National Assistive Technology Act Data System
Annual Progress Report - Full Report
Georgia 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? | Yes |
| Area of Residence | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Metro RUCC 1-3 |
Non-Metro RUCC 4-9 |
||
| Approved Loan made | 08 | 00 | 08 |
| Approved Not made | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Rejected | 00 | 02 | 02 |
| Total | 08 | 02 | 10 |
2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made
| Lowest Income: | $9,240 | Highest Income: | $44,997 |
|---|
| Sum of Incomes | Loans Made | Average Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
| $169,652 | 08 | $21,207 |
| Income Ranges | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $15,000 or Less |
$15,001- $30,000 |
$30,001- $45,000 |
$45,001- $60,000 |
$60,001- $75,000 |
$75,001 or More |
||
| Number of Loans | 02 | 05 | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 08 |
| Percentage of Loans | 25% | 62.5% | 12.5% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 100% |
3. Loan Type
| Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Percentage of loans |
|---|---|---|
| Revolving Loans | 08 | 100% |
| Partnership Loans | ||
| Without interest buy-down or loan guarantee | 00 | 0% |
| With interest buy-down only | 00 | 0% |
| With loan guarantee only | 00 | 0% |
| With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee | 00 | 0% |
| Total | 08 | 100% |
| Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Dollar Value of Loans |
|---|---|---|
| Revolving Loans | 08 | $21,200 |
| Partnership Loans | 00 | $0 |
| Total | 08 | $21,200 |
4. Interest Rates
| Lowest | 3% |
|---|---|
| Highest | 4% |
| Sum of Interest Rates | Number of Loans Made | Average Interest Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 29 | 08 | 3.625% |
| Interest Rate | Number of loans |
|---|---|
| 0.0% to 2.0% | 00 |
| 2.1% to 4.0% | 08 |
| 4.1% to 6.0% | 00 |
| 6.1% to 8.0% | 00 |
| 8.1% - 10.0% | 00 |
| 10.1%-12.0% | 00 |
| 12.1%-14.0% | 00 |
| 14.1% + | 00 |
| Total | 08 |
5. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed
| Type of AT | Number of Devices Financed | Dollar Value of Loans |
|---|---|---|
| Vision | 01 | $5,000 |
| Hearing | 00 | $0 |
| Speech communication | 00 | $0 |
| Learning, cognition, and developmental | 01 | $1,000 |
| Mobility, seating and positioning | 00 | $0 |
| Daily living | 03 | $2,700 |
| Environmental adaptations | 02 | $7,500 |
| Vehicle modification and transportation | 01 | $5,000 |
| Computers and related | 00 | $0 |
| Recreation, sports, and leisure | 00 | $0 |
| Total | 08 | $21,200 |
6. Defaults
| Number Loans in default | 08 |
|---|---|
| Net loss for loans in default | $24,151 |
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? | Last resort - Activity |
|---|
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) | 99 |
| B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 122 |
| C. Total Served | 221 |
| Performance Measure | |
|---|---|
| D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 0 |
| E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 221 |
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 | 11 | 327.00 |
| Hearing | 5 | 246.00 |
| Speech communication | 1 | 512.00 |
| Learning, cognition, and developmental | 2 | 78.00 |
| Mobility, seating and positioning | 143 | 31421.00 |
| Daily living | 43 | 7556.00 |
| Environmental adaptations | 8 | 1273.00 |
| Vehicle modification and transportation | 1 | 439.00 |
| Computers and related | 5 | 800.00 |
| Recreation, sports, and leisure | 2 | 300.00 |
| Total | 221 | 42952.00 |
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? | 2 |
|---|
Activity 1
| How would you describe this state financing activity? | Cooperative Buying Program |
|---|
2. Geographic Distribution and Number of Individuals Served
| County of Residence | Individuals Served |
|---|---|
| A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 197 |
| B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 223 |
| C. Total Served | 420 |
| Performance Measure | |
|---|---|
| D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 0 |
| E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 420 |
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 Provided | Total Estimated Current Retail Purchase Price | Total Price for Which Devices Were Sold | Savings to Consumers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vision | 48 | 2570 | 1046.00 | 1524.00 |
| Hearing | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Speech communication | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Learning, cognition, and developmental | 372 | 72272 | 15899.00 | 56373.00 |
| Mobility, seating and positioning | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Daily living | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Environmental adaptations | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Vehicle modification and transportation | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Computers and related | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Recreation, sports, and leisure | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Total | 420 | 74842 | 16945.00 | 57897.00 |
Activity 2
| How would you describe this state financing activity? | Cooperative Buying Program |
|---|
2. Geographic Distribution and Number of Individuals Served
