National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

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North Carolina 2025

General Information

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

State AT Program Title:

North Carolina Assistive Technology Program (NCATP)

State AT Program Title:

State AT Program URL

https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/vocational-rehabilitation-services/north-carolina-assistive-technol

Mailing Address:

1915 Health Services Way

City:

Raleigh

State:

Zip Code:

27607

Program Email:

patricia.aaron@dhhs.nc.gov

Phone:

919-664-1244

TTY:

Lead Agency

Agency Name:

NC Department of Health and Human Services, DVRS

Mailing Address:

1915 Health Services Way

City:

Raleigh

State:

North Carolina

Zip Code:

27607

Program URL:

https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/dvrs

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):

Aaron, Patricia

Title:

Interim Director, NCATP

Phone:

919-664-1244

E-mail:

patricia.aaron@dhhs.nc.gov

Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):

Aaron, Patricia

Title:

Interim Director, NCATP

Phone:

919-664-1244

E-mail:

patricia.aaron@dhhs.nc.gov

Primary Contact at Implementing Agency (last, first) - If applicable:

Aaron, Patricia

Title:

Interim Director, NCATP

Phone:

919-664-1244

E-mail:

patricia.aaron@dhhs.nc.gov

Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director

Name (last, first):

Title:

Phone:

E-mail:

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):

Sangvai, Devdutta

Title:

Secretary, DHHS

Phone:

919-855-4800

E-mail:

secretary@dhhs.nc.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
	Metro RUCC 1-3	Non-Metro RUCC 4-9	Total
	Area of Residence		Total
Approved Loan made	01	04	05
Approved Not made	00	00	00
Rejected	04	00	04
Total	05	04	09

2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made

Lowest/Highest Incomes
Lowest Income:	$32,832	Highest Income:	$121,860

Average Income
Sum of Incomes	Loans Made	Average Annual Income
$407,141	05	$81,428

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	00	00	02	00	00	03	05
Percentage of Loans	0%	0%	40%	0%	0%	60%	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	05	100%
Total	05	100%

Loan Type Summary
Type of Loan	Number of Loans	Dollar Value of Loans
Revolving Loans	00	$0
Partnership Loans	05	$79,665
Total	05	$79,665

4. Interest Rates

Interest Rates
Lowest	4%
Highest	4%

Interest Rate Summary
Sum of Interest Rates	Number of Loans Made	Average Interest Rate
20	05	4%

Number of Loans Made by Interest Rate
Interest Rate	Number of loans
0.0% to 2.0%	00
2.1% to 4.0%	05
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	05

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	02	$5,696
Daily living	00	$0
Environmental adaptations	00	$0
Vehicle modification and transportation	02	$57,079
Computers and related	01	$16,890
Recreation, sports, and leisure	00	$0
Total	05	$79,665

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?

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

One client has accessed the Alternate Finance Program on two occasions. In 2024, he utilized the program to obtain hand controls for his vehicle, and in 2025 he returned to finance both a walker and a manual wheelchair. He reported that the process was straightforward and easy to navigate each time. He indicated that he selected the program primarily for its low interest rate, which made the necessary equipment more affordable. He also observed that program staff appeared genuinely committed to assisting individuals in obtaining the assistive devices that support their independence.

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	05	05
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	05	05
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	00	00	05	05
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	00	00	05	05
9. Performance on this measure	NaN%	NaN%	100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

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

G. Notes:

Reutilization

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

A. Number of Recipients of Reused Devices

Activity	Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity
A. Device Exchange	00
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan	440
C. Total	440

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	440

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance

N/A

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	07	$2,625	$0	$2,625
Hearing	01	$50	$0	$50
Speech Communication	11	$1,130	$0	$1,130
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	04	$1,195	$0	$1,195
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	90	$6,489	$0	$6,489
Daily Living	291	$2,035	$0	$2,035
Environmental Adaptations	02	$2,460	$0	$2,460
Vehicle Modification & Transportation	00	$0	$0	$0
Computers and Related	05	$639	$0	$639
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	29	$1,105	$0	$1,105
Total	440	$17,728	$0	$17,728

D. Anecdote

The NCATP Director was contacted by Lorraine Ortiz Vazquez from the FEMA Voluntary Agency Coordination Branch regarding an individual affected by Hurricane Helene who required a lightweight standard wheelchair. Unfortunately, his home and all medical supplies were damaged in the storm. The NCATP partnered with Solutions for Independence, a center for independent living in Winston-Salem, to store and manage various assistive technology and durable medical equipment for emergency response purposes. Adriane Kittle from Solutions for Independence and Paul Eklund, NCATP Consultant, collaborated to identify a suitable lightweight standard wheelchair for Andrew Sydler. NCATP staff arranged to pick up and deliver the lightweight wheelchair. Both Mr. Sydler and his wife expressed their excitement and gratitude for the assistance and the prompt response.

