National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

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California 2024

General Information

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

State AT Program Title:
Ability Tools
State AT Program Title:
State AT Program URL
http://www.abilitytools.org/
Mailing Address:
3900 Lennane Drive, Suite 100
City:
Sacramento
State:
CA
Zip Code:
95834
Program Email:
info@abilitytools.org
Phone:
916-390-2690
TTY:
800-900-0706 (TTY)

Lead Agency

Agency Name:
Department of Rehabilitation
Mailing Address:
721 Capitol Mall
City:
Sacramento
State:
CA
Zip Code:
95814
Program URL:
https://dor.ca.gov/Home/AssistiveTechnology

Implementing Entity

Name of Implementing Agency:
California Foundation for Independent Living Centers
Mailing Address:
3900 Lennane Drive, Suite 100
City
Sacramento
State:
CA
Zip Code:
95834
Program URL:
www.abilitytools.org

Program Director and Other Contacts

Program Director for State AT Program (last, first):
Crowley, Kathrine
Title:
Deputy Director
Phone:
(661) 703-6292
E-mail:
kathrine@cfilc.org
Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):
Cademarti, Regina
Title:
ILATS Chief
Phone:
(916) 558-5866
E-mail:
regina.cademarti@dor.ca.gov
Primary Contact at Implementing Agency (last, first) - If applicable:
Crowley, Kathrine
Title:
Deputy Director
Phone:
(661) 703-6292
E-mail:
kathrine@cfilc.org

Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director

Name (last, first):
Cademarti, Regina
Title:
ILATS Chief
Phone:
(916) 558-5866
E-mail:
regina.cademarti@dor.ca.gov

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):
Xavier, Joe
Title:
Director of CA Dept. of Rehabilitation
Phone:
(916) 558-5800
E-mail:
Joe.Xavier@dor.ca.gov

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? 3
Activity 1
How would you describe this state financing activity?Other:

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)1
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)0
C. Total Served1

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures1

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 / ServiceNumber of Devices
Funded		Value of
AT Provided
Vision 0$0
Hearing 0$0
Speech communication0$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning0$0
Daily living 0$0
Environmental adaptations1$4,850
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0
Computers and related 0$0
Recreation, sports, and leisure0$0
Total1$4,850

Activity 2
How would you describe this state financing activity?Telecommunications equipment distribution

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)92
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)0
C. Total Served92

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures92

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 / ServiceNumber of Devices
Funded		Value of
AT Provided
Vision 4$800
Hearing 0$0
Speech communication346$82,399
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning0$0
Daily living 0$0
Environmental adaptations0$0
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0
Computers and related 0$0
Recreation, sports, and leisure0$0
Total350$83,199

Activity 3
How would you describe this state financing activity?Telecommunications equipment distribution

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)957
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)87
C. Total Served1044

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures1044

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 / ServiceNumber of Devices
Funded		Value of
AT Provided
Vision 0$0
Hearing 0$0
Speech communication4176$889,488
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning0$0
Daily living 0$0
Environmental adaptations0$0
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0
Computers and related 0$0
Recreation, sports, and leisure0$0
Total4176$889,488



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

When I first heard about the Voice Options Program, I reached out to Ms. Samantha [at Disabled Resource Center], who guided me through the entire process. We received a brand-new iPad Pro 11 with a case cover, screen protector, strap, and even a keyboard, which thrilled my daughter. My daughter had been waiting for an AAC device for so long, and my frustration was growing but her same-day response eased my growing frustration. Isabella transitioned to the new app seamlessly, and we are learning alongside her to communicate and support her. Now, Isabella can form longer and faster sentences. We are so grateful for this program and confident it will help her make significant progress. On behalf of my daughter Isabella and our entire family, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks.

Young girl in cozy clothes with hair in a ponytail using a speech application on the iPad in her hands
Impact Area

An email to Patrick, AT Coordinator at Service Center for Independent Life, who assisted a family through the Voice Options Program: Hello Patrick, I just wanted to thank you for your help assisting my son Mason with getting his AAC device. It’s been a huge relief and help for our family. Mason has been doing so well learning the program and navigating his device. Mason’s Speech Pathologist says he’s constantly improving his skills and able to navigate accurately about 80% as of today. He is now able to communicate at school and with his family. This is an amazing opportunity you’ve provided and we are so appreciative. Thank you, Nicole

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 00 425 425
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 00 00 04 04
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 30 30
4. Subtotal 00 00 459 459
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 00 00 459 459
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 678 678
8. Total 00 00 1,137 1,137
9. Performance on this measure NaN% NaN% 40.37%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 69 6.07%
Satisfied 1,066 93.76%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 02 0.18%
Total Surveyed 1,137
Response rate % 99.82%

G. Notes:

The majority of State financing activities were implemented through the state-funded Voice Options Program. Due to various challenges, including programmatic changes and staff resources, reporting metrics were unable to be modified to incorporate performance measures and customer satisfaction, therefore in areas where data could not be captured independent of current reporting mechanisms, "Nonrespondent" was selected for the reporting metric, rather than estimate data. The Voice Options Program will be updating their reporting methods moving forward and the next APR will reflect performance measures and customer satisfaction.

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 2,414
C. Total 2,414

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 2,414

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 08 $1,010 $0 $1,010
Hearing 01 $1,495 $0 $1,495
Speech Communication 208 $93,674 $2,770 $90,904
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 04 $201 $0 $201
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 1,657 $383,636 $2,102 $381,534
Daily Living 1,201 $3,196,836 $2,100 $3,194,736
Environmental Adaptations 109 $13,758 $53 $13,705
Vehicle Modification & Transportation 00 $0 $0 $0
Computers and Related 129 $26,285 $0 $26,285
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 00 $0 $0 $0
Total 3,317 $3,716,895 $7,025 $3,709,870

D. Anecdote

Michael worked with AT Advocate Juanita at Dayle McIntosh Center (DMC) to obtain a refurbished wheelchair that had been donated to the center. He is thrilled to gain a new sense of independence and is excited to access the outdoors on his own as part of his community.

A man wearing a t-shirt and baseball cap smiles at the camera as he sits in a sky-blue power wheelchair.
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. 65 17 1,768 1,850
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 02 01 240 243
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 16 16
4. Subtotal 67 18 2,024 2,109
5. None of the above 00 00 229 229
6. Subtotal 67 18 2,253 2,338
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 76 76
8. Total 67 18 2,329 2,414
9. Performance on this measure 100% 100% 86.9%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 1,752 72.58%
Satisfied 659 27.3%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 03 0.12%
Total Surveyed 2,414
Response rate % 99.88%

G. Notes:

Please note that 43 State Financing activities for the VOP were erroneously entered into NATADS. CFILC reached out to CATADA to confirm that, rather than manually removing these, metrics could be analyzed, and mass-transferred from the APR’s activities for Device Reutilization to State Financing. Diane Golden confirmed this process and therefore the 43 activities were removed from the aggregate data in the Device Reutilization portion of the APR and then entered as aggregate data into the State Financing Portion of the APR. The NATADS Day-to-Day retains documentation in Device Reutilization under the DOR Region activity list for all State Financing activities for review as required.

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) 2,004
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding 11
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation 49
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity 06
Total 2,070

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 1,756 49 1,805
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 52 05 57
Representative of Education 72 05 77
Representative of Employment 07 00 07
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 87 05 92
Representatives of Community Living 06 00 06
Representatives of Technology 24 02 26
Total 2,004 66 2,070

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
Desicion-making All other Purposes Total
Vision 113 03 116
Hearing 16 00 16
Speech Communication 5,627 09 5,636
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 58 03 61
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 88 31 119
Daily Living 137 08 145
Environmental Adaptations 40 04 44
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 02 00 02
Computers and Related 460 19 479
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 64 07 71
Total 6,605 84 6,689

E. Anecdote

Elissa is an extremely intelligent woman who lives with the diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy. She has used a communication device for over 35 years. Her history and background include being a speaker at large AT conferences, as well as presenting information in class settings to caregiver trainers about how to better understand the patient. Her physical abilities have changed over the years, and she has transitioned to a living setting that provides 24/7 care and is in bed much of the day. Aside from her physical challenges, she continues to be highly communicative and uses her Accent 1400 with eye tracking access. Elissa recently moved to her current subacute home placement last year and did not have access to her communication device with her new bed and room space. Communication Access Realtime Tranlsations’ (CART) Speech Language Pathologist and Occupational Therapist provided an evaluation and determined that the Rehadapt floor mount would be the best option for Elissa to access her communication device. A loan was provided to allow her to use her device while waiting for her own device to be funded and delivered to her. Elissa was then able to effectively use her communication device in her new home setting. Elissa is extremely happy! She is able to independently communicate using her Accent 1400 with eye tracking. She is able to communicate via Facebook, messenger, video calls and phone calls as well as printing letters. She is working on writing her autobiography.

A woman with grey hair, a t-shirt and jeans lays in a bed using a Rehadapt floor mount to access her communication device.
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 341 37 1,501 1,879
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 07 01 07 15
Subtotal 348 38 1,508 1,894
Have not made a decision 08 00 71 79
Subtotal 356 38 1,579 1,973
Nonrespondent 04 00 27 31
Total 360 38 1,606 2,004
Performance on this measure 97.75% 100% 95.5%

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. 06 00 24 30
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 03 01 05 09
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 01 00 10 11
4. Subtotal 10 01 39 50
5. None of the above 01 00 04 05
6. Subtotal 11 01 43 55
7. Nonrespondent 01 00 10 11
8. Total 12 01 53 66
9. Performance on this measure 90.91% 100% 90.7%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 848 40.97%
Satisfied 195 9.42%
Satisfied somewhat 01 0.05%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 1,026 49.57%
Total Surveyed 2,070
Response rate % 50.43%

I. Notes:

Please note that 968 Device Loan activities for the VOP were not entered into NATADS. CFILC reached out to CATADA to confirm that, rather than manually entering the 968 Device Loan activities, metrics could be analyzed, and mass-entered into the APR’s Device Loan portion. Diane Golden confirmed this process and therefore the 968 activities were entered as aggregate data into the APR. DOR retains documentation for all Device Reutilizations for review as required. Half of Device Loan activities were implemented through the state-funded VOP. Due to various challenges, including programmatic changes and staff resources, reporting metrics were unable to be modified to incorporate performance measures and customer satisfaction, therefore in areas where data could not be captured independent of current reporting mechanisms, "Nonrespondent" was selected for the reporting metric, rather than estimate data. The VOP will be updating reporting methods moving forward to be reflected next APR.

Device Demonstration

A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type

Type of AT Device / Service Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services
Vision 66
Hearing 03
Speech Communication 1,196
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 10
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 49
Daily Living 63
Environmental Adaptations 09
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 01
Computers and Related 182
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 18
Total # of Device Demonstrations 1,597

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant Decision-Makers Other Participants Total
Individuals with Disabilities 1,552 39 1,591
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 24 191 215
Representatives of Education 07 01 08
Representatives of Employment 00 02 02
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 12 04 16
Representative of Community Living 00 04 04
Representative of Technology 02 02 04
Total 1,597 243 1,840

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program) 83
Service Provider 18
Vendor 144
Repair Service 00
Others 02
Total 247

D. Anecdote

Joe is a highly social individual who has survived both a brain tumor resection and a stroke. He uses a communication device to independently participate in conversations with family, friends, neighbors, and others in the community. His current device was old, and he needed assistance determining which new device would fulfill his needs, so a loan of the Accent 1000 was initiated. Joe was able to trial the Accent 1000 through the Ability Tools program to compare it with the Accent 1400, which he was currently using. He used the loan device for an extended period and found that he was faster using the smaller Accent 1000. However, he was uncertain if it would better meet his needs compared to the Accent 1400. Joe ultimately decided that the Accent 1400 would be a better fit for him. He is now waiting for the funding process to be completed through his insurance to obtain his new replacement Accent 1400.

Man with a grey shirt and short cut hair sitting in a wheelchair using an Accent1400 mounted to the wheelchair
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 143 17 1,367 1,527
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 01 00 02 03
Subtotal 144 17 1,369 1,530
Have not made a decision 15 03 36 54
Subtotal 159 20 1,405 1,584
Nonrespondent 01 00 12 13
Total 160 20 1,417 1,597
Performance on this measure 90% 85% 96.61%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 678 36.85%
Satisfied 209 11.36%
Satisfied somewhat 14 0.76%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 939 51.03%
Total 1,840
Response rate % 48.97%

G. Notes:

A large portion of Demonstration activities were implemented through the state-funded Voice Options Program. Due to various challenges, including programmatic changes and staff resources, reporting metrics were unable to be modified to incorporate performance measures and customer satisfaction, therefore in areas where data could not be captured independent of current reporting mechanisms, "Nonrespondent" was selected for the reporting metric, rather than estimate data. The Voice Options Program will be updating their reporting methods moving forward and the next APR will reflect performance measures and customer satisfaction.

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. 71 17 2,217 2,305
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 05 02 249 256
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 01 00 56 57
4. Subtotal 77 19 2,522 2,618
5. None of the above 01 00 233 234
6. Subtotal 78 19 2,755 2,852
7. Nonrespondent 01 00 764 765
8. Total 79 19 3,519 3,617
9. Performance on this measure 97.44% 100% 70.28% 71.02%
ACL Performance Measure 85%
Met/Not Met Not 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 484 54 2,868 3,406
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 08 01 09 18
Subtotal 492 55 2,877 3,424
Have not made a decision 23 03 107 133
Subtotal 515 58 2,984 3,557
Nonrespondent 05 00 39 44
Total 520 58 3,023 3,601
Performance on this measure 95.35% 94.83% 96.03% 95.91%
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 99.73% 95% Met
Response Rate 73.60% 90% Not Met

Educational/Training Activities

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

Educational/Training Activities by Participant Type
Type of Participant Number
Individuals with Disabilities 23
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 17
Representatives of Education 09
Representatives of Employment 43
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 14
Representatives of Community Living 155
Representatives of Technology 100
Unable to Categorize 16
TOTAL 377

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro Non Metro Unknown TOTAL
334 43 00 377

B. Educational/Training Activity Topics

Educational/Training Activities by Topic
Primary Topic of Educational/Training Activities Participants
AT Products/Services 242
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice 39
Combination of any/all of the above 00
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access 11
Transition 85
Total 377

C. Description of Educational/Training Activities

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

The September installment of the bi-monthly Ability Tools LAtest and GreATest Webinar Series featured cutting-edge assistive technologies designed to empower individuals with disabilities! Our guest vendors for this session included: Mouthpad: A wireless mouse controlled by the users tongue Xrai Glass: Glasses that transcribe audio in real time and display on lenses SAMi: Sleep activity monitor that detects abnormal movements

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

In August, Ability Tools provided a training to the AT Network on a variety of different devices that could be used for TBI support. This training focused on different strategies and solutions to empower those with TBI to help regain autonomy and reduce reliance on caregivers during recovery. Topics discussed included mobility aids, physical and mental wellness, self-care, better sleep, pain management, medication reminders, smart home adaptations like lighting, speech generating devices, communication apps, and memory recall aids. All of these examples offer support for folks with TBI's as well as Caregivers who are transitioning from a hospital setting into a home setting and ultimately ways to regain independence.

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

In April, Ability Tools provided a training to the Assistive Technology Network on Digital Accessibility and the differences between web accessibility, accessible technology, and assistive technology. During this training Ability Tools staff reviewed web accessibility standards, myths, facts, and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). The training ensured that the AT Advocates were guided in creating digital materials that are inclusive, WCAG compliant, universally designed, perceivable, operable, understandable and user-friendly. This ultimately enhances the ability to communicate with their clients in a manner that is accessible for all.

D. IT/Telecommunications Educational/Training Activity Performance Measure

IT/Telecommunications Educational/Training Activity Performance Measure
Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Educational/Training Activities Received Number
IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies 08
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented 02
No known outcome at this time 01
Nonrespondent 00
Total 11
Performance Measure Percentage 90.9%
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 10%
Employment 10%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 10%
Community Living 60%
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) 10%
Total 100%

B. Description of Technical Assistance

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

Ability Tools supported the Department of Rehabilitation’s (DOR) Voice Options Program in the collection and reporting of metrics for their AAC/iPad acquisition state financing activity program. Ability Tools collaborated with DOR to support their leadership in determining what to report on and how to accurately capture that data. Ability Tools provided training to the VOP staff, creating fully accessible unique training guides, providing an initial recorded webinar, a second follow-up webinar, and continued to support through at-request, one-on-one support. At the end of the FFY, Ability Tools provided extensive reporting support throughout the entire APR process.

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

Following the transition-related technical assistance notated in last year’s APR, Ability Tools spent this year supporting Disability Resources Agency for Independent Living (DRAIL), an Independent Living Center which serves six counties in the heart of California, in revamping and bolstering its AT Program. Ability Tools staff traveled to DRAIL to provide all-day on-site trainings, participated in DRAIL hosted events, and provided open office hours and one-on-one support to increase the skills of the existing and new AT staff. Ability Tools has continued to build training resources based on requests from the network, such as AT for TBI Support, connecting with your local DOR, and preparing ILC AT Programs for pandemics, and Ability Tools continues providing ongoing technical assistance and support to the AT Network to improve home modification programs supporting institutional transition and diversion throughout the state of California.

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. Ability Tools was offered the showcase booth at the Los Angeles Abilities Expo, the largest AT Event in the state of California. Ability Tools had tables stocked with a wide variety of AT devices, ranging from low-tech to high-tech, with tables specifically dedicated to switch adapted devices, learning and cognition, transition and diversion, smart home devices, disaster preparedness, and AT Maker activities. At the AT Maker activity table, there were 3D printed devices with information sheets providing the details of the print and QR codes for participants to scan so they could print their own copy of the device. There were also hands-on demonstrations of making custom devices using instamorph, and the most popular activities were the interactive tutorials on how to switch adapt devices. There were over 10,492 attendees at the event.

2. We proudly participated in DRAIL's 1st Annual Disability Awareness Day, showcasing the power of assistive technology at our vibrant 10x10 booth. Staffed by two dedicated team members, we engaged with a diverse crowd of approximately 550 attendees, sharing valuable insights and resources. Our booth featured specialized assistive technology for learning and cognition, daily living, vision, and hearing, offering a comprehensive display of tools designed to enhance independence and accessibility. A highlight of the event was interacting with attendees and demonstrating ways to engage with switch-adapted devices. Our popular switch-adapted Bubble Frog was a crowd favorite, capturing the hearts of both children and adults in attendance.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients AT Device/
Service		 AT Funding Total
Individuals with Disabilities 877 00 877
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 362 00 362
Representative of Education 00 00 00
Representative of Employment 18 01 19
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 20 00 20
Representative of Community Living 00 00 00
Representative of Technology 01 01 02
Unable to Categorize 00 00 00
Total 1,278 02 1,280

Referral Types:

The primary referral source for Ability Tools is 211, a free service connecting individuals to local community services, with whom Ability Tools communicates regularly to ensure our contact and service information remains up to date. Following 211, the second most common referrals are from other organizations, hospitals, or friends. Whenever a professional communicates with Ability Tools, they typically identify a resource at their workplace that has Ability Tools listed to support their needs. For people needing backup batteries to support their AT during a power outage, emergency preparedness program funders, like Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), provide frequent referrals. Ability Tools works with Independent Living Centers (ILC), Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRC), and Regional Centers to create comprehensive support for those in need of AT. Ability Tools creates statewide resources, such as county-by-county mobility resource guides and reuse resource listings, while working closely with the listed organizations, this information sharing fortifies relationships and increases potential exchange of referrals. Ability Tools, and the AT Network it facilitates, performs outreach at events across the state, statewide educational events, educational blogs and newsletters which leads directly to increases in Information and Assistance activities. Many of the resources created can help people nationwide, including organizations and services that support individuals across the country. We have blogs with helpful information for people looking for life or job resources, especially for those moving to California. Our I&A line receives calls from individuals wishing to relocate to California, and our I&A Staff provide details on their local DOR office and Independent Living Center to help them get settled and access the support and services they need.

Referral Sources:

The referrals received from 211 account for roughly 40% of all referrals, their reach is statewide, and Ability Tools stays in regular communication with them to ensure they receive any updates and can make appropriate referrals. About 20% of referrals come from medical or educational settings, where Ability Tools is a regular AT resource, with partners utilizing rack cards to hand out to individuals who might benefit from Ability Tools services. Roughly 15% of referrals come from word of mouth by individuals whom Ability Tools have worked with previously or connected with at outreach events. An additional 15% of calls come from professionals who are reaching out on behalf of the clients they’re working with. Partner organizations typically account for roughly 10% of referrals, consisting of individual organizations that provide local resources to people with disabilities in their area. For example, many Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) do not have dedicated AT staff and refer to Ability Tools for AT resources. Additionally, a great number of referrals come from the Disability Disaster Access and Resources (DDAR), an emergency response program, from funder advertising and customer intake services, and by word of mouth from previous program participants. However, the staff providing that information and assistance is not contracted to enter those services into NATADS, so those numbers unfortunately go unreported.

Notes:

Coordination/Collaboration and State Improvement Outcomes

Overview of Coordination/Collaboration Activities

Yes
Yes
The Ability Tools parent organization, California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC), receives funding through the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) for their youth advocates program, YO Disabled and Proud. Ability Tools frequently partners with YO to cobrand trainings and to collaborate at outreach events. This is a great partnership, as many youths are in need of AT services, but are not always aware of the services they qualify for.
Ability tools and YO partnered to provide trainings about Individualized Education Plan (IEP) access and to perform joint outreach at the LA Abilities expo. YO regularly contributes to AT blogs and newsletters, and there are trainings planned for the next FFY. These trainings will aim to address the AT access cliff students meet when graduating from K-12, and address how to obtain access to AT in post-secondary educational environments and as new employees in a workplace. The combination of our collective networks has made for broader reach and greater engagement to a group which would otherwise be less accessible.

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

Education, Employment, Community Participation and Integration, Recreation/Leisure, Transition (school to work or congregate care to community), Information and Communication Technology/Remote Connectivity,

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

Training, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness,
Yes
Yes
Ability Tools and Vocational Rehabilitation (DOR) collaborate with one another on a regular basis. DOR is the lead entity for AT Act funding in California, and as a result, Ability Tools meets with DOR for regular monthly meetings and collaborate on trainings to the network and public, with DOR providing staff as presenters for trainings throughout the year. Ability Tools staff regularly refers consumers to DOR for Vocational and educational services, and this year, DOR was one of Ability Tools Technical Assistance recipients, in support of their Voice Options Program data collection and reporting efforts. The work done through this collaboration this year was funded through AT Act funding, AB 204 funding, ARPA funding, and California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) funding.
Access is always greatly improved as a result of this partnership, however, this year in particular saw far more impact as a result of stronger partnerships and closer relationships between DOR and Ability Tools. This collaboration enabled Ability Tools to serve as an access point to information and services for consumers through DOR. DOR services and processes were demystified through trainings coordinated and directed by Ability Tools and implemented and informed by DOR. DORs VOP is a thriving success, providing approximately 1,000 device demos, loans and state financing acquisitions, respectively. This program is implemented through providers DOR contracts with, with a large amount of those providers being ILCs who receive AT training and support directly through the AT Network that Ability Tools trains, leads, and facilitates. Ability Tools provides training on devices, reporting, and standards of practice throughout the year, hosting monthly meetings, one-on-one on call support, network requested trainings with workgroup sessions to make the lessons actionable, and bimonthly NATADS Open office hours to ensure fidelity of reporting. The collaboration between DOR and Ability Tools is so completely intertwined, it would not only be nearly impossible to separate, but it would also be a great damage to the network to do so.

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

Education, Employment, Community Participation and Integration, 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, Demo, State Financing, Training, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness, Technical Assistance,
Yes
Yes
Ability Tools has a long history of collaborating with C4A, the AAAs membership association, with activities including co-hosting AT conferences, partnering as advocates regarding the state budget, providing training to one another on each other’s services, and collaborating on best practices when AAAs received Google Homes during the pandemic. This year, Ability Tools presented Living with Disabilities: Advances in Access to Assistive Technology Programs in-person to a group of 60 attendees at the C4A conference in San Jose, where we explored innovative assistive technologies designed to help older individuals, and those with disabilities, maintain their independence and enhance daily living. The discussion highlighted solutions for addressing common challenges such as mobility issues, dexterity problems, cognitive decline, communication barriers, and vision and hearing loss. We also had an interactive group discussion and introduced a variety of smart home technologies, tailored to meet diverse needs and budgets, which can create safer, more comfortable, and more connected living environments. The group participated in providing feedback to common challenges that older adults and people with disabilities face in their home. By the end of the session, attendees gained insights into how these technologies can work in harmony to support individuals in leading more independent and fulfilling lives.
The partnership between Ability Tools and C4A always results in better access to AT, not only because of the relationship they share and efficacy of the efforts of their skilled teams, but primarily due to the community that C4A serves. The older adult population is notoriously difficult for Ability Tools alone to serve, as not all older adults identify as having a disability, regardless of their need for AT or even existing utilization of some basic AT. The partnership between Ability Tools and C4A helps to bridge that identity gap, enabling individuals to view AT as a useful device that will improve their lives, rather than act as an indicator of their age and perceived need for support. Additionally, our partnership in advocacy directly impacts ADRC funding, directly enabling ILCs to better serve their communities through their services, one of which specifically being AT. The only desire we have at Ability Tools to have worked differently with C4A, is that our partnership would be more robust in a training capacity, and we plan to manifest that more robust partnership in the coming year.

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

Housing/Home Automation, Community Participation and Integration, Recreation/Leisure, Health, Aging, Transition (school to work or congregate care to community), Aging and Disability Network/No Wrong Door, Veterans, Information and Communication Technology/Remote Connectivity,

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

Device Loan, Demo, Reuse, Training, Information & Assistance,
No
Voice Options Program (VOP) providers perform statewide outreach to individuals with speech disabilities, prioritizing unserved communities, per the agreement with DOR, who also performs AT and VOP outreach, likely to Medicaid representatives, but no reporting methods were in place to record these activities. DOR began collecting VOP outreach data to capture and report data to utilize in guiding efforts to better reach underserved communities and the agencies and organizations that support them.
Additional Coordination/Collaboration activities 0

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
Public/State Agency$108,756ReuseTrue
Private$285,986TrainingFalse
Private$83,816Device LoanTrue
Private$1,521,433ReuseTrue
Public/State Agency$502,500DemonstrationTrue
Public/State Agency$4,439Device LoanTrue
Public/State Agency$995,330State FinancingTrue
Public/State Agency$535,000Device LoanTrue
Private$829,987Public Awareness, I&AFalse
Public/State Agency$108,756DemonstrationFalse
Private$1,521,433DemonstrationFalse
Public/State Agency$3,536TrainingFalse
Amount: $6,500,972

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.

For unreported Training activities ($3,535), these are associated with Voice Options trainings for which data is not presently collected as part of reporting metrics. For Unreported Training activities (Private Funded $285,986), Demo activities (Public/State Agency Funded $108,756 & Private Funded $1,521,433), and Public Awareness, I&A (Private Funded $829,987) these are associated with the DDAR Program for which Training, Demo and Public Awareness, I&A data is not a currently required reporting metric.

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).

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This FY24 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.