**Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)**

**Council on Developmental Disabilities**

**Assistive Technology State Plan (ATSP)**

**August 2006**

**TABLE of CONTENTS**

Page

Part I -- Attachments -- cover page 3

Attachment 1 -- Basic Information 4

Attachment 2 -- Lead Agency and Implementing Entity 6

Attachment 3 -- State Advisory Council 13

Attachment 4 -- Measurable Goals 17

Attachment 5 -- State Level Activities 21

Attachment 6 -- Comparable Support 31

Attachment 7 -- State Flexibility 32

Attachment 8 -- State Leadership Activities 33

Attachment 9 -- Involvement of Public & Private Entities 42

Attachment 10 -- State Support 46

Attachment 11 -- Allocation & Utilization of Funds 47

Part II -- Assurances -- cover page 50

Assurances 51

Certification Regarding Lobbying 53

CNMI GEPA, Section 427 Provision 54

**Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands**

**Council on Developmental Disabilities**

**Assistive Technology State Plan (ATSP)**

PART I: ATTACHMENTS

**Attachment 1: Basic Information**

Name of Lead Agency: CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities

Name of Applicable Division and/or Subdivision of Lead Agency: Council
on Developmental Disabilities

Address of Lead Agency: 1312 Anatahan Drive, Capitol Hill

P.O. Box 502565, Saipan, MP, 96950

Name and Title of Certifying Representative for Lead Agency: Antonio
Chong, Executive Director

Address for Certifying Representative: 1312 Anatahan Drive, Capitol Hill

P.O. Box 502565, Saipan, MP, 96950

Telephone for Certifying Officer: 1-(670) 664-7000

E-Mail: E-mail for Program Director: tchong@cnmiddcouncil.org

Name and Title of Program Director: Antonio Chong, Executive Director

Address for Program Director: 1312 Anatahan Drive, Capitol Hill

P.O. Box 502565, Saipan, MP, 96950

Telephone for Program Director: 1-(670) 664-7000

E-Mail for Program Director: tchong@cnmiddcouncil.org

Name and Title of Program Contact (if different from Program Director):

Address for Program Director: Same

Telephone for Program Contact: Same

E-Mail for Program Contact: Same

Name and Title of Implementing Entity: Northern Marianas College --
Community Development Institute -- University Center for Excellence in
Developmental Disabilities (Proposed -- Governor Designation Not
Completed)

Name of Applicable Division and/or Subdivision of Implementing Entity:
Same

Address of Implementing Entity: P.O. Box 501250, Saipan MP 96950

Name and Title of Program Director: David Attao, Program Director

Address for Program Director: Same

Telephone for Program Director: (670) 234-5498, Extension 1014; fax
(670) 235-4966

E-mail for Program Director: dattao@nmcnet.edu

Name and Title of Program Contact (if different from Program Director):
Same

Address for Program Contact: Same

Telephone for Program Contact: Same

E-Mail for Program Contact: Same

**Attachment 2: Lead Agency and Implementing Entity**

2.1 Identification and Description of the Lead Agency -- Identify and
describe the Lead Agency referred to in section 4(c)(1)(A) of the AT
Act.

2.1A Identification and Description of Lead Agency if an Implementing
Entity is not Designated: Not Applicable

2.1B Identification and Description of the Lead Agency if an
Implementing Entity is Designated: Applicable

The CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities was established in 1984
as a line division under the Executive Branch. In 1994 the CNMI Council
on Developmental Disabilities was funded to develop, implement, and
administer a Commonwealth wide program to meet assistive technology
needs of persons with disabilities. An Assistive Technology Task Force
was created within the DD Council to implement systems change. As a
result, a program entitled STRAID, for System of Technology-Related
Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities, was established. Today it
oversees the Assistive Technology activities funded under the Assistive
Technology Act of 1998, as amended.

STRAID will continue to carryout its Mission; to enhance the quality of
life and opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the
Commonwealth, enabling them to become independent, productive,
integrated, and fully included in the community through systems change
activities which increase access and utilization of Assistive Technology
devices and services. However, as a result of the new requirements of
the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended, the Implementing
Entity for the AT Program in CNMI will not be STRAID. The Lead Agency
will continue to be the Council on Developmental Disabilities, and
certainly STRAID will continue to provide supporting services.

However, after thorough deliberation involving the Governor, the State
Rehabilitation Council, the Council on Development Disabilities Board,
and numerous other stakeholders and service providers it was decided to
select an Implementing Entity that is a service providing agency with
extensive experience, resources and interagency relationships to
implement the activities of the State Plan.

2.  **Identification and Description of the Implementing Entity** --
    Identify and describe the Implementing Entity referred to in section
    4(c)(1)(B) of the AT Act, if such an Implementing Entity is
    designated by the Governor.

The Northern Marianas College (NMC) -- Community Development
Institute-University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities
(CDI-UCEDD) has been selected by Governor Benigno R. Fitial to be the
Implementing Entity for purposes of fulfilling the requirements of the
Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended. However, as of this
submission, the Governor has not signed the official designation letter,
but is expected to do so within the next 60 days.

The delay is related to the approval process required to implement the
primary Partnership Agreement between the Lead Agency, the Council on
Development Disabilities, and the Implementation Entity the Northern
Marianas College (NMC) -- Community Development Institute-University
Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (CDI-UCEDD). Because
Federal funds are involved, and will be transferred from the Lead Entity
to the Implementing Entity, the Office of Attorney General must approve
the Partnership Agreement. This approval process includes review of the
transfer process, establishing appropriate accounts with the Department
of Finance meeting requirements for this purpose and other legal and
regulatory requirements.

In addition, the appropriate accounts and transfer mechanisms must be
established by the Secretary of Finance, Federal Programs Office, and
approved by the Office of Attorney General. This is an established
process that is triggered whenever Federal funded projects involve
transfer and oversight agreements between agencies of the Executive
Branch. Currently there are a variety of similar partnership agreements
between the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Public School
System Special Education Program, the Transitional Living Center, the
Commonwealth Health Center, the Center for Independent Living, the
Workforce Investment Agency, the State Rehabilitation Council, and the
Community Guidance Center (formerly the Mental Health Center) among
others. Many of these partnerships, memorandums of understanding, and
agreements involving resources of many kinds, including funding, are
long standing. In this case under this new AT Act, with a new
partnership, the approval process for signing the Partnership Agreement
has been lengthened.

(i) Overview Description of the Northern Marianas College (NMC) --
    Community Development Institute-University Center for Excellence in
    Developmental Disabilities (CDI-UCEDD)

NMC was established in May 1981 as a public, non-profit corporation
located in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). NMC
is a comprehensive community college that offers a Bachelor of Science
degree in Elementary Education, 18 associate degree programs, 18
certificates of achievement options, and 17 certificates of completion
programs.

The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) of
the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) have accredited
NMC since 1985. In 2001, NMC's accreditation was reaffirmed by the ACCJC
of WASC and was granted initial accreditation by the Senior Commission
of Colleges and Universities of WASC for its baccalaureate degree in
elementary education.

The Northern Marianas College has a main campus on the island of Saipan,
and two satellite campuses, one on the island of Tinian, and the other
on the island of Rota, thus accessing community members throughout the
CNMI.

The Community Development Institute and University Center for Excellence
in Developmental Disabilities (CDI-UCEDD Program) is a key department of
the Northern Marianas College and is responsible for Interdisciplinary
Training; Technical Assistance; Community Outreach & Training; Research;
Information Dissemination; as well as Building Partnerships; Short-term
courses; and Demonstrations.

CDI-UCEDD is one of 61 such programs throughout the United States and
its territories. NMC CDI-UCEDD is represented in the Association of
University Centers on Disabilities as the a part of the Pacific Basin
University Centers (PBUCE) in partnership with American Samoa's (AS)
UCEDD Program and is housed under the University of Hawaii UCE's Pacific
Outreach Initiative (POI). The PBUCE was developed in 1993 thus NMC
CDI-UCEDD has been in existence for thirteen years.

CDI-UCEDD has established many partnerships throughout the CNMI,
Micronesia, Guam, Hawaii, and the U.S. mainland. The NMC CDI-UCEDD is a
key member of the CNMI Developmental Disabilities (DD) Network, also
known as, the CNMI Tri-Agencies which includes the CNMI Council on
Developmental Disabilities and the Northern Marianas Protection and
Advocacy Systems Incorporated (NMPASI), with NMC CDI-UCEDD as the lead
agency. NMC CDI-UCEDD has a Consumer Advisory Council (CAC), composed of
individuals with developmental disabilities and/or their family members,
partner agencies, and community members, which help direct the Program's
outreach efforts and annual scope of work, guiding the goals ands
objectives of the Program.

NMC however, faces the same extraordinarily difficult barriers faced by
all service and community support organizations in the CNMI. These
barriers include extremely geographic isolation. The CNMI, the Island of
Saipan as its capitol, is approximately 8,000 miles to the west of
Washington, D.C., 6,000 miles west of California, and 3,000 miles west
of Hawaii in the Western Pacific Ocean.

As mentioned earlier, CDI-UCEDD has an Advisory Council with a majority
of the Advisors being people with disabilities, people with children
with disabilities, service providers from various agencies including non
government. Council meetings are held at least once per quarter, minutes
taken, and goals and objectives reviewed regularly, evaluated and
revised as needed. CDI-UCEDD is represented on various "State" Councils
and Boards that include all organizations providing services to people
with disabilities related needs. These include the CNMI Council on
Developmental Disabilities and the CNMI State Workforce Investment
Board, Special Education State Advisory Panel among others. In turn,
various key organization Boards and Councils are represented on the
CDI-UCEDD Advisory Council.

The proposed Implementing Entity has been working with AT projects in
its own capacity. The DDC and NMC have for the last several years had a
close working relationship with OVR which has greatly increased the
capacity of NMC to plan, implement, manage, evaluate and improve AT
project services.

(ii) CDI-UCEDD goals, objectives, and activities include conducting
     programs which address the needs of individuals with disabilities
     throughout the entire CNMI community, including but not limited to
     those in education, employment, telecommunications, and community
     living.

It does this effectively and efficiently through the extensive and
multifaceted communications systems established with all other
information, health, treatment, education, information, and AT device
providers in the CNMI. This system has as its foundation a
cross-referral system (while meeting confidentiality requirements of
various agencies). Each service provider, or education-based agency, or
AT device providing agency provides their clients, consumers, and
stakeholders with a variety of alternatives, options, and other sources
of support of all types listed above.

Northern Marianas College is home to the CNMI's only public radio
station and has access to other media outlets including for-profit radio
and television stations, and newspaper providers to conduct public
information, education, and awareness activities. The College also has a
distance education facility which reaches satellite campuses on the
islands of Rota and Tinian, as does the radio and television
programming. NMC also coordinates public information activities in both
a lead and supportive role with other agencies using telecommunications
available on this isolated island

(iii) NMC over the past 13 years as described above has demonstrated a
      sophisticated ability to coordinate and collaborate with other
      public and private entities in the various fields of disability
      services and assistance, as well as worked closely with Assistive
      Technology projects. It has also demonstrated its ability to
      collaborate and coordinate with other public and private agencies
      that serve individuals with disabilities. This includes families,
      guardians, advocates, and/or other authorized individuals
      throughout the CNMI.

**2.3 Show Good Cause for Change in Lead Entity or Implementing Entity**
-- If the Governor has chosen to change the Lead Agency or, if
applicable, Implementing Entity as allowed in section 4(c)(1)(C) of the
AT Act, providing an explanation of good cause for this re-designation
which CAFD has the experience, staff and infrastructure to carry out the
activities under this State Plan in a timely manner.

Not Applicable

**Attachment 3: AT State Advisory Council**

**3.1 Membership of the Advisory Council** -- Identify the members of
the Advisory Council and each member's designation as an individual with
disabilities who uses AT, a family member or guardian of such
individual, or a representative of a State agency or other entity.

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands has established a CNMI
Assistive Technology Advisory Council for the Implementing Entity, the
CNMI Association of Families with Disabilities, which will assume
authority and implement activities upon final authorization to act as
the Implementing Entity by the Governor.

The Council will provide consumer responsive, consumer driven advice to
the CNMI Association of Families with Disabilities and other appropriate
organizations and individuals for the planning of, implementation of,
and evaluation of the activities carried out through this State Plan,
including setting measurable goals described in section 4(d)(3). Not
less than fifty-one (51) percent of the members of the Advisory Council
are individuals with disabilities that use AT or the family members or
guardians of such individuals.

**The Advisory Council Members are:**

Individuals with Disabilities who use assistive technology and family
members:

John Demapan, Saipan

Jason Teregeyo, Saipan

John Arriola, Saipan

Margaret Manglona, Rota

Frances H. Diaz, Tinian

Cynthia Attao, Saipan

Elisa Aldan, Non-Profit Representative

State Agency Representatives

Felicitas Abraham -- NMC Rehabilitative Services Programs

Edith Deleon Guerrero -- Workforce Investment Agency

Suzzanne Lizama -- Program Director, Special Education Part "B"

Lydia Igitol -- CNMI Center for Independent Living

Magarita Olopai-Taitano, OVR

David Attao -- NMC-CDI-UCEDD

Members of the Council who are individuals with disabilities requiring
the use of AT represent the three populated islands -- Saipan, Tinian,
and Rota. Saipan having a significantly greater population has
proportional representation. The members come from small villages as
well as more populated areas of the islands.

**3.2 Structure and Operation of the Advisory Council -- Describe the
structure and operations of the Advisory Council.**

The Consumer members were selected based upon recommendations from
consumers already participating on other State Boards and Councils.
Recommendations were requested to identify individuals not already on
Boards and Councils but who expressed interest in carrying out such a
community service. Prospective members were also nominated based upon
demonstrated past involvement. For members nominated who were not
already on Boards or Councils this was demonstrated by participation in
community meetings, seminars, community conferences, involvement with
community activities and other volunteer efforts. The purpose was to,
insofar as possible, ensure that the members selected would be active
and participate. Consumer members were also selected to represent the
three main inhabited islands to ensure equitable representation. Insofar
as possible, the Consumer members represent individuals who use a wide
variety of AT devices and have varying challenges.

The Advisory Council Members were selected based directly upon the types
and variety of services and frequency of services provided.

The Council will have a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson who must be
Consumers. The Secretary will be a State Representative. Informal
Roberts Rules of Order will be used, subject to the desires of the
Council. Majority vote applies. Minutes must be taken, and an Agenda and
Minutes from previous meetings must be provided to each member not less
than five days prior to all meetings. Notice of a formal meeting must be
given to all members at least 14 calendar days in advance of the
meeting. A quorum is met if there are at least 51% of the members
present who are individuals with disabilities or their families or
consumers under the Act as defined. This information must be provided to
each Consumer member in a form or format that provides them with the
information.

The Council shall at its first meeting begin writing the by-laws of the
Council. These by-laws shall be completed within 60 days of the first
meeting of the Council, and shall be adopted by a majority vote of the
Consumer members.

The Chairperson may appoint an Executive Committee or other such
committees as deemed necessary, taking into consideration the wishes and
needs of the council. The Council shall publish an annual report.
Consumer members of the Council shall serve for a term of three years
and may be reappointed once for an additional three year term. The
by-laws shall deal with issues such as vacancies which may occur. The
State representatives shall be the director of the agency listed, or
person who holds the position of the current person listed.

In general the Council shall operate and function, and carry out duties
and responsibilities using generally accepted practices. Among these
are: Represent their constituents, attend meetings, provide input, make
recommendations, represent the Council in the community in a positive
manner, carry out the will of the Council, and inform community
constituents of Council activities.

