National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

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Washington 2025

General Information

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

State AT Program Title:
Washington Assistive Technology Act Program
State AT Program Title:
State AT Program URL
https://watap.org
Mailing Address:
UW Box 357920
City:
Seattle
State:
WA
Zip Code:
98195
Program Email:
watap@uw.edu
Phone:
800-214-8731
TTY:
866-866-0162

Lead Agency

Agency Name:
University of Washington Center for Technology and Disability Studies
Mailing Address:
University of Washington, UW Box 357920
City:
Seattle
State:
WA
Zip Code:
98195
Program URL:
https://uwctds.washington.edu

Implementing Entity

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):
Knue, Alan
Title:
Director
Phone:
2066856836
E-mail:
aknue@uw.edu
Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):
Knue, Alan
Title:
Director
Phone:
2066856836
E-mail:
aknue@uw.edu
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):
Rhodes, Carol
Title:
Director, Office of Sponsored Programs
Phone:
2065434043
E-mail:
osp@uw.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
Area of Residence Total
Metro
RUCC 1-3 		Non-Metro
RUCC 4-9
Approved Loan made 90 08 98
Approved Not made 04 00 04
Rejected 78 09 87
Total 172 17 189

2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made

Lowest/Highest Incomes
Lowest Income: $5,400 Highest Income: $298,910

Average Income
Sum of Incomes Loans Made Average Annual Income
$7,645,568 98 $78,016

Number and Percentage of Loans Made to Applicants by Income Range
Income Ranges Total
$15,000
or Less		 $15,001-
$30,000		 $30,001-
$45,000		 $45,001-
$60,000		 $60,001-
$75,000		 $75,001
or More
Number of Loans 15 12 07 07 15 42 98
Percentage of Loans 15.31% 12.24% 7.14% 7.14% 15.31% 42.86% 100%

3. Loan Type

Loan Type
Type of Loan Number of Loans Percentage of loans
Revolving Loans 98 100%
Partnership Loans
Without interest buy-down or loan guarantee 00 0%
With interest buy-down only 00 0%
With loan guarantee only 00 0%
With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee 00 0%
Total 98 100%

Loan Type Summary
Type of Loan Number of Loans Dollar Value of Loans
Revolving Loans 98 $1,616,470
Partnership Loans 00 $0
Total 98 $1,616,470

4. Interest Rates

Interest Rates
Lowest 3%
Highest 8.5%

Interest Rate Summary
Sum of Interest Rates Number of Loans Made Average Interest Rate
442 98 4.51020408163265%

Number of Loans Made by Interest Rate
Interest Rate Number of loans
0.0% to 2.0% 00
2.1% to 4.0% 29
4.1% to 6.0% 65
6.1% to 8.0% 02
8.1% - 10.0% 02
10.1%-12.0% 00
12.1%-14.0% 00
14.1% + 00
Total 98

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 18 $60,294
Speech communication 00 $0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 00 $0
Mobility, seating and positioning 10 $41,236
Daily living 25 $48,812
Environmental adaptations 06 $54,011
Vehicle modification and transportation 44 $1,395,892
Computers and related 08 $11,225
Recreation, sports, and leisure 01 $5,000
Total 112 $1,616,470

6. Defaults

Defaults
Number Loans in default 06
Net loss for loans in default $5,714

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? 1
Activity 1
How would you describe this state financing activity?Telecommunications equipment distribution

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

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)62
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)3
C. Total Served65

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures65

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

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / ServiceNumber of Devices
Funded		Value of
AT Provided
Vision 48$41,177
Hearing 21$5,565
Speech communication0$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning4$295
Daily living 0$0
Environmental adaptations0$0
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0
Computers and related 51$39,289
Recreation, sports, and leisure0$0
Total124$86,326



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? 1
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 ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)69
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)5
C. Total Served74