| County of Residence | Individuals Served |
|---|---|
| A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 73 |
| B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 144 |
| C. Total Served | 217 |
| Performance Measure | |
|---|---|
| D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 217 |
| E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 0 |
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 Provided | Total Estimated Current Retail Purchase Price | Total Price for Which Devices Were Sold | Savings to Consumers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vision | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Hearing | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Speech communication | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Learning, cognition, and developmental | 217 | 3538252 | 425000.00 | 3113252.00 |
| Mobility, seating and positioning | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Daily living | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Environmental adaptations | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Vehicle modification and transportation | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Computers and related | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Recreation, sports, and leisure | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Total | 217 | 3538252 | 425000.00 | 3113252.00 |
D. Anecdote
12-year-old D. has spina bifida. FODAC waived the usual registration fee for her equipment. She received a pediatric manual wheelchair from FODAC. Her school’s physical therapist referred her to FODAC. The wheelchair allows D. to get around school, remain independent and participate in activities with classmates.
The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) collaborated with Tools for Life to create and successfully launch an AT Software Cooperative that was in much higher demand due to COVID-19 and so many students needing AT and UDL learning supports in their homes and virtual learning environments. The GaDOE & TFL plan to grow this collaboration in 2022.
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. | 308 | 97 | 229 | 634 |
| 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 | 308 | 97 | 229 | 634 |
| 5. None of the above | 15 | 00 | 00 | 15 |
| 6. Subtotal | 323 | 97 | 229 | 649 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 323 | 97 | 229 | 649 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 95.36% | 100% | 100% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 658 | 75.98% |
| Satisfied | 198 | 22.86% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 10 | 1.15% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total Surveyed | 866 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
G. Notes:
The AT Software Cooperative collaboration with GaDOE & Tools for Life was in much higher demand due to COVID-19 and so many students needing AT and learning supports in their homes and virtual learning environments.
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 | 5,668 |
| C. Total | 5,668 |
| 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 | 5,668 |
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 | 02 | $344 | $60 | $284 |
| Hearing | 04 | $234 | $26 | $208 |
| Speech Communication | 13 | $6,367 | $643 | $5,724 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 89 | $379 | $29 | $350 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 4,859 | $3,835,145 | $221,991 | $3,613,154 |
| Daily Living | 580 | $9,171 | $1,203 | $7,968 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 02 | $143 | $25 | $118 |
| Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 01 | $2,321 | $298 | $2,023 |
| Computers and Related | 115 | $13,562 | $700 | $12,862 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 03 | $498 | $48 | $450 |
| Total | 5,668 | $3,868,164 | $225,023 | $3,643,141 |
D. Anecdote
In 2016, G.C. was hit by a drunk driver. As a result of the accident, he lost the ability to use his right leg. G received a power wheelchair and a specialized hitch lift from FODAC, which can attach to his truck or trike motorcycle. This allowed him to regain mobility, independence and to return to the hobby that he loves.
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. | 31 | 00 | 5,612 | 5,643 |
| 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. | 02 | 23 | 00 | 25 |
| 4. Subtotal | 33 | 23 | 5,612 | 5,668 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 33 | 23 | 5,612 | 5,668 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 33 | 23 | 5,612 | 5,668 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 5,610 | 98.98% |
| Satisfied | 44 | 0.78% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 07 | 0.12% |
| Not at all satisfied | 07 | 0.12% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total Surveyed | 5,668 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
G. Notes:
Georgia, like every other AT Act Program throughout the US, has had to continue to adjust to our new normal of program operations during this challenging time of COVID-19. We have remained open and continued to serve individuals with disabilities throughout the pandemic. We have employed COVID-19 related policies and procedures to ensure safety for those who are receiving services from Tools for Life, as well as, keeping our TFL Team safe.
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) | 255 |
| Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding | 17 |
| Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation | 120 |
| Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity | 134 |
| Total | 526 |
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 | 172 | 09 | 181 |
| Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 13 | 00 | 13 |
| Representative of Education | 103 | 30 | 133 |
| Representative of Employment | 19 | 16 | 35 |
| Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 07 | 01 | 08 |
| Representatives of Community Living | 101 | 23 | 124 |
| Representatives of Technology | 29 | 03 | 32 |
| Total | 444 | 82 | 526 |
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 | 12 | 00 | 12 |
| Hearing | 17 | 00 | 17 |
| Speech Communication | 33 | 00 | 33 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 273 | 00 | 273 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 55 | 00 | 55 |
| Daily Living | 73 | 00 | 73 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 04 | 00 | 04 |
| Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 02 | 00 | 02 |
| Computers and Related | 154 | 00 | 154 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 04 | 00 | 04 |
| Total | 627 | 00 | 627 |
E. Anecdote
An older adult came to TFL through the Aging Services Cares Act program. They were recently diagnosed with a neurological disorder with side effects of limited strength and use of their extremities. After a virtual consultation, TFL was able to provide multiple AT recommendations with demonstration over telepresence video and links to video instruction. Dragon Naturally speaking, a BuddyMic for PC, 2 Mount systems to hold tablet and cellphones, and a wheelchair hydration mount were acquired to enable greater independence with computer access (to resume working) and ADL. In the end, the consumer sent a message stating: "I just wanted to thank you for all of the items you sent to assist me. Everything has been so helpful and made my day to day life so much better. This has been such a difficult time for me, Tools for Life and FODAC were there to help when I needed it most."
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 | 89 | 02 | 126 | 217 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 12 | 04 | 22 | 38 |
| Subtotal | 101 | 06 | 148 | 255 |
| Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 101 | 06 | 148 | 255 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 101 | 06 | 148 | 255 |
| Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% | |
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. | 23 | 29 | 181 | 233 |
| 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. | 18 | 12 | 08 | 38 |
| 4. Subtotal | 41 | 41 | 189 | 271 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 41 | 41 | 189 | 271 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 41 | 41 | 189 | 271 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% | |
H. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 445 | 84.6% |
| Satisfied | 78 | 14.83% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 02 | 0.38% |
| Not at all satisfied | 01 | 0.19% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total Surveyed | 526 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
I. Notes:
Georgia, like every other AT Act Program throughout the US, has had to continue to adjust to our new normal of program operations during this challenging time of COVID-19. We have remained open and continued to serve individuals with disabilities throughout the pandemic. We have employed safety policies and procedures to ensure safety for those who are receiving services from Tools for Life, as well as, keeping our TFL Team safe.
Device Demonstration
A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type
| Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services |
|---|---|
| Vision | 11 |
| Hearing | 13 |
| Speech Communication | 33 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 198 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 44 |
| Daily Living | 73 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 04 |
| Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 02 |
| Computers and Related | 31 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 04 |
| Total # of Devices Demonstrated | 413 |
B. Types of Participants
| Type of Participant | Number of Participants in Device Demonstrations |
|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 124 |
| Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 41 |
| Representatives of Education | 107 |
| Representatives of Employment | 43 |
| Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 37 |
| Representative of Community Living | 61 |
| Representative of Technology | 21 |
| Total | 434 |
C. Number of Referrals
| Type of Entity | Number of Referrals |
|---|---|
| Funding Source (non-AT program) | 21 |
| Service Provider | 47 |
| Vendor | 218 |
| Repair Service | 00 |
| Others | 00 |
| Total | 286 |
D. Anecdote
J.S. received a pediatric wheelchair and demoed adaptive toys along with AT switches for environmental control from FODAC when he was 18 months old. The pediatric wheelchair and the demonstration of the switches and adaptive toys have opened a lot of doors for him and allowed others to get to know him and his personality. “AT is not just about getting from place to place, but AT also gives him the independence to really be himself and to develop in areas that we had no idea needed development," said A.S., J.'s mother.
E. Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 127 | 21 | 127 | 275 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 58 | 03 | 77 | 138 |
| Subtotal | 185 | 24 | 204 | 413 |
| Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 185 | 24 | 204 | 413 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 185 | 24 | 204 | 413 |
| Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 383 | 88.25% |
| Satisfied | 48 | 11.06% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 03 | 0.69% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total | 434 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
G. Notes:
Georgia, like every other AT Act Program throughout the US, has had to continue to adjust to our new normal of program operations during this challenging time of COVID-19. We have remained open and continued to serve individuals with disabilities throughout the pandemic. We have employed safety policies and procedures to ensure safety for those who are receiving services from Tools for Life, as well as, keeping our TFL Team safe.
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. | 362 | 126 | 6,022 | 6,510 |
| 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. | 20 | 35 | 08 | 63 |
| 4. Subtotal | 382 | 161 | 6,030 | 6,573 |
| 5. None of the above | 15 | 00 | 00 | 15 |
| 6. Subtotal | 397 | 161 | 6,030 | 6,588 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 397 | 161 | 6,030 | 6,588 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 91.18% | 78.26% | 99.87% | 98.82% |
| 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 | 216 | 23 | 253 | 492 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 70 | 07 | 99 | 176 |
| Subtotal | 286 | 30 | 352 | 668 |
| Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 286 | 30 | 352 | 668 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 286 | 30 | 352 | 668 |
| 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 | 99.60% | 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 | 1,781 |
| Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 138 |
| Representatives of Education | 439 |
| Representatives of Employment | 43 |
| Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 3,834 |
| Representatives of Community Living | 272 |
| Representatives of Technology | 193 |
| Unable to Categorize | 00 |
| TOTAL | 6,700 |
| Metro | Non Metro | Unknown | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3,589 | 3,111 | 00 | 6,700 |
B. Training Topics
| Primary Topic of Training | Participants |
|---|---|
| AT Products/Services | 5,655 |
| AT Funding/Policy/ Practice | 219 |
| Combination of any/all of the above | 434 |
| Information Technology/Telecommunication Access | 155 |
| Transition | 237 |
| Total | 6,700 |
C. Description of Training Activities
Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:
TFL hosted a very successful Accessibility in Public Health COVID-19 focused AT Webinar series with participants from throughout Georgia and around the world to educate about built and virtual environment accessibility.
Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
In 2021, TFL co-hosted the Virtual GATE Symposium with the Georgia AT Education partners. All of the the attendees participated AT and Transition sessions. This successful conference continues to grow and we are planning to co-host it again in 2022.
Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:
TFL developed an ICT webinar series with ACCESSGA and had over 143 participants.
D. IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure
| Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received | Number |
|---|---|
| IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies | 29 |
| Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented | 126 |
| No known outcome at this time | 00 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 |
| Total | 155 |
| Performance Measure Percentage | 100% |
| ACL Target Percentage | 70% |
| Met/Not Met | Met |
E. Notes:
Technical Assistance
A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance
| Education | 23% |
|---|---|
| Employment | 25% |
| Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 21% |
| Community Living | 20% |
| Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) | 11% |
| Total | 100% |
B. Description of Technical Assistance
Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:
Through a growing Partnership, Georgia Tools for Life provided customized TA to the Georgia Department of Education to provide to teachers, therapists, and administrators regarding the provision of assistive technology devices and services for students with disabilities for all of Georgia's 217 districts and over 233,187 students with IEPs. Assistive Technology focused videos and webinars were designed and delivered to support in the selection and use of assistive technologies as well as identify resources to support the use of AT to ensure the provision of a free appropriate public education (FAPE).
Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
TFL continues to provide TA to Division of Aging Services to develop AT policies, practices and an algorithm to assist individuals to successfully transition out of nursing homes. This has been especially important as we actively address social isolation and loneliness during this time of COVID-19.
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. In continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Tools for Life (TFL) collected and compiled resources for people with disabilities so that they could stay connected, engaged, independent and safe as our familiar environments are rapidly changing. Working with the CDC and the CDC Foundation, we provided accessibility Public Health Education materials and helped build capacity for best practices in this space. This public awareness work was much needed and focused on saving the lives of individuals with disabilities. This was shared in newsletters, social media platforms and other channels from partners across the country and continues to be utilized by the people that we serve and their supporting professionals.
2. Tools for Life has continued to provide several timely and relevant webinars over the last year. With the COVID-19 pandemic, Tools for Life has been able to provide valuable information virtually through different series of webinars to benefit a variety of individuals and professionals. An eight-part COVID-19 webinar series was created in the 2021 to provide information for those who may be affected by the pandemic. The topics include accessibility for vaccination websites and vaccine sites, communication primarily for those who are hospitalized or living in long-term care facilities, assistive technology solutions for all areas of life and environments, managing mental health, whether at home, school, work or in the community, and strategies for improving executive functioning especially in the classroom and successful transition to the workplace. These webinars were recorded and are available online for anyone who wishes to learn more.
