National Assistive Technology Act Data System
Annual Progress Report - Full Report
District of Columbia 2021
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? | 0 |
|---|
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
There were no financial loans made during this reporting period.
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 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 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 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | NaN% | NaN% | NaN% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 00 | NaN% |
| Satisfied | 00 | NaN% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 00 | NaN% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | NaN% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | NaN% |
| Total Surveyed | 00 | |
| Response rate % | NaN% |
G. Notes:
No loans were made during this reporting period. DC Fund$ revised their policies to offer free credit reports for a limited time; zero interest loans that range from $500-$1000 and reduce the interest rate from 4% to 3%. A new DC Fund$ flyer was developed and distributed to stakeholders to promote the new incentives for potential borrowers. The DC Fund$ application is available on the DCATP website www.atpdc.org and all loans can be processed virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The DC Office of Aging and Community Living 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.
Reutilization
A. Number of Recipients of Reused Devices
| Activity | Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity |
|---|---|
| A. Device Exchange | 00 |
| B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan | 257 |
| C. Total | 257 |
| Performance Measure | |
|---|---|
| D. Device Exchange - Excluded from Performance Measure | 00 |
| E. Reassignment/Refurbishment and Repair and Open Ended Loans - 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 |
| F. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 257 |
If a number is reported in E you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:
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 | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Daily Living | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| 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 | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
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 | 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 | 250 | $34,706 | $0 | $34,706 |
| Daily Living | 163 | $10,321 | $0 | $10,321 |
| 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 | 413 | $45,027 | $0 | $45,027 |
D. Anecdote
DC SHARES was contacted by the daughter of an elderly parent that was being discharged from a rehabilitation facility. The client had a CVA and needed equipment for daily living and mobility. The client has Medicare as the primary insurance. Some of the equipment is not covered and the other equipment was needed to discharge the client. The daughter requested a wheelchair ($209), a bedside commode ($50), a transfer tub bench ($90), and a bed support rail ($35). DC Shares saved the family $384. The equipment provides mobility, independence, hygiene and reduces the risk of falling.
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 | 00 | 75 | 75 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 182 | 182 |
| 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 | 00 | 257 | 257 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 00 | 00 | 257 | 257 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 00 | 00 | 257 | 257 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | NaN% | NaN% | 100% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 257 | 100% |
| Satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total Surveyed | 257 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
G. Notes:
DC Shares distributed incontinent supplies saving DC residents with disabilities $22,675. DC Shares distributes durable medical equipment and incontinent supplies by appointment only and curbside due to the COVID-19 pandemic. DC Shares received less donations of equipment and this impacted the data for this reporting period.
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) | 00 |
| Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding | 01 |
| Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation | 02 |
| Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity | 00 |
| Total | 03 |
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 | 00 | 03 | 03 |
| Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Representative of Education | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Representative of Employment | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Representatives of Community Living | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Representatives of Technology | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 00 | 03 | 03 |
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 | 00 | 03 | 03 |
| Hearing | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Speech Communication | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Daily Living | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Computers and Related | 00 | 01 | 01 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 00 | 04 | 04 |
E. Anecdote
The SARA scanning and reading device was borrowed through the short term device program to be used by a consumer who required an accommodation to perform their job responsibilities from home. The consumer was able to scan, read, save, and access printed documents. The consumer was referred to the DC Office of Disability Services- Rehabilitation Services Administration and the Job Accommodations Network for further assistance.
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 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Performance on this measure | NaN% | NaN% | NaN% | |
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. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 02 | 01 | 03 |
| 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 | 02 | 01 | 03 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 00 | 02 | 01 | 03 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 00 | 02 | 01 | 03 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | NaN% | 100% | 100% | |
H. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 03 | 100% |
| Satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total Surveyed | 03 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
I. Notes:
During this report period, DCATP received limited inquires to borrow equipment from the short-term device loan program. Consumers made appointments and were consistently no-shows to borrow equipment due to the COVID 19 pandemic. DCATP staff continue to promote this service through our public awareness events. website and social media content. The AT Specialist is willing to meet with clients in-person by appointment to provide loans. Borrowers will receive virtual or written training materials to support their use of the device borrowed. DC Assistive Technology Program will mail equipment for short term device loans due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Device Demonstration
A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type
| Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services |
|---|---|
| Vision | 02 |
| Hearing | 00 |
| Speech Communication | 01 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 02 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 00 |
| Daily Living | 00 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 00 |
| Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 |
| Computers and Related | 02 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 |
| Total # of Devices Demonstrated | 07 |
B. Types of Participants
| Type of Participant | Number of Participants in Device Demonstrations |
|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 07 |
| Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 00 |
| Representatives of Education | 00 |
| Representatives of Employment | 00 |
| Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 00 |
| Representative of Community Living | 00 |
| Representative of Technology | 00 |
| Total | 07 |
C. Number of Referrals
| Type of Entity | Number of Referrals |
|---|---|
| Funding Source (non-AT program) | 00 |
| Service Provider | 04 |
| Vendor | 02 |
| Repair Service | 00 |
| Others | 00 |
| Total | 06 |
D. Anecdote
The Assistive Technology Resource Specialist provided an assistive technology demonstration to a young adult man with visual and intellectual disabilities. He was accompanied by his mother. The client was referred to the AT resource center by educational team where he is learning to type and use the computer. He had been using a standalone typing resource that made him stand out amongst his peers. The client was first shown how to enable the “Dictation Feature” on his typing.com profile. This provides a screen reading function for typing letters, numbers, words, and punctuation marks along with specific finger positions for key execution while typing. In addition to reading the results at the end of the lesson sets Also, he was shown how to increase the magnification within the screen browser to an effective magnification number and utilize with the full screen function during practice typing lessons. He has a laptop that has been provided by his Local Education Agency (LEA). The proper amount of magnification was identified to work in conjunction with full screen usage while typing. While completing a typing lesson set, he reported that it was very helpful with getting him more familiar with typing on a standard keyboard. In addition, he liked the fact that he was using the same online typing resource that his other peers are using. His mother reported that she was excited about the fact that he has access to the resources at any time he can log on to practice his typing skills.
E. Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 02 | 02 | 03 | 07 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 02 | 02 | 03 | 07 |
| Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 02 | 02 | 03 | 07 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 02 | 02 | 03 | 07 |
| Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 03 | 42.86% |
| Satisfied | 03 | 42.86% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 01 | 14.29% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total | 07 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
G. Notes:
The AT Specialist (ATS) has posted information on the DCATP website to alert patrons to the availability of services including in-person and virtual demonstrations . DCATP is in the process of updating the AT devices inventory for demonstrations and short-term device loans. The program has purchased some newer devices that address social isolation, medicine management and tasks management skills. DCATP will be hiring another AT Specialist to increase AT demonstrations and short term device loans. The number of requests for AT demonstrations has declined significantly because of consumers hesitancy for in-person demonstrations due to the COVID 19 Pandemic. There is also the lack of access to the appropriate equipment to receive a demonstration of equipment virtually.
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. | 00 | 00 | 75 | 75 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 02 | 183 | 185 |
| 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 | 02 | 258 | 260 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 00 | 02 | 258 | 260 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 00 | 02 | 258 | 260 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | NaN% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| ACL Performance Measure | 85% | |||
| Met/Not Met | 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 | 02 | 02 | 03 | 07 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 02 | 02 | 03 | 07 |
| Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 02 | 02 | 03 | 07 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 02 | 02 | 03 | 07 |
| Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| 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 | 99.63% | 95% | Met |
| Response Rate | 100% | 90% | Met |
Training
A. Training Participants: Number and Types of Participants; Geographical Distribution
| Type of Participant | Number |
|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 05 |
| Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 02 |
| Representatives of Education | 08 |
| Representatives of Employment | 03 |
| Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 00 |
| Representatives of Community Living | 11 |
| Representatives of Technology | 05 |
| Unable to Categorize | 00 |
| TOTAL | 34 |
| Metro | Non Metro | Unknown | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | 08 | 00 | 34 |
B. Training Topics
| Primary Topic of Training | Participants |
|---|---|
| AT Products/Services | 00 |
| AT Funding/Policy/ Practice | 00 |
| Combination of any/all of the above | 06 |
| Information Technology/Telecommunication Access | 28 |
| Transition | 00 |
| Total | 34 |
C. Description of Training Activities
Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:
The Assistive technology specialist provided training to six occupational therapy graduate students from Trinity University. The training covered the basics of assistive technology and how occupational therapists provide and support AT devices and services in various environments such as the classroom, rehab setting or workplace. Training was provided via a video conference format and the ATS shared videos and images of AT. The group discussed the types of technology they have worked with, and they were particularly interested in communication devices and apps. Participants reported great satisfaction with the information provided.
Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:
A webinar was hosted by the DC Assistive Technology program entitled "Accessible Technology for Life: Windows 10 Accessible Technology Features." The objectives of this course (1) Learn about the various accessible technology feature options associated with the Windows 10 operating system; (2) Discuss how some Windows 10 accessible technology options can be personalized and understand how the usage of the accessibility technology features can be used for personal, educational, and employment related purposes. The accessibility features categories were vision, hearing and interaction. A webinar was hosted by the DC Assistive Technology program entitled " "Accessible Technology for Life: macOS Accessibility Technology Features.” The objectives of this course (1) Learn about the various accessible technology feature options associated with the macOS operating system; (2) Discuss how macOS accessible technology options can be personalized and understand how the usage of the accessibility technology features can be used for personal, educational, and employment related purposes. The accessibility features categories were vision, hearing and interaction.
D. IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure
| Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received | Number |
|---|---|
| IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies | 00 |
| Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented | 28 |
| No known outcome at this time | 00 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 |
| Total | 28 |
| Performance Measure Percentage | 100% |
| ACL Target Percentage | 70% |
| Met/Not Met | Met |
E. Notes:
DCATP usually provide training and presentations for the DC Annual Voices of Change Transition Fair that is conducted each year for students with disabilties. That event was cancelled this year due to the COVID 19 pandemic.
Technical Assistance
A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance
| Education | % |
|---|---|
| Employment | % |
| Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | % |
| Community Living | 50% |
| Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) | 50% |
| Total | 100% |
B. Description of Technical Assistance
Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:
DC Assistive Technology Program Manager serves on the District of Columbia Disability Community Advisory Group (DC DCAG) which was formed on September 26, 2019, because of a Settlement Agreement negotiated by the co-chairs, United Spinal, DC Center for Independent Living, and the District Government. The overarching purpose of the DC DCAG is to help ensure the District’s emergency plans and programs are accessible to individuals with disabilities. Alicia Johns, Program Manager provides on-going technical assistance on the role of assistive technology to improve emergency preparedness and services for the thousands of individuals with disabilities in our nation’s capital.
Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
DC Assistive Technology Specialist and Program Manager serves on the Department of Disability Services work group to develop a "Technology First" program in the District of Columbia. This national movement endeavors to integrate "smart" technology into the lives of persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities to live in their communities. The AT Specialist will be providing on-going technical assistance on the types of AT devices that will be needed in the implementation, operation, and management of this emerging support system.
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. The District of Columbia Assistive Technology (DCATP) Program Manager in collaboration with DC Hearing Aid Assistance Program, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Senior Program and DC Relay provided a presentation for the Community Resource Fair " For Better Hearing and Speech Month." The participants were the Vocational Rehabilitation staff, Sensory Unit, at the Department on Disability Services. DCATP provided information about the speech and hearing assistive technology devices available for their clients who need hearing or speech enhancements. These devices can be demonstrated or borrowed for a short-term loan. DCATP also provided information about the Alternative Financing Loan Program (DC Funds) that can be used to purchase some of these assistive technology devices. There were 25 participants with requests for future presentation for other agencies.
2. The Assistive Technology Specialist (ATS) provided a virtual presentation to fifteen (15) Service Coordinators from the DC Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). The Service Coordinators are responsible for referrals including for assistive technology services. The ATS presented a slide-show outlining the services provided by the DCATP. Information was also provided on smart home technology available through the DCATP and DDA Tech First partnership.
Information And Assistance
| Types of Recipients | AT Device/ Service |
AT Funding | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 828 | 36 | 864 |
| Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 906 | 11 | 917 |
| Representative of Education | 42 | 10 | 52 |
| Representative of Employment | 30 | 05 | 35 |
| Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 260 | 03 | 263 |
| Representative of Community Living | 516 | 20 | 536 |
| Representative of Technology | 73 | 11 | 84 |
| Unable to Categorize | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 2,655 | 96 | 2,751 |
Notes:
The District of Columbia Assistive Technology Program (DCATP) 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 DCATP created content for the new DC Assistive Technology Program YouTube channel. The Windows 10 and IOS Accessibility trainings will be uploaded to this channel. Future content will include AT devices demonstrations and webinar trainings. Our YouTube channel inform consumers about the benefits of AT devices, and the services provided by the DC AT Program and emerging new technologies. During this reporting period there were approximately 10,000 page-views and 5,400 visitors to the AT Program website. (www.atpdc.org)
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?
DC Assistive Technology Specialist serves on the Department of Disability Services work group to develop a "Technology First" initiative in the District of Columbia. This national movement endeavors to integrate "smart" technology into the lives of persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities to live in their communities. The AT Specialist will be providing on-going technical assistance on the necessary role AT plays in the implementation, operation, and management of this emerging support system. The major collaborating organizations are: Developmental Disabilities Administration, Rehabilitation Services Administration, DD Council, Georgetown UCEDD, Quality Trust, Project Action, The Center for Accessibility at the Martin Luther King Library, St. John’s Community Services, RCM of Washington, Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration, Connect. DC, Federal Communications and Disability Cocoon. However, the Tech First Initiative can expand into a District Wide Initiative with the potential of expanding partnership with Department of Aging and Community Living, Department of Behavioral Health, and The District Department of Transportation. The funding that was used to implement the initiative includes: DDS Local and Federal Funding, American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Partnership’s in Employment Grant (PIE).
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.
Some of the measurable results include: 17 DDS Providers enrolled in SHIFT Enabling Technology Curriculum to achieve Technology First Organization Accreditation -This will result in expanding the number of providers that can assist people with IDD with person-centered tech exploration, discovery, matching, planning, and implementation; Hosted 10-part Tech First Web Series hosted increased awareness amongst stakeholders; DDS the DCATP Center has an identified and acquired twenty-six (26) new emerging tech solutions to add to its lending library and to make readily available for demonstration. The tech solutions acquired will be utilized to spread awareness amongst people with disabilities, family members, and service providers of impactful tech solutions that are within the category of “Internet of Things” (IoT) and Remote Supports equipment and DDS has brokered a relationship between DDA Service Coordination and IDD Assistive Technology Services Waiver providers to ensure moving forward they’re utilizing the AT Center as a resource to assist people with IDD and their support planning team with making informed decisions prior to acquisition of tech. DCATP is able to expand their services to providers that specifically provide services to clients with intellectual/developmental disabilities. DCATP, DDS and the Accessibility Center at Martin Luther King Library are creating an exhibit that features some these smart and remote technologies for the public and library patrons. Covid-19 proved to be a barrier to effectively administering tech surveys to people with IDD. The most effective method would’ve been to host in-person focus groups. Some considerations for replicating this initiative should include: Assess current service delivery system to identify barriers that prevent people w/IDD with accessing tech ; Develop of a Taskforce, Council, or Work Group composed of District Partners and Stakeholders to identify core strategies and activities to advance the initiative; Marketing Strategy for stakeholder engagement and awareness; Achieve Mayoral support via Proclamation or Executive Order; Secure Grant Funding opportunities for innovation programs. This initiative is ongoing, and more information can the accessed https://dds.dc.gov/node/1543901.
3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?
Education; Employment; Housing / Home Automation; Transportation; Community Participation and Integration; Recreation / Leisure; Health; Aging; Transition(school to work or congregate care to community); Aging and Disability Network / No Wrong Door; Information and Communication Technology / Remote Connectivity;
4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?
Device Loan; Demonstration; State Financing; Training; 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? | 01 |
|---|
B. State Improvements
1. In one or two sentences, describe the outcome. Be as specific as possible about exactly what changed during this reporting period as a result of the AT program's initiative.
DC Assistive Technology Program Manager serves on the District of Columbia Disability Community Advisory Group (DC DCAG) which is an advisory group to the DC Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency. DC DCAG was formed on September 26, 2019, because of a Settlement Agreement negotiated by the co-chairs, United Spinal, DC Center for Independent Living, and the District Government. The overarching purpose of the DC DCAG is to help ensure the District’s emergency plans and programs are accessible to individuals with disabilities. Alicia Johns, Program Manager will be providing on-going technical assistance on the role of assistive technology to improve emergency preparedness and services for the thousands of individuals with disabilities in our nation’s capital. DCATP informed the group about the role recycling durable medical equipment could play during an emergency and low-tech options to meet persons with disabilities needs during an emergency.
2. In one or two sentences, describe the written policies, practices, and procedures that have been developed and implemented as a result of the AT program's initiative. Include information about how to obtain the full documents, such as a Web site address or e-mail address of a contact person, but do not include the full documents here. (If there are no written polices, practices and procedures, explain why.)
The DCAG meets quarterly and has provided disability-specific recommendations on the following District plans, practices, training, and other materials that the District of Columbia is required to create under the Settlement Agreement. • Transportation Needs Analysis, • High-Rise Building Evacuation Gap Analysis and Report, • Procedures for Requesting Auxiliary Aids and Services and creating alternative formats of District generated materials during emergencies and, • Shelter Power Outage Strategy that provides backup power and charging stations in emergency shelters to individuals with disabilities. The content of these drafts can be viewed at www.hsema.dc.gov or contact Delores L. Scott, Esq., Senior Disability Integration Advisor, DC Homeland Security & Emergency Mgt. Agency. delores.scott@dc.gov | 202.997.4287
3. What was the primary area of impact for this state improvement outcome?
Community Living
Additional And Leveraged Funds
| Did you have Additional and Leveraged Funding to Report? | Yes |
|---|
A. Leveraged Funding for State Plan Activities
| Fund Source | Amount | Use of Funds | Data Reported |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public/State Agency | $7,000 | Training | True |
| Amount: $7,000 |
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. 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: Mon Mar 07 2022 11:02:26 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)