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures74

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

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / ServiceNumber ProvidedTotal Estimated
Current Retail
Purchase Price		Total Price for
Which Devices
Were Sold		Savings
to Consumers
Vision 30$1,111$0$1,111
Hearing 5$120$0$120
Speech communication 1$29$0$29
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0$0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning 0$0$0$0
Daily living 315$3,188$0$3,188
Environmental adaptations 0$0$0$0
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0$0$0
Computers and related 2$40$0$40
Recreation, sports, and leisure 11$270$0$270
Total 364$4,758$0$4,758


D. Anecdote

"Janette" came to WATAP’s state financing partner, Northwest Access Fund, for a loan to install a steering knob and electronic left foot accelerator in a car she would share with her mother. Previously, she was relying on ride share services to get to work, medical appointments, and run errands, which was costing her more than $550 per month. After an initial application had been denied, Access Fund staff worked with Janette to build her budget and address cashflow issues which had resulted in bounced payments. With this work completed, the Fund was able to approve $3,300 in financing with a 10-month term. Janette ended up going with a shorter term so that she could pay off the loan more quickly, knowing she would still be saving $200 per month in transportation expenses even with a higher loan amount. With her finances more secure, Janette was compelled to complete her training as a Certified Rehabilitation Specialist and acquire her first driver's license. She now has increased mobility and can save toward her life goals.

Impact Area

Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 05 07 98 110
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 23 11 85 119
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 04 04
4. Subtotal 28 18 187 233
5. None of the above 01 00 03 04
6. Subtotal 29 18 190 237
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 29 18 190 237
9. Performance on this measure 96.55% 100% 98.42%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 231 97.47%
Satisfied 06 2.53%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 00 0%
Total Surveyed 237
Response rate % 100%

G. Notes:

Reutilization

A. Number of Recipients of Reused Devices

Activity Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity
A. Device Exchange 00
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan 2,162
C. Total 2,162

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure because AT is provided to or on behalf of an entity that has an obligation to provide the AT such as schools under IDEA or VR agencies/clients. 00
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures 2,162

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

B. Device Exchange Activities

Device Exchange
Type of AT Device Number of Devices Exchanged Total Estimated Current Purchase Price Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Exchanged Savings to Consumers
Vision 00 $0 $0 $0
Hearing 00 $0 $0 $0
Speech Communication 00 $0 $0 $0
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 00 $0 $0 $0
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 00 $0 $0 $0
Daily Living 00 $0 $0 $0
Environmental Adaptations 00 $0 $0 $0
Vehicle Modification & Transportation 00 $0 $0 $0
Computers and Related 00 $0 $0 $0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 00 $0 $0 $0
Total 00 $0 $0 $0

C. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassignment and/or Open Ended Loan Activities

Device Reassign/Repair/Refurbish and/or OEL
Type of AT Device Number of Devices Reassigned/Refurbished and Repaired Total Estimated Current Purchase Price Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Sold Savings to Consumers
Vision 00 $0 $0 $0
Hearing 05 $16,700 $900 $15,800
Speech Communication 00 $0 $0 $0
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 00 $0 $0 $0
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 1,619 $812,210 $0 $812,210
Daily Living 3,618 $457,191 $0 $457,191
Environmental Adaptations 137 $16,977 $0 $16,977
Vehicle Modification & Transportation 00 $0 $0 $0
Computers and Related 00 $0 $0 $0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 00 $0 $0 $0
Total 5,379 $1,303,078 $900 $1,302,178

D. Anecdote

“Ted” has a degenerative condition that cause back and neck pain and spasms. He has worked with our WATAP’s device reuse partner, Bridge Disability Ministries’ Meyer Medical Equipment Center to explore what options might be available to help his mobility. He tried and was provided a cane initially, which worked for a while, and then a 4-wheeled walker, which for a time worked wonderfully, but as he fell more and more frequently and safety became more of an issue, he returned to the Medical Equipment Center to find another solution. The trained volunteers at the Center matched Ted with a reclining wheelchair which not only helped him with his mobility, but also relieved his back spasms and pain. Since receiving the wheelchair, Ted reports he has enjoyed going to the cinema with his partner, meeting with friends, and just be mentally present at doctor's appointments. All this “without pain and the fear of falling ruling my quality of life.”

Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 00 00 1,207 1,207
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 00 01 890 891
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 64 64
4. Subtotal 00 01 2,161 2,162
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 00 01 2,161 2,162
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 00 01 2,161 2,162
9. Performance on this measure NaN% 100% 100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 1,873 86.63%
Satisfied 173 8%
Satisfied somewhat 96 4.44%
Not at all satisfied 19 0.88%
Nonrespondent 01 0.05%
Total Surveyed 2,162
Response rate % 99.95%

G. Notes:

Device Loan

A. Short-Term Device Loans by Type of Purpose

Loans By Purpose
Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan Number
Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) 370
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding 01
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation 00
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity 02
Total 373

B. Short-Term Device Loan by Type of Borrower

LOANS BY TYPE OF BORROWER
Type of Individual or Entity Number of Device Borrowers
Desicion-making All other Purposes Total
Individuals with Disabilities 349 00 349
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 05 00 05
Representative of Education 02 00 02
Representative of Employment 02 00 02
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 12 03 15
Representatives of Community Living 00 00 00
Representatives of Technology 00 00 00
Total 370 03 373

C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans

Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days 21

D. Types of Devices Loaned

Types of Devices Loaned
Type of AT Device Number of Devices
Desicion-making All other Purposes Total
Vision 143 00 143
Hearing 29 00 29
Speech Communication 09 00 09
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 09 00 09
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 01 00 01
Daily Living 103 00 103
Environmental Adaptations 01 00 01
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 00 00 00
Computers and Related 229 02 231
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 73 03 76
Total 597 05 602

E. Anecdote

“Hamnet” has a genetic disorder that includes global developmental delay. In particular, Hamnet had difficulty with fine motor abilities like selecting icons on an AAC device or holding a pencil, due to his limited ability to hold his hand and arm steady and secure at the various joints, including at the shoulder, elbow, and/or wrist. His school occupational therapist would sometimes employ a section of a pool noodle to lock his wrist, but someone often still had to help support his elbow for him to grasp a pencil and move it. When he was using his AAC device, it was very challenging in supporting his arm while not steering or affecting his icon selections. So his Speech-Language Pathologist suggested that he try Guided Hands, a device that uses a sliding system and a multipurpose utensil holder to promote guided hand movements and gross motor skills, as a solution to give him more control while providing support. Hament’s team was able to borrow the device from WATAP and in the 3 weeks they had it, it showed great promise. The team was able to acquire Guided Hands for him, and they are now using the device to build his fine motor skills and muscles needed to use his communication device and hold and use objects.

Impact Area

F. Access Performance Measures

Access Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 05 55 178 238
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 01 02 23 26
Subtotal 06 57 201 264
Have not made a decision 00 08 00 08
Subtotal 06 65 201 272
Nonrespondent 00 07 91 98
Total 06 72 292 370
Performance on this measure 100% 87.69% 100%

G. Acquisition Performance Measures

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

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 266 71.31%
Satisfied 06 1.61%
Satisfied somewhat 02 0.54%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 99 26.54%
Total Surveyed 373
Response rate % 73.46%

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 58
Hearing 21
Speech Communication 14
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 10
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 17
Daily Living 175
Environmental Adaptations 58
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 00
Computers and Related 29
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 18
Total # of Device Demonstrations 400

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant Decision-Makers Other Participants Total
Individuals with Disabilities 249 00 249
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 41 25 66
Representatives of Education 04 00 04
Representatives of Employment 16 03 19
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 59 26 85
Representative of Community Living 29 00 29
Representative of Technology 02 00 02
Total 400 54 454

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program) 16
Service Provider 44
Vendor 44
Repair Service 00
Others 00
Total 104

D. Anecdote

Edith is 94 years old and strives to live independently in a retirement community. Edith came to WATAP to explore the use of smart home devices to enhance her independence and safety. She was able to see several options but liked the functionality and size of the Amazon Echo Dots. As Edith was a client of our iCanConnect program, she qualified for receiving a couple of Echo dots to place around her home. She had one placed in her garage because she wanted a way to call for help if she was out in the front yard and fell. Unfortunately, not long after we provided the Echos, she did take a fall. She was able to use the Echo to call her neighbor, who was then able to come to her and call 911. Although she ended up breaking her shoulder, she was so grateful to be able to get help so quickly and the Echo worked as she hoped it would. She will be using an emergency assist service so she can call emergency response directly from the Echos, should she need to in the future.

Edith with her Amazon Echo Dot in her garage.
Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 00 17 381 398
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 00 01 01 02
Subtotal 00 18 382 400
Have not made a decision 00 00 00 00
Subtotal 00 18 382 400
Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
Total 00 18 382 400
Performance on this measure NaN% 100% 100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 445 98.02%
Satisfied 09 1.98%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 00 0%
Total 454
Response rate % 100%

G. Notes:

Overall Performance Measures

Overall Acquisition Performance Measure

Acquisition Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 05 08 1,305 1,318
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 24 12 975 1,011
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 69 69
4. Subtotal 29 20 2,349 2,398
5. None of the above 01 00 03 04
6. Subtotal 30 20 2,352 2,402
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 30 20 2,352 2,402
9. Performance on this measure 96.67% 100% 96.94% 96.96%
ACL Performance Measure 85%
Met/Not Met Met

Overall Access Performance Measure

Access Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 05 72 559 636
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 01 03 24 28
Subtotal 06 75 583 664
Have not made a decision 00 08 00 08
Subtotal 06 83 583 672
Nonrespondent 00 07 91 98
Total 06 90 674 770
Performance on this measure 100% 90.36% 100% 98.81%
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 96.26% 95% Met
Response Rate 96.90% 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 210
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 00
Representatives of Education 40
Representatives of Employment 15
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 197
Representatives of Community Living 84
Representatives of Technology 41
Unable to Categorize 00
TOTAL 587

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro Non Metro Unknown TOTAL
587 00 00 587

B. Educational/Training Activity Topics

Educational/Training Activities by Topic
Primary Topic of Educational/Training Activities Participants
AT Products/Services 526
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice 00
Combination of any/all of the above 00
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access 41
Transition 20
Total 587

C. Description of Educational/Training Activities

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

WATAP’s Assistive Technology Demonstration Room, was renovated and re-opened to the public in early 2025. This remodel has allowed us to provide opportunities for training and education for clinical staff on rehabilitation medicine and occupational and physical therapy teams, students in those disciplines as well as those in special education and disability studies, and staff in supported employment and aging services agencies. This year we provided 16 class lectures and workshops for 361 participants where participants learned about and had opportunities for hands-on experiences with assistive technology that may benefit their clients, practice, and/or career paths. We highlighted the importance of AT selection, best practices and resources around 3D printed AT, and what materials can be used for the fabrication of low-cost solutions.

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

WATAP provided a session on AT for transition for 20 students attending the State’s Center for Independence summer workshop. This session covered AT related to transition including: reading, writing, notetaking, task management, computer access, and independent living with 3D printed tools. Live demonstrations of some of the AT were provided during the training. The students explored AT tools that can increase a student’s independence and performance in school and as they transition to post-secondary education, employment and community living. They were also provided resources on how to access AT services to support decision making and those that can assist with transition related issues.

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

As part of an agreement with the City of Seattle Finance and Administrative Services (FAS) for technical assistance and training around digital accessibility especially in response to the Department of Justice’s 2024 Digital Accessibility ruling, WATAP provided a series of 3 trainings to 41 participants. The first of these training was an overview of the DOJ’s 2024 Digital Accessibility ruling to the FAS Digital Accessibility Workgroup members and FAS administrators. Participants will use the information provided to improve and implement policies and practices to ensure accessibility of FAS resources available on and downloaded from websites and social media sites by the deadline of April 2026. A second training on document accessibility was provided to the Workgroup members and FAS staff in non-technical roles. This training highlighted the significance of making digital content accessible to people with disabilities and the essential steps for crafting content that everyone can access. The final training reiterated some the high level concepts provided in the second training and added more detailed steps for checking documents for accessibility in Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, and PDF. This third training utilized accessibility checklists and sample documents developed by WATAP for participants to use in their work.

