National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

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Georgia 2025

General Information

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

State AT Program Title:

Georgia Tools for Life

State AT Program Title:

State AT Program URL

https://gatfl.gatech.edu/

Mailing Address:

512 Means St, NW

City:

Atlanta

State:

Georgia

Zip Code:

30318

Program Email:

info@gatfl.gatech.edu

Phone:

404-894-0541

TTY:

Lead Agency

Agency Name:

Georgia Institute of Technology | College of Design | CIDI

Mailing Address:

512 Means Street

City:

Atlanta

State:

Georgia

Zip Code:

30318

Program URL:

http://www.gatfl.gatech.edu/

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):

Jennifer Ro

Title:

Director

Phone:

404-894-0541

E-mail:

info@gatfl.gatech.edu

Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):

Title:

Phone:

404-894-0541

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):

McFeron, Hunter (w Jennifer Ro)

Title:

AT Acquisition Services Manager

Phone:

404-894-0541

E-mail:

info@gatfl.gatech.edu

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):

Brooks, Lakita

Title:

Contracting Officer - Office of Sponsored Project

Phone:

404.385.2080

E-mail:

lakita.brooks@osp.gatech.edu

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
	Metro RUCC 1-3	Non-Metro RUCC 4-9	Total
	Area of Residence		Total
Approved Loan made	12	03	15
Approved Not made	01	00	01
Rejected	02	00	02
Total	15	03	18

2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made

Lowest/Highest Incomes
Lowest Income:	$12,000	Highest Income:	$128,000

Average Income
Sum of Incomes	Loans Made	Average Annual Income
$706,400	15	$47,093

Number and Percentage of Loans Made to Applicants by Income Range
	$15,000 or Less	$15,001- $30,000	$30,001- $45,000	$45,001- $60,000	$60,001- $75,000	$75,001 or More	Total
	Income Ranges						Total
Number of Loans	03	04	02	02	02	02	15
Percentage of Loans	20%	26.67%	13.33%	13.33%	13.33%	13.33%	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	15	100%
With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee	00	0%
Total	15	100%

Loan Type Summary
Type of Loan	Number of Loans	Dollar Value of Loans
Revolving Loans	00	$0
Partnership Loans	15	$138,450
Total	15	$138,450

4. Interest Rates

Interest Rates
Lowest	2.5%
Highest	5.5%

Interest Rate Summary
Sum of Interest Rates	Number of Loans Made	Average Interest Rate
65	15	4.3%

Number of Loans Made by Interest Rate
Interest Rate	Number of loans
0.0% to 2.0%	00
2.1% to 4.0%	08
4.1% to 6.0%	07
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	15

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	02	$9,600
Hearing	01	$3,300
Speech communication	00	$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental	00	$0
Mobility, seating and positioning	00	$0
Daily living	00	$0
Environmental adaptations	05	$48,197
Vehicle modification and transportation	07	$77,353
Computers and related	00	$0
Recreation, sports, and leisure	00	$0
Total	15	$138,450

6. Defaults

Defaults
Number Loans in default	01
Net loss for loans in default	$5,300

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

“Paul spent most of his time indoors and unable to participate in outdoor or community events. This is because of the lack of a wheelchair accessible van. The availability of the van thanks to a CreditAble loan from FODAC has been a life changer for me and my family. I’m of age and could not lift Paul in and out of the vehicle without risking hurting him or myself in the process. Now we can attend church, go out to eat as a family and make all his appointments on time thanks to the van.”

A middle-aged mother with chunky glasses standing with her hand on the shoulder of her adult son in a wheelchair.

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.	01	00	06	07
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	08	08
4. Subtotal	01	00	14	15
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	01	00	14	15
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	01	00	14	15
9. Performance on this measure	100%	NaN%	100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	15	100%
Satisfied	00	0%
Satisfied somewhat	00	0%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total Surveyed	15
Response rate %	100%

G. Notes:

FY2025 was CreditAble's first full-year of existence as the state of GA's AT Alternative Financing Program. Its operations are managed by Friends of Disabled Adults and Chidren (FODAC).

