National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

Back to state program information page

Wisconsin 2025

General Information

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

State AT Program Title:

WisTech Program

State AT Program Title:

State AT Program URL

https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/wistech/index.htm

Mailing Address:

201 E. Washington Suite E-100 PO Box 2659

City:

Madison

State:

Wisconsin

Zip Code:

53703

Program Email:

DHSWistech@dhs.wisconsin.gov

Phone:

608-514-2513

TTY:

Lead Agency

Agency Name:

Wisconsin Department of Health Services - Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources

Mailing Address:

201 E. Washington Suite E-100 PO Box 2659

City:

Madison

State:

Wisconsin

Zip Code:

53703

Program URL:

https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/dph/badr.htm

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):

Plummer, Laura

Title:

Assistive Technology Program Coordinator

Phone:

608-514-2513

E-mail:

laura.plummer1@dhs.wisconsin.gov

Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):

Plummer, Laura

Title:

Assistive Technology Program Coordinator

Phone:

608-514-2513

E-mail:

laura.plummer1@dhs.wisconsin.gov

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):

Sobczyk, Lisa

Title:

Social Services Supervisor

Phone:

608-266-9354

E-mail:

lisa.sobczyk@dhs.wisconsin.gov

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):

Molke, Carrie

Title:

Bureau Director

Phone:

608-267-5267

E-mail:

Carrie.Molke@dhs.wisconsin.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	19	05	24
Approved Not made	02	00	02
Rejected	04	04	08
Total	25	09	34

2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made

Lowest/Highest Incomes
Lowest Income:	$18,487	Highest Income:	$181,739

Average Income
Sum of Incomes	Loans Made	Average Annual Income
$1,564,941	24	$65,206

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	06	04	03	03	08	24
Percentage of Loans	0%	25%	16.67%	12.5%	12.5%	33.33%	100%

3. Loan Type

Loan Type
Type of Loan	Number of Loans	Percentage of loans
Revolving Loans	00	0%
Partnership Loans
Without interest buy-down or loan guarantee	00	0%
With interest buy-down only	00	0%
With loan guarantee only	00	0%
With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee	24	100%
Total	24	100%

Loan Type Summary
Type of Loan	Number of Loans	Dollar Value of Loans
Revolving Loans	00	$0
Partnership Loans	24	$701,487
Total	24	$701,487

4. Interest Rates

Interest Rates
Lowest	4%
Highest	4%

Interest Rate Summary
Sum of Interest Rates	Number of Loans Made	Average Interest Rate
96	24	4%

Number of Loans Made by Interest Rate
Interest Rate	Number of loans
0.0% to 2.0%	00
2.1% to 4.0%	24
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	24

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	01	$1,650
Hearing	01	$5,180
Speech communication	00	$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental	00	$0
Mobility, seating and positioning	01	$12,197
Daily living	02	$9,299
Environmental adaptations	00	$0
Vehicle modification and transportation	18	$672,628
Computers and related	01	$533
Recreation, sports, and leisure	00	$0
Total	24	$701,487

6. Defaults

Defaults
Number Loans in default	06
Net loss for loans in default	$65,630

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?

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 Residence	Individuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)	774
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)	516
C. Total Served	1290

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure	0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures	1290

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 of Devices Funded	Value of AT Provided
Vision	76	$78,882
Hearing	846	$343,986
Speech communication	240	$207,361
Learning, cognition, and developmental	0	$0
Mobility, seating and positioning	94	$99,742
Daily living	0	$0
Environmental adaptations	0	$0
Vehicle modification and transportation	0	$0
Computers and related	34	$39,889
Recreation, sports, and leisure	0	$0
Total	1290	$769,860

Activity 2

How would you describe this state financing activity?