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 32
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented 09
No known outcome at this time 00
Nonrespondent 00
Total 41
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 05%
Employment 10%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 05%
Community Living 50%
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) 30%
Total 100%

B. Description of Technical Assistance

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

The City of Seattle Finance and Administrative Services (FAS) contracted with WATAP for technical assistance and training around digital accessibility especially in response to the Department of Justice’s 2024 Digital Accessibility ruling. A FAS Digital Accessibility Workgroup was formed that included WATAP and those responsible for digital content within FAS units. The Workgroup meets monthly for administration updates and to check in on work progress among the various FAS units. The Workgroup is reviewing all current web assets and applications, flagging any content that needs to be offered online. WATAP is providing accessibility testing of these assets, identifying those assets that require remediation to be made accessible. WATAP also drafted a FAS Digital Accessibility Compliance Plan, which FAS will use for guidance and link to appropriate policies, procedures, and resources to ensure accessibility for all current and future content.

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

WATAP continues its partnership with the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation Georgia Institute of Technology on a collaborative project funded by NIDILRR, “Accommodation Expert Support System for Aging Well” or Aging Well for short. The project is creating an online accommodation assessment system that service providers can use when conducting community living evaluations with older adults, who are aging into or with a disability, and their families to promote aging in place and independence. The project draws on both research and practice—and considering existing recommendation tools—and aims to create a user-friendly system for seniors, their families, caregivers, and support networks, as well as clinical professionals. During this past year, the project has finalized a demo and WATAP and Georgia Tech will be presenting this at the 2026 ATIA Conference in Orlando, Florida.

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. WATAP participated in the Seattle Design Festival Block Party August 15-17, 2025, for a third year in a row. Our exhibit, "Empowered by Feedback: Inclusivity at the Zoo," featured an Empower Station intended to help people using electric mobility devices more easily power up and enjoy public spaces, as well as space for individuals and families to relax and recharge. This year’s exhibit was a collaborative effort between ourselves, the Northwest Universal Design Council, Woodland Park Zoo, Carli Hoki Design, and Age Friendly Seattle. Our concept provided a comfortable bench surrounded by bright and colorful panels depicting zoo animals, with a portable solar generator and space for those using mobility devices, to stop and top up their batteries, located nearby. We also provided the opportunity for festivalgoers to try various assistive technology devices that promote rest, relaxation, and recreation. We had 708 individuals visit the exhibit and festivalgoers had an overwhelmingly positive response to the concept. Several shared insightful feedback for making it even more inclusive, for example, highlighting that it could also help folks using oxygen tanks. Most importantly this event allows WATAP to interact and educate members of the general public about the uses and benefits of assistive technology and universal design.

2.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients AT Device/
Service		 AT Funding Total
Individuals with Disabilities 853 261 1,114
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 404 125 529
Representative of Education 98 61 159
Representative of Employment 122 40 162
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 200 114 314
Representative of Community Living 136 172 308
Representative of Technology 88 39 127
Unable to Categorize 00 00 00
Total 1,901 812 2,713

Referral Types:

By percentage, most individuals learn about WATAP either as a result of our own in-person and virtual outreach (~29%), or coming as referrals through community partners and their programs (~44%). One example of on-going outreach that has resulted in increased referrals is our Assistive Technology Providers Network, which promotes more meaningful professional networking, enhances collaboration among the network members and community partners, and promotes cross dissemination of information and resources. Referrals through our Providers Network has resulted in more meaningful referrals over the years from health care practitioners, educators, rehabilitation counselors especially for our device demonstration and device lending programs.