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.	30	00	119	149
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	00	00	290	290
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	30	00	409	439
5. None of the above	01	00	00	01
6. Subtotal	31	00	409	440
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	31	00	409	440
9. Performance on this measure	96.77%	NaN%	100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	439	99.77%
Satisfied	01	0.23%
Satisfied somewhat	00	0%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total Surveyed	440
Response rate %	100%

G. Notes:

Device Loan

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

A. Short-Term Device Loans by Type of Purpose

Loans By Purpose
Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan	Number
Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation)	654
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding	28
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation	113
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity	179
Total	974

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	239	34	273
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	107	47	154
Representative of Education	51	107	158
Representative of Employment	04	01	05
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	225	59	284
Representatives of Community Living	09	17	26
Representatives of Technology	19	55	74
Total	654	320	974

C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans

Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days	14

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	47	20	67
Hearing	27	28	55
Speech Communication	200	81	281
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	78	42	120
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	25	22	47
Daily Living	40	13	53
Environmental Adaptations	33	27	60
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	00	00	00
Computers and Related	155	72	227
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	49	15	64
Total	654	320	974

E. Anecdote

Gabriel, a child with severe complex medical needs, worked with the assistive technologist in the Charlotte, NC Center. Gabriel’s mom has been very satisfied, and they’ve had the opportunity to loan multiple devices through NCATP. Here are some words from Tracey DeWitt, Gabriel’s mother: “Thanks to the Assistive Technology Program’s lending library of specialized tools, my son with severe complex medical needs has discovered new ways to engage with his environment. The adaptive toys and switches we’ve borrowed have been instrumental in teaching him cause and effect through sound and touch, which has been truly transformative for his learning and awareness.”

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	162	82	326	570
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	10	08	10	28
Subtotal	172	90	336	598
Have not made a decision	07	10	39	56
Subtotal	179	100	375	654
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	179	100	375	654
Performance on this measure	96.09%	90%	89.6%

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.	10	08	23	41
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	169	11	85	265
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	04	00	02	06
4. Subtotal	183	19	110	312
5. None of the above	03	01	03	07
6. Subtotal	186	20	113	319
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	01	01
8. Total	186	20	114	320
9. Performance on this measure	98.39%	95%	97.35%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	947	97.23%
Satisfied	23	2.36%
Satisfied somewhat	04	0.41%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total Surveyed	974
Response rate %	100%

I. Notes:

Device Demonstration

A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type

Type of AT Device / Service	Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services
Vision	76
Hearing	20
Speech Communication	187
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	43
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	28
Daily Living	45
Environmental Adaptations	24
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	04
Computers and Related	132
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	06
Total # of Device Demonstrations	565

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant	Decision-Makers	Other Participants	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	321	275	596
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	90	76	166
Representatives of Education	34	75	109
Representatives of Employment	09	08	17
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	86	116	202
Representative of Community Living	16	00	16
Representative of Technology	09	91	100
Total	565	641	1,206

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity	Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program)	171
Service Provider	111
Vendor	78
Repair Service	00
Others	00
Total	360

D. Anecdote

In December 2024, clients from the Caldwell Opportunities Program visited the Morganton NCATP AT Center to explore assistive technology options that could enhance their daily lives. Caldwell Opportunities is a non-profit organization dedicated to offering a comprehensive range of services for adults with disabilities. The tour included six clients and five staff members. During the visit, participants received informative sessions on the nature of assistive technology and its potential to promote greater independence in various tasks. The clients expressed specific interest in assistive technology and multiple items related to vision, recreation, communication, and activities of daily living (ADLs) were demonstrated during their visit.

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	99	81	347	527
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	00	00	04	04
Subtotal	99	81	351	531
Have not made a decision	02	10	22	34
Subtotal	101	91	373	565
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	101	91	373	565
Performance on this measure	98.02%	89.01%	94.1%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	1,181	97.93%
Satisfied	16	1.33%
Satisfied somewhat	09	0.75%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total	1,206
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.	40	08	147	195
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	169	11	375	555
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	04	00	02	06
4. Subtotal	213	19	524	756
5. None of the above	04	01	03	08
6. Subtotal	217	20	527	764
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	01	01
8. Total	217	20	528	765
9. Performance on this measure	96.31%	95%	99.05%	98.17%
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	261	163	673	1,097
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	10	08	14	32
Subtotal	271	171	687	1,129
Have not made a decision	09	20	61	90
Subtotal	280	191	748	1,219
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	280	191	748	1,219
Performance on this measure	96.79%	89.53%	91.84%	92.62%
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	99.50%	95%	Met
Response Rate	100%	90%	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	156
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	50
Representatives of Education	252
Representatives of Employment	375
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	310
Representatives of Community Living	83
Representatives of Technology	35
Unable to Categorize	108
TOTAL	1,369

