National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

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South Carolina 2025

General Information

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

State AT Program Title:

South Carolina Assistive Technology Program

State AT Program Title:

State AT Program URL

https://sc.edu/medicine/scatp

Mailing Address:

USC School of Medicine, CDR

City:

Columbia

State:

Zip Code:

29208

Program Email:

rachell.johnson@uscmed.sc.edu

Phone:

803-935-5263

TTY:

Lead Agency

Agency Name:

University of South Carolina School of Medicine

Mailing Address:

6311 Garners Ferry Rd.

City:

Columbia

State:

Zip Code:

29209

Program URL:

https://www.sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/medicine/index.php

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):

Johnson, Rachell

Title:

Program Manager, SCATP

Phone:

803-935-5301

E-mail:

rachell.johnson@uscmed.sc.edu

Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):

Title:

Phone:

E-mail:

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

Title:

Phone:

E-mail:

Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director

Name (last, first):

Title:

Phone:

E-mail:

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):

Denise White

Title:

Associate Director, Sponsored Awards Management

Phone:

803-777-5262

E-mail:

whitedt@mailbox.sc.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?

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?

Activity 1

How would you describe this state financing activity?

AT Fabrication or AT Maker Program

2. Geographic Distribution and Number of Individuals Served

County of Residence	Individuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)	137
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)	16
C. Total Served	153

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure	0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures	153

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 / Service	Number Provided	Total Estimated Current Retail Purchase Price	Total Price for Which Devices Were Sold	Savings to Consumers
Vision	0	$0	$0	$0
Hearing	0	$0	$0	$0
Speech communication	119	$9,288	$0	$9,288
Learning, cognition, and developmental	44	$2,200	$396	$1,804
Mobility, seating and positioning	0	$0	$0	$0
Daily living	0	$0	$0	$0
Environmental adaptations	0	$0	$0	$0
Vehicle modification and transportation	0	$0	$0	$0
Computers and related	0	$0	$0	$0
Recreation, sports, and leisure	108	$8,425	$1,026	$7,399
Total	271	$19,913	$1,422	$18,491

D. Anecdote

In November 2024, SCATP conducted its 6th annual Adapted Toy Workshop, a two-day hands-on AT fabrication initiative that increased access to affordable, customized assistive technology for children with disabilities. In partnership with a local high school innovation center’s 3D printing and design program (R2I2), families, service providers, and educators received instruction on toy adaptation, while students supported fabrication stations and produced two types of 3D-printed switches used to operate the toys. Through this initiative, 90 toys were adapted, resulting in an estimated cost savings of $6,252 and expanded access to play-based assistive technology. In April 2025, SCATP hosted its 3rd annual Adapted Book Workshop, a two-day AT fabrication activity focused on inclusive literacy access. Participants learned to create flexible adapted book kits designed for use by children with a range of disabilities, addressing limitations of traditional single-disability adaptations. SCATP staff provided hands-on instruction using two children’s books selected for tactile adaptation potential and alignment with a state museum’s Accessibility Morning program and a vendor’s literacy planner. The workshop resulted in 44 adapted book kits, generating an estimated cost savings of $1,804 while increasing participant capacity to fabricate inclusive assistive technology solutions.

Photo collage showing participants and students adapting toys with switches and tools during an assistive technology fabrication workshop.

Impact Area Education Employment Community Living

In March 2025, during the 33rd annual Assistive Technology Expo, SCATP launched its first annual Makers Space within the vendor hall to expand hands-on access to assistive technology fabrication. SCATP partnered with a local high school innovation center’s 3D printing and design program (R2I2), along with volunteer support and sponsorship from BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, to deliver this interactive experience. The 2025 Makers Space focused on PVC-based fabrication, enabling participants to create 101 customized assistive technology devices, including tablet holders, eye-gaze frame boards, and a sentence-making tool. This initiative increased participant capacity to design and fabricate low-cost, functional AT solutions that support communication, access, and independence.

Three participants smiling and holding person-shaped PVC tablet holders created at the AT Expo Makers Space.

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.	22	00	00	22
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	131	00	00	131
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	153	00	00	153
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	153	00	00	153
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	153	00	00	153
9. Performance on this measure	100%	NaN%	NaN%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	153	100%
Satisfied	00	0%
Satisfied somewhat	00	0%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total Surveyed	153
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	03
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan	136
C. Total	139

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.	06
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures	133

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

6 clients were excluded from the performance measure due to involvement of school under IDEA, nursing home under Medicaid, and being a VR client. These entities are obligated to provide AT.