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	10,110
C. Total	10,110

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	10,110

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	03	$250	$75	$175
Hearing	00	$0	$0	$0
Speech Communication	00	$0	$0	$0
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	00	$0	$0	$0
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	9,877	$5,718,230	$259,373	$5,458,857
Daily Living	124	$9,300	$255	$9,045
Environmental Adaptations	02	$200	$50	$150
Vehicle Modification & Transportation	00	$0	$0	$0
Computers and Related	104	$7,800	$2,395	$5,405
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	00	$0	$0	$0
Total	10,110	$5,735,780	$262,148	$5,473,632

D. Anecdote

For most of us, cooking dinner is simply part of our evening routine. But for stroke survivors like Michael, preparing a meal represents something far more profound: independence. After suffering a stroke in 2023, Michael required round-the-clock care in an independent living facility at the age of 61 years. Today, Michael lives independently in an apartment. The power chair FODAC provided has become central to that independence. "Thanks to the power chair from FODAC, I can continue doing things I love every day – like cooking. This chair is my whole life."

Smiling middle-aged man with clasped hands in his lap sitting in a red power chair.

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	10,110	10,110
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	10,110	10,110
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	00	00	10,110	10,110
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	00	00	10,110	10,110
9. Performance on this measure	NaN%	NaN%	100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	4,068	40.24%
Satisfied	02	0.02%
Satisfied somewhat	16	0.16%
Not at all satisfied	49	0.48%
Nonrespondent	5,975	59.1%
Total Surveyed	10,110
Response rate %	40.9%

G. Notes:

Tools for Life (TFL) subcontracts with Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC) to operate the majority of Georgia's equipment reuse program. Additionally, major TFL database upgrades were initiated in 2024 and are anticipated through calendar year 2026. As a result, TFL is engaged in monitoring database functionality, updating data collection methods, and conducting staff/partner training on data collection in conjunction with these upgrades. Please note that ability to compare data may be impacted across the years of database upgrades and changes to data collection methods.

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)	213
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding	03
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation	22
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity	68
Total	306

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	135	14	149
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	14	10	24
Representative of Education	39	51	90
Representative of Employment	00	00	00
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	20	07	27
Representatives of Community Living	05	08	13
Representatives of Technology	00	03	03
Total	213	93	306

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	182	16	198
Hearing	02	00	02
Speech Communication	136	40	176
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	27	05	32
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	43	00	43
Daily Living	65	10	75
Environmental Adaptations	06	00	06
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	00	00	00
Computers and Related	118	22	140
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	43	00	43
Total	622	93	715

E. Anecdote

Kaleb is a young adult who was an avid gamer up until he experienced a spinal cord injury in his teens. Since then, he finds it much more challenging to play the games he loves. When Kaleb came to our office for a demo session, we found that he was able to access most of the buttons on his Xbox controller, but could not easily reach the trigger buttons. We showed him how to pair his controller with an Xbox Adaptive Controller using Controller Assist Mode and use adaptive switches to function as the trigger buttons. Afterwards, he borrowed the switches to see how they would work for him at home compared to his standard setup. With this modification in place, Kaleb found it much easier to play his favorite games, Fortnite and Call of Duty. Kaleb was able to borrow the AT from our lending library to keep playing until he received his own equipment at no cost through the Able Gamers charity.

An image of a hand grasping an adapted controller with a set of adapted switches set on the side for easier access to the trigger buttons.