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro	Non Metro	Unknown	TOTAL
951	418	00	1,369

B. Educational/Training Activity Topics

Educational/Training Activities by Topic
Primary Topic of Educational/Training Activities	Participants
AT Products/Services	546
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice	204
Combination of any/all of the above	423
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access	146
Transition	50
Total	1,369

C. Description of Educational/Training Activities

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

On November 22, 2024, NCATP hosted a professional development seminar entitled "Innovations, Independence, and Ethics" in Morganton, NC. This event featured three educational sessions: "Making Power Wheelchairs Smarter: Exploring the Continuum of SMART Technology," presented by Lindsey Sharpe, PT; "From Compliance to Empowerment: Ethical Practices in Assistive Technology," presented by Brenda Kennell, OTR/L, FAOTA; and "Upper Extremity Robotic Arm and Upper Extremity Arm Supports," presented by Kelsy Brown, Product Specialist and Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L. A total of 52 professionals attended the seminar, including occupational therapy practitioners, physical therapy practitioners, assistive technology professionals, speech-language pathologists, state agency representatives, and community program directors. The event was held at WorkSource West which is a Career Training Center that prepares people with disabilities for competitive integrated employment in a community job, more independent living and increased financial self-sufficiency.

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

A student from a local high school was referred to NCATP for a demonstration of assistive technology that could assist with the transition to higher education. The student is part of a group called Catalyst, which promotes STEM-related activities for individuals with disabilities. The student contacted our office to schedule a demonstration of devices such as CCTVs and Screen Readers. During the appointment, NCATP staff members assessed the student's existing equipment and determined that it sufficiently met his needs. However, guidance was provided on how to effectively use these devices to support his educational access and college campus experience. Technical assistance was offered to help him utilize his iPad as a magnifier and to read printed materials using built-in features. The student showed success with using equipment and expressed greater interest in exploring assistive technology once he started his college degree.

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

April 2025, NCATP attended the North Carolina Digital Opportunity Gathering at North Carolina State University. During the event, NCATP hosted a table and engaged in a one hour break out session on “Tech for All: Advancing Access in Technology”. During the breakout session, NCATP staff were a part of the panel and the NCATP Director was the moderator. There were over 200 in attendance and standing room only in the session with approximately 45-50 individuals in the room.

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	146
No known outcome at this time	00
Nonrespondent	00
Total	146
Performance Measure Percentage	100%
ACL Target Percentage	70%
Met/Not Met	Met

E. Notes:

Technical Assistance

A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance

Technical Assistance by Recipient Type
Education	10%
Employment	18%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	11%
Community Living	15%
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT)	46%
Total	100%

B. Description of Technical Assistance

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

A 3D printed robotic arm was created at the request of a client who did not enjoy using their heavy and cumbersome prosthetic arm. The assistive technologist and 3D printing specialist collaborated to print the fingers, phalanxes (knuckles), palm, forearm, and elbow cuff, culminating a total print time of 38 hours. Some pieces required shaping and molding using a heat gun, and the tendons of the hands were assembled using 65-pound fishing line. The client demonstrated their ability to interact with the environment and functionally grasp a cell phone and drink tumbler handle. This story was featured in the EIPD (formally Vocational Rehabilitation) August Newsletter and Facebook Group.

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

Over the past two years, the NCATP has collaborated with EIPD (formally Vocational Rehabilitation) to provide internship opportunities to EIPD clients. Brendan Dowd is an EIPD client that is currently working with the NCATP as an intern. Brendan completed his first internship May-September 2025. He enjoyed the internship and was eager to fulfill another 18-week internship with NCATP. During these internships, a need for assistive technology was acknowledged and one of the NCATP assistive technologists has actively worked with Brendan to initiate an AT assessment. The team of Brendan’s supervisor, EIPD counselor, Brendan, and an assistive technologist have worked diligently to assist with the ongoing transition from school to internship to the job force. The NCATP is now actively working on assisting Brendan with transitioning out of the internship into a temporary job position.

C. Notes:

Public Awareness

Public Awareness Activities

Public Awareness Narratives

Describe in detail at least one and no more than two innovative or high-impact public awareness activities conducted during this reporting period. Highlight the content/focus of the awareness information shared, the mechanism used to disseminate or communicate the awareness information, the numbers and/or types of individuals reached, and positive outcomes resulting from the activity. If quantative numbers are available regarding the reach of the activity, please provide those: however, quantative data is not required.

1. The North Carolina Assistive Technology Program successfully hosted the 2024 At Expo: Breaking Boundaries, Empowering Lives on October 3, 2024 at the McKimmon Center in Raleigh, NC. The Expo featured 45 exhibitors, including state agencies and assistive technology vendors who presented a variety of assistive technology solutions in the categories of vision, hearing, recreation, mobility, 3D printing, computer, access, speech communication, and learning & cognition. Additionally, the event included five hybrid educational sessions and offered various accommodations, such as ASL interpretation, Spanish translation, audio descriptions, CART services, and reserved seating for in-person participants. The Expo attracted a total of 542 in-person attendees and 117 virtual attendees.

2. NCATP participated in the Catawba County Special Olympics by setting up an informational table featuring a selection of switch-adaptive toys and recreational materials. The event was attended by over 400 student athletes and staff.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients	AT Device/ Service	AT Funding	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	501	60	561
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	277	65	342
Representative of Education	135	05	140
Representative of Employment	156	05	161
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	398	38	436
Representative of Community Living	185	17	202
Representative of Technology	234	09	243
Unable to Categorize	00	00	00
Total	1,886	199	2,085

Referral Types:

In the past year, the NCATP Director has served in an advisory role for the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) as the chair of the technology workgroup. This workgroup has played a pivotal role in formulating the upcoming objectives outlined in the All Ages, All Stages Plan for the DAAS program. As a result, NCATP has enhanced its outreach to professionals within the aging networks across the state, although we acknowledge that there are still challenges related to limited referrals and inquiries in this area. NCATP continues to collaborate with the Department of Public Instruction (DPI), which co-hosts the annual Assistive Technology Expo. Planning has commenced for 2025 and 2026 to co-host a series of training sessions for therapists in local schools, focusing on augmentative communication devices, services, strategies, and funding options. As part of the Division of Employment and Independence of People with Disabilities (EIPD), formerly known as DVRS, NCATP continues to receive inquiries and referrals from EIPD staff and the consumers they serve. Our outreach initiatives, including the annual AT Expo, regional pop-up events, and regular public awareness presentations, remain the primary means of generating referrals. During Hurricane Helene in October 2024, NCATP provided multiple pieces of equipment through an open-ended loan to Solutions for Independence which is a center for independent living. Through this partnership, NCATP was receiving referrals for anyone needing emergency equipment.

Referral Sources:

NCATP has been receiving a substantial number of referrals from various professionals in the rehabilitation field, including individual practitioners, therapists, counselors, and educators. Notably, approximately 36% of these referrals come directly from practitioners. In contrast, the primary source of referrals, accounting for 55%, is individuals, family members, and friends, often through word of mouth. Many clients report discovering NCATP through acquaintances or neighbors who have previously utilized our services. To further enhance our outreach and engagement, NCATP is utilizing the EIPD (formerly DVRS) Facebook and Instagram page to promote upcoming events and is actively updating the NCATP website with pertinent information, which has significantly contributed to an increase in referrals.

Notes:

Division name change information: The legal agency name is Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS), however Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) is the public facing name and reaffirms our mission on behalf of those with disabilities in North Carolina.

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?

The Department of Public Instruction and the North Carolina Assistive Technology Program teamed up to address the need for learning and support regarding communication supports in the school setting across the state of NC. The training's target audience was school based staff in NC public schools, primarily SLPs, who are supporting students with complex communication needs. The purpose of the training was to educate school staff regarding the importance of providing robust communication systems for students and the process of assessing, obtaining and implementing a variety of communication supports. During the training, the NCATP provided over 30 speech generated devices (SGD) in order for attendees to have hands-on experience. NCATP funded the training prep and coordination utilizing leveraged state funding.

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?

Prior to the training, a pre-conference survey was sent to gain a better understanding of how AT/AAC assessments are managed and implemented and the results were shared during the day-long event. Following the training, many of the attendees expressed gratitude and excitement about the training topic and many of the attendees contacted the NCATP for further information and assistance with implementing frameworks and procedures that were discussed. DPI and NCATP continue to partner, expanding the knowledge of school-based professionals in supporting students with complex communication and learning needs. Also, following this training, DPI and NCATP collaborated to identify districts that were implementing AT well and those that were not. This collaboration assisted with supporting mentorships, increasing access to assistive technology for all students in need. For future events, it may be helpful to create a school-based professional support chain email with all presentation attendees to provide an informal team of “experts” that could help one another.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

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

Education,

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

Training, Information & Assistance,

Outreach was conducted with the Vocational Rehabilitation Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

As an agency under the DVRS program in North Carolina, NCATP continues to partner with the executive leadership team providing input into policies, procedures around assistive technology, use of Artificial Intelligence for individuals served, as well as staffing and serving on the employee accommodation team providing recommendations for ergonomic and accommodation requests.

Assuring new DVRS staff are up to date with information and resources available to better serve individuals is imperative. NCATP has been part of the new employee training for all new hires, as well as part of the COAST training (individual training for new employees) sharing information about NCATP services, referral program and access to demonstrations and loans. These trainings have assisted new staff with understanding resources and information on making referrals to the NCATP program when warranted. This program will continue with the new employee orientations taking place every 3-4 months.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

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

Education, Employment, Transition (school to work or congregate care to community),

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

Device Loan, Demo, Reuse, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness,

Outreach was conducted with the Aging Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

The NCATP outreach and funding coordinator, along with the 3D printing specialist engaged in the NC Older American Month event hosted by the North Carolina Division of Aging in May 2025. The theme for the event was “Food/Good Nutrition” and was held at the NC Farmer’s Market. The NCATP hosted a table at the event and presented as a main guest speaker during their presentation series.

Over 180 individuals from across the state of North Carolina attended this event. While hosting a table and educating attendees about the NCATP services that are provided to everyone across the state, over 40 single point canes were given as part of our reutilization program, and NCATP was able to provide many individuals education on the NCATP program that serves all 100 counties in North Carolina. While speaking at the event, the NCATP speaker was able to show various assistive technology related to aging and encourage participants to engage one-on-one at the hosted table. This was a one-time event, but NCATP hopes to collaborate more with the Division of Aging soon.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

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

Community Participation and Integration, Health, Aging,

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

Demo, Reuse, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness,

Outreach was conducted with the Medicaid Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Why was collaboration not implemented? *

Due to ongoing challenges within the Medicaid system, including shifts in federal funding, there have been limiting factors that restricted outreach opportunities during the past year. These conditions required NCATP to focus on monitoring system changes and assessing their potential impact. The NCATP staff have remained actively informed of emerging challenges and opportunities as they develop within the Medicaid landscape. NCATP is making plans to provide informational sessions and trainings.

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
State Appropriations	$203,205	Technical Assistance	True
State Appropriations	$20,472	Reuse	True
Private	$24,956	Training	True
State Appropriations	$203,205	Demonstration	True
State Appropriations	$203,205	Device Loan	True
State Appropriations	$203,206	Training	True
State Appropriations	$227,714	Demonstration	True
Private	$24,957	Public Awareness, I&A	True
State Appropriations	$227,713	Device Loan	True
Private	$24,956	Technical Assistance	True
State Appropriations	$203,206	Public Awareness, I&A	True
	Amount: $1,566,795

For any leveraged funding reported above for which data could not be reported, please describe the extenuating circumstances that precluded data from being reported and efforts to remediate the situation in future reporting periods.

B. Public Health Workforce Grant Award

All Section 4 AT Act grantees were awarded $80,000.00 in 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:

$75,109.00

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.

NCATP continued providing outreach services initiated in FY 2022-2023 by providing online (bi-weekly) AT4All device/service demonstrations, assuring all online resources are accessible, including captioning and ASL services. Bi-weekly attendance averages 36 individuals with a yearly total of 1023 attendees (may include duplicate attendees), which is 311 more than last year. As part of our outreach, we partnered with Methodist University Occupational Therapy program, providing supervision for an OT doctoral student beginning outreach services through the use of 3D printing. Over three consecutive months (FY 2024), the OT student developed tools for NCATP staff, providing training to the Grant Advisory Council, local school professionals, and spoke at the 2024 AT Expo. In addition to training activities, the student produced 3D line readers for distribution at the Expo. In November 2024, NCATP was able to use the funds in the Public Health Workforce Grant to hire the previous intern as a part time temporary employee to focus on outreach efforts and the 3D printing program. Due to the temporary status of this position, this employee went on to pursue his occupational therapy career. The 3D printing projects and program he created made a lasting impression on NCATP and our community.

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).

NCATP received additional state funding, equalling $400,000, for the purpose of updating the nine AT labs (centers) across the state. Equipment for all nine AT centers continues to be updated, including 3D printing, smart home devices, virtual reality, artifical devices/applications, augmentative communication, and robotic technologies. This federal report includes data on demonstrations, device loans, technical assistance, and training provided with the use of the additional equipment.