Referral Sources:

We receive a significant portion of referrals through our in-person outreach (23%) and other outreach including webinars (6%). Self referrals account for 20% with the next largest portions of our referrals coming from our relationships with our employment/ vocational rehabilitation agencies (estimated at 16%), through our state financing partners at the Northwest Access Fund and iCanConnect WA (12%), through relationships with regional health care providers (8%), and through Community Living Connects (estimated at 6%) which WATAP is a part of and includes agencies supporting independent living, aging and adult services, veterans, and caregivers. Remaining referrals (estimated at about 5%) come from education, other entities, and friends and family, and with the remaining 4% of our referrals as not known.

Notes:

Coordination/Collaboration and State Improvement Outcomes

Overview of Coordination/Collaboration Activities

Yes
Yes
Washington’s Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction funds the Special Education Technology Center (SETC), which is the State’s entity that supports students, families, and school personnel in assistive technology needs for education. WATAP and SETC have an ongoing memorandum of understanding that allow school districts access to WATAP’s device lending program. WATAP also supports the professional development of education staff through technical assistance and training.
Since 2004, WATAP has partnered with SETC, back-filling SETC’s device lending to school districts by providing access to devices that SETC dos not have in its inventory or are wait-listed and not available for immediate shipment. Washington State school district staff can borrow WATAP equipment for device demonstration and for students to try in the classroom. WATAP has also participated in SETC’s professional development training webinar series, with recent topics including accessible web and documents, AT for time management, and apps for anxiety and mental health. SETC and K-12 educators and administrators are regular participants in the Assistive Technology Providers Network, managed and facilitated by WATAP, which promotes more meaningful professional networking, enhances collaboration among the network members and community partners, and promotes cross dissemination of information and resources.

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

Education,

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

Device Loan, Training, Information & Assistance, Technical Assistance,
Yes
Yes
Since 2010, WATAP has supported the services provided by Washington State’s Department of Social and Health Services Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) through increased awareness of and expansion of access to assistive technology for school and work. This collaborative partnership came about through the initiative of the DVR Advisory Council Member on WATAP’s Advisory Council and a formal contract was already in place when WIOA was signed into law. WATAP leverages its federally mandated activities and resources to support professional development and increase access to assistive technology in DVR services. The partnership is refreshed and renewed by contract every 2 years, with the most recent being in the summer of 2024. Additionally, WATAP partners with the Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) to increase access to AT for work for individuals with low vision or who are blind. This partnership is governed by a interagency agreement that is renewed every 2 years.
WATAP has expanded its device demonstration program through the provision and maintenance of assistive technology provided to the regional DVR Assistive Technology Assessment Practitioners (ATAPs) that is used in device demonstrations and evaluations provided by the ATAPs. Funds provided by DVR has expanded WATAP's assistive technology device lending program that allows unlimited borrowing by Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors (VRCs) and DVR customers to inform DVR's purchasing decisions and reduce the purchase and storage of devices that end up not working for DVR customers. Prior to FY 2025, WATAP supported the professional needs of DVR staff, Tribal VR staff, DVR Contractors, and other DVR partners and increase effective implementation of AT to meet employment outcomes through the delivery of statewide and comprehensive training. This part of the partnership was ended in June 2024 due to financial constraints in DVR. DSB also partners with WATAP for the device lending program that allows unlimited borrowing by their AT specialists, rehabilitation counselors and customers to inform decision making and purchasing decisions.

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

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

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

Device Loan, Demo,
Yes
Yes
In previous years, WATAP worked with Aging and Long-Term Support Administration (ALTSA), Roads to Community Living, and the Area Agencies on Aging on projects focused on serving the AT needs of older adults. But due to staffing changes over the years, further collaboration at the state level has curtailed. However, WATAP continues to be an active part of Community Living Connections, a partnership of state agencies supporting independent living, aging and adult services, veterans, and caregivers, which connects individuals with disabilities, their caregivers, legal representatives, and families to home and community-based supports and services. WATAP also collaborates with regional and local aging agencies in education, technical assistance, and I&A around AT.
WATAP continues to engage on a periodic basis with the aging agencies at the state level to explore future partnerships. WATAP is listed in Community Living Connections and makes referrals to other agencies as appropriate and vice versa. WATAP continues to have an active relationship with Age Friendly Seattle, a citywide initiative that aims to make Seattle an age-friendly community. WATAP has participated in workshops, conferences, round table discussions to promote the importance of AT in the lives of seniors who are experiencing functional limitations due to the effects of aging.

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

Community Participation and Integration, Health, Aging, Aging and Disability Network/No Wrong Door,

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

Training, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness, Technical Assistance,
No
Historically, WATAP has explored potential areas of collaboration and partnership with the state Medicaid agency but these did not come to fruition due to limitations and feasibility of WATAP becoming a vendor for the agency. As the vendor requirements have not changed in the intervening years, further discussions have been put on hold. Additionally, current program resources and staff capacity are limited to reasonably explore a meaningful relationship.
Additional Coordination/Collaboration activities 1

A. Coordination/Collaboration

1. As concisely as possible, describe the partnership initiative. What activities/services were provided? Who are the major collaborating organizations and what is their role? Who is served/benefited? What funding was used to implement the initiative?

For a third year in a row, WATAP has supported the Washington State Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) Independent Living Services (ILS) program, which provides services to ~1000 Washington State residents annually who are losing vision or blind. ILS utilizes a statewide network of service providers, who have experienced teachers who assist clients through teaching and building competency in daily living skills. ILS provides smart phones, tablets, and digital assistants through a long-term loan program to clients, but the service providers’ teachers continue to benefit from learning more about the features and potential of these devices. This year, WATAP developed a curriculum to provide train-the-trainer sessions focusing on iOS accessibility features related to blind and vision loss and more specifically on VoiceOver. The teachers could use this curriculum to train their own clients to learn and build new skills. WATAP also provided demonstrations and facilitated discussion of AI apps and other technology, such as the Meta Glasses. This training also promoted the sharing of knowledge, resources, tips, and instructions between WATAP staff and participants.

2. As concisely as possible, describe the measurable results of the initiative and any lessons learned. How did access to AT change as a result of the coordination/collaboration/partnership? How did awareness of AT change as a result of the partnership? How did the reach of the state AT program change as a result of the partnership? What made the partnership successful? What would you change or wish you had done differently? Provided funding/resources are available, will the initiative continue or is this a one-time event? What advice would you give for replication of the initiative? Please include URL for initiative if available.

Through this partnership, WATAP supports the professional development needs through annual statewide and comprehensive training for ILS providers’ teachers to increase effective implementation of the long-term loan program to meet independent living outcomes of their clients. As the teachers become more confident in using the technology, they are more likely to match the functional needs of their clients with these technologies and provide the necessary technical support to increase the successful use by the clients as well. This partnership is increasing a cross referral of clients to both WATAP and ILS services that would be mutually beneficial to support building and mastering independent living skills. Since on-going professional development is necessary for current staff and to support training new staff, this training will be provided by WATAP to ILS providers’ teachers annually going forward.

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

Community Participation and Integration;

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

Training;

Overview of State Improvement Activities

State improvement outcomes are not required. You may report up to two MAJOR state improvement outcomes for this reporting period. How many will you be reporting? 00

Additional And Leveraged Funds

Did you have Additional and Leveraged Funding to Report? Yes

A. Leveraged Funding for State Plan Activities

Fund Source Amount Use of Funds Data Reported
Public/State Agency$18,267Device LoanTrue
Public/State Agency$2,477DemonstrationTrue
Private$3,000TrainingTrue
Private$390Device LoanTrue
Private$158,635State FinancingTrue
Public/State Agency$5,550TrainingTrue
Public/State Agency$87,166Technical AssistanceTrue
Amount: $275,485

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.

C. Describe any unique issues with your data in this section (e.g., the reason why you were unable to report the number of individuals served with additional or leveraged funds).

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This FY24 State AT Program Annual Progress Report was exported from the National Assistive Technology Act Data System (NATADS). NATADS was developed with partial support from the Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance.