National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

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Tennessee 2023

General Information

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

State AT Program Title:

Tennessee Technology Access Program

State AT Program Title:

State AT Program URL

https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/ds/ttap.html

Mailing Address:

505 Deaderick St., James K. Polk Building, 15th Floor

City:

Nashville

State:

Zip Code:

37243

Program Email:

TN.TTAP@tn.gov

Phone:

615-313-5183

TTY:

Lead Agency

Agency Name:

Tennessee Department of Human Services

Mailing Address:

505 Deaderick St., James K. Polk Building

City:

Nashville

State:

Zip Code:

37243

Program URL:

http://tn.gov/humanservices

Implementing Entity

Does your Lead Agency contract with an Implementing Entity to carry out the Statewide AT Program on its behalf? (Check if Yes)

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):

Kimberly Lilley

Title:

Executive Director

Phone:

615-532-4103

E-mail:

kim.lilley@tn.gov

Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):

Kevin Wright

Title:

Assistant Commissioner, Div of Rehab Services

Phone:

615-741-3599

E-mail:

kevin.r.wright@tn.gov

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):

Title:

Phone:

E-mail:

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):

Kimberly Lilley

Title:

Executive Director

Phone:

615-532-4103

E-mail:

kim.lilley@tn.gov

State Financing

Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include any State Financing?

Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include conducting a Financial Loan Program?

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?

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?

D. Anecdote

Impact Area Education Employment Community Living

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
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:

Reutilization

Did your approved State Plan for this reporting period included conducting any device reuse activities?

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	1,129
C. Total	1,129

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	1,129

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	Total Estimated Current Purchase Price	Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Exchanged	Savings to Consumers
Vision	$0	$0	$0
Hearing	$0	$0	$0
Speech Communication	$0	$0	$0
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	$0	$0	$0
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	$0	$0	$0
Daily Living	$0	$0	$0
Environmental Adaptations	$0	$0	$0
Vehicle Modification & Transportation	$0	$0	$0
Computers and Related	$0	$0	$0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	$0	$0	$0
Total	$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	114	$88,148	$0	$88,148
Hearing	12	$1,392	$0	$1,392
Speech Communication	45	$16,965	$0	$16,965
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	04	$8,000	$0	$8,000
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	1,045	$460,100	$0	$460,100
Daily Living	249	$50,649	$0	$50,649
Environmental Adaptations	08	$750	$0	$750
Vehicle Modification & Transportation	01	$12,500	$0	$12,500
Computers and Related	119	$27,050	$0	$27,050
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	33	$5,949	$0	$5,949
Total	1,630	$671,503	$0	$671,503

D. Anecdote

The Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) partner assistive technology (AT) center serving West and Middle Tennessee received a call from a community member in West Tennessee interested in donating an accessible van to another family in need. The donor had promised his late wife that he would donate their older van to someone in need and purchase a newer one for their son's transportation needs. The van was a 2006 Toyota Sienna BraunAbility with only 76,000 miles. The vehicle and title were dropped off at the AT center on May 4th. The TTAP Executive Director works regularly with the ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) Clinic in Middle TN and had already connected an individual from the clinic with the partner center to assist with services at her residence. She was fairly recently diagnosed with ALS at 43 but progressing significantly limiting her mobility. During a visit with the AT Specialist, she had expressed the need for a van to transport her power chair. The family had started an online funding campaign to raise money for a van, knowing it would be very costly to purchase. With the generous donation of the used modified van, the AT Specialist at the center contacted this family about their interest in the van. The family was incredibly excited and interested in the vehicle. Her husband and a friend traveled to the AT center location in West Tennessee to pick up the van and transfer documents. They expressed their gratitude and offered to pass on the van to another family in the future when there is a time they no longer need it. This van as since greatly improved her ability to attend medical appointments, travel within the community, and create valuable memories on outings with their 10-year-old daughter.

Impact Area Education Employment Community Living

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program.	20	18	1,038	1,076
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	06	01	22	29
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	00	06	10	16
4. Subtotal	26	25	1,070	1,121
5. None of the above	00	00	08	08
6. Subtotal	26	25	1,078	1,129
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	26	25	1,078	1,129
9. Performance on this measure	100%	100%	99.26%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	1,124	99.56%
Satisfied	05	0.44%
Satisfied somewhat	00	0%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total Surveyed	1,129
Response rate %	100%

G. Notes:

Device Loan

Did your approved State Plan for this reporting period included conducting Short-Term Device Loans?

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)	137
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	11
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity	02
Total	167

B. Short-Term Device Loan by Type of Borrower

LOANS BY TYPE OF BORROWER
Type of Individual or Entity	Number of Device Borrowers
Type of Individual or Entity	Desicion-making	All other Purposes	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	125	27	152
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	02	01	03
Representative of Education	02	02	04
Representative of Employment	00	00	00
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	03	00	03
Representatives of Community Living	05	00	05
Representatives of Technology	00	00	00
Total	137	30	167

C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans

Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days	30

D. Types of Devices Loaned

Types of Devices Loaned
Type of AT Device	Number of Devices
Type of AT Device	Desicion-making	All other Purposes	Total
Vision	76	15	91
Hearing	07	06	13
Speech Communication	10	03	13
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	07	00	07
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	13	07	20
Daily Living	17	03	20
Environmental Adaptations	05	00	05
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	00	00	00
Computers and Related	60	15	75
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	03	00	03
Total	198	49	247

E. Anecdote

The Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) partner assistive technology (AT) center serving Middle and West Tennessee received a referral from a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselor to assist an individual with a disability with a device loan. The individual in need of services was a 21-year-old with quadriplegia secondary to cerebral palsy. She was experiencing challenges navigating her personal laptop computer and needed a solution to easily complete school assignments. The AT Specialist at the center provided her with a joystick mouse as a loaner device while waiting on her personal joystick mouse to be delivered. This device made a significant difference in her life, allowing her to independently complete schoolwork and access computer applications without the need for assistance. This device loan provided her with independence and empowered her to take control of her education while working at her pace.

Impact Area Education Employment Community Living

F. Access Performance Measures

Access Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs	10	18	91	119
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	01	00	12	13
Subtotal	11	18	103	132
Have not made a decision	00	02	01	03
Subtotal	11	20	104	135
Nonrespondent	01	00	01	02
Total	12	20	105	137
Performance on this measure	100%	90%	99.04%

G. Acquisition Performance Measures

Acquisition Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program.	01	06	06	13
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	01	04	01	06
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	00	06	04	10
4. Subtotal	02	16	11	29
5. None of the above	01	00	00	01
6. Subtotal	03	16	11	30
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	03	16	11	30
9. Performance on this measure	66.67%	100%	100%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	156	93.41%
Satisfied	03	1.8%
Satisfied somewhat	04	2.4%
Not at all satisfied	01	0.6%
Nonrespondent	03	1.8%
Total Surveyed	167
Response rate %	98.2%

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	430
Hearing	25
Speech Communication	23
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	03
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	09
Daily Living	42
Environmental Adaptations	09
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	00
Computers and Related	50
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	04
Total # of Device Demonstrations	595

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant	Decision-Makers	Other Participants	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	581	06	587
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	10	240	250
Representatives of Education	01	04	05
Representatives of Employment	00	01	01
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	02	14	16
Representative of Community Living	01	07	08
Representative of Technology	00	00	00
Total	595	272	867

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity	Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program)	88
Service Provider	71
Vendor	117
Repair Service	00
Others	05
Total	281

D. Anecdote

The Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) partner center serving East Tennessee received an inquiry about assistance for a 93-year-old gentleman with Parkinson’s disease. He was having difficulty speaking and using the telephone. His daughters wanted a way to check in on him during the day at his senior living facility. They all met with the AT Professional (ATP) for a device demonstration to explore the options. During the demonstration, the ATP showed them various types of technology that could help their ability to connect with each other during the day to see what would best suit their needs and abilities. After considering their options, they decided to go with an Echo Show. By purchasing the Echo Show, his daughters can now connect remotely to his room. They can "drop in" at any time and engage in video chats with him. This technology allows them to easily check in and communicate with him without the need for him to hold a telephone, dial numbers, or speak clearly. The technology they opted to acquire after the demonstration gives his daughters peace of mind knowing that they can easily check in with him as the wish and know he is safe.

Impact Area Education Employment Community Living

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs	39	43	459	541
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	00	00	29	29
Subtotal	39	43	488	570
Have not made a decision	04	02	18	24
Subtotal	43	45	506	594
Nonrespondent	00	00	01	01
Total	43	45	507	595
Performance on this measure	90.7%	95.56%	96.25%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	819	94.46%
Satisfied	39	4.5%
Satisfied somewhat	08	0.92%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	01	0.12%
Total	867
Response rate %	99.88%

G. Notes:

Overall Performance Measures

Overall Acquisition Performance Measure

Acquisition Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program.	21	24	1,044	1,089
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	07	05	23	35
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	00	12	14	26
4. Subtotal	28	41	1,081	1,150
5. None of the above	01	00	08	09
6. Subtotal	29	41	1,089	1,159
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	29	41	1,089	1,159
9. Performance on this measure	96.55%	70.73%	97.98%	96.98%
ACL Performance Measure				85%
Met/Not Met				Met

Overall Access Performance Measure

Access Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs	49	61	550	660
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	01	00	41	42
Subtotal	50	61	591	702
Have not made a decision	04	04	19	27
Subtotal	54	65	610	729
Nonrespondent	01	00	02	03
Total	55	65	612	732
Performance on this measure	92.59%	93.85%	96.73%	96.16%
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	99.40%	95%	Met
Response Rate	99.82%	90%	Met

Training

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

Training by Participant Type
Type of Participant	Number
Individuals with Disabilities	414
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	30
Representatives of Education	77
Representatives of Employment	56
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	90
Representatives of Community Living	16
Representatives of Technology	00
Unable to Categorize	93
TOTAL	776

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro	Non Metro	Unknown	TOTAL
620	108	48	776

B. Training Topics

Trainings by Topic
Primary Topic of Training	Participants
AT Products/Services	613
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice	06
Combination of any/all of the above	84
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access	10
Transition	63
Total	776

C. Description of Training Activities

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

The Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) partner center serving Southeast Tennessee conducted two (2) accessibility in Chrome operating system (ChromeOS) trainings at senior centers in two (2) counties. The AT center worked in partnership with “Tech Goes Home” organization which focuses on digital skills as well as digital inclusion. Tech Goes Home provided a free Chromebook to each individual participating in the training. The seniors were trained on the basic accessibility features in ChromeOS, such as how to enlarge the screen, enlarge the mouse cursor, use voice typing, invert the screen colors, and control the mouse speed. The trainings aided participants in acquiring the skills to help with accessing information and resources through the internet. They were trained how to avoid predatory activity to stay safe in online environments. They were also trained on the use of Google Docs and other Google programs. The knowledge and skills gained provided the seniors with a newly found independence.

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

The Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) partner center serving West and Middle TN provided a training on AT in Transition to 48 participants during a monthly Transition TN webcast. The session description was Assistive technology makes things possible for people with disabilities. The Center was founded for this purpose in 1988, and we continue the tradition to this day. Our state-wide assistive technology specialists equip individuals with adaptive and rehabilitative devices by meeting each person where they are in life and assisting them in achieving their future goals. This is accomplished through physical modification, vision services, communication supports, learning adaptations, and workplace accommodations. The audience consisted of educational professionals, parents, rehab professionals, employment specialists, as well as other professionals. The group was engaged and posed questions for the AT Professional. The event was a great opportunity to share information about the endless possibilities of AT and network with community stakeholders that are helping support individuals through life’s transitions.

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

The Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) partnering assistive technology (AT) center conducted an ICT (Information and Communication Technology) training that focused on accessibility options in Microsoft Windows and Word for neurodiverse individuals. The presentation began with an overview of common types of neurodivergence, including Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and executive function disorders. The training aimed to educate attendees about Microsoft's Accessibility Features and how they can be utilized to enhance productivity both at work and home. The training was conducted virtually over Zoom, with invitations sent out to a broad mailing list. This was the second training in a series that will be held on a recurring basis. The AT professionals used these trainings an opportunity to explore the most effective way to deliver ICT trainings within their region and will continue to develop strategies to broaden their reach and audience. The desired outcomes of the training were for participants to gain an understanding of the built-in features in Microsoft Office products for enhanced accessibility and how these features could be used to increase productivity of users through accessible materials. By providing this training, the partnering AT center serving East TN area of the state aimed to empower neurodiverse individuals with the tools to effectively use technology successfully.

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	09
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented	01
No known outcome at this time	00
Nonrespondent	00
Total	10
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	45%
Employment	01%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	07%
Community Living	38%
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT)	09%
Total	100%

B. Description of Technical Assistance

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

The Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) partner center serving Middle and West Tennessee provided technical assistance for the Jackson Police Department’s Bomb Unit, the City of Jackson, and Rockabilly’s of Jackson focusing on planning the first annual Easter “Egg-Splosion.” The “Egg-Splosion” was designed for individuals with vision loss to enjoy a fun and free event hunting for eggs. Easter eggs hunts have typically been enjoyed by sighted people, but the plan developed with accommodations provided a way for participants with visual impairments to enjoy this inclusive Easter event. The Jackson Police Department’s Bomb Unit built beeping eggs, allowing individuals with visual impairments to the opportunity to listen and hunt for the Easter eggs to then exchange for candy-filled eggs. The AT Professionals from the center provided the event planning committee with accessibility options giving them ideas of activities that would be enjoyable for those in attendance. They

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

The Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) partner center serving Middle TN provided technical assistance to an area university. The objective of the technical assistance was to help the university support students with visual impairments or other disabilities when transitioning to the university have access to their MakerSpace. An AT Professional from the AT Center provided a range of supports to set the stage and guide plans to enhance accessibility in this area and beyond as the interactions continued. The AT Professional initially conducted a demonstration of JAWS accessibility with Simplify 3D. During this process, some visual barriers were highlighted and it was noted that Simplify 3D would not allow all areas to be navigated using JAWS commands or hotkeys. The AT Professional pointed out that Simpify3D is generally accessible, but visual renderings of 3D objects provided no auditory information via JAWS for a blind user. Collaboration and assistance may be required to h

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 Tennessee Technology Access Program partnering assistive technology (AT) center that serving Middle and West Tennessee presented at the Tennessee Foundation on Aging Conference in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The AT professionals shared how technology can assist the aging population maintain independence in their homes. The audience included both individuals and professionals. The AT professionals discussed an array of technology solutions related to vision, mobility, cognition, memory issues, everyday living, and smart home devices. In addition to supporting safety and independence in the home, the AT shared also included items to enhance quality of life. The professionals introduced affordable options, with all items highlighted being under $50 in cost. Providing low-cost options was important members of aging population often have fixed incomes, and lower cost items can be within the means of a larger number of individuals. The ability to implement AT can extend the time individuals can live safely and independently in their homes.

2. In October of 2022, the Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) hosted the annual Resource Ability Assistive Technology Access Fair. The event theme focused on assistive technology (AT) in agriculture, working in collaboration with TN AgrAblity. The keynote speaker for the event was Carey Portell, who shared her powerful story regarding her injury in a car accident due to a drunk driver through her rehabilitation and return to work on the farm. She highlighted the importance of AT in her daily activities and farm tasks. The approximately 300 attendees also had the opportunity to learn about AT in action by individuals in TN. After the presentation, attendees visited a wide array of over 25 vendors of assistive technology and related services. A special highlight included the truck mounted lift to help individuals get into the truck as well as up onto tractors and other farm equipment.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients	AT Device/ Service	AT Funding	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	942	77	1,019
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	156	38	194
Representative of Education	38	05	43
Representative of Employment	06	03	09
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	54	13	67
Representative of Community Living	85	03	88
Representative of Technology	02	00	02
Unable to Categorize	13	02	15
Total	1,296	141	1,437

Referral Types:

During the report period, referrals increased from Centers for Independent Living over previous years. Increased communications have occurred with the CILs, particularly with one location that has experienced changes in leadership and staff. Information has been shared about the opportunities available to individuals through TTAP, and future discussions are planned for potential collaboration for events and other assistance to customers.

Referral Sources:

Through the most recent reporting period, the largest referral source reported is attributed to AT program customers and self-referrals. It is estimated that approximately 50% of that group of customer referrals for Info & assistance services stems from one particular region of TN. The center is known for the services for individuals with vision loss and are fielding a high number of inquiries and requests for assistance on related topics. This will likely continue to remain high as this partner is expanding to another region of TN. With the variety of other referral sources, there is no other set percentage attributed to a particular entity.

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?

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?

TTAP along with a partner center worked in collaboration with UT CLEE to provide continuing education training to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) staff and Community Rehabilitation Providers (CRPs). The training in this specific collaboration focused on the topic of “Cultivating Partnerships with TN AgrAbility and Vocational Rehabilitation”. The collaboration of all parties was intended to help the CRPs to be more aware of the opportunities for their customers being served by VR to explore employment in the areas of agriculture, whether farming themselves or working for others in the industry. This endeavor exposed attendees to many types of AT, utilizing pictures and videos, along with sample case studies. This collaborative effort through training and relationships with all parties is aimed to continue increasing the potential VR customers gaining access to AT to gain or maintain employment in the agricultural arena. Funding designated for training through TTAP and similarly through the other parties was used, with no additional funds needed to support the effort.

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 collaboration is strengthening relationships amongst all parties. The exposure to AT for agriculture through this training and other efforts is resulting in more inquiries within VR for possible assistance for farmers. Providers are more aware of the opportunities, making the agricultural industry potentially more attainable for customers the CRPs and other VR staff are serving. This specific training collaboration may not be recurring, but partners involved in the training and TN AgrAbility will continue to engage with the audience through supplemental trainings and information at future events. The cohesiveness of the partnerships and a unified interest to help those interested in the agricultural industry attain their goals has made the collaboration successful.

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

Employment;

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

Training;

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?

Additional And Leveraged Funds

A. Leveraged Funding for State Plan Activities

Fund Source	Amount	Use of Funds	Data Reported

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. Public Health Workforce Grant Award

All Section 4 AT Act grantees were awarded $80,000.00 in supplimental Public Health Workforce grant funding to increase the full-time equivalent (FTE) of staff withing the disability and aging network for public health professionals. Please document the status of these funds below.

The status of these funds at the end of the FY23 (9/30/2023) is as follows: (Check one) We did not utilize this funding in FY23 and wish to decline the funds in the future
We did not expend any of this funding in FY23, but plan to expend funding in FY24 and/or FY25
We expended some of all of this funding in FY23 (please complete the section below)

Please report the amount expended (drawn down and liquidated) in this reporting period, FY23:

$0.00

Please report the number of Full Time Equivalent (FTE) positions this funding supported by type. This can be a direct employee FTE or contractual FTE.

Type of FTE Position	FTE Positions (0.01 to 9.99)
Assistive Technology Specialist	0.00
Information and Assistance Specialist	0.00
Outreach and Awareness Specialist	0.00
Training Specialist	0.00
Health Care Professional (includes PT, OT, SLP)	0.00
Accessibility Expert	0.00
Policy Expert	0.00
Technology Expert (Digital Divide, Mobile Tech)	0.00
Program Manager	0.00
Other positions needed to advance public health and prevent, prepare for, and respond to COVid-19 (describe with narrative field required)	0.00

Please describe the activities of the above FTE and how such activities advance public health.

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).

There are no issues with the data reported in this section. The full time contracted staff for the Public Health Workface Grant Award is anticipated to begin 1/2/2024 after the full background check is completed and the new new calendar year begins after the holidays.

Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance . Saved: Tue Feb 13 2024 14:14:54 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)