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	02	$4,241	$0	$4,241
Daily Living	00	$0	$0	$0
Environmental Adaptations	00	$0	$0	$0
Vehicle Modification & Transportation	01	$20,000	$6,000	$14,000
Computers and Related	00	$0	$0	$0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	00	$0	$0	$0
Total	03	$24,241	$6,000	$18,241

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	$3,236	$0	$3,236
Hearing	00	$0	$0	$0
Speech Communication	04	$2,778	$0	$2,778
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	04	$560	$0	$560
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	189	$190,923	$0	$190,923
Daily Living	70	$8,327	$0	$8,327
Environmental Adaptations	00	$0	$0	$0
Vehicle Modification & Transportation	00	$0	$0	$0
Computers and Related	01	$1,100	$0	$1,100
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	02	$5,185	$0	$5,185
Total	273	$212,109	$0	$212,109

D. Anecdote

A family caregiver contacted the South Carolina Assistive Technology Program (SCATP) seeking immediate assistance for her 83-year-old grandmother, who had low vision, was hard of hearing, and used a wheelchair. Through SCATP’s Assistive Technology Reuse program, the caregiver received gently used durable medical equipment—including a bath seat, bedside commode, and wheelchair—at no cost. Access to these devices addressed an immediate unmet need, improved safety and daily functioning, and avoided hundreds of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses not covered by private insurance. In addition to device provision, SCATP staff delivered individualized assistance by answering questions and connecting the caregiver to additional borrowing and reuse options as needs evolved. Following the grandmother’s passing, the caregiver returned the equipment to SCATP so it could be redistributed, extending the useful life of the devices and supporting program sustainability. This experience demonstrates how SCATP’s Reuse services increase access to assistive technology, generate cost savings, promote efficient use of resources, and support families who might otherwise lack access to essential assistive devices.

Grandmother and granddaughter smiling together while seated indoors, representing a family served through SCATP's assistive technology reuse services.

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.	05	00	88	93
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.	04	00	19	23
4. Subtotal	09	00	111	120
5. None of the above	00	00	13	13
6. Subtotal	09	00	124	133
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	09	00	124	133
9. Performance on this measure	100%	NaN%	89.52%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	136	97.84%
Satisfied	03	2.16%
Satisfied somewhat	00	0%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total Surveyed	139
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)	116
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding	05
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation	04
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity	04
Total	129

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	31	02	33
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	51	06	57
Representative of Education	18	01	19
Representative of Employment	00	00	00
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	13	03	16
Representatives of Community Living	03	01	04
Representatives of Technology	00	00	00
Total	116	13	129

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	32	02	34
Hearing	00	00	00
Speech Communication	71	06	77
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	15	01	16
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	06	02	08
Daily Living	17	22	39
Environmental Adaptations	01	02	03
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	01	00	01
Computers and Related	13	00	13
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	04	01	05
Total	160	36	196

E. Anecdote

Christian is a 15-year-old student who was referred to the South Carolina Assistive Technology Program (SCATP) during a re-evaluation of his augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) needs by his educational services team. Through SCATP’s device demonstration and loan programs, Christian was able to trial multiple AAC devices and access methods, including eye-gaze technology, to identify the most effective communication solution. Christian and his family also expanded their knowledge of AAC devices and switch options through SCATP loaner program, webinars, and Expo events. As a result of SCATP’s individualized support, Christian is now using his personal AAC device more effectively with both eye-gaze and switch access. Most recently, SCATP’s loan program enabled the family to borrow a floor stand mount essential for effective use of the device during speech therapy sessions. The family continues to rely on SCATP’s device loan services and reports increased confidence and success in supporting Christian’s communication needs.

$picture of student using his personal AAC device with eye gaze$

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	53	01	36	90
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	02	00	05	07
Subtotal	55	01	41	97
Have not made a decision	15	00	04	19
Subtotal	70	01	45	116
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	70	01	45	116
Performance on this measure	78.57%	100%	91.11%

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	01	01
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	02	00	00	02
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	05	01	04	10
4. Subtotal	07	01	05	13
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	07	01	05	13
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	07	01	05	13
9. Performance on this measure	100%	100%	100%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	118	91.47%
Satisfied	09	6.98%
Satisfied somewhat	01	0.78%
Not at all satisfied	01	0.78%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total Surveyed	129
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	35
Hearing	04
Speech Communication	145
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	18
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	00
Daily Living	07
Environmental Adaptations	05
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	00
Computers and Related	30
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	00
Total # of Device Demonstrations	244

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant	Decision-Makers	Other Participants	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	193	03	196
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	04	158	162
Representatives of Education	03	65	68
Representatives of Employment	02	12	14
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	30	187	217
Representative of Community Living	11	136	147
Representative of Technology	01	21	22
Total	244	582	826

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity	Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program)	197
Service Provider	59
Vendor	237
Repair Service	05
Others	06
Total	504

D. Anecdote

Laura, a resident of NHC Mauldin Retirement and Assisted Living, experienced increasing difficulty communicating with her family due to challenges associated with her Parkinson’s COPA diagnosis. To address this unmet need, Laura’s daughter contacted the South Carolina Assistive Technology Program (SCATP) seeking guidance. Through SCATP’s device demonstration services, the Program Director provided an in-person demonstration of multiple communication applications that support text-based and speech-generating communication. This hands-on experience enabled Laura to compare options, actively participate in decision-making, and identify the application that best met her functional communication needs. Following the demonstration, SCATP provided individualized assistance to increase access to assistive technology, working with Laura’s daughter to explore device acquisition options. With SCATP’s guidance, the family successfully applied to the Amplify Life program through the South Carolina Equipment Distribution Program (SCEDP). As a result, Laura received an iPad equipped with her selected communication application at no cost. This outcome reflects the effectiveness of SCATP’s device demonstration services in supporting informed decision-making, access to appropriate technology, and successful acquisition, resulting in improved communication, increased social connection, and enhanced participation in daily life.

Woman sitting in a wheelchair using the touchscreen of her personal communication device.

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	110	07	95	212
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	00	00	01	01
Subtotal	110	07	96	213
Have not made a decision	09	06	16	31
Subtotal	119	13	112	244
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	119	13	112	244
Performance on this measure	92.44%	53.85%	85.71%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	814	98.55%
Satisfied	12	1.45%
Satisfied somewhat	00	0%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total	826
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.	27	00	89	116
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	133	00	04	137
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	09	01	23	33
4. Subtotal	169	01	116	286
5. None of the above	00	00	13	13
6. Subtotal	169	01	129	299
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	169	01	129	299
9. Performance on this measure	94.67%	0%	72.09%	84.62%
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
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs	163	08	131	302
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	02	00	06	08
Subtotal	165	08	137	310
Have not made a decision	24	06	20	50
Subtotal	189	14	157	360
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	189	14	157	360
Performance on this measure	87.3%	57.14%	87.26%	86.11%
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	99.84%	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	260
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	282
Representatives of Education	880
Representatives of Employment	252
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	448
Representatives of Community Living	286
Representatives of Technology	39
Unable to Categorize	00
TOTAL	2,447

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro	Non Metro	Unknown	TOTAL
2,068	374	05	2,447

B. Educational/Training Activity Topics

Educational/Training Activities by Topic
Primary Topic of Educational/Training Activities	Participants
AT Products/Services	1,657
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice	100
Combination of any/all of the above	641
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access	43
Transition	06
Total	2,447

C. Description of Educational/Training Activities

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

The SC Assistive Technology Program collaborated with the State Department of Education’s (SCDOE) Assistive Technology staff member to host the 7th annual Assistive Technology Leadership Conference (ATLC). The SCATP program director collaborated with a national level speaker from the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST), a national nonprofit organization that specializes in applied special technologies and universal design for learning. This training day consisted of three 1-hour presentations, and 3 breakout group discussions with real-time collaboration. There were nearly 80 in attendance for the morning session from representing multiple counties and school districts in SC. The sessions targeted specifically the federal guidance on Assistive Technology issued in January of 2024 and accessibility. The session speakers shared aspects of implementing assistive technology and valuable resources for school district assistive technology teams working with individuals with developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, and physical disabilities. The attendance for those who attended the full day of educational activities was 63 participants who increased their knowledge of assistive technology and accessibility because of attending this training event.

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

An SCATP team member is an active member of the interagency team for the state's Youth Transition Forum (YLF) assisting in organizing and planning the training and educational activities for the multi-day event and conducts one of the training sessions for AT in employment. For the event held during this reporting, the SCATP Program Director presented an interactive session at YLF assisting 20 attendees to understand AT as it relates to independence and employment goals.

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

A presentation on accessibility was made available and advertised statewide to all attendees at the state’s AT Expo in March of 2025. SCATP partnered with the SC State Department of Education (SCDOE) to put on the education session entitled: The Americans with Disabilities Act Updated Digital Requirements. The session addressed the fact that many people access services, activities and programs provided by state and local governments digitally through websites, and more importantly the digital content they are accessing must be accessible to all. In this presentation, the discussion focused on the updated ADA digital requirements. The 39 Attendees were able to view examples of accessible vs. inaccessible digital content and explore resources available to facilitate accessible digital content.

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	40
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented	03
No known outcome at this time	00
Nonrespondent	00
Total	43
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	54%
Employment	01%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	09%
Community Living	31%
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT)	05%
Total	100%

B. Description of Technical Assistance

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

The SCATP program director is an active serving on the state’s interagency Tech First Team in a leadership role. During this reporting period, the team was able to get the state of SC to pass a resolution making SC a Tech First state. While the initiative, at first only included the words “enabling technology”, under the education and leadership guidance from the SCATP program director, “assistive technology” wording and definitions were added to the resolution, which was passed and fully adopted by both the senate and house representatives in April 2025. In addition to those key definitions, other key elements of the resolution include: 1.Recognizing technology as a critical part of service delivery for individuals with disabilities. 2.Encouraging collaboration across state agencies, providers, and technology developers. 3.Promoting training and education for providers, families, and individuals to increase tech literacy and adoption. 4.Supporting workforce development thro

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

Two SCATP team members are active members of the South Carolina Endeavors for Transition Resources and Interagency Collaboration (SCENTRIC) team meeting monthly. The mission of SCENTRIC is to ensure students with disabilities in South Carolina are prepared for independent living and employment by focusing on providing resources, addressing the needs of interagency teams, and building capacity through collaboration. The SCATP program director serves as member of the Leadership Team for SCENTRIC and leads the Outreach and Training subcommittee. The program director also, attended the national 2025 Capacity Building Institute (CBI), hosted by the Collaborative's National Technical Assistance Center on Transition (NTACT:C) as part of a delegation of SC transition leadership team. Another SCATP staff member has served as a subcommittee member for different subcommittees for SCENTRIC during this reporting period.

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 South Carolina Assistive Technology Expo is a long-standing, highly anticipated public awareness initiative that has served South Carolinians for over three decades. Now in its 33rd year, the Expo increases statewide knowledge of assistive technology and access to related services by providing individuals with disabilities, family members, caregivers, and professionals the opportunity to explore emerging technologies, evidence-based solutions, and practical applications that support independence and community participation. In 2025, the Expo featured 12 educational training sessions addressing current assistive technology issues, service delivery, and real-world integration. A total of 870 individuals attended, and 95% of participants reported increased awareness of assistive technology issues and available resources, demonstrating the Expo’s sustained impact in expanding access to information, strengthening service connections, and supporting informed decision-making.

2. During the reporting period, SCATP program staff implemented targeted community outreach through exhibits and participation in state-level events and conferences to expand awareness of assistive technology and SCATP services. These direct, face-to-face public awareness activities reached more than 1,800 South Carolinians and resulted in the distribution of over 2,700 assistive technology informational materials, including brochures and flyers. As a direct outcome of these efforts, SCATP experienced increased demand for services, reflected in higher referral rates, growth in listserv membership, and increased participation in training and educational opportunities statewide.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients	AT Device/ Service	AT Funding	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	149	75	224
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	158	56	214
Representative of Education	186	27	213
Representative of Employment	07	01	08
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	187	63	250
Representative of Community Living	131	29	160
Representative of Technology	51	05	56
Unable to Categorize	01	00	01
Total	870	256	1,126

Referral Types:

SCATP is a resource for the SC Department of Education, Hospitals, clinics, and residential healthcare facilities, Centers for Independent Living (CILs), and the SC Department on Aging as we provide several outreach opportunities and continuing educational hours for these professionals such as our monthly assistive technology webinar series; yearly adapted toy and book workshops; statewide AT Expo; and AT Leadership Conference offered in partnership with the SC State Department of Education. SCATP has also been a resource providing assistance to the SC Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN), now known as the SC Department of Behavior Health and Developmental Disabilities (BHDD-OIDD), and has partnered with BHDD-OIDD to bring an 2-part workshop series on AT for communication to 4 BHDD-OIDD regions in the state which increased the number of referrals and AT awareness. 18% of our referrals come from health care agencies, 15% of our referrals come from education agencies, and 8% come from CIL(s). Over 12% of our referrals come from our state AT website and online outreach, such as our listserv that has over 6800 subscribers.

Referral Sources:

SCATP is a resource for families, educators, health care professionals, staff of Centers for Independent Living (CILs), staff of the SC Department on Aging, and staff of the SC Department of Behavior Health and Developmental Disabilities (BHDD-OIDD) as we provide several outreach opportunities and continuing educational hours for these professionals such as our monthly assistive technology webinar series; yearly adapted toy and book workshops; statewide AT Expo; and AT Leadership Conference offered in partnership with the SC State Department of Education. SCATP has BHDD-OIDD to provide customized training specific to their needs to increase staff knowledge and awareness of AT for communication. This has increased our number of referrals by those providers. 65% of our referrals come from providers; 20% of our referrals come from public awareness and other community outreach activities; and 14% of our referrals come from past AT Program consumers.

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?

The SC Assistive Technology Program (SCATP) collaborated with the State Department of Education’s (SCDOE) Assistive Technology staff member to host the 7th annual Assistive Technology Leadership Conference (ATLC) with the theme of the conference being a deep dive into the Federal AT Guidance. SCATP staff met with the SCDOE staff member 2-3 times per month for 6 months prior to the event to collaborate on the organization and planning of the event and educational sessions. There were 80 educators who attended the first half of the conference and 63 educators who attended all day. This initiative was funded by a grant received from the SC Developmental Disabilities Council.

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?

100% of those completing the survey commented that their knowledge and awareness of both AT and accessibility was increased. This is an annual event, and the partnership will continue, provided funding and resources are available. To replicate this initiative, programs should make allowance for the 6 months (or more) of planning time, to ensure the success of the program and to meet the AT awareness needs of the audience.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

N/A; currently our URLs are removed from the webpage (taken down) post event.

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

Education, 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, Technical Assistance,

Outreach was conducted with the Vocational Rehabilitation Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

SCATP and the SC Voc Rehab partners together on the state's interagency South Carolina Endeavors for Transition Resources and Interagency Collaboration (SCENTRIC) team. Together, our organizations have leadership roles in this initiative. We also assist with planning educational activities for the state's transition conference. There is no additional funding to implement this initiative.

As a result of this collaborative effort, we have been able to meet some of our state's transition goals for training and outreach. One of the needs identified and addressed is that within our interagency team, key roles, players, and organizations needed to have increased awareness of their programs and services even amongst our team. We accomplished this goal by providing monthly 15-minute webinars highlighting the agencies, which in turn increased awareness of the SC Assistive Technology Program (SCATP) and access to AT services. This initiative takes a lot of work, planning, and subcommittees to implement it in your state. A program needs at least two dedicated team members to serve, and to attend national level transition conferences to help set state goals.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

https://transitionalliancesc.org/partner-agencies

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?

Training, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness, Technical Assistance,

Outreach was conducted with the Aging Agency *

Why was outreach not conducted? *

There have been no new funding opportunities for past partnership collaboration such as social isolation projects; however, we will continue to search for new collaborative partnerships with area agencies on aging.

Outreach was conducted with the Medicaid Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

Collaboration meetings began between BabyNet, a birth to 3 services funded with through the Department of Health and Human Services, Healthy Connections Medicaid in SC. The collaboration meetings thus far have centered around creating a new partnership between these organizations to fund communication devices using Medicaid dollars for the birth to 3 population with SCATP serving as the implementing agency for the program responsible for using the funding to provide devices and education to BabyNet providers and families receiving the service.

As a result of this new partnership, this new AAC program will be formalized into action in early 2026. During this current reporting period, AT awareness was increased by the collaborative team meetings in which SCATP was able to provide education surrounding AT for communication, device loan programs, and training on procurement of AT. As a direct result of this education, the partnership was formed and is in the final stages of planning.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

https://www.scdhhs.gov/

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

Education, Community Participation and Integration, Health,

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

Information & Assistance, Public Awareness, Technical Assistance,

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
Private	$41,556	Public Awareness, I&A	True
Public/State Agency	$13,500	Training	True
	Amount: $55,056

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:

$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.

During FY 22-25, Able SC, with support from the SC Assistive Technology Program (SCATP), has advanced health equity for South Carolina’s disability community. The public health team engaged key stakeholders, including the US Department of Health and Human Services, healthcare providers, community advocates, and public health organizations, through training, outreach programs, assistive technology reuse, partnerships, and coalition meetings. This work has improved emergency preparedness, increased vaccine access for people with disabilities, and led to meaningful changes in healthcare systems. Strong relationships with community and state partners have expanded resources and built a lasting framework for disability-inclusive health services.

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).