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	64	07	115	186
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	04	00	03	07
Subtotal	68	07	118	193
Have not made a decision	02	01	08	11
Subtotal	70	08	126	204
Nonrespondent	02	00	07	09
Total	72	08	133	213
Performance on this measure	97.14%	87.5%	93.65%

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.	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.	16	00	00	16
4. Subtotal	16	00	00	16
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	16	00	00	16
7. Nonrespondent	16	58	03	77
8. Total	32	58	03	93
9. Performance on this measure	62.26%	0%	0%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	263	85.95%
Satisfied	27	8.82%
Satisfied somewhat	01	0.33%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	15	4.9%
Total Surveyed	306
Response rate %	95.1%

I. Notes:

Major TFL database upgrades were initiated in 2024 and are anticipated through calendar year 2026. As a result, TFL is engaged in monitoring database functionality, updating data collection methods, and conducting staff/partner training on data collection in conjunction with these upgrades. Please note that ability to compare data may be impacted across the years of database upgrades and changes to data collection methods.

Device Demonstration

A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type

Type of AT Device / Service	Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services
Vision	65
Hearing	02
Speech Communication	28
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	29
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	52
Daily Living	108
Environmental Adaptations	15
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	00
Computers and Related	43
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	21
Total # of Device Demonstrations	363

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant	Decision-Makers	Other Participants	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	271	00	271
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	72	12	84
Representatives of Education	15	03	18
Representatives of Employment	00	00	00
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	01	09	10
Representative of Community Living	04	00	04
Representative of Technology	00	00	00
Total	363	24	387

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity	Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program)	35
Service Provider	06
Vendor	86
Repair Service	00
Others	203
Total	330

D. Anecdote

Naiya is a young girl with spastic CP that limits her motor skills, making gaming with her family a challenge. In the past Naiya had only been able to watch her brother play games, and participated by telling him which character to choose or simply cheering him on. Naiya and her family visited Tools for Life for a demo session, where we explored options with them such as the Hori Flex controller with adaptive switches. Naiya’s face lit up as she was able to play Mario Kart for the first time. After utilizing our lending library to try the tools out more, we connected the family with the Able Gamers charity, where they were able to acquire the tools they needed at no cost. They were extremely happy for Naiya to be able to engage in family game night!

Image of a young girl pressing a button switch that is positioned on a lap tray in front of her. Her brother is using a Pretorian Ultra joystick. Both look intently focused on a video game.

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	16	11	235	262
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	01	06	12	19
Subtotal	17	17	247	281
Have not made a decision	07	05	70	82
Subtotal	24	22	317	363
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	24	22	317	363
Performance on this measure	70.83%	77.27%	77.92%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	382	98.71%
Satisfied	02	0.52%
Satisfied somewhat	03	0.78%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total	387
Response rate %	100%

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.	01	00	10,116	10,117
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.	16	00	08	24
4. Subtotal	17	00	10,124	10,141
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	17	00	10,124	10,141
7. Nonrespondent	16	58	03	77
8. Total	33	58	10,127	10,218
9. Performance on this measure	4.55%	0%	99.9%	99.32%
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	80	18	350	448
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	05	06	15	26
Subtotal	85	24	365	474
Have not made a decision	09	06	78	93
Subtotal	94	30	443	567
Nonrespondent	02	00	07	09
Total	96	30	450	576
Performance on this measure	90.43%	80%	82.39%	83.6%
ACL Performance Measure				90%
Met/Not Met				Not Met

Overall Satisfaction Rating

Customer Rating of Services	Percent	ACL Target	Met/Not Met
Highly satisfied and satisfied	98.57%	95%	Met
Response Rate	44.63%	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	120
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	92
Representatives of Education	606
Representatives of Employment	33
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	292
Representatives of Community Living	296
Representatives of Technology	67
Unable to Categorize	635
TOTAL	2,141

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro	Non Metro	Unknown	TOTAL
00	00	2,141	2,141

B. Educational/Training Activity Topics

Educational/Training Activities by Topic
Primary Topic of Educational/Training Activities	Participants
AT Products/Services	392
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice	90
Combination of any/all of the above	1,428
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access	100
Transition	131
Total	2,141