Minutes of all meetings, and all reports of any kind, are provided to
the Executive Director of the Lead Agency who shall be an ex officio
member of the Council. Minutes are to be provided to all members and key
stakeholders. Actions will be published as needed or requested.

The Council shall operate under CNMI Sunshine and Open Government laws
and regulations. The public shall be notified through public notices at
least five days prior to any official Council meeting.

Specific responsibilities of the Council include, but are not limited
to: representing their constituency; providing input to service
providing agencies; service providing agencies providing up-to-date
information regarding AT to the Consumer members; formulating public
policy and the education of the public about the Act of 2004; informing
the public about the resources available under this State Plan and
assisting the public and other agencies to use the resources provided
through this State Plan in a manner consistent with the letter and
spirit of the Act; provide the Council with input from the community;
and, assist in efforts to improve the education, services, quality of
life, employment opportunities, among other activities for people with
disabilities who use or need assistive devices.

Other responsibilities are found in Attachment 9, dealing with planning
and State Plan operations and implementation and evaluation. (The
Advisory Council did not meet the first year.)

**Attachment 4: Measurable Goals**

NMC-CDI-UCEDD will establish a baseline for each of the goals 4.1
through 4.7 during year two, and will submit after Year two an amendment
to the lead agency and RSA identifying the long term goal and short-term
goals set to improve upon this baseline during years two and three of
the State Plan. This baseline will be established by using a data
collection instrument and procedures to be determined by RSA.

**4.1 Goal for Improving Access to AT in Education**

• Long-term goal:

o Short-term goal for Year 3:

o Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percent of
appropriate targeted individuals and entities who accessed device
demonstration programs and/or device loan programs and made a decision
about an AT device or service for education purposes as a result of the
assistance they received.

o Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection instrument has not
been established by RSA.

**4.2 Goal for Improving Access to AT in Employment**

• Long-term goal:

o Short-term goal for Year 3:

o Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percent of
appropriate targeted individuals and entities who accessed device
demonstration programs and/or device loan programs and made a decision
about AT device or service for educational purposes as a result of the
assistance they received.

> o Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection instrument has not
> been established by RSA.

**4.3 Goal for Improving Access to AT in Community Living**

• Long-term goal:

o Short-term goal for Year 3:

o Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percent of
appropriate targeted individuals and entities who accessed device
demonstration programs and/or device loan programs and made a decision
about an AT device or services for educational purposes as a result of
the assistance they received.

> o Short-term goal for Year 1: : N/A data collection instrument has not
> been established by RSA.

**4.4 Goal for Improving Access to IT and Telecommunications**

• Long-term goal:

o Short-term goal for Year 3:

o Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percent of
appropriate targeted individuals and entities who accessed device
demonstration programs and/or device loan programs and made a decision
about an AT device or services for educational purposes as a result of
the assistance they received.

> o Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection instrument has not
> been established by RSA.

**4.5 Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Education**

• Long-term goal:

o Short-term goal for Year 3:

o Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percent of
appropriate targeted individuals and entities who accessed device
demonstration programs and/or device loan programs made a decision about
an AT device or service for educational purposes as a result of the
assistance they received.

> o Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A date collection instrument has not
> been established by RSA.

**4.6 Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Employment**

• Long-term goal:

o Short-term goal for Year 3:

o Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percent of
appropriate targeted individuals and entities who accessed device
demonstration programs and/or device loan programs made a decision about
an AT device or service for educational purposes as a result of the
assistance they received.

o Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection instrument has not
been establish by RSA.

**4.7 Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Community Living**

• Long-term goal:

o Short-term goal for Year 3

o Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percent of
appropriate targeted individuals and entities who accessed device
demonstration programs and/or device loan programs made a decision about
an AT device or service for educational purposes as a result of the
assistance they received.

> o Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection instrument has not
> been established by RSA.

**4.8 Additional Measurable Goals -- None at this time.**

**Attachment 5: State Level Activities**

**5.1 State Financing Activities -- Describe how the CNMI will implement
CNMI financing activities as described in section 4(e)(2)(A) of the AT
Act.**

NMC-CDI-UCEDD will collaborate with the CNMI Association of Families
with Disabilities (CAFD) and the DD Council (Council) to support the
Alternative Financing Program (AFP) program that was implemented in
December 21, 2005, after a rather lengthy effort to select a Community
Based Organization (CBO), in this case CAFD. The Council through CAFD
issued an RFP in an effort to solicit proposals and interest from
commercial lenders in the CNMI, to underwrite loans under the program.
CAFD received two proposals from two lenders; one eventually rescinded
their proposal due to inadequate funding to start the loan program. The
Council was able to assist CAFD to negotiate and enter into an MOU with
the remaining commercial lender after several months of meetings and
negotiations.

The Council was able to develop a comprehensive policies and procedures
manual that was submitted together with the grant submissions before the
final approval of the AFP funding grant. The policies and procedures
manual have since been revised. Since the implementation of the AFP
program, the program accepted to guarantee over 23 loans with a total
liability exposure of approximately 69K.

The Services offered by the Council through the CAFD under this program
include: 1) Information and Referral; 2) Consumer Counseling; 3) Loan
Guarantees.

The CAFD selected Bank of Saipan as the Commercial Lending partner for
the program. Bank of Saipan has branch offices in all populated
jurisdictions in the CNMI. The program has a standing policy, wherein,
loan applicants shall be notified or made aware that they have several
choices as to where to obtain a loan application and or loan counseling.
Loan applications are available in all Council offices and programs
including - four BOS branch offices on Saipan alone, and branch offices
in Tinian and Rota. All staff of the Council are trained to assist
clients should the need arise; the Systems Navigators with the Family
Support 360 project are trained and have assisted loan clients at the
program center, or at any location of their choosing.

Since the implementation of the AFP program, the program conducted over
twenty outreach activities inclusive of all of the three populated
islands. Various public awareness activities were initiated and
conducted by presenting the program during PTA meetings with all schools
on the three islands (at least two times with each of the schools during
last FY). Most service provider agencies were visited on three islands
to present the program and conduct training on the program policies and
procedures.

Marketing materials were developed for print to be included in all
newspapers or magazines on island. The CAFD has distributed over 1,200
program brochures since implementation.

(b)(c) CNMI will examine ways to best coordinate and collaborate, and
link, the Alternative Financing Loan Program (AFLP) with the Assistive
Technology State Plan Goals in the CNMI during the 3 years of the Sate
Plan.

2.  **Device Reutilization Program -- Describe how the CNMI will
    implement a device reutilization program as described in section
    4(e)(2)(B) of the Act.**

Through DD Council's effort, we conducted a consumer survey to establish
what happens to unwanted and or damaged or broken AT devices or
equipments in the CNMI. The information gathered indicated consumers
generally discard damaged/broken AT devices/equipment after they are not
able to find anyone to fix them or find available parts locally because
the cost of importing needed parts. A device reutilization program was
not set up during the first year, however, a public announcement to
encourage the public to donate unwanted AT devices or equipments that
could be fixed and refurbished and put back into circulation is being
developed.

The difficulty in funding the purchase of AT devices, the harsh tropical
humid climate, the extensive areas of rough coral surfaces around
buildings, facilities, and homes as well are recreational areas, the
absence of any repair or maintenance businesses or facilities, the
absence of any replacement part stores or services in the CNMI, and
related problems have made device reutilization programs extremely
difficult.

However, there are a number of informal programs that do exist within
various organizations which have formal and informal AT device
reutilization systems. The organizations involved include primarily the
Special Education Program which includes the Infant and Toddler Program
and then services to eligible students through age 21, the Commonwealth
Health Center (the government hospital), the Office of Vocational
Rehabilitation, and the Council for Developmental Disabilities Assistive
Technology Project known as Systems of Technology-Related Assistance for
Individuals with Disabilities (STRAID). In addition, the State
Rehabilitation Council and the State Independent Living Council (to name
just two) provide a forum for communication between and among a much
larger number of agencies involved with AT devices. In this process
agencies do provide other participating organizations with information
about AT devices they have but which are not being utilized. In some
cases two or more agencies having an AT device with a deficiency can
coordinate taking useful parts from one to provide a working AT device
to an individual with an immediate need. This is NOT a formal system.

It is clear that as a result of this State Plan, one of the Goals to be
implemented in Year Two or Three will be to establish a formal online AT
Device Reutilization System Program. It is clear from surveys and
evaluations of current programs that this is a clear and serious need.
The 2004 Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Community Needs Assessment
found that the need for more AT devices, funding assistance for AT
devices, and maintenance and repair services was one of the four primary
problems among people with disabilities and their families in the CNMI.

As additional resources become available the need for such a program
becomes essential. Establishing a formal Reutilization Program would
result in many positive outcomes. Among these are: 1) AT devices that go
unused because no one knows they are available would be used; 2)
Reutilization would not necessarily cost the new user additional money.
This is an important consideration as in the CNMI as more than half of
all families are below the poverty level, and some 85% of all public
school students are eligible for Federal free meal programs; 3)
Establishment of such a system would encourage private businesses to
carry parts and provide maintenance as they saw the economic viability
of establishing such a business based upon reliable data as to the
number of devices, repair, replacement, and maintenance of parts needs;
and 4) The waiting time for access to a AT device would conceivably be
reduced, certainly in some cases.

The CNMI reviewed the State Plan for South Dakota. In this section they
detailed a well throughout strategy for addressing the reutilization
problem within the context of this Assistive Technology 2004 Act. The
CNMI believes the parts of the South Dakota component quoted below are
applicable to the CNMI and they are adapted for the CNMI State Plan.

The device reutilization activities during year two and three of the AT
plan will involve the continued facilitation of collaborative efforts
among providers, stakeholders, and individuals with disabilities to
support and grow the program, to increase public awareness (See
Attachment 8.2) about the program, and to increase the number of
individuals receiving AT devices that would not otherwise have received
them (See Attachment 4: Measurable Goals). Activities associated with
the overall goals of years two and three include:

1.  Working with medical providers on a campaign to encourage
    individuals who currently own durable medical equipment that they no
    longer need to recycle the equipment through a program to developed
    in the CNMI through this State Plan Goals to increase the selection
    of equipment available through the program. (The Council did not act
    on this activity during the first year; however, we are aware that
    there were some form of understanding was established between the
    Public Health system and the Council, to assist the Council in
    encouraging individuals to donate any personal durable medical
    equipment to the program. Between 2001 and 2004, there were two
    motorized wheelchairs, two standard wheelchairs and a personal hoist
    that were donated to the program.)

2.  Working with disability service providers on a campaign to encourage
    organizations and individuals with disabilities who currently own
    assistive equipment but no longer need it to recycle the equipment
    through a program to be developed under the CNMI State Plan goals to
    increase the selection of equipment available through the program.
    (The CNMI Public School System has agreed to share or to refer any
    assistive equipment not in used by the schools, or any entity to our
    AT program).

3.  Explore the feasibility of a partnership AT vendors throughout the
    region to develop a program to refurbish used devices as some
    devices may be made available and usable with minor repairs and
    upgrades and provided to individuals with disabilities through the
    reutilization program. (Some officials from a small university in
    Osaka, Japan, came by the Council's office in August 15^th^, 2006,
    and offered to train two interested CNMI residents to fix standard
    and simple motorized wheelchairs and scooters. The university will
    support room and board costs. They are recommending that we send the
    two individuals during next summer season (2007), when the weather
    is more conducive. We have two potential candidates, one from a
    private business and one from the Public School System. Currently,
    all vendors in the CNMI, selling assistive technology are sending
    the devices needing technical repairs off-island.)

    2.  **Device Loan Program -- Describe how the CNMI will implement a
        device loan program as described in section 4(e)(2)(C) of the
        Act.**

(The Council will continue using the same device loan program currently
in place since the inception of the program.)

The same problems and barriers that are outlined in the Device
Utilization Program detailed above apply to the Device Loan Program.
Because there are no stores in the CNMI that sell AT devices, everything
must be specially ordered either from Hawaii (they have limited variety)
or the mainland U.S. This is incredibly expensive and time consuming.

As a result, a formal program that provides for the loan of a variety of
AT devices which are in stock and on hand simply would be both
logistically and financially impossible.

However, by combining the goals of the Reutilization Program, with the
creation of an online inventory of available AT devices, with the
support from other organizations that also provide funding for or make
AT devices available at no cost e.g. Special Education, it seems
possible to plan, implement, and maintain a form of Device Loan Program
tailored to the unique circumstances of the CNMI.

The Commonwealth Health Center, Special Education, individuals with
disabilities who have old or out grown AT devices, which are unused but
salvageable, would seem a rich resource from which to develop a Device
Loan Program in some form.

There a number of other resource projects which could be included in
this effort such as The Assistive Technology Project, Children's
Developmental Assistance Center, Community Guidance Center, Disabilities
Support Services, Early Intervention Services for Infants and Toddlers
with Developmental Delays or Disabilities, SSI, and the University
Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research,
and Services at Northern Marianas College, and the Work Opportunities
for Individuals with Disabilities Program.

Again, the CNMI believes that the South Dakota State Plan addresses
these issues well, and our specific problems, very well. As a result
some are adapted and included in this CNMI State Plan.

The overall goal of the first year of the Device Loan Program will be to
design a system by which family members and practitioners as well as
individuals with disabilities will be able to borrow a device for an
extended period of time and to use that device in an appropriate
environment in order to make a decision about acquisition. By allowing
individuals with disabilities and professionals to borrow AT devices,
CNMI residents are offered an opportunity to try out a device before
they buy. It also meets the interim needs of individuals with
disabilities whose own devices are being repaired or to those who are
waiting for the approval of the purchase of a device.

As the current equipment loan program does not have the capacity to
conduct the program in a comprehensive manner, the second and third year
plan activities will revolve around supporting and growing the program,
including identifying additional device loan needs and gaps in services
and determining appropriate strategies to meet the continuing and
growing AT loan needs. Collaborative partnerships will be an integral
part of the device loan program and the Council on Developmental
Disabilities and the CAFD will continue to take the lead in developing
partnerships and will provide opportunities through meetings and/or
professional development opportunities to facilitate the ongoing
relationships towards a functional Device Loan Program.

An additional responsibility of this CNMI State Plan for years two and
three will be to explore avenues to develop the comprehensiveness of the
device loan program by \"filling in the gaps\" in which types of devices
needed by specific demographic groups might be missing. A number of
strategies will be explored to increase the number and types of devices
available including:

1.  Working with medical providers on a campaign to encourage
    individuals who currently own durable medical equipment that they no
    longer need to donate the items to the device loan program to
    increase the selection of equipment available through the program.
    (The Council did not act on this activity during the first year;
    however, they are aware that there were some form of understanding
    was established between the Public Health system and the Council, to
    assist the Council in encouraging individuals to donate any personal
    durable medical equipment to the program. Between 2001 and 2004,
    there were two motorized wheelchairs, six standard wheelchairs were
    donated from local sources; two standard wheelchairs were donated by
    a family from Japan; and a personal hoist that were donated to the
    program.)

2.  Working with disability service providers on a campaign to encourage
    organizations and individuals with disabilities who currently own
    assistive equipment but no longer need it to donate it to the device
    loan program increase the selection of equipment available through
    the program. (The CNMI Public School System has agreed to share or
    to refer any assistive equipment not in used by the schools, or any
    entity to our AT program).

3.  Explore the feasibility of a partnership AT vendors in the U.S.
    mainland to develop a program to refurbish used devices as some
    devices may be made available and usable with minor repairs and
    upgrades and provided to individuals with disabilities through the
    device loan program. (The Council's Executive Director spoke briefly
    with Guam and Hawaii AT Act Program representatives during the ATAP
    training this past June (2006) in Baltimore, and express the
    Council's desire to collaborate in developing a "used device"
    program that the Council's programs could mutually benefit. We are
    currently making arrangements to meet with the Hawaii AT Ac program
    on the Executive Director's way back from the AFP training in
    January 2007).

**5.4 Device Demonstration Program -- Describe how the CNMI will
implement a device demonstration program as described in section
4(e)(2)(D) of the Act.**

Currently there is no formal Device Demonstration Program. Currently,
there is one day a year during Development Disabilities or Vocational
Rehabilitation Month(s) during which all agencies using, having, making
available, or individuals who have privately purchased an AT device hold
a conference at which time these devices of all types are on display and
their uses demonstrated. There are also catalogs available, and on
occasion, a factory representative will fly some 6,000 miles or more to
give media demonstrations of devices and answer questions -- as well as
take orders.

It is clear that one of the measurable goals developed in Year One of
this State Plan will be to establish a Device Demonstration Program in
Years Two and Three. The Utilization, Loan, and Demonstration Programs
are clearly all linked and must be developed in such a way as to be
coordinated and cross-supportive.

It is not feasible to have a center for Demonstration Programs used
solely for that purpose as no facility exists for such a purpose, and it
would be counter-productive. However, as a result of developing an
Online Device Identification and Location Program, as well as the other
programs identified above, it would be very feasible to develop periodic
and alternative demonstration activities.

A number of positive outcomes would be realistic to expect, among
others: 1) more people would become aware of more, better, and
appropriate AT devices; 2) agencies and organizations would further
develop and expand communication systems; 3) sharing of AT devices would
become easier to accomplish; 4) public awareness would be increased; 5)
the opportunities for private business to establish AT device businesses
would be increased; 6) the availability of AT devices would increase and
be easier to track making sharing and reutilization more efficient; and
7) the ability to identify used, unused, and old AT devices in public
and private individual possession would increase in turn supporting Loan
and Reutilization Programs, as these are refurbished or useful parts
reused.

It is also clear that as a result of this goal that a number of new
partnerships, MOU's, and other agreements would be developed between
agencies that know each other well, and other agencies identified above
which traditionally operate independently. The greater the public
awareness the easier it should be for all agencies to develop new
methods to address the three weaknesses in our current AT programs and
services.

In addition, it cannot be stressed sufficiently the importance of
obtaining hard data on the number and types of AT devices used in the
CNMI as well as the likely prospect of significantly increasing the
numbers and variety of devices. The importance of attracting the private
sector to open stores selling, repairing, and providing supplies for AT
devices cannot be overstated.

In the current system it is not uncommon for it to take a year or more
between the time a person with disabilities is deemed eligible for an AT
device, they are measured, the paperwork is completed, and the item
shipped and arrives in the CNMI. It is very common that the individual
will outgrow the device by the time it has arrived.

This is extremely counterproductive and currently is a deterrent to
agencies which having very limited resources. It is also damaging to the
morale of the individual for whom the device was ordered and their
family. It also negatively impacts their quality of life, and often
their employability.

During Year One development of Measurable Goal feasibility studies, a
number of strategies must be created, many which mirror those identified
in 5.2 and 5.3 above to address this issue.

Activities should include using high speed video streaming presentations
from U.S. AT device vendors, perhaps establishing a local demonstration
website, use of the PSS e-rate Internet system. These could all be used
during conferences and seminars in large and small group settings to
reach the maximum possible audience in the CNMI.

**Attachment 6: Comparable Support**

**6.1 Source and Amount of Support** - Identify the State-level activity
for which there is comparable support, the source of this support, the
amount of the support, and the project year for which this support is
being provided.

Not Applicable

**6.2 Comparability** - Demonstrate that this support is comparable in
terms of funding and that the activities are comparable in terms of
scope.

Not Applicable

**6.3 Coordination and Collaboration** - Describe how the State will
coordinate activities and collaborate with the appropriate entity, if
the comparable funds are provided to, or the activities are conducted
by, an entity other than the Lead Agency or Implementing Entity.

Not Applicable

**Attachment 7: State Flexibility**

**7.1 Activity** - Identify each State-level activity the State is
choosing not to carry out.

Not Applicable

**7.2 Maintenance of Statewideness and Comprehensiveness** - Demonstrate
that the Statewide AT Program will continue to be comprehensive without
conducting this activity.

Not Applicable

**7.3 Achievement of Measurable Goals** - Demonstrate that the State can
reach its measurable education goals, employment goals,
telecommunications and information technology goals, and community
living goals without conducting such activities.

Not Applicable

**7.4 Coordination and Collaboration** - Describe how the Lead Agency or
Implementing Entity will coordinate activities and collaborate with
entities in the State that do conduct this activity, if the State
chooses not to conduct this activity because another entity already
conducts it.

Not Applicable

**Attachment 8: State Leadership Activities**

**8.1 Training and Technical Assistance Activities** - Describe how the
CNMI will provide training and technical assistance to enhance the
knowledge, skills, and competencies of individuals non local settings
statewide, including representatives of the CNMI education agency, other
CNMI and local agencies, early intervention programs, adult service
programs, hospitals and other health care facilities, institutions of
higher education and businesses as described in section 4(e)(3)(B)(i) of
the AT Act.

o This includes specifying the activities to be undertaken to provide
transition assistance in accordance with section 4( e )(3)(B)(i)(III).

The CNMI has a population of only 70,000 people. The amount of funding
each individual agency has to provide support or services to individuals
with disabilities including AT devices, as well as training, staff
enrichment, public education and information, and developing new program
and training activities alone, is extremely limited. As a result, while
there are small 'in-house' training activities of many kinds in every
information and service providing organization, most training activities
are done through collaboration of a number of agencies.

Both the Lead Agency (Council on Developmental Disabilities) and the
Implementing Entity (The CNMI Association of Families with Disabilities)
are key participants in all CNMI wide training activities to: enhance
knowledge, skills, and competencies of individuals, staff,
professionals, and others, of all public and private agencies including
the Public School System (the sole state and local education agency) and
Northern Marianas College (the only 'state' post secondary education
provider), health providers other than the hospital, guidance,
counseling, and employment services organizations, early intervention
programs, adult service programs, the Commonwealth Health Center (only
hospital in the CNMI), programs for the elderly (the Aging Program), and
private sector business organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce,
as well as employment focused organizations including the Workforce
Investment Agency, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and others.

These training and technical assistance activities include planning,
implementing, and evaluating training activities on all three islands in
large group settings such as conferences, to small group activities with
single organizations, or in settings which involve agencies addressing
limited issues related to AT devices.

The participants involved in these activities include professional
service providers, organization directors and management personnel,
organization support staff, consumers and their families and other
stakeholders in a variety of combinations. These activities are outcome
and product outcome orientated. They are designed to provide new
information, expand knowledge on best practices and new exemplary
programs and services, as well as providing the participants with other
functional information related to assistive technology devices and
services, and uses -- including how to access services and information
after the activity is completed.

Training with education agencies including the Infant/Toddler Program,
Special Education, and schools' support staff such as counselors and
related services professionals such as Speech Pathologists,
Audiologists, and Assistive Technology staff has been conducted through
multi agency training and technical assistance activities. Collaboration
has included the education agencies to determine needs and recommend
topics, formats, and presenters, and other agencies such as the Office
of Vocational Rehabilitation. This collaboration allows a larger amount
of financial resources to be provided for regular training and
enrichment programs/activities which are multifaceted and target various
groups -- rather than having only sufficient resources to conduct one
large activity once or twice a year.

This format is used in coordinating training and technical assistance
activities with and for other agencies, both in the public and private
sectors -- including community activities, throughout the year. The
training of service providers and professions in various areas of AT
devices related to employment are essential and a primary goal of the
collaborating organizations -- as is early identification, intervention,
and service delivery.

With the arrival of communication technology, agencies supporting and
involved with AT devices activities, and consumers and their families,
have had greater access to training and technical assistance. The Lead
and Implementing entities work with the Public School System E-Rate
Internet Program, the local media, the Northern Marianas College
Distance Education Program, the Commonwealth Health Center High Speed
Internet Medical Support Program, and other support organizations to use
real and delayed teleconferencing activities and presentations which are
both small group focused, large group focused and community focused.

Previous and planned topics include those specifically identified
through surveys and evaluation instruments, and input from various
stakeholders during training activities as well as input from Federally
supported Regions Support Agencies, information from professional
medial, health, related services, vocational rehabilitation,
disabilities and other publications.

General training activities have and will include, but not be limited
to: 1) Assistive technology, and planning for its future use for infants
and toddlers, the service providers and their parents and family; 2)
Working with Special Education to training staff in use of and inclusion
of AT devices in the Individual Education Plan for each individuals; 3)
Training individuals in how to best use AT devices; 4) Community
education activities to assist in identification of those needing AT
devices, and to support the reutilization, loan and related AT device
programs; 5) Use of computers and computer technology as AT devices; 6)
Empowerment and advocacy for the individual, family, community, and
service providers; 7) employers and prospective employers in working
with, supporting, and improving the workplace environment for employees
using AT devices; 8) Alternative uses of assistive technology including
uses in the home, uses in the classroom at K-16 levels, and uses in
community facilities, community recreational centers, and related
locations -- among other activities.

Training and Technical Assistance under this State Plan will incorporate
training and technical assistance already planned, in the planning
stage, and being considered for future activities. With the additional
resources from this State Plan the Lead Entity, the Implementing Entity,
and the collaborating partners noted throughout this State Plan will be
able to expand activities and implement activities previously
unavailable or limited in scope.

One area that has proven extremely difficult is the Transition from
public school to higher education and employment for youth needing or
using AT devices. A goal of this training component is to expand
collaboration with the key agencies which are the Special Education
Transition Program, the Vocational Rehabilitation Program, the Workforce
Investment Agency, the Employment Training and Services Program in the
Department of Labor, and the Chamber of Commerce as well as individual
business groups e.g. the Hotel Association, and individual employees as
well as, of course, the individuals and their families who are involved
with AT device use.

**8.2 Public Awareness Activities - Describe how the CNMI will provide
information to targeted individuals and entities relating to the
availability, benefits, appropriateness, and costs of assistive
technology devices and assistive technology services as described in
section 4(e)(3)(B)(ii) of the AT Act.**

Over the past three years collaborating service providers and support
organizations in the public and private sector, as well as consumers,
advocacy groups, and employers, have been working on the issue of how
best to coordinate and maximize the effectiveness of public awareness
activities. Public awareness activities are time consuming, resource
intensive, and agencies and organizations are often not prepared or lack
resources of various kinds to make the best most effective use of public
awareness resources; or, to utilize public aware techniques that insure
the message reaches the intended audiences effectively.

One of the goals that will be developed in Year One and Implemented as
soon as possible is a Joint AT Services Website using the Internet. This
activity and goal has been mentioned previously e.g. in the
Reutilization section. Establishment and appropriate use of such a
website would provide a clearinghouse-type resource that would be
enormously valuable as a communication, planning, and resource access
tool not only for the support services and service providers but for the
consumers and the community. The site would have various links and some
would be available to the public, some to service providers only.

The Internet is widely used in the CNMI. Every collaboration agency or
organization, including businesses mentioned in this State Plan, have
access to the internet. The public schools and Northern Marianas College
students and staff all have easy access to the Internet. The number of
families whom have Internet access is growing. In addition, community
recreational centers provide computer Internet access as does the only
Public Library.

In the process of establishing a Joint Internet Public Awareness Program
for agencies, which can provide schedules of activities, presenters,
topics, registration, related and supporting information, technical
links and other communication links directly to specific agencies, the
collaborating agencies would fulfill a goal that has been of significant
concern over the last several years, bringing together a more effective
use of the internet as a resource. Materials developed and presentations
will be in alternative formats.

In addition to using the Internet for public awareness activities, all
collaborating agencies agree, and the local media has pointed out, that
public awareness activities lack coordination, often overlap, and
frequently are counterproductive as activities are scheduled as
conflicting times with other activities. This problem has been raised by
community advocacy groups, consumers and families, as well as other
community members, not to mention the agencies involved in public
awareness.

Through this State Plan, we will have the resources and the 'clout'
and/or the expertise to assist agencies and community organizations to
better utilize the radio, TV, print, and technology resources available.

The steps in this process will be to: 1) Begin formal coordination with
agencies which currently collaborate most effectively; 2) Broaden this
model to include agencies and organizations which have close and good
communication links with those initially involved in this State Plan
Public Awareness Coordination Process; 3) Conduct one or two coordinated
public awareness activities that all participants are comfortable with
having conducted them in the past, or been involved, e.g. Developmental
Disabilities Month, Vocational Rehabilitation Month; 4) Broaden the
public awareness activities to include employment organizations such as
the Chamber of Commerce which has traditional been willing to
participate, but often is left out of the loop; 5) Broaden the 'loop' to
include an ever expanding number of groups of participating
organizations, community members, consumers, and others; 6) Identify and
include previously under utilized resources, e.g. the Chamber of
Commerce as noted above, but there are many other resources and
organizations, both formal and informal which could, but often are not,
involved in community awareness activities; 7) Fully implement the
Internet Website, as well as a Public Awareness Coordination Program
using traditional models that are effective and less resource intensive
and the new models above.

A number of agencies and organizations publish regular newsletters,
annual reports, quarterly reports and other public information documents
on a regular basis. There is no coordination to circulate these
documents and newsletters throughout the AT service delivery and support
community or in the general community. Most agencies have dozens of
various pamphlets covering a variety of topics. Many of these include AT
issues. An objective related to the goal of expanding and improving
public awareness under this State Plan will be to coordinate
dissemination of these documents. The Implementing Entity
(NMC-CDI-UCEDD) would become a Clearinghouse for information related to
support and service delivery agencies and organizations as well as
community organizations. The purpose would be to make more useful
information easily available in the most efficient least resource
intensive manner possible.

Over all, the NMC-CDI-UCEDD, as Implementing Entity, would work to be
increasingly responsible and accountable for assisting, coordinating,
planning, carrying out, and publicizing a wide variety of State Plan
activities for the collaborating agencies and community organization
described in this State Plan.

These activities would include: traditional newsletters and pamphlets;
traditional workshops, seminars, conferences, and enrichment activities;
technology assisted coordination of activities using a Website;
developing and implementing new models to address public awareness needs
such as becoming a Clearinghouse for information; evaluating activities
conducted; and developing new models to include users and potential
users and their families, including employers and potential employers in
these activities. Overall, this would shift a significant amount of PR
and planning work from agencies to the Implementing Agency.

**8.3 Coordination and Collaboration - Describe how the CNMI will
coordinate activities among public and private entities that are
responsible for policies, procedures, or funding for the provision of
assistive technology devices and assistive technology services to
individuals with disabilities, service providers, and others to improve
access to assistive technology devices and assistive technology services
as described in section 4(e)(3)(B)(iii) of the AT Act.**

A number of new and revised coordination and collaboration models
identified previously are proposed. These include use of technology
including the Internet, creation of a website and corresponding links,
new models of conducting training, staff, and consumer resource
programs, enrichment and information programs, as well as public
awareness activities.

NMC-CDI-UCEDD will begin by using traditional models which participants
feel comfortable with. Based upon the development of trust as a result
of quality coordination and collaboration of assistance, NMC-CDI-UCEDD
will begin to implement improved and new CC methods and models with
selected agencies and organizations. Based upon success and experience
of these activities, the plans will revised and improved and expanded to
include additional CC organizations. By the end of three years all of
the agencies listed in this State Plan will be participating to various
degrees in new CC methods and models.

This will include expansion of CC participants to traditionally under or
non involved participants e.g. employers and employer groups.

This model will provide for CNMI wide access to information, training,
coordination of activities, conducting new training activities and
public awareness activities, and all coordinated using traditional and
new collaborators in both traditional and new ways described in previous
sections.

One major goal will be to provide seamless coordination and
collaboration in a timelier manner, while at the same time freeing
agencies from resource intensive tasks such as public awareness,
dissemination of information, and coordination and collaborative
planning of activities.

As a result of this effort, the CNMI will be able to provide a more
inclusive and quality comprehensive system of AT access and acquisition
that meets the needs of all individuals with disabilities and their
families. This will result in a better quality of live for individuals,
families, organizations, and the community. In addition, this State Plan
will result in a higher quality and more efficient CNMI wide system of
AT access and acquisition by a larger number of individuals, while at
the same time making available more highly trained and qualified direct
service providers, support staff, and AT users. These improvements will
greatly benefit individuals in small villages, and those people on the
islands of Rota and Tinian by making available information, training,
and access to services using technology and through other means
described above.

Equally important is that the use of scare resources will be better
coordinated, more efficiently used, and focused in more effective ways
to all segments of the community.

The Advisory Council, made up of key participants, will play the key
role to insure involvement, cooperation, smooth transfer to new proposed
systems, and for evaluating and improving State Plan activities. The
Advisory Council members were very carefully selected to insure that
Coordination and Collaboration of this State Plan would be successful
and that new systems and service and support models would continue as
standard operating procedures by the end of the State Plan. The members
selected have the expertise and knowledge, contacts, influence, respect,
and authority to insure success of all components of this State Plan
through the Lead and Implementing Entities and all of the present and
proposed new participants and collaborators.

**Attachment 9: Involvement of Public and Private Entities Section
4(d)(4) of the AT Act requires that the CNMI describe how public and
private entities were involved in the development of the State Plan for
AT and will be involved in the implementation of the activities to be
carried out through the grant.** To complete Attachment 9, the CNMI must
provide the following:

**9.1 Nature and Extent of Resources - Describe the nature and extent of
resources that will be committed by public and private collaborators to
assist in accomplishing identified goals.**

NMC-CDI-UCEDD has its own offices but will collaborate with the Lead
Agency to use the facilities and support of the Lead Agency (the Council
on Developmental disabilities). In addition, the Council Members had
pledged access to their facilities and support services including
personnel and technology equipment to insure full implementation and
successful completion of the Goals, Objectives, and Activities of this
State Plan. These include access to Distance Education Facilities e.g.
the Northern Marianas College Distance Education Program facilities and
staff.

NMC-CDI-UCEDD and Developmental Disabilities Council have recordkeeping
and fiscal management staff. In addition, the Department of Finance
within the CNMI Executive Branch will provide fiscal management
assistance. The CNMI government also pays for an independent audit of
each Executive Branch agency each year with will include this State
Plan.

NMC-CDI-UCEDD has access to computers, AT technology staff, service
providers, and support personnel, as well as AT facilities through the
Commonwealth Health Center and other agencies. The CNMI government has
facilities such as conference and meeting, and teleconferencing
facilities and equipment centers to host large and small group
activities of various kinds. All telecommunications, security,
utilities, facilities maintenance and related support is provided by the
CNMI government. Non government support organizations have also pledge
support and access to services and facilities as needed. This includes
private community sector organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce.

Collaborative partners include those representing agencies on the
Advisory Council, all of the education agencies and others identified by
name throughout this State Plan. The private sector media companies have
pledged to provide free public awareness and information time. This
includes free broadcast time for information and AT education meetings,
conferences, and staff and consumer enrichment and information
activities.

Other support includes professional consultants, program development, PR
expertise and related professional assistance.

**9.2 Mechanisms to Ensure Coordination -** Describe the mechanisms
established to ensure coordination of activities and collaboration
between the implementing entity, if any, and the CNMI.

The Lead Agency (the Council on Developmental Disabilities) has a long
history of close collaboration, sharing of resources, and joint program
development, implementation and evaluation with the Implementing Entity,
NMC-CDI-UCEDD. The communications and collaborations systems built up
over the years includes but is not limited to: joint staff activities
and development of programs and projects; regular meetings between the
Executive Directors of the respective organizations, as well as those on
the Advisory Council; regular phone and Internet communication; and
joint membership on various other Advisory Council and other agencies
which provide AT support and services and related activities.

The Governor has been involved in the planning and development of this
State Plan and its components including the Alternative Financing Loan
Program for Assistive Technology Devices, selection of the Advisory
Council, and selection of NMC-CDI-UCEDD as the Implementing Entity at
the request of the Lead Entity (The Council on Developmental
Disabilities).

**9.3 Involvement of State Advisory Council -** Describe the nature and
extent of the involvement of the State Advisory Council in the planning,
implementation, and evaluation of the activities carried out through the
grant, including setting the measurable goals required in section
4(d)(3).

The Council members were carefully selected to provide the most
experienced and extensive expertise about AT programs. They were also
selected based upon their previous involvement in AT device activities
related to this State Plan as well as through their contacts in the
community and involvement in community activities related to AT,
including employment programs.

This Advisory Council provides extensive technical expertise, service
provision expertise, support program expertise, consumer need and
involvement expertise, experience in planning, implementing, and
evaluation of a variety of AT related programs. These programs include
all segments of the community from professional health services, related
services, special education, employment programs and services, consumer
advocacy and needs experience, as well as individuals using AT devices
and their experience in the needs of individuals using such devices.
Based upon the experience of the Council members and their support
staff, or contacts in the community, and their collective experiences,
this State Plan was collaboratively planned and written. When it is
approved, they will use their collective expertise and resources to
insure that it is successfully completed, and that its components become
permanent parts and standard operating procedure of the various agencies
and community organizations.

The Council is specifically tasked by the Governor to: 1) Advise the
implementing agency through the Lead Agency about the assistive
technology needs of support and direct service organizations, as well as
the needs of individuals needing or using AT devices and their families,
as well as community input and involvement e.g. employment and
transportation issues; 2) Assist the Implementing and Lead Entities, as
well as the collaborating partners in designing specific program
activities to successfully meet the goals developed during Year One and
beyond; 3) Monitor and evaluate, on a monthly basis, the progress of the
Implementing and Lead Entities;

4\) Use their expertise, contacts, and authority to assist in the
implementation of the planned activities; 5) Provide input on training
and enrichment activities for all stakeholders; 6) Conduct a final
evaluation of the State plan at the end of Year Three to be disseminated
throughout the CNMI and to the appropriate Federal Agency.

**Attachment 10: State Support**

**10.1 State Support for the State-level** Activities -- If applicable,
describe how the CNMI will support with CNMI funds any CNMI level
activities described in section 4(e)(2).

Not Applicable -- However, section 9.1 and in other places within this
State Plan address this support at length.

**10.2 State Support for State Leadership Activities** -- If applicable,
describe how the State will support with State funds any State
Leadership activities described in section 4(e)(3), if applicable.

Not Applicable

**Attachment 11: Allocation and Utilization of Funds**

11.1 Tracking Expenditures -- Describe planned procedures for tracking
expenditures for activities described in sections 4(e)(2) and (3).

The Council on Developmental Disabilities is a line agency of the
Executive Branch under the Governor. The Northern Marianas College is an
autonomous agency. As a result, each entity is required to comply with
federal and local financial and related recordkeeping regulations. In
the case of the DD Council, the CNMI Procurement and Supply Department
monitors all expenditures through Purchase Orders and other formats for
compliance with Procurement and Supply Regulations which follow
generally accepted P&S rules and procedures. In addition, the Department
of Finance Office Federal Programs Officer establishes a unique account
for each Federal project with a separate account number. The
expenditures must comply with the Grant Award and the Approved State
Plan Budget. In the case of the Northern Marianas College, both local
and federal regulations are followed, however the College has a wealth
of experience in successfully managing federal grants and has a positive
rating doing so. Both entities are audited by an independent Office of
the Public Auditor audits CNMI government expenditures each year, and
this includes expenditures of the Lead and Implementing Entities and the
funds received as a result of this State Plan. Furthermore, the Northern
Marianas College hires an independent Financial Auditing Firm (Deloitte
and Touche) to conduct audits on specified accounts.

**11.2 Proposed Budget Allocations** -- Attach a budget containing
proposed allocations for activities described in sections 4(e)(2) and
(3).

The following are proposed budget Year Two of the State Plan.

Total Award Amount for Year 2: \$105,000.00

Within the above budget, CNMI AT Act program proposes to apportion funds
for specific activities in the following manner.

> Proposed Allocation
>
> Year 2

Device Reutilization Program \$7,350.00

Device Loan Program \$26,250.00

Device Demonstration Program \$13,750.00

Training and Technical Assistance Activities \$17,700.00

Transition \$ 6,300.00

Public Awareness Activities \$14,750.00

Coordination and Collaboration \$10,500.00

[Indirect Cost (8%) \$ 8,400.00]{.underline}

**TOTAL \$105,000.00**

**Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Assistive Technology
State Plan (ATSP)**

**Lead Entity: Council on Developmental Disabilities**

**Implementing Entity: Northern Marianas College-Community Development
Institute-University Center for Excellence in Developmental
Disabilities**

**On Behalf of the CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities**

.

JOHN ARRIOLA, Board Chairman DATE

.

RENATO S. REYES, Board Vice Chairman DATE

.

MARGARITA TORRES ALDAN, Board Secretary DATE

.

CARLITO PAGCALAWAGAN, Finance Chair DATE

.

CYNTHIA ATTAO, Board Membership Review Committee Chair DATE

.

ANTONIO C. CHONG, Executive Director DATE

**On Behalf of Implementing Agency**

.

DANNY Ö WYATT, Acting President DATE

.

DAVID ATTAO, Director NMC-CDI-UCEDD DATE

On Behalf of the CNMI Government Office of the Governor

Honorable BENIGNO R. FITIAL, Governor DATE

**Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)**

**Council on Developmental Disabilities**

**Assistive Technology State Plan (ATSP)**

**Part II -- Assurances**

**Part II -- Assurances**

OMB Number: 1820-0664

Expiration Date: 12/30/2008

[Section 1 - Recordkeeping, Data Collection, and Reporting]{.underline}

1.1 The State will annually collect data related to the required
activities implemented by the State under this section in order to
prepare the progress reports required under subsection 4(f) of the Act.
Section 4(d)(6)(A)

1.2 The State will prepare reports to the Secretary in such form and
containing such information as the Secretary may require to carry out
the Secretary\'s functions under this Act and keep such records and
allow access to such records as the Secretary may require to ensure the
correctness and verification of information provided to the Secretary.
Section 4(d)(6)(H)

1.3 The Lead Agency will submit the State Plan for AT on behalf of the
State to ensure conformance with Federal and State accounting
requirements. Section 4(c)(l)(A)(i)(II)

1.4 The Lead Agency will submit the progress report on behalf of the
State. Section 4 (f)

Section 2 - [Administration of Funds]{.underline}

2.1 The Lead Agency will control and administer the funds received
through the grant. Section 4(d)(6)(C)

2.2 Funds received through the grant will be expended in accordance with
Section 4 of the Act, and will be used to supplement, and not supplant,
funds available from other sources for technology-related assistance,
including the provision of assistive technology devices and assistive
technology services. Section 4(d)(6)(B)

2.3 The State will adopt such fiscal control and accounting procedures
as may be necessary to ensure proper disbursement of and accounting for
the funds received through the grant. Section 4(d)(6)(D)

2.4 Funds made available through a grant to a State under this Act will
not be used for direct payment for an assistive technology device for an
individual with a disability. Section 4(e)(5)

2.5 A public agency or an individual with a disability holds title to
any property purchased with funds received under the grant and
administers that property. Section 4(d)(6)(F)

Section 3 - [Accessibility of Programs]{.underline}

3.1 The physical facility of the Lead Agency and Implementing Entity, if
any, meets the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of
1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) regarding accessibility for individuals
with disabilities. Section 4(d)(6)(E)

3.2 Activities carried out in the State that are authorized under this
Act, and supported by

Federal funds received under this Act, will comply with the standards
established by the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance
Board under section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (20 U.S.C.
794d). Section 4(d)(6)(G)

Section 4 - Requirements of34 CFR 76.104

4.1 The plan is submitted by the State agency that is eligible to submit
this plan.

4.2 The State agency has authority under State law to perform the
functions of the State under this program.

4.3 The State legally may carry out each provision of this plan.

4.4 All provisions of this plan are consistent with State law.

4.5 A State officer, specified by title in this certification, has
authority under State law to receive, hold, and disburse Federal funds
made available under the plan.

4.6 The State officer who submits this plan, specified by title in this
certification, has authority to submit this plan.

4.7 The agency that submits this plan has adopted or otherwise formally
approved this plan.

4.8 The plan is the basis for State operation and administration of the
program.

After having carefully reviewed sections 1-4 of Part II of the State
Plan for AT and the corresponding statute, the undersigned, authorized
to sign the document on behalf of their respective organizations, hereby
affirm that the State of CNMI is in compliance and will remain in
compliance with the aforementioned assurances during the three-year
period of this STATE PLAN FOR AT.

**On Behalf of the CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities**

.

JOHN ARRIOLA, Board Chairman DATE

On Behalf of the CNMI Government Office of the Governor

Honorable BENIGNO R. FITIAL, Governor DATE

**CERTIFICATION REGARDING LOBBYING**

**Certification for Contracts, Grants, Loans, and Cooperative
Agreements**

The undersigned certifies, to the best of his or her knowledge and
belief, that:

\(1\) Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or
on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or
attempting to influence an officer of employee of an agency, a Member of
Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member
of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the
making of any Federal grant, the making of any Federal loan, the
entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension,
continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any Federal
contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.

\(2\) If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid
or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence
an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer
or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in
connection with this Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative
agreement, the undersigned Shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL,
"Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with its
instructions.

\(3\) The undersigned shall require that the language of this
certification be included in the award documents for all subawards at
all tiers (including subcontracts, subgrants, and contracts under
grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all subrecipients
shall certify and disclose accordingly. This certification is a material
representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this
transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification
is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed
by section 1352, title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the
required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less
than \$10,000 and not more than \$100,000 for each such failure.

**Statement for Loan Guarantees and Loan Insurance**

The undersigned states, to the best of his or her knowledge and belief,
that:

If any funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for
influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any
agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an
employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this commitment
providing for the United States to insure or guarantee a loan, the
undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, "Disclosure
Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with its instructions.
Submission of this statement is a prerequisite for making or entering
into this transaction imposed by section

1352, title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required
statement Shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than \$10,000
and not more than \$100,000 for each such failure.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Signature: JOHN ARRIOLA

Title: Board Chairman

Organization: CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities

[Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands GEPA, Section 427
Provision]{.underline}:

The CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities will take all the
necessary steps to ensure that all partners and subcontractors in the
CNMI Assistive Technology Program will comply with the GEPA (General
Education Provisions Act), section 427. We will ensure that all people
have equal access to and equitable participation in our programs and
services.

We will not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, national origin,
color, disability or age.

All programs and materials will be developed so that children and adults
with disabilities and those with diverse backgrounds will be able to
successfully and fully participate. For example:

1\. For individuals who do not speak or understand English, we utilize
local translation services. These services provide staff to translate
information over the telephone.

2\. Literacy levels will be considered. For those individuals who cannot
read, or have limited reading skills, we have the ability to put the
information on audiotape, use captioning services and can have materials
prepared in Braille for individuals who are blind.

3\. We systemically reach out to people in rural areas, particularly
those living in the rural villages on the island of Saipan, and to those
living on the islands of Rota and Tinian.

4\. We make sure that all materials and services are developed and
provided based on cultural needs of the people with whom we work.

5\. Our programs will be held in physically accessible locations. In
addition, we will ensure that if someone needs accommodations such as
sign language interpreters to effectively participate they will be
provided.

**On Behalf of the CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities**

.

JOHN ARRIOLA, Board Chairman DATE