Other: Vision Loss Technology

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

County of Residence	Individuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)	489
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)	326
C. Total Served	815

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure	0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures	815

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 of Devices Funded	Value of AT Provided
Vision	1629	$173,025
Hearing	0	$0
Speech communication	0	$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental	0	$0
Mobility, seating and positioning	0	$0
Daily living	0	$0
Environmental adaptations	0	$0
Vehicle modification and transportation	0	$0
Computers and related	0	$0
Recreation, sports, and leisure	0	$0
Total	1629	$173,025

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

WisLoan provided the financing for a retired couple this past year to obtain an accessible van and trailer. The couple create and sell craft items to supplement their retirement income. The accessible van and trailer will allow them to continue this employment activity. "We want to thank you again for everything you did to help us get our new van. We thought this would be at least a six-month process, but you pushed it through in a very short time, and the down payment assistance amount was absolutely incredible. It was life changing, and there aren't enough words to express our appreciation. We absolutely love the van, and we were able to get a trailer to haul our crafts to area shows this fall. I've attached a couple of photos for you. Thanks again... "

Impact Area Education Employment Community Living

A consumer with progressive hearing and vision loss was having difficulty with distance communication for connecting with her family and medical providers. This individual was limited in her transportation options and her spouse was dealing with ongoing medical issues. All of these factors were impacted by her lack of telecommunications access. Through the iCanConnect program and WisTech she was able to receive devices and the training to access telecommunications. The devices included a computer, tablet, and smartphone. She was reluctant to use the smartphone or keep it powered on for fear it would drain the battery. After additional training she began to send a text message to her son every day. She is now confident on using her smartphone and accessing the technology she needs.

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	2,129	2,129
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	2,129	2,129
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	00	00	2,129	2,129
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	00	00	2,129	2,129
9. Performance on this measure	NaN%	NaN%	100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	2,129	100%
Satisfied	00	0%
Satisfied somewhat	00	0%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total Surveyed	2,129
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	543
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan	2,433
C. Total	2,976

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	2,976

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	02	$520	$0	$520
Hearing	00	$0	$0	$0
Speech Communication	00	$0	$0	$0
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	00	$0	$0	$0
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	75	$93,679	$33,415	$60,264
Daily Living	1,143	$20,713	$5,603	$15,110
Environmental Adaptations	00	$830	$0	$830
Vehicle Modification & Transportation	09	$121,350	$34,900	$86,450
Computers and Related	00	$0	$0	$0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	02	$2,820	$900	$1,920
Total	1,231	$239,912	$74,818	$165,094

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	18	$8,447	$0	$8,447
Hearing	86	$35,710	$0	$35,710
Speech Communication	122	$163,694	$0	$163,694
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	15	$1,139	$0	$1,139
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	6,614	$449,064	$1,691	$447,373
Daily Living	691	$88,403	$380	$88,023
Environmental Adaptations	28	$44,326	$0	$44,326
Vehicle Modification & Transportation	00	$0	$0	$0
Computers and Related	17	$2,790	$0	$2,790
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	09	$8,379	$0	$8,379
Total	7,600	$801,952	$2,071	$799,881

D. Anecdote

A local nursing home/assisted living facility recently experienced a fire. While all residents evacuated safely, several had to leave their mobility devices behind. A community member familiar with the WisTech program partner, Independent Living Resources, contacted the agency for help. In response, the agency donated ten walkers and several walker bags to the residents, ensuring they regained access to the assistive technology they needed.

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.	08	00	855	863
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	03	05	951	959
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	02	00	914	916
4. Subtotal	13	05	2,720	2,738
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	13	05	2,720	2,738
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	238	238
8. Total	13	05	2,958	2,976
9. Performance on this measure	100%	100%	91.95%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	2,707	90.96%
Satisfied	27	0.91%
Satisfied somewhat	04	0.13%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	238	8%
Total Surveyed	2,976
Response rate %	92%

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)	421
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding	119
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation	413
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity	18
Total	971

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	265	359	624
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	23	106	129
Representative of Education	103	43	146
Representative of Employment	02	01	03
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	17	11	28
Representatives of Community Living	08	26	34
Representatives of Technology	03	04	07
Total	421	550	971

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	76	07	83
Hearing	91	31	122
Speech Communication	86	30	116
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	27	05	32
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	81	468	549
Daily Living	157	121	278
Environmental Adaptations	24	72	96
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	07	02	09
Computers and Related	64	22	86
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	35	20	55
Total	648	778	1,426

E. Anecdote

A consumer worked with our program partner, Options for Independent Living, to borrow an adapted kayak. At 89 years of age, she had been kayaking for two years enjoying a small lake just outside her back door. This meaningful hobby allows her to remain active and engaged. Recently, she began to feel unsteady using her kayak and reached out to try the adapted version. She shared, “I was thrilled to get exercise, be outside, and do something to keep my mind and brain active!” During the loan, she hoped her neighbors would see her out on the lake!

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	46	10	212	268
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	04	01	70	75
Subtotal	50	11	282	343
Have not made a decision	61	00	17	78
Subtotal	111	11	299	421
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	111	11	299	421
Performance on this measure	45.05%	100%	94.31%

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.	08	03	353	364
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	34	02	94	130
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	03	00	53	56
4. Subtotal	45	05	500	550
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	45	05	500	550
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	45	05	500	550
9. Performance on this measure	100%	100%	100%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	755	77.75%
Satisfied	191	19.67%
Satisfied somewhat	20	2.06%
Not at all satisfied	05	0.51%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total Surveyed	971
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	78
Hearing	101
Speech Communication	20
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	33
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	84
Daily Living	170
Environmental Adaptations	21
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	02
Computers and Related	94
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	53
Total # of Device Demonstrations	656

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant	Decision-Makers	Other Participants	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	511	29	540
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	92	195	287
Representatives of Education	08	09	17
Representatives of Employment	05	01	06
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	08	04	12
Representative of Community Living	32	22	54
Representative of Technology	00	00	00
Total	656	260	916

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity	Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program)	75
Service Provider	159
Vendor	10
Repair Service	00
Others	01
Total	245

D. Anecdote

Access to Independence, a WisTech program partner, assisted a local teacher with a device demonstration. The teacher experienced hearing loss that impacted their ability to communicate with students in the classroom. WisTech recently added a pair of caption glasses to their device inventory. The teacher was able to work with program staff to trial the glasses. Once the teacher decided the glasses would meet his needs in the classroom, he worked with his vocational rehabilitation counselor to secure funding to purchase the glasses. This device demonstration allowed the teacher to maintain employment.

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	38	70	428	536
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	02	03	26	31
Subtotal	40	73	454	567
Have not made a decision	06	02	81	89
Subtotal	46	75	535	656
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	46	75	535	656
Performance on this measure	86.96%	97.33%	84.86%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	821	89.63%
Satisfied	85	9.28%
Satisfied somewhat	00	0%
Not at all satisfied	01	0.11%
Nonrespondent	09	0.98%
Total	916
Response rate %	99.02%

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.	16	03	3,337	3,356
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	37	07	1,045	1,089
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	05	00	967	972
4. Subtotal	58	10	5,349	5,417
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	58	10	5,349	5,417
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	238	238
8. Total	58	10	5,587	5,655
9. Performance on this measure	91.38%	100%	78.43%	78.6%
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	84	80	640	804
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	06	04	96	106
Subtotal	90	84	736	910
Have not made a decision	67	02	98	167
Subtotal	157	86	834	1,077
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	157	86	834	1,077
Performance on this measure	57.32%	97.67%	88.25%	84.49%
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	99.56%	95%	Met
Response Rate	96.47%	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	1,524
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	358
Representatives of Education	1,031
Representatives of Employment	610
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	760
Representatives of Community Living	891
Representatives of Technology	31
Unable to Categorize	00
TOTAL	5,205

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro	Non Metro	Unknown	TOTAL
3,224	1,715	266	5,205

B. Educational/Training Activity Topics

Educational/Training Activities by Topic
Primary Topic of Educational/Training Activities	Participants
AT Products/Services	649
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice	22
Combination of any/all of the above	4,154
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access	358
Transition	22
Total	5,205

C. Description of Educational/Training Activities

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

WisTech hosts webinars throughout the year to provide free, statewide education about assistive technology. This year, three webinars focused on assistive technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and assistive technology service delivery. Attendees learned about general AI use, ethical considerations around digital autonomy, and incorporating AI with digital literacy training. All webinars are fully accessible with sign language interpretation, captioning, and are uploaded to the WisTech YouTube channel for on-demand access.

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

Independence First, a WisTech Program partner, hosted a "Fidget March Madness" event to create awareness about the benefits of using fidgets for anxiety management. The event started with 32 fidgets - 16 commercial and 16 3D printed. Participants were encouraged to try all options, leading to numerous referrals to vendors who sell fidgets, and 3D printing plans. Participants included staff, consumers, and several high school groups. Several participants discovered fidgets they liked and returned with friends and family members, encouraging them to try their favorites. High school students started lively discussions, comparing the merits of various options and exchanging reasons why they chose their preferred fidget.

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

WisTech delivered two impactful ICT trainings this year. First, staff presented a pre-conference workshop on shelter accessibility at the Governor's Conference on Emergency Management and Homeland Security, attended by public health workers and staff from the Red Cross. Specific information presented included assistive technology devices related to emergency response and preparedness. This included instructions on how to access WisTech’s short term device loan inventory using the AT4ALL website. The second impactful ICT training was conducted for the Division of Workforce Development. WisTech staff provided an in-depth session on assistive technology and artificial intelligence, focusing on how evolving technologies affect accessibility and employment services for people with disabilities.

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	232
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented	126
No known outcome at this time	00
Nonrespondent	00
Total	358
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	01%
Employment	00%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	02%
Community Living	96%
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT)	01%
Total	100%

B. Description of Technical Assistance

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

The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation invited WisTech to serve on a workgroup to review the Tech Specs for assistive technology. These Tech Specs are used by vocational rehab staff, consumers, and providers to ensure high-quality assistive technology services are available for clients as they pursue employment goals. This work involved an in-depth review of current policies and procedures, followed by detailed input on updates and improvements. This technical assistance opportunity enabled WisTech to offer un-biased guidance on how AT services funded by DVR should be delivered.

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

Society’s Assets, a WisTech program partner, took part in area CCOT team meetings. CCOTs hold quarterly meetings dedicated to addressing issues around youth transition from high school to adulthood. At these meetings, staff provide input on accessibility and assistive technology. One specific example was a recent quarterly meeting where the accessibility of virtual transition fairs was addressed. This included the importance of captions, clear language, easy to find links, and plain language materials. Emphasis was also place on considering families who do not have access to devices or internet at home to attend.

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. indiGO, a WisTech program partner, hosts a weekly radio show on WOJB, a local station out of Hayward, Wisconsin. The WOJB radio station is owned and managed by the Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe Public Broadcasting Corporation. The majority of staff and board are Native Americans. The radio show focuses on assistive technology and independent living services for people with disabilities. WOJB reaches over 9 counties in northern Wisconsin, an area that includes several reservations. The radio spot offers a unique opportunity to reach a broad audience of individuals who otherwise may not be familiar with assistive technology and the services available.

2. Access to Independence, a WisTech program partner, hosted the second annual Adaptive Gaming Expo in the Madison, Wisconsin area. This free event is held each year to promote awareness and access to gaming for people with disabilities. The event includes exhibitors, keynote speakers, and hands-on accessible gaming zone. Society’s Assets, another WisTech program partner, joined the event with a booth to highlight additional adaptive gaming device setup options.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients	AT Device/ Service	AT Funding	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	7,990	4,654	12,644
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	4,426	3,303	7,729
Representative of Education	140	64	204
Representative of Employment	91	10	101
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	311	142	453
Representative of Community Living	2,411	1,927	4,338
Representative of Technology	73	11	84
Unable to Categorize	04	01	05
Total	15,446	10,112	25,558

Referral Types:

WisTech implements the AT Act program using a hybrid model, directly conducting program activities from our office and through subcontracts and program partners. Requests for information and assistance come from all 72 Wisconsin counties showing WisTech’s broad reach. Approximately 90% of referrals come from individuals with disabilities or their family members. The requests are split roughly 60% for AT devices and services and 40% for AT policies and funding. This year saw increased requests for used equipment, largely due to distribution efforts by two partners, Independence First and Options for Independent Living. Increased collaboration within our Bureau at the Department of Health Services has also increased awareness of WisTech among individuals with disabilities and their families.

Referral Sources:

Requests for information and assistance come from diverse sources, reflecting positively on outreach efforts conducted by WisTech staff and program partners. One WisTech partner started a concentrated outreach effort to private businesses within their service delivery area raising awareness among human resource staff and employers about assistive technology accommodations. Collaboration between WisTech and Aging and Disability Centers has increased brand awareness leading to additional requests for information and assistance in all areas, especially for WisLoan, Wisconsin’s alternative finance program.

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?

WisTech continued its collaboration with the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) on the AT Forward Project. The AT Forward workgroup meets monthly to continue addressing access to AT services and devices for educators and students. Following recommendations made by the work group, the Department's short term loan inventory was expanded and includes low and mid-level technology. The workgroup also provides guidance on topics presented monthly to the AT Forward Community of Practice.

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?

The AT Forward project reached 772 educators through monthly Community of Practice trainings. The Community of Practice has over 1,500 registered participants. The device loan program provided 115 loans to educators statewide.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

https://dpi.wi.gov/sped/educators/consultation/assistive-technology/at-forward

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

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

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

Device Loan, Training,

Outreach was conducted with the Vocational Rehabilitation Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

WisTech works closely with the AsTech and Sensability Teams to provide information and trainings related to assistive technology and assessments. WisTech collaborated with a member of the Senior Leadership team to take part in the pilot cohort for the WisTech Assistive Technology Certification course. Their role was to decide which staff might benefit from the course or if a dedicated, customized version would be useful for VR counselors. WisTech also engaged a member of the Senior Leadership team to take part in the pilot cohort for the WisTech Assistive Technology Certification course. Their role was to decide which staff may benefit from taking the course or if a dedicated and customized version would be useful for VR counselors.

WisTech noted an increase in the number of information and assistance requests from DVR staff on the topic of assistive technology. WisTech also noted an increase in referrals to our office for assistive technology assessments.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

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

Employment,

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

Training, Information & Assistance,

Outreach was conducted with the Aging Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

WisTech is located within the same Bureau at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services as aging programs, allowing close communication and collaboration. One specific example occurred during the pilot testing phase of the WisTech Assistive Technology Certification initiative, which launched this past year. The newly developed WisTech AT Certification course began with enrollment of a broad range of providers. An ADRC staff member was selected to take part in the course pilot. She was able to pass and obtain her WisTech AT Certification.

The ADRCs continue to provide information and assistance to people who are older, their friends or family, and the community in general. This data is submitted to WisTech and is included within the APR numbers for information and assistance. WisTech need to continue to initiate this collaboration to ensure ongoing awareness of AT for these agencies.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

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

Aging,

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

Training, Information & Assistance,

Outreach was conducted with the Medicaid Agency *

Yes

Was collaboration implemented? *

Yes

WisTech continued to engage with the Division of Medicaid services on case specific appeals for long term care funded requests on an as needed basis.

The results of this collaboration include a greater knowledge of assistive technology devices and services for medicaid staff.

2.a Please include URL for initiative if available

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

Community Participation and Integration,

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

Information & Assistance, Technical Assistance,

Additional Coordination/Collaboration activities

A. Coordination/Collaboration

Staff from the WisTech program and the Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing have been asked to assist the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) on accommodations for incarcerated individuals who have a hearing loss. This relationship was initiated following a US Department of Justice settlement directing the DOC to provide adequate accommodations. This work was initiated in the fourth quarter of the reporting year and will be ongoing.

The results of the collaboration to date include a thorough review of the DOJ settlement and a direct staff contact person available to interact with incarcerated individuals regarding accommodation needs, An onsite visit was conducted by WisTech and ODHH staff at one of the 36 correctional facilities. Future plans include an in-depth training for the ADA coordinators, a survey about accommodations for the ADA coordinators, and development of standardized assistive technology solutions resource for statewide use.

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

Other: ADA and incarceration;

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

Device Loan; Training; Technical Assistance;

A.2 Coordination/Collaboration (Entry 2)

The Division of Public Health selected the Statewide Assistive Technology Program Coordinator to represent Wisconsin at the Roundtable on Strengthening Health through Outdoor Recreation meeting in Washington DC. The other Wisconsin representative was the Director of Outdoor Recreation. The event was hosted by the National Governor's Association and Wisconsin was one of 13 states in attendance. National speakers shared information and insights around access to recreation and the connection to public health. Each speaker segment was followed by in-depth discussions by attendees who were able to share information from their states and learn about initiatives from other participants. WisTech's role was to emphasize accessibility for people with disabilities and assistive technology opportunities around health and outdoor recreation.

A comprehensive report from the Division of Public Health and the Office for Outdoor Recreation was compiled and shared with the Governor's office. The opportunity for WisTech and the Office of Outdoor Recreation to attend this event together will serve as a starting point for future collaborations. One key takeway was greater awareness by the Office of Outdoor Recreation around accessibility for people with disabilities. Emphasis will also be placed on building recreational access into various state plans such as the State Plan for Assistive Technology and other similar plans can build upon this initial collaboration.

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

Community Participation and Integration; Recreation / Leisure;

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

Technical Assistance;

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?

B. State Improvements

1. In one or two sentences, describe the outcome. Be as specific as possible about exactly what changed during this reporting period as a result of the AT program's initiative.

WisTech developed and launched assistive technology (AT) coursework for providers in Wisconsin to become WisTech AT certified and ATP (assistive technology professional) verified. These certifications build and recognize the experience and knowledge needed to provide high-quality, consumer-driven, and comprehensive AT services. The WisTech AT certification is for providers expanding their knowledge in AT, assessments, and service delivery. The WisTech AT certification course consists of 12 weekly learning modules that include discussion posts, self-knowledge checks, AT product reviews, and a final case study report. The WisTech Verified ATP certification is for providers who hold the ATP international certification from RESNA. The WisTech ATP verification course consists of three learning modules and a self-knowledge check.

2. In one or two sentences, describe the written policies, practices, and procedures that have been developed and implemented as a result of the AT program's initiative. Include information about how to obtain the full documents, such as a Web site address or e-mail address of a contact person, but do not include the full documents here. (If there are no written polices, practices and procedures, explain why.)

The content development for the WisTech certifications incorporates Best Practices for AT Assessments and Best Practices for AT Vendors. Providers enrolled in the courses must agree to adhere to Best Practices when providing AT services. Funders using WisTech Certified Providers can be assured of adherence to Best Practice standards.

3. What was the primary area of impact for this state improvement outcome?

Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation

Additional And Leveraged Funds

A. Leveraged Funding for State Plan Activities

Fund Source	Amount	Use of Funds	Data Reported

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.

WisTech utilized the Assistive Technology Public Workforce funding to hire a contract Program and Policy Analyst (PPA). DHS was able to convert this to a state position in 2024. The PPA has been working on public policy and federal and state legislation directly related to assistive technology and access issues experienced by people with disabilities. Additionally, the PPA has provided public comments related to Title II web accessibility standards and WIOA State Plan ensuring state workforce services are accessible and FCC making emergency alerts accessible to people with disabilities. The PPA works in close collaboration between WisTech, the Assistive Technology Advisory Council, the Governor’s Committee for People with Disabilities (GCPD), and the Council for Physical Disabilities (CPD). Efforts in this space include policy work to increase digital access for people with disabilities, emergency preparedness for people with disabilities, access to accessible transportation and housing, and addressing social determinants of health experienced by people with disabilities through the State Health Assessment and State Health Improvement Plan. This position is also responsible for conducting trainings on accessibility, disability, and equal access to programs and services. Training and policy work completed by the PPA has led to partnerships with Wisconsin Emergency Management and Office of Preparedness and Emergency Health Care on amending our state and locality emergency response plans (Mass Care, Points of Distribution, Volunteer Management), to address assistive technology and durable medical equipment needs during emergencies as well as incorporating lessons learned on how to best serve people with disabilities and older adults based on state COVID response. WisTech is listed in ESF 6 plan as a partner program.

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).