assistance

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

The Assistive Technology Program for the District of Columbia (ATPDC) staff and a network of disability rights consumers, advocates and other volunteers provided technical assistance to University Legal Services (ULS) and DC Office of Board of Elections conducted accessibility surveys of polling sites throughout the District of Columbia for the Presidential Election on November 8, 2016. The goal is to ensure the full participation in the electoral process of persons with disabilities, including registering to vote, casting a vote and accessing polling place.

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

The Assistive Technology Specialist provided technical assistance to the Disability Resource Center of the University of the District of Columbia. Technical assistance will be ongoing and involves the development of appropriate protocols and procedures relative to the referral, assessment, procurement and implementation of assistive technology devices for students with disabilities. The AT Specialist will also directly assist students through demonstrations, device trials, short trainings and information and referral.

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. The ATPDC hosted several “Learn and Share” Open House for demonstrations of a state-of-the-art assistive technology device. These events are a collaborative effort between ATPDC and AT vendors to increase awareness of new emerging assistive technology to consumers, family members and organizations. Participants increased their knowledge of the benefits of these AT devices and participants were able to try out the devices.

Notes:

The Assistive Technology Program for the District of Columbia (ATPDC) uses a multifaceted approach that includes mailings, website, publications, public service announcements, local cable TV advertising, and participation with other agencies, conferences, exhibits, presentations, and trainings to increase awareness of the benefits of AT devices and services. During this reporting period ATPDC developed their social media content for Facebook. Most consumers contact the ATPDC via telephone after referring to our website.