C. Description of Educational/Training Activities

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

With support from the Atlanta Regional Commission and other community partners, Tools for Life organized a fall prevention workshop hosted by a local church. The workshop had 66 attendees who were primarily community-dwelling older adults. Participants learned practical fall prevention strategies from our Gerontologist and Occupational Therapist, with an emphasis on assistive technology for fall prevention. Attendees also participated in a demonstration of Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention, which is one of the Evidence Based Programs offered by the Atlanta Regional Commission. Written materials to support retention of learning such as a home self-assessment, fall prevention tips, and more were provided to all attendees. The event was a success, with attendees reporting high satisfaction and learning. The event resulted in the church investigating future Tai Chi Classes.

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

As part of the Tools for Life-GaDOE AT Partnership, Tools for Life presented 2 webinars focused on transition planning and resources available in GA and few beyond the state. The first webinar presentation was “Using Assistive Technology to Support Transition for Students with High-Incidence Disabilities” and had 43 attendees. The webinar discussed the need to plan early for students with high-incidence disabilities transitioning to the workforce or to post-secondary education and the importance of prioritizing AT use and self-advocacy for success after graduation during transition planning. The second webinar presentation was entitled “Considering Assistive Technology and Transition for Students with Low Incidence Disabilities” and had 34 attendees. The discussion emphasized starting early when considering transition to life after graduation. For students with low-incidence disabilities, they need time to learn how to use AT while they have educator support for both implementation and for any modifications to the AT device or AT plan. Resources for considering AT, funding, and support at home and in the community after graduation were also highlighted. A subsequent in-person presentation at a conference for school-based SLPs focused on AT strategies for navigating various transitions, including classes, schools, and stages of life, with emphasis on AAC.

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

In anticipation of the upcoming web accessibility compliance dates regarding Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Tools for Life and CIDI’s UX/ICT unit offered a joint webinar entitled, “Coupling AT Solutions with Digital Accessibility: The Necessary Relationship for Success.” The webinar discussed how AT tools or digital accessibility on their own may not provide full access to digital content for those with disabilities in all instances. Individualized AT tools and digital accessibility must both come together to provide full access to information on digital platforms. An overview of legal requirements and established platform and content accessibility standards was provided, in addition to several individualized AT solutions. Examples of effective integration of AT with digital accessibility for those with disabilities were highlighted and discussed.

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	00
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented	00
No known outcome at this time	100
Nonrespondent	00
Total	100
Performance Measure Percentage	0%
ACL Target Percentage	70%
Met/Not Met	Not Met

E. Notes:

Number of individuals who participated in training/education continues to be challenging to report. Many sessions were virtual with attendee numbers fluctuating as sessions progressed. In other instances, other partners hosted TFL webinars with attendee number not reported. In-person numbers at educational sessions at conferences were estimated. Though good feedback was typically received, the outcome of ICT education afterwards is difficult to determine as attendees were virtual or at conferences. As noted in other sections, major TFL database upgrades were initiated in 2024 and are anticipated through calendar year 2026. As a result, TFL is engaged in monitoring database functionality, updating data collection methods, and conducting staff/partner training on data collection in conjunction with these upgrades. Please note that ability to compare data may be impacted across the years of database upgrades and changes to data collection methods.

Technical Assistance

A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance

Technical Assistance by Recipient Type
Education	96%
Employment	00%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	00%
Community Living	04%
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:

Tools for Life partnered with a small, private non-profit school, serving children with complex communication needs, to provide technical assistance in the area of adaptive gaming and general switch/device access. TFL staff first provided basic information to school staff about adaptive gaming controllers and settings that enable people with disabilities to play. TFL then collaborated with the school at their annual summer camp event, working individually with campers who had complex access needs while teaching staff how to facilitate controller access and how gaming could be implemented to achieve educational, leisure, or communication goals. Tools for Life also participated in the school’s end-of-week camp celebration to provide further resources to campers and their families. The school and its staff were left with a better understanding of the benefits of adaptive gaming and how to practically implement it with their student population. This collaboration is planned to continue i

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

Tools for Life provided technical assistance to staff at a residential community for adults with IDD. They expressed interest in launching a culinary program to help support their residents’ independent living skills. Tools for Life helped staff leadership learn about adaptive tools and design considerations for accessible kitchens/cooking through on-site education and demonstrations, as well as hosting them for a tour of Tools for Life’s AT lending library. These learning opportunities are ongoing as this residential community continues to build their culinary program. This allows them to better serve their residents and support their transition to independent/supported living arrangements following k-12 education.

C. Notes:

As noted in other sections, major TFL database upgrades were initiated in 2024 and are anticipated through calendar year 2026. As a result, TFL is engaged in monitoring database functionality, updating data collection methods, and conducting staff/partner training on data collection in conjunction with these upgrades. Please note that ability to compare data may be impacted across the years of database upgrades and changes to data collection methods.

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. Tools for Life hosted an in-person adaptive gaming event designed to increase awareness of accessible gaming and AT options for individuals with disabilities. TFL’s “Come Play” event was marketed through TFL social media outlets and monthly newsletter, a direct email campaign, and flyers distributed by partners with an estimated marketing reach of over 3500. Collaborators for the event included Ghost Gaming and Nerve Gaming who joined TFL staff in hosting an adaptive gaming day at TFL offices. The event featured a wide range of gaming platforms (e.g., Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and gaming PCs) all equipped with a variety of AT access tools and adapted commercial controllers (e.g., Hori Flex, Xbox Adaptive Controller, PlayStation Access Controller, and AT joysticks and switches). Attendees received hands-on exposure to various gaming solutions as well as an inclusively designed game, The Vale, playable by both blind and sighted individuals. Community resources and supports available through Nerve Gaming, Ghost Gaming, and TFL were also shared with attendees. Door prizes were provided by Nerve Gaming. Attendees expressed high enjoyment at the event, which included university students from Georgia Tech & Brenau, Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, and others from the broader community and GT. The event strengthened TFL’s partnerships with gaming collaborators and increased TFL’s visibility within the campus community. An article highlighting the Come Play event was published in the GT student newspaper, raising awareness of adaptive gaming and TFL’s programs among a broader student audience.

2. Tools for Life (TFL) participated in the Made Whole Senior Resource Fair hosted by the Atlanta Senior Care Network Niche. This event was marketed through TFL social media and monthly newsletter over the course of a month, with an estimated marketing reach of over 9000. Focused on older adults, TFL hosted an exhibit table highlighting assistive technology (AT) devices that support independence and quality of life. In conjunction with the exhibit, TFL delivered two presentations during the event, offering insights into how Assistive Technology can enhance daily living and support service delivery. TFL’s combined efforts reached approximately 350 community members throughout the day and included business and healthcare professionals, caregivers, and older adults in the metro Atlanta area. Following the event, TFL conducted a “Tools for Life Overview” for the Atlanta Senior Care Network Niche group, increasing awareness of TFL’s services. 100 business professionals working in the aging space learned about TFL resources and AT strategies. Positive outcomes included increased knowledge of available AT resources, strengthened connections with community partners, and enhanced understanding of how to access AT services through TFL. Attendees interacted directly with TFL staff, asked questions, and gained practical information about integrating assistive technology into daily routines and care practices. These activities not only expanded public awareness of assistive technology but also fostered meaningful engagement between TFL and the community it serves.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients	AT Device/ Service	AT Funding	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	170	67	237
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	176	50	226
Representative of Education	214	15	229
Representative of Employment	10	04	14
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	126	29	155
Representative of Community Living	60	24	84
Representative of Technology	26	07	33
Unable to Categorize	16	30	46
Total	798	226	1,024

Referral Types:

Tools for Life (TFL) implements a comprehensive outreach strategy to advance awareness and access to assistive technology (AT) across Georgia. This strategy uses multiple channels including targeted email campaigns, a monthly TFL newsletter, social media initiatives on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn, and coordinated communications with CIDI and Georgia Tech through their media channels. In addition to digital outreach, TFL conducts in-person and virtual presentations, tours, and community events, allowing direct interaction with individuals with disabilities, professionals, caregivers, and care partners. These activities increase awareness of available resources, provide hands-on demonstrations, and foster connections among all stakeholders. Outreach efforts are guided by program priorities and strategically directed toward specific audiences to ensure the relevance, scope, and depth of AT-related content. TFL maintains strong formal and informal partnerships with key organizations that include the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE), the Division of Aging Services, Georgia Libray Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (GLS), Nerve Gaming/AbleGamers, Walton Options, FODAC, the Shepherd Center, various university programs in GA, and AT vendors. TFL also emphasizes collaboration with both formal and informal partners in rural communities, to address geographic disparities regarding access to assistive technology. Several TFL staff participate in monthly or quarterly member meetings of related programs or entities focused on disability and aging. These partnerships and regular interactions in specific areas help expand the reach and impact of TFL and AT resources statewide. With current state priorities focused on adaptive gaming, aging in place, and education(k-12), outreach strategy has focused on events, presence, and collaborations within these spaces. An informal review of the past year has noted an increase in requests for AT assistance or TFL visits from educators and parents, individual and entity-initiated referrals for adaptive gaming and alternative access, and individual and agency/facility-initiated interactions focused on AT for aging focused on health and well-being.

Referral Sources:

A cursory review of available data indicated a variety of referral sources. Approximate data revealed referrals came from a variety of sources: 4.7% from education (school districts, universities); 5.2% community organizations (non-profits, government agencies); 13.7% healthcare-related individuals, entities (hospitals, therapists, associations); 5.7% employers; 3.3% assistive technology specialists (providers & consultants); 1.4% vendors. The large majority did not indicate a referral source, however, an increase over the past year was specifically noted for aging-related AT or information.

Notes:

Coordination/Collaboration and State Improvement Outcomes

Overview of Coordination/Collaboration Activities

Outreach was conducted with the State Education Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

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?

Tools for Life and GaDOE have had a formal AT Partnership for the past 6 years. This partnership has focused on support for 215 LEAs providing a wide scope of services spanning AT education and training, AT Reuse, AT Device Demos and Loans, and Technical Assistance. AT education and training has included AT awareness related to services and devices, in addition to educational AT content based on LEA needs identified by GaDOE and TFL as the years have progressed. In addition, targeted technical assistance is available to individual LEAs with focus on building AT capacity at the district level. A target number of hours is available for ongoing LEA support with TFL AT specialists for complex individual student needs or for district AT processes/procedures. TFL staff manage a dedicated GaDOE AT portal for district-level staff to request AT support from TFL, including LEA requests for software licenses provided by the GaDOE to all students on IEPs. This dedicated TFL-GaDOE “AT Portal” serves as a single location for LEAs to request needed AT support and resources, which in effect streamlines access to specialized AT support. GaDOE funding through this formal AT partnership has enhanced TFL’s ability to provide state AT program support for the prek-12 educational setting, from individual educators to district and regional staff/administrators. In turn, GA LEAs benefit from a streamlined process to request various forms of AT support from AT Specialists, including timely “no-cost” access to a large lending AT lending library for AT device trials with their students.

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?

As has been the case in previous years, targeted areas include a range of AT services and support. With the additional GaDOE funding, TFL staff presence at GaDOE sponsored education events, regional or RESA trainings, and LEA-requested presentations is more widespread and strategic than previously capable. Specifically for more complex AT devices or AT-related topics, hands-on, in-person exploration and discussion are more effective for building capacity and developing LEA relationships for regular AT support for students. With AT specialists on staff who have experience in and understand the context of the k-12 setting from an educator and district perspective, TFL staff can more effectively work with LEAs with the collaborative support of GaDOE administrators and program specialists through this initiative. Though there have been in changes in leadership at both TFL and GaDOE in the past year, the collaborative work has continued. Tools for Life has seen an increase in requests for various forms of AT support, including requests for GaDOE-funded software licenses. Even with the unpredictability of funding across the country, the initiative will continue into the next calendar year though with some modification to the scope of work. However, many of the base features of the initiative will remain. As is the case with many initiatives or continued projects, an ongoing goal would be increased connection and communication with GaDOE staff in different departments and in various regions. Relationships are key for effective AT support. In addition, a second part of the GaDOE partnership in Georgia includes an additional scope of work for provision of Accessible Educational Materials (AEM) managed by the Braille unit of TFL’s larger center, the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation (CIDI). Through the GaDOE-TFL/CIDI-AEM partnership, the combined relationship of AT and AEM support and services has increased AT and AEM awareness throughout the state of GA. With GaDOE AT and AEM support provided through CIDI-TFL and CIDI-AEM, the joint need for both AT and AEM can be more effectively highlighted for access to the curriculum for all students in Georgia.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

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

Education, Community Participation and Integration, Recreation/Leisure, Transition (school to work or congregate care to community),

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

Device Loan, Reuse, Training, Information & Assistance, Technical Assistance,

Outreach was conducted with the Vocational Rehabilitation Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

Tools for Life expanded its outreach and training efforts for professionals serving visually impaired older adults by leveraging its relationship with one of its Advisory Council members who is Assistant Director for the Blind at Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency. Through direct training with service providers across the state, including those in rural areas, TFL established ongoing partnerships with two new programs and providers. Though this was an informal initiative with no added funding, this work enabled Tools for Life to reach more professionals, caregivers, and clients beyond the metro Atlanta region.

The collaboration proved highly effective, beginning with introductions and leadership training for various service providers working with visually impaired older adults. These leaders subsequently invited TFL to train their staff, which not only strengthened relationships within that community but also provided TFL with valuable feedback from the field. This feedback highlighted both the challenges of serving older adults with vision impairments and insights into past successes and failures of assistive technology. The success of this collaboration will pave the way for future trainings with similar groups across the state. Ideally, if funding were not a constraint, more of these meetings would be held in person and directly in the field.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

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

Housing/Home Automation, Community Participation and Integration, Recreation/Leisure, Health, Aging, Information and Communication Technology/Remote Connectivity,

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

Training,

Outreach was conducted with the Aging Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

TFL’s strong collaboration with the Georgia Division of Aging Services (DAS) continued through active participation in a variety of their statewide conferences. While we maintained engagement with staff in traditional aging service roles supporting home and community-based services, we also broadened our reach to include all division staff. This provided unique opportunities to introduce individuals working in protective services, nutrition, and other areas to assistive technology and Tools for Life services, empowering them to guide caregivers and consumers effectively. Though this collaboration is unfunded, Tools for Life plans to continue overall outreach and engagement with DAS staff at various levels.

TFL participation in DAS conferences and the contributions of DAS staff as members of Tools for Life’s Advisory Council mark an important rebuilding phase for TFL’s relationship with DAS. Due to staff turnover in both organizations, a once strong partnership had diminished in recent years. DAS offers numerous opportunities for collaboration, both formal and informal. Tools for Life plans to continue the collaborative work with DAS through active engagement on joint interests focused on aging and aging in place. By connecting with DAS field service teams, TFL gains valuable insights into challenges and opportunities across the state. Recent meetings with DAS leadership have sparked interest in expanding collaboration in 2026. Ideally, TFL will identify additional opportunities for outreach and explore potential funding for special projects.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

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

Housing/Home Automation, Recreation/Leisure, Health, Aging, 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,

Outreach was conducted with the Medicaid Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

Tools for Life continued to maintain an informal relationship with Georgia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), which oversees various Medicaid Waivers in the state. In FY2025, Tools for Life continued to provide information and awareness of the NOW and COMP Medicaid Waivers’ ability to cover assistive technologies for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This expansion of waiver funding for AT initially began in 2024. DBHDD has also provided referrals to Tools for Life and its services, resulting in an increase in requests for support from both families and community living facilities.

Though TFL and DBHDD collaboration remains informal, it has however resulted in increased awareness of AT throughout DBHDD and key implementers of the Medicaid waivers in our state. Tools for Life has maintained efforts to spread awareness of AT device funding through the NOW and COMP waivers through TFL presentations and social media, highlighting these waivers as a potential route for individuals with disabilities to acquire AT. As a result, access to AT continues to grow for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Georgia. In this past fiscal year, TFL received requests for AT support from at least five day programs or residential facilities serving adults on the NOW and COMP waivers. Tools for Life will continue outreach work to further identify collaborative opportunities with DBHDD.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

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

Housing/Home Automation, Community Participation and Integration, Transition (school to work or congregate care to community),

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

Information & Assistance, Public Awareness,

Additional Coordination/Collaboration activities

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
Public/State Agency	$20,738	Technical Assistance	True
State Appropriations	$6,350	Technical Assistance	True
Public/State Agency	$10,352	Reuse	False
State Appropriations	$19,050	Training	True
Public/State Agency	$35,352	Training	True
Public/State Agency	$73,761	Device Loan	True
State Appropriations	$63,500	Device Loan	True
State Appropriations	$38,100	Demonstration	True
	Amount: $267,203

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.

Data for reuse services supported by leveraged funding is not reported due to the circumstances and the nature of the reuse database. EdTrade is a reuse database that was developed through the GaDOE and TFL AT partnership. The database is managed by TFL and serves as a "reuse trading post" specifically for GA LEAs to list unused AT for donation, loan, or sale to other LEAs. Because MOUs rest solely between LEAs, TFL serves only as a host of the database and does not manage or monitor transactions between LEAs. As a result, reuse data is not collected.

B. Public Health Workforce Grant Award

All Section 4 AT Act grantees were awarded $80,000.00 in supplemental Public Health Workforce grant funding to increase the number of positions within the disability and aging network for public health professionals. Please document below the cumulative status of these funds, FY22 through FY25, as a final closeout report.

The status of these funds at the end of the FY25 (September 30, 2025) is as follows: (Check one) We did not utilize this funding. (Do not complete this section.)
We expended all or some of this funding (Complete the section below)

Please report the total amount expended (drawn down and liquidated) from FY22 through FY25:

$80,000.00

Please check all position types that were supported with these funds over the period of FY22-25. This can be a direct employee or contractual position.

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

The Tools for Life (TFL) program, under the Georgia Assistive Technology (AT) Act, utilized its ARPA funding to implement a comprehensive health literacy initiative. The project aimed to improve health literacy among people with disabilities and older adults, empowering them to navigate the healthcare system effectively, particularly during public health crises. TFL developed and delivered comprehensive training initiatives on health literacy and assistive technologies to over 300 individuals across diverse settings, emphasizing the use of tools such as screen readers and communication boards to enhance health literacy. TFL also expanded its lab to include a dedicated health literacy section featuring AT such as talking blood pressure monitors, scales, thermometers, and Pocket Talkers. By providing interactive demonstrations and establishing mobile labs, TFL also increased access to these vital resources within the community. Other key accomplishments included: *Established a dedicated health literacy lab, *Conducted research through surveys and a focus group to identify barriers to health literacy, *Presented findings at national conferences such as ATIA, and a poster at Southern Gerontological Society meetings, *Created medication management bags and trackers for distribution, and *Created seven informational videos and shorts covering home health literacy for older adults and those with disabilities. Videos can be found on the TFL YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GAToolsforLife/videos

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).