National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

Northern Mariana Islands 2022

General Information

Statewide AT Program (Information to be listed in national State AT Program Directory)

State AT Program Title:
CNMI Assistive Technology Program
State AT Program Title:
State AT Program URL
cnmicdd.gov.mp
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 502565
City:
Saipan
State:
MP
Zip Code:
96950
Program Email:
Phone:
670-664-7003
TTY:
670-664-7030

Lead Agency

Agency Name:
CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities
Mailing Address:
P.O.Box 502565
City:
Saipan
State:
MP
Zip Code:
96950
Program URL:
cnmicdd.gov.mp

Implementing Entity

Name of Implementing Agency:
Mailing Address:
City
State:
Zip Code:
Program URL:

Program Director and Other Contacts

Program Director for State AT Program (last, first):
Sablan, Pamela C.
Title:
CNMI Assistive Technology Program Director
Phone:
670-664-7000
E-mail:
psablan@cnmicdd.gov.mp
Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):
Title:
Phone:
E-mail:
Primary Contact at Implementing Agency (last, first) - If applicable:
Title:
Phone:
E-mail:

Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director

Name (last, first):
Tudela, Josephine
Title:
CNMI Assistive Technology Program Manager
Phone:
670-664-7003
E-mail:
jtudela@cnmicdd.gov.mp

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):
Ulloa, Concepcion
Title:
CNMI Council Chairperson
Phone:
670-664-7000
E-mail:
chong.ulloa57@gmail.com

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

Loan Applications
Area of Residence Total
Metro
RUCC 1-3
Non-Metro
RUCC 4-9
Approved Loan made 00 00 00
Approved Not made 00 00 00
Rejected 00 00 00
Total 00 00 00

2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made

Lowest/Highest Incomes
Lowest Income: $0 Highest Income: $0

Average Income
Sum of Incomes Loans Made Average Annual Income
$0 00 $0

Number and Percentage of Loans Made to Applicants by Income Range
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 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
Percentage of Loans 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 100%

3. Loan Type

Loan Type
Type of Loan Number of Loans Percentage of loans
Revolving Loans 00 0%
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 00 100%

Loan Type Summary
Type of Loan Number of Loans Dollar Value of Loans
Revolving Loans 00 $0
Partnership Loans 00 $0
Total 00 $0

4. Interest Rates

Interest Rates
Lowest 0%
Highest 0%

Interest Rate Summary
Sum of Interest Rates Number of Loans Made Average Interest Rate
00 00 0%

Number of Loans Made by Interest Rate
Interest Rate Number of loans
0.0% to 2.0% 00
2.1% to 4.0% 00
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 00

5. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed

Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed
Type of AT Number of Devices Financed Dollar Value of Loans
Vision 00 $0
Hearing 00 $0
Speech communication 00 $0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 00 $0
Mobility, seating and positioning 00 $0
Daily living 00 $0
Environmental adaptations 00 $0
Vehicle modification and transportation 00 $0
Computers and related 00 $0
Recreation, sports, and leisure 00 $0
Total 00 $0

6. Defaults

Defaults
Number Loans in default 00
Net loss for loans in default $0

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

None to report at this time.

Impact Area

Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

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

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:

The CNMI Assistive Technology Program has an ongoing project that involves specific lawmakers to introduce a local draft bill to establish a lease-to-own program for the CNMI ATP. Unfortunately, meetings have been a challenge due to numerous issues such as COVID recovery, austerity and changes in leadership. ATP will continue to pursue other options and opportunities to build it's capacity with the State Financing Program.

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 01
C. Total 01

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 01

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

Device Exchange
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

Device Reassign/Repair/Refurbish and/or OEL
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 01 $110 $0 $110
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 01 $110 $0 $110

D. Anecdote

A seat walker was provided as an open-ended loan to a blind individual that was unable to purchase it as she did not have any insurance. She had recently recovered from an illness and needed something with a seat when she walked for any long distances, especially as she was wanting to use it to search for employment.

Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

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 00 01
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 00 01
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 00 01 00 01
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 00 01 00 01
9. Performance on this measure NaN% 100% NaN%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 01 100%
Satisfied 00 0%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 00 0%
Total Surveyed 01
Response rate % 100%

G. Notes:

Device Loan

A. Short-Term Device Loans by Type of Purpose

Loans By Purpose
Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan Number
Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) 33
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding 00
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation 09
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity 02
Total 44

B. Short-Term Device Loan by Type of Borrower

LOANS BY TYPE OF BORROWER
Type of Individual or Entity Number of Device Borrowers
Desicion-making All other Purposes Total
Individuals with Disabilities 25 02 27
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 08 06 14
Representative of Education 00 01 01
Representative of Employment 00 02 02
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 00 00 00
Representatives of Community Living 00 00 00
Representatives of Technology 00 00 00
Total 33 11 44

C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans

Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days 42

D. Types of Devices Loaned

Types of Devices Loaned
Type of AT Device Number of Devices
Desicion-making All other Purposes Total
Vision 00 00 00
Hearing 00 00 00
Speech Communication 00 00 00
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 00 00 00
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 31 18 49
Daily Living 00 00 00
Environmental Adaptations 00 00 00
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 00 00 00
Computers and Related 02 01 03
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 00 00 00
Total 33 19 52

E. Anecdote

This year saw an increase in short term loans to individuals needing AT in the workplace with a majority of the equipment used for mobility.

Impact Area

F. Access Performance Measures

Access Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 03 18 12 33
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 00 00 00 00
Subtotal 03 18 12 33
Have not made a decision 00 00 00 00
Subtotal 03 18 12 33
Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
Total 03 18 12 33
Performance on this measure 100% 100% 100%

G. Acquisition Performance Measures

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 05 03 08
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 02 00 00 02
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 01 00 00 01
4. Subtotal 03 05 03 11
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 03 05 03 11
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 03 05 03 11
9. Performance on this measure 100% 100% 100%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 42 95.45%
Satisfied 02 4.55%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 00 0%
Total Surveyed 44
Response rate % 100%

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 02
Hearing 11
Speech Communication 00
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 00
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 32
Daily Living 00
Environmental Adaptations 00
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 00
Computers and Related 03
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 00
Total # of Device Demonstrations 48

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant Decision-Makers Other Participants Total
Individuals with Disabilities 25 00 25
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 19 00 19
Representatives of Education 01 00 01
Representatives of Employment 02 00 02
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 00 00 00
Representative of Community Living 01 00 01
Representative of Technology 00 00 00
Total 48 00 48

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program) 03
Service Provider 11
Vendor 00
Repair Service 00
Others 00
Total 14

D. Anecdote

The CNMI Assistive Technology Program provided demonstrations to a number of individuals with disabilities on the functions and safe operations of bariatric wheelchairs and walkers. Several of the demonstrations were for individuals referred from the only hospital on the island. There have been issues regarding shipping to the islands that has caused major delays, especially with durable medical equipment. This has caused a significant uptake in short-term loans from patients being discharged. More demonstrations are being requested to be completed at the hospital for discharging patients.

Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 01 02 43 46
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 00 00 02 02
Subtotal 01 02 45 48
Have not made a decision 00 00 00 00
Subtotal 01 02 45 48
Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
Total 01 02 45 48
Performance on this measure 100% 100% 100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 45 93.75%
Satisfied 03 6.25%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 00 0%
Total 48
Response rate % 100%

G. Notes:

Overall Performance Measures

Overall Acquisition Performance Measure

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 06 03 09
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 02 00 00 02
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 01 00 00 01
4. Subtotal 03 06 03 12
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 03 06 03 12
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 03 06 03 12
9. Performance on this measure 66.67% 100% 100% 91.67%
ACL Performance Measure 85%
Met/Not Met Met

Overall Access Performance Measure

Access Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 04 20 55 79
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 00 00 02 02
Subtotal 04 20 57 81
Have not made a decision 00 00 00 00
Subtotal 04 20 57 81
Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
Total 04 20 57 81
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 100% 95% Met
Response Rate 100% 90% Met

Training

A. Training Participants: Number and Types of Participants; Geographical Distribution

Training by Participant Type
Type of Participant Number
Individuals with Disabilities 92
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 86
Representatives of Education 32
Representatives of Employment 31
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 16
Representatives of Community Living 61
Representatives of Technology 05
Unable to Categorize 22
TOTAL 345

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro Non Metro Unknown TOTAL
00 345 00 345

B. Training Topics

Trainings by Topic
Primary Topic of Training Participants
AT Products/Services 00
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice 00
Combination of any/all of the above 292
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access 23
Transition 30
Total 345

C. Description of Training Activities

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

The CNMI Assistive Technology Program provided training on November 18, 2021 and on April 21, 22, and Sept. 29, 2022, to 107 First Responders from various agencies including customs and bio security. Training on low-tech communication tools such as communication boards and apps for individuals with communication barriers. Training was also provided to students volunteers and interns during the annual Set Sail conference at the Northern Marianas College as well as during the National Disability Awareness Month. Various communication tools were demonstrated and provided during the various activities.