Information And Assistance
| Types of Recipients | AT Device/ Service |
AT Funding | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 1,214 | 212 | 1,426 |
| Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 185 | 21 | 206 |
| Representative of Education | 302 | 11 | 313 |
| Representative of Employment | 167 | 09 | 176 |
| Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 382 | 07 | 389 |
| Representative of Community Living | 117 | 23 | 140 |
| Representative of Technology | 32 | 03 | 35 |
| Unable to Categorize | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 2,399 | 286 | 2,685 |
Notes:
Georgia, like every other AT Act Program throughout the US, has had to continue to adjust to our new normal of program operations during this challenging time of COVID-19. We have remained open and continued to serve individuals with disabilities throughout the pandemic. We have employed safety policies and procedures to ensure safety for those who are receiving services from Tools for Life, as well as, keeping our TFL Team safe.
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? | 2 |
|---|
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?
TFL grew our collaboration with school districts across Georgia to ensure they benefited from the Assistive Technology Partnership with the Georgia Department of Education.This K-12 Partnership provides learning software, AT loan equipment and consultation services to teachers, therapists, and administrators serving students with disabilities.
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.
Services are available to assist local school districts in meeting the assistive technology needs of students with disabilities, who are eligible under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA 2004). Through this Assistive Technology Partnership, 130 school districts have received software,issuing 435,187 licenses. We are actively growing this collaboration due to its high impact to more school districts in Georgia and also expanding into a collaboration with the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency and the University System of Georgia. We are happy to discuss how we created this along with the multiple lessons learned.
3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?
Education; Employment; Transition(school to work or congregate care to community); Information and Communication Technology / Remote Connectivity;
4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?
Device Loan; Demonstration; Reuse; State Financing; Training; Information & Assistance; Public Awareness; Technical Assistance;
A.2 Coordination/Collaboration (Entry 2)
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?
TFL worked with the CDC and the CDC Foundation to improve accessibility of COVID-19 Public Health Materials. Individuals though out the US benefitted from the ASL videos we produced, documents we created minimizing the text complexity, braille we produced and distributed. We also ensured the materials and CDC websites met/exceeded 508 and WCAG 2.0/2.1 standards and works with Assistive technology. The CDCF provided $1,130,000 in funding for this vital initative.
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 brought visability to the AT Act programs and our ICT expertise at the highest levels of government and across the US. We continued to see the positive impact and systemic changes that can occur when partnering with agencies who can quickly amplify the message of AT and accessibility. The initiative continues to grow and there are a lot of opportunities in this space for more involvement and leadership from AT Act programs.
3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?
Education; Employment; Community Participation and Integration; Health; Aging; Information and Communication Technology / Remote Connectivity;
4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?
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.
The State ADAs Office, Georgia Tech AMAC Accessibility Research Center and TFL who form AccessGA worked together to assist the Georgia Department of Corrections to become accessible with their website and apps.
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.)
AccessGA, Georgia's Accessible ICT Initiative, is a joint initiative of the State of Georgia ADA Coordinator's Office and AMACAccessibility Solutions and Research Center and Tools for Life at the Georgia Institute of Technology, with additional support fromgeorgia.gov. Its design and purpose is to support Georgia state agencies with Information and Communication Technology (ICT)accessibility, promoting equal and timely access for employees and customers with a wide range of disabilities. In 2020, AccessGAassisted 17 agencies/colleges significantly with TA in their policies and practices to implement ICT accessibility. http://accessga.org/
3. What was the primary area of impact for this state improvement outcome?
Technology (ICT accessibility and AT
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 | $50,000 | Training | True |
| Public/State Agency | $135,000 | State Financing | True |
| Public/State Agency | $100,000 | Demonstration | True |
| Public/State Agency | $100,000 | Device Loan | True |
| Private | $1,130,000 | Technical Assistance | True |
| State Appropriations | $31,500 | State Financing | True |
| State Appropriations | $31,500 | Device Loan | True |
| State Appropriations | $31,500 | Reuse | True |
| Public/State Agency | $534,000 | Device Loan | True |
| Public/State Agency | $50,000 | Reuse | True |
| State Appropriations | $31,500 | Demonstration | True |
| Amount: $2,225,000 |
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 11:03:03 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)