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

The CNMI Assistive Technology program provided training on June 17, 2022, as requested by the Family 2 Family Program. The Training and Technical Support were for Families of Children receiving early intervention services. Training objectives focused on helpful apps for individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing and their families. The apps consisted of Google Live Transcribe & Sound Notifications, AVA, Sign 4 Me, ASL Translator, ASL Dictionary, Baby Sign & Learn, Baby Sign & Sing and Signed Stories. Resources and materials were provided that also included information on how to support children with Autism and ID/DD as they transition. There were 30 total participants.

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

The first training of it's kind was provided to 23 individuals from various government agencies and programs as well as the Center for Living Independently in the CNMI, on "Web Accessibility: The Know How and The Why". This was an introductory training and information session for web developers on accessibility for people with disabilities and older people. Participants learned the basic principles and laws regarding accessibility and web development content such as installing web accessibility applications/configurations.

D. IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure

IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure
Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received Number
IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies 23
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented 00
No known outcome at this time 00
Nonrespondent 00
Total 23
Performance Measure Percentage 100%
ACL Target Percentage 70%
Met/Not Met Met

E. Notes:

Technical Assistance

A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance

Technical Assistance by Recipient Type
Education 25%
Employment 50%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 00%
Community Living 25%
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:

Technical assistance was provided to the Northern Marianas College - Disability Support Services (DSS) and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling Section. Information and guidance were provided with regard to the acquisition of assistive technology devices for their students and the various equipment available.

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

Technical assistance was provided to the Family 2 Family (F2F) Program under the Maternal, Infant, Child and Adolescent Health Program. The F2F Program wanted to conduct training for their parents and needed assistance in planning what type of assistive technology presentations would meet the various parent's needs. Two planning sessions were held with the AT Program committing and providing training to 30 of their parents.

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 AT Program participated in a number of public awareness activities starting with the October 2021, Set Sail Conference by the Northern Marianas College to the National Disabilities Employment Awareness Month sponsored by the Disability Network Partners on all three islands. The focus for these activities was on communication tools available at free or low cost. Information was disseminated using QR codes linked to various websites as well as brochures. Exhibit tables were provided during some of the events which afforded people the opportunity to actually handle and try some of the communication apps. A total of 171 people received direct information. Every opportunity that arises is used to disseminate, at a minimum, the program's brochures, such as during the first responder's trainings, web accessibility training and numerous other partner events.

2.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients AT Device/
Service
AT Funding Total
Individuals with Disabilities 144 00 144
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 119 00 119
Representative of Education 34 00 34
Representative of Employment 35 00 35
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 16 00 16
Representative of Community Living 62 00 62
Representative of Technology 05 00 05
Unable to Categorize 22 00 22
Total 437 00 437

Referral Types:

The ATP through a Memorandum of Understanding, has been consistently partnering with the Disability Network Partners (DNP) which includes the VOICES of the CNMI, Center for Living Independently in the CNMI, Council on Developmental Disabilities, Commonwealth Health Care Corporation, Commonwealth Office of Transit Authority, Northern Marianas College, Division of Youth Affairs, Northern Marianas Protection and Advocacy Systems Inc., CNMI Public School System – Special Education Program, University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. The purpose of the DNP aims to provide support to each partner by collaborating and planning events and activities that accomplishes its Goals and objectives outlined in their respective State Plan. This collaboration enables each partner to maximize its resources and uses best practices for sustainability and cost effectiveness. The DNP’s mission is to hold meetings, with representatives from all three islands, either in person, or by phone/Skype/Zoom. These meetings are held at least monthly, to develop collaborative events and establish cost sharing agreements. Cost sharing has provided the opportunity for the CNMI Disability Network Partners to not only meet individual program goals but to save money and thus provide more extensive services. The ATP has been present or represented at all DNP meetings to ensure information is obtained and planned accordingly. Participation in these planning meeting has worked to increase the Program’s outreach activities as well as referrals from the community as more opportunities are afforded through trainings, conferences or symposiums planned by the various DNP members.

Referral Sources:

There have been issues regarding shipping to the islands that has caused major delays, especially with durable medical equipment. This has caused a significant uptake in short-term loans from patients being discharged from the Commonwealth Health Care Corporation (CHCC), the only inpatient hospital on island, and for the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). More demonstrations are being requested to be completed at the hospital for discharging patients. Referrals are being received from the hospital social worker and the rehabilitation counselors at OVR. The ATP has been working on building its relationships with local health and rehabilitation providers and has seen a steady increase in referrals. The Program estimates that at least 32% of our durable medical equipment loans are from referrals from these agencies.

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?

The AT Program, housed under the Council for Developmental Disabilities, continues to work with the Developmental Disabilities Network to complete its goal of training all First Responders in the CNMI. The DD Network consists of three partners in each state and territory authorized under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (the DD Act) and administered by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD): University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs), State Developmental Disabilities Councils (DD Councils), and State Protection and Advocacy Systems (P&As). The DD Act authorizes—as well as other nationally significant initiatives and activities—DD Councils, P&As, and UCEDDs for the purpose of assuring that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families participate in the design of and have access to needed community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination, independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion in all facets of community life, through culturally competent programs. As outlined in the general provisions of the DD Act, the DD Councils, P&As, and UCEDDs have unique—although complementary—roles to play in achieving this purpose. As a general practice, these DD network partners coordinate and collaborate as appropriate to the nature of the projects, initiatives, and activities they undertake to fulfill their unique mandates. State Developmental Disabilities Councils (DD Councils) Authorized under Part B of the DD Act, DD Councils develop and implement a statewide plan to address priority areas relevant to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. DD Councils strive to increase the independence, productivity, inclusion and integration into the community of people with developmental disabilities, through a variety of systemic change, capacity building, and advocacy activities. State Systems for Protection and Advocacy of the Rights of Individuals with Developmental Disabilities (P&As) Authorized under Part C of the DD Act, P&As develop and implement a system to protect and advocate for the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities. P&As provide legal representation and other advocacy services to all people with disabilities, investigate charges of abuse and neglect, and provide information and referrals. Grants to these programs are administered through the Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD), Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The CNMI Assistive Technology Program in collaboration with the CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities, CNMI-University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities and the Northern Marianas Protection and Advocacy Systems, Inc. partnered on an initiative to provide training to CNMI First Responders for the next five years per the CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities five-year state plan 2022-2026. Training objective is to provide an overview of different disability types and accommodations that may be necessary, as well as an overview of the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 as it relates to first responders. In addition, effective communication tools and strategies will be also covered. The total number of hours for this training is 8 hours. A certificate of participation will be provided to those individuals who have completed the training. Partners provided funding and/or staff support the following: • Training • Cost-share for venue rental • Printing of training materials • Staff support As of October 2022, the AT Program in partnership with DD Council has provided trainings for over 500 first responders in the CNMI’s three populated islands. The program plans to continues its training with the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to be completed in FY 2023. Requests for similar trainings to be conducted for the cadets from the Fire, Police and Customs have been received.

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.

Measurable results were evident in the pre and post-tests conducted during the trainings. This allowed for the expansion of access and reach of and to Assistive Technology available in the CNMI, with the various agencies involved in the trainings. The initiative is an ongoing process that is also a significant part of the CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities Five-Year State Plan and will be continued. A part of this initiative contains ongoing evaluation plans that will be modified/adjusted based on feedback and data collected. The DD Network is looking at negotiating with the various training programs such as the fire, police and customs academy to make the “Disability Awareness and Communication Tools” a standard class offered during the academies. This will ensure that all future new cadets are more prepared for assisting individuals with any type of disability upon graduating.

3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?

Employment; Community Participation and Integration; Health; Information and Communication Technology / Remote Connectivity;

4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?

Demonstration; Training; Information & Assistance; Public Awareness;

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

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
Federal$3,175Public Awareness, I&ATrue
Amount: $3,175

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.


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).

Activities conducted with partners are typically cost-sharing for either the venue or trainings and are not considered leveraged funds in the traditional sense. We report the numbers as either demos, trainings or outreach but not as part of leveraged activities.


Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance . Saved: Tue Feb 14 2023 16:38:53 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)


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This FY22 State AT Program Annual Progress Report was exported from the National Assistive Technology Act Data System (NATADS). NATADS was developed with partial support from the Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance.