##### Part I: Attachments

OMB Control Number: 1820-0664

Expiration Date: 10/31/2008

Attachment 1: Basic Information

Name of Lead Agency:

District of Columbia Department of Human Services

Rehabilitation Services Administration

Name of Applicable Division and/or Subdivision of Lead Agency:

Not applicable

Address of Lead Agency:

810 First Street, NE, 10^th^ Floor

Washington, DC 20002

Name and Title of Certifying Representative for Lead Agency:

Elizabeth Parker, Administrator of the Rehabilitation Services
Administration

Address for Certifying Representative:

810 First Street, NE, 10^th^ Floor

Washington, D.C. 20002

Telephone for Certifying Representative:

\(202\) 442-8663

E-mail for Certifying Representative:

<Elizabeth.Parker@dc.gov>

Name and Title of Program Director:

Sylvia E. Anderson

Address for Program Director:

810 First Street, NE, 10^th^ Floor

Washington, D.C. 20002

Telephone for Program Director:

\(202\) 442-8416

E-mail for Program Director:

<Sylvia.Anderson@dc.gov>

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

Carmen Duran-Medina

Address for Program Contact:

810 First Street, NE, 10^th^ Floor

Washington, D.C. 20002

Telephone for Program Contact:

\(202\) 442-8463

E-mail for Program Contact:

<Carmen.Duran@dc.gov>

Name of Implementing Entity:

University Legal Services

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

Not applicable

Address of Implementing Entity:

220 I Street, Suite 130

Washington, D.C. 20002

Name and Title of Program Director:

Alicia C. Johns, Program Manager

Assistive Technology Program for the District of Columbia

Address for Program Director:

220 I Street, NE, Suite 130

Washington, DC 20002

Telephone for Program Director:

\(202\) 547-0198 Ex 134 Voice

\(202\) 547-2662 Fax

\(202\) 547-2657 TTY

E-mail for Program Director:

[ajohns@uls-dc.org](mailto:jbrown@uls-dc.org)

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

Not applicable

Address for Program Contact:

Not applicable

Telephone for Program Contact:

Not applicable

E-mail for Program Contact:

Not applicable

Attachment 2: Lead Agency and Implementing Entity

2.1 [Identification and Description of the Lead Agency]{.underline} -
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]{.underline}
>
> Not applicable.
>
> 2.1B [Identification and Description of the Lead Agency if an
> Implementing Entity is Designated]{.underline}

In 1993, Mayor Sharon Pratt Kelly designated the Department of Human
Services, Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), the state-level
vocational rehabilitation program, as the lead agency for the Statewide
Assistive Technology Program for the District of Columbia (ATPDC). The
mission of the ATPDC is to increase the provision of, access to, and
funding for assistive technology for residents of the District of
Columbia with disabilities through a variety of District-wide,
comprehensive activities and services. Since 1998, University Legal
Services (ULS) has been directly responsible for the ATPDC.

The mission of the RSA is to assist individuals with disabilities in
becoming self-sufficient in the home and the community through the
provision of authorized vocational rehabilitation services, supported
employment services and independent living services. In FY 2005, RSA
administered an array of disability-related programs that impacted more
than 240,000 people with disabilities in the District of Columbia. The
RSA implements this mission through the following programs: the State
Vocational Rehabilitation Program; the Supported Employment Program; the
Randolph-Sheppard Vending Facility Program; the Social Security
Disability Determination Program and, the Independent Living Services
Program.

RSA works in partnership with people with disabilities and their
families to assist them in making informed choices to achieve full
community participation through employment, education, and independent
living opportunities. The RSA provides administrative support to the
District of Columbia State Rehabilitation Council (State Council). The
State Council, which is authorized by the Rehabilitation Act of 1998, as
amended, Section 105 (b) (1) (2) (3) and Mayor's Orders 2004-188 and
2001-173, is composed of 21 members, including individuals with
disabilities, parents, family members, and guardians of individuals with
disabilities, and representatives from specific components of the
disability community. The State Council, which meets at least four times
a year, works with the RSA Administrator to develop goals and priorities
for vocational rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities in
the District of Columbia. The State Council ensures that various
constituencies of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program (VR program)
have a voice in how the program operates.

The RSA recognizes that assistive technology (AT) plays a vital role in
helping customers reach their goals. The District of Columbia Assistive
Technology Resource Center (DCATRC), which is located within the RSA
premises, is an integral part of the AT Program. Its co-location with
RSA gives vocational rehabilitation counselors and clients' direct
access to and hands-on experience with a wide variety of AT devices.
This access increases understanding of AT solutions and enables
counselors and clients to make AT choices that will facilitate
employment and independent living opportunities. Since its inception in
1999, the DCATRC has provided Washingtonians free access to AT
information and referral services, an accessible web site, and
publications in accessible formats on extensive topics related to
disability rights, laws, policies, and funding opportunities for AT.

2.  [Identification and Description of the Implementing
    Entity]{.underline} -- 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.

University Legal Services will administer the assistive technology
program for the District of Columbia under a sub-contractual agreement
with the lead agency, the District of Columbia Department of Human
Services, Rehabilitation Services Administration (DCRSA). The program,
formerly known as the District of Columbia Partnership for Assistive
Technology (DCPAT), was established in 1993. University Legal Services
(ULS) will be the implementing entity directly responsible for
conducting and overseeing the activities of the Statewide AT Program,
which is now called the Assistive Technology Program for the District of
Columbia (ATPDC).

University Legal Services is a non-profit, 501(C)(3) corporation that is
governed by a fourteen-member Board of Directors, including individuals
with disabilities and their family members, that is responsible for all
of ULS' policies, finances, and programs. ULS is the Protection and
Advocacy agency for the District of Columbia (P&A) and as such, has the
responsibility of administering eight federal grants in addition to the
ATPDC.

As the P&A and the ATPDC, ULS' focus is to provide advocacy for
individuals with disabilities across a broad spectrum which includes
housing, protection and advocacy for AT, employment, education, and
community living. Because ULS is not a state agency dedicated to
specific programs that promote limited activities or serve limited
populations, ATPDC will have the flexibility to assist individuals with
AT needs across the lifespan and in any environment or for any purpose.
The ATPDC has provided Washingtonians with disabilities and their family
members free access to information and referral services, demonstration
of a variety of AT devices, publications in accessible formats on
extensive topics related to disability laws, a database of AT vendors
and funding opportunities for assistive technology (AT).

During the next three years, under the Assistive Technology Act of 1998,
as amended, ULS will continue to serve as the implementing organization
responsible for the ATPDC, and will continue to provide or establish
programs to accomplish the goals of the AT Act. As the Protection and
Advocacy agency for the District of Columbia, ULS provides
administrative and legal advocacy in the protection of the legal and
human rights of all individuals with disabilities regardless of their
age or disability.

ULS is a consumer driven organization which allows it to continue to
have the flexibility needed to work successfully with public and private
sectors, easily traversing state agency and community organization
boundaries. ULS has several advisory councils including the AT Advisory
Council comprised primarily of consumers with disabilities or family
members of individuals with disabilities. Other members are service
providers and administrators of community and government agencies. The
advisory council members make recommendations for the implementation of
ULS and ATPDC project activities.

ULS assists individuals with disabilities residing in the District of
Columbia with obtaining the AT services they are entitled to by law.

The ATPDC intake process has identified many residents at the District's
intermediate care facilities for mentally retarded persons (ICFs/MR)
that have serious AT needs that have been neglected. ATPDC provides
information, technical assistance and training related to the types of
assistive technology devices that can assist persons with mental
retardation to communicate their needs to the staff of the intermediate
care facilities and function more independently.

ULS is working with parents to ensure that AT devices and services are
provided to children who need them. P&A/AT and the ATPDC often
collaborate to provide AT training for parent advocacy groups so parents
will be empowered to advocate on behalf of their children with special
needs.

The staff of the ATPDC provides demonstrations and technical assistance
to parents about AT devices for a wide array of disabilities that can
enhance their children's ability to learn in the classroom. Parents and
their children can also borrow AT devices from the AT Equipment Loan
Program to try out and determine if the AT solution will assist the
child in their natural environments. The staff of the ATPDC provide
demonstrations and recommendations about appropriate AT devices and
services for individuals with disabilities that seek assistance from the
ULS' Client Assistance Program (CAP). ULS has reviewed and provided
comments on FCC regulations concerning telecommunications for the deaf
and hard of hearing.

The RSA will enter into a contract with ULS annually to carry out the
State-Level and State Leadership Activities of the AT Act. ATPDC is the
only program in the District of Columbia whose mandate and mission has
been to collaborate with persons with disabilities and others to
increase the availability and utilization of AT devices and services for
individuals of all ages and types of disabilities. AT services address
technology needs in education, employment, community living and
information technology/telecommunications.

The ATPDC employs three people: the Program Manager, the AT Project
Coordinator and the AT Specialist. The staff are educated and motivated
professionals with diverse experience in the field of disability and
in-depth knowledge in the field of AT. The ATPDC staff has twenty years
of combined experience in the field of disability and has successfully
completed the Assistive Technology Applications Certificate Program

offered by California State University**,** Northridge, and the RESNA
Fundamentals course**.** The ATPDC will ensure that the skills of its
staff remain current by providing them with training opportunities
throughout the three years covered by this state plan.

The ATPDC is a citywide project the goal of which is to enhance
independence, productivity, inclusion and quality of life for all
individuals with disabilities in the District of Columbia. The ATPDC
accomplishes this goal by identifying and breaking down barriers that
keep people from getting appropriate AT devices and services, and by
establishing initiatives that improve access to AT. The ATPDC has a
twelve year history of building partnerships with community service
providers, advocacy organizations, government agencies and vendors
serving individuals with disabilities to implement these initiatives.
This program has provided information and resources to the general
public through public awareness, training and outreach activities about
the benefits of AT devices and services especially for underserved
populations in the District of Columbia.

The ATPDC will continue to increase access and acquisition of AT devices
by providing public awareness, information and referral services,
technical assistance, and customized training on AT issues. All program
materials will be available in accessible formats and alternative
languages upon request. District of Columbia residents will be able to
examine a variety of AT equipment on display and learn about available
resources at the DC Assistive Technology Resource Center (DCATRC).
Individuals of any age, with any disability, can borrow many items at
the DCATRC under a short-term AT Equipment Loan Program. Individuals can
try out particular pieces of equipment at home, in their natural
environments, to ascertain their utility for everyday use.

The ATPDC will partner with City First Bank of DC to administer the DC
AT Financial Loan Program that offers loans to individuals with
disabilities to purchase AT devices and services.

The ATPDC will contract with the Washington Area Wheelchair Society to
provide recycled durable medical equipment and assistive technology
devices to residents with disabilities in the District of Columbia.

In addition to the Advisory Council described in Attachment 3 of this
plan, the ATPDC will ensure that its program is consumer responsive by
seeking direct feedback from those who access the program either through
on-site interviews, evaluations with participants or follow-up surveys.

3.  [Showing of Good Cause for Change in Lead Agency or Implementing
    Entity]{.underline} -- 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, provide an explanation of good cause for
    this redesignation.

Not applicable.

Attachment 3: State Advisory Council

1.  [Membership of the Advisory Council]{.underline} - 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 Assistive Technology Program for the District of Columbia Advisory
Council (ATPDC Advisory Council) will provide guidance for the planning
and implementation of the activities of the Assistive Technology Program
for the District of Columbia (Statewide AT Program) for the three years
of this state plan.

The ATPDC Advisory Council presently has eleven members. Six members,
54.5% of the Advisory Council are individuals with disabilities who use
AT or families of individuals with disabilities who use AT. The
remaining five members, 45.5% of the council represent agencies,
including the Center for Independent Living, State Workforce Investment
Board, DC Department of Rehabilitation Services Administration, the
Children's National Medical Center Adolescent Employment Readiness
Center, and District of Columbia Public Schools Office of Special
Education.

**[Members of the Advisory Council]{.underline}**

**Individuals with Disabilities:** The individuals with disabilities
include an Adjunct Professor at Howard University who teaches two
courses in technology/multimedia technology and conducts training
workshops on assistive technology and "Smart Classes"; an attorney who
provides advocacy and legal counsel to individuals with and without
disabilities through her private law practice; a member who works for
the Library of Congress, National Library Service for the Blind and
Physically Handicapped; University Legal Services Supervising Housing
Counselor; and a student with various disabling conditions.

Family Members: Parent with one child with developmental disabilities
and another child with dyslexia.

**State Agency Representatives:** District of Columbia Department of
Human Services, Rehabilitation Services Administration, Youth &
Transition Program Coordinator; District of Columbia Center for
Independent Living, Center Independent Living Skills Specialist/Training
Coordinator and the DC Coalition ADA Coordinator; the Children's
National Medical Center Adolescent Employment Readiness Center (that
provides transition services to adolescents with special health care
needs that are transitioning from pediatric to adult health care
systems); the Chair of the "Persons with Disabilities" subcommittee of
the Work Force Investment Council's Universal Access Committee; and the
Director of School Support for the District of Columbia Public Schools
Office of Special Education.

The membership of the ATPDC Advisory Council includes representation
from seven of the eight Wards in the District of Columbia. The Advisory
Council reflects the racial and ethnic diversity of the city. Members
who use AT use a variety of devices, such as mobility devices,
augmentative communication devices, devices and software for individuals
who are blind and computer adaptations.

2.  [Structure and Operation of the Advisory Council]{.underline} --
    Describe the structure and operations of the Advisory Council.

During Year One of the state plan, fiscal year October 1^st^ through
September 30^th^, the ATPDC Advisory Council met three times at the ULS
offices. The council members have recommended that the meetings be
conducted at the beginning of the fiscal year, during the spring, to
accommodate our consumers who have disabilities that are worsened by
cold weather and during the summer. The summer meeting will allow
council members to attend local and national meetings related to
assistive technology demonstrations, practices and program activities
implementation.

The co-chairpersons of the Advisory Council and the ATPDC Program
Manager set the agenda for the Advisory Council meetings to ensure that
council members are informed about state AT issues. The meetings held
thus far included presentations on marketing strategies to inform
consumers about the ATPDC's program initiatives, the AT data collection
tool and developing an Equipment Recycling Program for the District of
Columbia. Staff of the Statewide AT Program provided updates to the
Advisory Council on the state -level and state leadership activities of
the program and the AT data collection tool. The co-chairpersons
facilitated discussion throughout the meetings to gain input and
guidance in planning program activities. Minutes of the meeting were
recorded.

The ATPDC Advisory Council elected two co-chairpersons during the first
meeting of Fiscal Year One. The co-chairpersons are one individual with
a disability and a representative from an agency or community
organization to enable equal participation of the stakeholders and to
ensure different viewpoints. Both individuals have equal
responsibilities and will chair the meetings together. Either
co-chairperson will serve in the absence of each other. The chairpersons
for the ATPDC Advisory Council are a consumer and the representative of
the Children's National Medical Center Adolescent

Employment Readiness Center.

The ATPDC's staff provided the Advisory Council administrative support
such as transcription of the meeting minutes and meeting logistics. The
ATPDC Advisory Council members will determine the need for subcommittees
on a case-by-case basis and will solicit volunteers for any proposed
subcommittees. At the co-chairpersons' discretion, council decisions
will be made either through consensus or by member vote. ATPDC Advisory
Council members and staff will develop "General Guidelines" for
conducting meetings. The Advisory Council's responsibility includes
providing advice and making recommendations for the implementation of
the Statewide AT Program.

Members of the Advisory Council may become part of the council in two
ways: agency representatives are appointed by their respective agencies,
while consumer representatives are volunteers solicited through networks
of disability organizations and staff recommendations. All members are
expected to serve a three-year term to coincide with the length of the
ATPDC's' state plan.

## 

## Attachment 4: Measurable Goals 

The Assistive Technology Program for the District of Columbia will
establish a baseline for each of the goals 4.1 though 4.7 during Year
Two and after Year Two will submit an amendment identifying the
long-term goals and short- term goals for improving upon this baseline
during Year Three and subsequent years of the State Plan. This baseline
will be established by using a data collection instrument and procedures
to be determine by RSA.

1.  Goal for Improving Access to AT in Education

-   Long-term goal:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

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

    -   Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Access to AT in Employment

-   Long-term goal:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

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

    -   Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Access to AT in Community Living

-   Long-term goal:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

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

    -   Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Access to IT and Telecommunications

-   Long-term goal:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percent of
        appropriate target individuals and entities who accessed device
        demonstration programs and/or device loan programs and made a
        decision about an AT device or service that meets an
        IT/telecommunications need as a result of the assistance they
        received.

    -   Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Education

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-   Long-term goal:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percentage
        of appropriate targeted individuals and entities who obtained
        devices or services from State financing activities or
        reutilization programs for educational purposes who would not
        have obtained the AT device or service.

    -   Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Employment

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-   Long-term goal:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percentage
        of appropriate targeted individuals and entities who obtained
        devices or services from State financing activities or
        reutilization programs for employment purposes who would not
        have obtained the AT device or service.

    -   Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Community Living

```{=html}
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```
-   Long-term goal:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish baseline of the percentage
        of appropriate targeted individuals and entities who obtained
        devices or services from State financing activities or
        reutilization programs for community living purposes who would
        not have obtained the AT device or service.

    -   Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A data collection not established.

4.8 [Additional Measurable Goals]{.underline} \-- If applicable,
describe any measurable goals that the State has set in addition to the
goals established in items 4.1 through 4.7 for addressing the assistive
technology needs of individuals with disabilities in the State related
to education, employment, community living, and telecommunications and
information technology.

Not Applicable.

#### Attachment 5: State-level Activities

5.1 [State Financing Activities]{.underline} -- Describe how the State
will implement State financing activities as described in section
4(e)(2)(A) of the AT Act.

Over the next three years, the Assistive Technology Program for the
District of Columbia (ATPDC) will provide an AT Financial Loan Program
(ATFLP) to individuals with disabilities and their families for the
purchase of AT devices and services. The ATFLP began in 2001 using funds
provided to ATPDC under Title 1 of the AT Act of 1998 and is called the
Assistive Technology Program for the District of Columbia Financial Loan
Program or (DC-ATFLP).

The ATPDC will not administer the DC-ATFLP directly. City First Bank of
DC will administer the operations of the DC-ATFLP in partnership with
the ATPDC.

City First Bank of DC, which is the first *community development bank*
to open in the District of Columbia, has several branches in the
District of Columbia. City First Bank of DC is a commercial bank that
provides credit, financial and informational services for individuals
and businesses to strengthen underserved communities.

Individuals with disabilities or their families may apply for a loan
directly with City First Bank of DC or the ATPDC. City First Bank of DC
will process the loan applications and market the loan program by
distributing brochures to its customers in all of their branches. ATPDC
will support these marketing efforts by promoting the DC-ATFLP on
ATPDC's accessible web-site, through articles in local disability
publications and resource information and flyers distributed to
community and government agencies.

DC -ATFLP program flyers will be provided to vendors that provide AT
devices and services. Individuals can request information and the loan
application via the ATPDC website, by telephone, fax, TTY and during
training and public awareness activities. The DC-ATFLP marketing
materials and loan applications will be available in alternative formats
and other languages upon request.

Unlike other funding sources, DC-ATFLP will not have eligibility
criteria in order to qualify for assistance, other than credit history.
The loan application and approval process under DC-ATFLP will be
efficient, so individuals will receive loans and purchase AT sooner than
if they waited for funding from public or private sources. The loan
process will usually be completed in two weeks. ATPDC staff may advise
loan applicants to access device loan and device demonstration programs
described in this attachment in order to try out devices before they
take out loans to purchase them. The loan may be used to pay for the
training, warrantees and maintenance on equipment. The ATPDC will
provide a loan guarantee that will enable the DC-ATFLP to support loans
to individuals with lower credit scores than are required by typical
financial institutions.

City First Bank of DC will review a loan application for the purchase of
AT in the same manner it reviews other loan applications. If City First
Bank of DC is unable to provide a loan because of an individual's credit
history, the application is forwarded to the ATPDC Consumer Financial
Loan Review Committee. The Committee will review the application to
determine whether ATPDC funds can be used to guarantee the applicant's
loan.

ATPDC deposited funds in 2001 to begin the AT Financial Loan Program
account with City First Bank of DC in the amount of \$100,000. These
funds are used to guarantee the ATFLP loans for a 5% reduced interest
rate. ATPDC will ensure that the City First Bank of DC continues to
enforce policies which prohibit them from denying a loan to an
individual based on race, age, type of disability and the type of device
needed. Over the next three years, this private-public partnership
between City First Bank of DC and the ATPDC will enable people with
disabilities, some on fixed incomes and with no historical banking
relationship, to establish a credit history and acquire the AT devices
and services they need for education, employment and maintenance of
their independence in their communities.

Loans are limited to a minimum of \$500.00 and a maximum of \$5,000.00
because of limited funds. An applicant may be denied a loan based on
credit history or a financial consideration other than income if it
appears that it may limit the applicant's ability to repay the loan.
However, because of the guarantee, the ATPDC will be able to support
loans to individuals with credit scores below the standard for typical
loans.

The ATPDC will collaborate with City First Bank of DC and the DC-ATFLP
Consumer Review Committee to expand and improve the DC-ATFLP.

Since the inception of the DC AT Financial Loan Program, the program has
made eleven loans totaling \$36,780 with four defaults totaling
\$10,400. During the first year of this state plan, the DC-ATFLP awarded
three loans. The DC-ATFLP currently has outstanding loans totaling
\$9,101 and including the default loans, the program has approximately
\$81,000 of the \$100,000 available to guarantee loans.

The ATPDC staff did not identify additional funds and will not offer
larger loan amounts based on this financial analysis at this time.
Consumers will still be able to purchase a variety of AT devices and
services, but the loans will be limited to a maximum of \$5,000.

Plans for improvement over the Years Two and Three of this state plan
will focus on the following:

\(1\) Collaboration with the ULS housing counseling program to provide
consumers credit counseling to enable them to qualify for the loan
program and decrease the default rate. City First Bank of D.C. believes
that utilization of the program would increase if potential applicants
were provided with consumer credit counseling.

\(2\) Working with City First Bank of DC to improve outreach to AT
vendors, rehabilitation facilities, senior wellness centers, hospital
discharge personnel and other organizations that can provide referrals
to DC-ATFLP.

\(3\) Expanding marketing to the general public.

5.2 [Device Reutilization Program]{.underline} -- Describe how the State
will implement a device reutilization program as described in section
4(e)(2)(B) of the Act.

**District of Columbia Equipment Recycling Program**

Over the next three years, ATPDC will collaborate with the District of
Columbia Center for Independent Living (DCCIL), The Washington Area
Wheelchair Society, Independent Living for the Handicapped (ILH), state,
federal and other local community organizations including churches,
civic, volunteer, professional organizations, community volunteer
groups, corporations and other relevant organizations to expand the
statewide equipment recycling program. ATPDC will collaborate with these
programs to increase acquisition of AT by providing new and used
assistive technology devices and Durable Medical Equipment (DME) to
District of Columbia residents who are in need. The program will not
require an eligibility requirement, anyone needing equipment and unable
to acquire it through Medicaid, Medicare, vocational rehabilitation, or
special education can use the program to acquire the equipment they
need.

The Independent Living for the Handicapped (ILH) provides accessible
housing with support services to individuals with disabilities and their
families. ILH currently manages a two-story apartment building with
twenty units designed for people with disabilities. The building is
fully accessible and the D.C. Equipment Recycling Program will lease
space from ILH to store and distribute equipment to residents of the
District of Columbia.

The DCCIL operates a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) recycling program
that was initially funded by seed money from the Title I Funds of the
Assistive Technology Act of 1998. Durable medical equipment includes
wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, lifts, home care beds, commodes and
other items. This new and used equipment is available at no cost for
District of Columbia residents with disabilities or those who have a
dependent with a disability, regardless of their type of disability,
age, income level or location of residence within the city or the type
of assistive technology. The DCCIL will move their current inventory of
equipment to the ILH location to reduce their burden for paying for
storage space, but continue to be a distribution and donation location
for the recycling program.

The Washington Area Wheelchair Society provides new and used DME,
computers and other equipment that may benefit individuals with
disabilities. The Society is a volunteer- based 501(c)(3) community
foundation that operates six Programs of Assistance in Maryland, the
District of Columbia, and Virginia. The Society is a

clearinghouse for information about equipment, funding sources, and
other local loan closets. The Wheelchair Society will coordinate all
logistics for developing the equipment recycling program in the District
of Columbia. Specifically they will purchase all equipment needed to
store, clean and inventory the DME/AT. The Wheelchair Society will
provide repair and maintenance for equipment. This organization will
help the ATPDC identify and train volunteers to solicit, collect and
inventory DME and assistive technology donations. It will also train
volunteers on how to repair the equipment.

The District of Columbia Equipment Recycling program will operate in the
following manner. Individuals or agencies will donate DME and various
assistive technology devices. The types of equipment available are
dependent on what is donated. Initially ATPDC will recycle some of the
AT devices from the AT Resource Center and the AT Equipment Loan Program
to the DC Equipment Recycling Program. Consumers with disabilities or
their family members must contact the program by telephone to request
the equipment they need. Staff or volunteers will check the program's
equipment inventory list to determine if the equipment is available and
makes arrangements to have the equipment picked up. If the equipment is
not available, the recycling program staff will contact other equipment
give-away programs such as the Cerebral Palsy Association, Children's
National Medical Center, Spinal Cord Injury Network, Paralyzed Veterans
of America and Disabled Veterans of America to try to acquire the
equipment that the consumer needs. These equipment give-away programs
are located throughout the Washington metropolitan area. They
collaborate to meet the needs of all individuals with disabilities.
Individuals with disabilities can use the AT devices and DME equipment
as long as they have a need for it.

Over the next three years, ATPDC in collaboration with these
organizations, will establish and expand the D.C. Equipment Recycling
Program. Plans for the development and expansion of the program include:

During Year One of this state plan:

\(1\) Consumers acquired small DME items such as canes, manual
wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches from the DC Assistive Technology
Resource Center and ULS offices where the ATPDC is located.

\(2\) ATPDC collaborated with the DCCIL and the Washington Area Society
to coordinate the acquisition of a variety of DME equipment to residents
residing in the District of Columbia.

\(3\) ATPDC distributed used computers to residents of the ILH apartment
complex.

\(4\) ATPDC also recycled AT devices from the Equipment Loan Program to
consumers who needed specific AT devices.

\(5\) Before the end of Year One of the state plan:

> a\. ATPDC will formalize an agreement with the Washington Area
> Wheelchair
>
> Society, Independent Living for the Handicapped and other
> organizations to

establish the D.C. Equipment Recycling Program.

> b\. ATPDC will provide funding to Washington Area Wheelchair Society
> to
>
> assist with the expenditures related to operating an equipment
> recycling
>
> program including, but not limited to staffing costs; operational
> cost;
>
> equipment storage, repair and maintenance, and transportation for pick
> up of
>
> donations.

During Year Two of the state plan:

\(1\) ATPDC will collaborate with all of its partners to develop
policies and procedures for the Equipment Recycling Program.

\(2\) ATPDC will solicit donations from the community to acquire a
variety of AT devices for different disabilities for the recycling
program.

\(3\) Hire staff for the Equipment Recycling Program including a
director, a consultant to develop an accessible website for the
recycling program and a volunteer coordinator.

\(4\) Consumers, their family members and other organizations will be
able to access information about where and how to obtain equipment, how
to make donations and a real time inventory of available equipment on
the website. Other loan programs will be linked to this website which
will expand the number and variety of items available to consumers.

\(5\) ATPDC and partners will solicit new and refurbished computers that
consumers can acquire through the recycling program.

During Year Three of the state plan:

\(1\) ATPDC and partners will solicit volunteers to assist in managing
the Equipment Recycling Program.

\(2\) Identify additional funding resources to sustain the recycling
program.

On an ongoing basis, ATPDC, in collaboration with the all of its
partners will:

a.  Solicit AT and DME donations, especially from vendors, to provide a
    wider range of equipment that will meet the needs of a variety of
    disabilities.

b.  Solicit equipment and monetary donations for the recycling program
    by publicizing the recycling program on free radio and cable
    community programs and on our website.

c.  Advertise the recycling program in local community newspapers, and
    distribute flyers in non traditional community organizations such as
    churches, nursing homes, assistive living centers, wellness centers,
    and hospitals.

The District of Columbia Equipment Recycling Program supports the
acquisition of AT by providing consumers the option to acquire AT
devices and DME at no cost. Consumers do not need to meet eligibility
criteria to obtain devices from the recycling program but will be
provided technical assistance about acquiring devices from VR or Special
Education or other funding sources if they are eligible for those
services. Individuals will be able to acquire items in a more timely
manner than if they waited for funding from public or private sources.
The program will break down financial barriers for those families who
can not afford to purchase or take out a loan to acquire needed AT
devices. Conversely, the donations, which are tax deductible, will help
eliminate problems associated with equipment disposition and
abandonment.

5.3 [Device Loan Program]{.underline} -- Describe how the State will
implement a device loan program as described in section 4(e)(2)(C) of
the Act.

Over the next three years, the ATPDC will operate a short-term AT
equipment loan program known as the Assistive Technology Equipment
Lending Program (ATELP). This program, which the ATPDC established in
2002, will be operated through the DC Assistive Technology Resource
Center. ATPDC will market the short-term equipment program through
flyers distributed to disability-related agencies and organizations, on
the ATPDC web site and through ATPDC public awareness activities and
subsequent "word of mouth" by users of the program.

The ATELP will allow individuals with disabilities and professionals to
try out AT devices before they buy them and allow clinicians to use a
device to assess clients. It will also meet interim needs of individuals
whose own devices are being repaired by providing a loaner device. The
ATELP is the only device lending program in the District of Columbia
that allows all individuals with disabilities, regardless of their age,
to borrow AT devices for a specific time period without any cost.

The ATELP will use an inventory of over 300 AT devices, including
devices for persons who cannot speak, persons with hearing impairments
and persons who cannot use the computer because of a physical or visual
disability. The ATELP will remain accessible to all individuals, all
agencies and all service providers in the District of Columbia. In
addition to a phone, fax and TTY number, the ATELP will offer a website
that users can visit to learn about the program, view the inventory list
and request a device through a printable online application. The
inventory list and application will also be available in Braille and
non-English languages upon request.

The ATELP will continue to be staffed by an AT Specialist who will
provide information and recommendations on the most appropriate devices
and products in the program inventory. Borrowers will be able to call
and receive information about available devices and then visit the
DCATRC to pick up the device(s) they wish to use. Staff will be
available to deliver and pick-up devices for consumers who may be unable
to access the resource center. Shipment and return of devices within the
city will also be available for a nominal charge. Borrowers will be
required to complete an application which outlines the responsibility of
the ATELP and the borrower. Loans will generally be limited to a maximum
of five devices at a time, and the term of the loan will be for up to a
four week period, with extensions available upon request.

During the next three years the ATELP will implement the following
strategies on an ongoing basis to broaden the loan program's usefulness
to individuals with disabilities:

During Year One of the state plan:

\(1\) The AT Specialist purchased AT devices such as FM listening
systems, cell phone amplifiers, portable CCTV and portable word
processors and organizers that are available for individuals with
disabilities, their family members and services to borrow for a short
term loan.

\(2\) ATPDC staff contacted several AT device vendors to solicit AT
devices for the ATELP, but most vendors preferred to provide
demonstrations of their AT products rather than to make them available
for short term loans.

\(3\) ATPDC staff distributed ATELP flyers and posted information on the
program's website to increase awareness of the equipment lending
program, thus increasing public access. Staff members distributed
program flyers about the ATELP at every presentation, training session
or public awareness event.

\(4\) Federal and local government agencies representatives borrowed AT
devices from this program to provide training and demonstrations to
their employers and employees about the benefit of AT devices in the
work environment.

During Year Two of the state plan:

\(1\) The AT Equipment Lending Program will be expanded so that
individuals can borrow and return AT devices to other locations such as
ULS' offices and the Equipment Recycling Program.

\(2\) ATPDC will increase its equipment inventory by purchasing AT
devices that

> specifically address the needs of individuals with cognitive and
> developmental disabilities such as learning disabilities and autism.

\(3\) ATPDC will also consult with a marketing expert to develop more
effective marketing strategies to inform the public about the ATELP and
other ATPDC's programs. All marketing materials will be available in
alternative format and languages other than English.

During Year Three of the state plan:

\(1\) Advertise the AT Equipment Loan Program in local community
newspapers targeting their technology, or health sections and list the
program on various free classified web pages such as craiglist.com.

\(2\) Distribute program flyers, loan request forms and a listing of the
ATELP equipment inventory to infant and toddler programs, One Stop
Centers, senior and therapeutic recreational centers and other assistive
technology centers that do not provide an AT equipment lending program.
This information will also be available on the ATPDC's' website
[www.atpdc.org](http://www.atpdc.org/)

When individuals with disabilities, their families and professionals
borrow AT devices and try them out in their natural environments, they
will learn more about what devices meet their needs or the needs of
those they are serving. The experience of borrowing devices from the AT
Equipment Lending Program and trying them out lets consumers and service
providers make informed choices about which device to purchase or
whether to purchase a device at all if their needs are not met.

5.4 [Device Demonstration Program]{.underline} -- Describe how the State
will implement a device demonstration program as described in section
4(e)(2)(D) of the Act.

Over the next three years, the ATPDC will operate an AT demonstration
center known as the District of Columbia Assistive Technology Resource
Center (DCATRC). The DCATRC, which was established in 1999, is fully
accessible and is located at the District of Columbia Rehabilitation
Services Administration's (DCRSA) offices. The DCATRC is a facility
where consumers, family members, employers, educators, service providers
and any District of Columbia resident may explore, experience and
compare the usefulness of various types of AT equipment, learn about
possible product vendors and other related services, and discuss their
applications for devices or services.

The DCATRC contains over 350 items of assistive technology ranging from
specially designed toys for infants and toddlers, electronic
dictionaries, software for learning disabilities, screen reading
software for persons with visual disabilities and computer hardware for
mobility impairments. The DCATRC will continue to be staffed by an
Assistive Technology Specialist (ATS) who possesses significant
expertise in assisting individuals in making informed choices regarding
assistive technology devices and services. The AT Specialist will be
responsible for training individuals and groups in the use of such
technologies and in the process of integrating such technologies into
the formal habilitation, education and/or rehabilitation process.

The DCATRC will remain completely accessible to all individuals with
disabilities, all agencies and all professionals and service providers
in the District of Columbia. In addition to a phone, fax and TTY number,
we will offer a website that users can visit to learn about the program,
view a list of equipment in the center and request an appointment for a
personally guided tour. Persons with disabilities or family members self
refer or are referred to the center from public and private agencies and
organizations, school systems and medical facilities, as well as the DC
Rehabilitation Services Administration (DCRSA). Patrons will also learn
of the center though ATPDC outreach activities and subsequent "word of
mouth." Staff will also be available to provide off-site demonstrations
as needed.

During Year One of the state plan:

\(1\) The AT specialist purchased updated word processors and
organizers, a portable CCTV and FM Listening systems to address the
needs of a wider range of individuals, including persons with cognitive,
developmental and mental disabilities.

\(2\) The ATPDC staff provided demonstrations of a variety of AT devices
to VR clients, K-12 personnel and students, OT and PT students,
clinicians and parent advocacy groups.

\(3\) The ATPDC staff marketed the device demonstration program on its
website, and through distribution of flyers to Student Disability
Services, D.C. Center for Independent Living, VR counselors, senior
programs and local and federal government agencies and their staff.

During Years Two and Three of this state plan:

\(1\) The ATPDC program will consult with a marketing specialist to
develop a comprehensive marketing plan to increase awareness and
utilization of the DCATRC. This marketing plan will include promoting
and advertising the DCATRC as an assistive technology training site,
vendors' demonstration location and a place where skilled AT evaluators
including occupational, physical and speech therapists can borrow
equipment for evaluations of their clients in their natural environment
or at the DCATRC. This information will also be available on the program
website including pictures of the demonstration center's equipment.

\(2\) In response to demands for the ATPDC staff to provide
demonstrations to federal and local government agencies and
postsecondary programs training professionals to work with people with
disabilities, the ATPDC staff will create an "AT Demo Kit List". These
"AT Demo Kit List" will contain a listing of a variety of AT devices
related to a specific disability or a particular population that can be
borrowed from the DCATRC. Consumers, representatives from local and
government agencies and other professionals will be able to borrow the
equipment listed on the AT Demo Kit List for use in demonstrating a
variety of assistive technology devices to the general public for
specific events, general information or training sessions.

\(3\) ATPDC staff will also provide AT demonstrations at the Equipment
Recycling Program.

\(4\) ATPDC will collaborate with vendors and specialized AT experts to
provide demonstrations of a variety of AT devices that address the needs
of specific disabilities and/or groups within the community. Specific
demonstrations could include AT devices for individuals with learning
disabilities or autism and demonstration of safety products for seniors.
All demonstrations will provide a list of the devices, their
application, and costs and catalogs or websites for purchasing
information.

The DC Assistive Technology Resource Center will serve as a "one stop"
resource center which provides consumers and service providers the
experience of receiving all the information they require about AT
devices and services in one visit. This experience of direct access to a
variety of AT devices at the DCATRC will provide consumers and service
providers with the information and resources they need to determine the
best AT solutions to achieve success in educational, employment and
community living endeavors.

#### Attachment 6: Comparable Support

1.  [Source and Amount of Support]{.underline} -- 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]{.underline} \-- 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]{.underline} -- 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

1.  [Activity]{.underline} -- Identify each State-level activity the
    State is choosing not to carry out.

Not applicable.

2.  [Maintenance of Statewideness and Comprehensiveness]{.underline} --
    Demonstrate that the Statewide AT Program will continue to be
    comprehensive without conducting this activity.

Not applicable.

3.  [Achievement of Measurable Goals]{.underline} - 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.

4.  [Coordination and Collaboration]{.underline} -- 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

1.  [Training and Technical Assistance Activities]{.underline} --
    Describe how the State will provide training and technical
    assistance to enhance the knowledge, skills, and competencies of
    individuals from local settings statewide, including representatives
    of State and local educational agencies, other State 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.

**Training**

Over the next three years, the Assistive Technology Program for the
District of Columbia will engage in a number of training activities.
ATPDC staff will develop a number of comprehensive, customized and
interactive training activities to meet the needs of individuals with
disabilities, family members, teachers, school administrators,
employers, government agencies and professional service providers in the
District of Columbia. ATPDC training modules will involve integrating
practical experience and "hands-on applications" with a discussion of
theory and policy as well as ongoing follow-up and support to reinforce
and refresh the content.

ATPDC staff and expert consultants will advertise specific subject
training workshops in local disability related newsletters, and employee
orientation/training schedules of schools and teachers, therapists, and
medical personnel. All training information will be available on the
ATPDC and other disability related organizations' website, mass emails,
and flyer distribution during all pubic awareness events.

For the most part, trainings will be held at the DCATRC, but off-site
events may be scheduled upon request. Trainings will be provided by all
ATPDC staff members. When possible, experts in areas such as education,
recreation, vocational rehabilitation, and community living will provide
training sessions on AT issues. Keynote speakers will provide updates on
important AT policies and legislation. These trainings will include but
are limited to:

[Training for consumers and advocates.]{.underline} Staff of ATPDC will
train individuals with disabilities, their family members and caregivers
to increase their awareness of the ever-changing array of assistive
technology devices. Staff will seek out community organizations that
would benefit from training including parent groups of school-aged
children, neighborhood associations and disability advocacy groups. The
training curriculum will enhance awareness about the need for access to
assistive technology devices and services and will offer specific
strategies on how to acquire funding for services and equipment.

##### [Training for employment professionals]{.underline} will be developed for employment professionals such as vocational rehabilitation counselors (public and private), DC Department of Employment Services staff (One-Stop Centers) and government and

human resources personnel. This training module will increase these
professionals' general knowledge of the availability of various
assistive technologies and the identification of appropriate AT devices
for worksite accommodations for a variety of disabilities.

[Training for education professionals.]{.underline} Training sessions
for special and general education teachers, speech therapists,
occupational and physical therapists, early intervention specialists and
other education professionals will include a basic overview of the
benefits of AT devices for students; the AT evaluation and selection
process, and how to integrate the AT devices into the educational
settings. These trainings will include information on how to recommend
assistive technology devices and services in the required educational
plans for all students. The training sessions will include information
for a broad array of disabilities and devices and training on the use of
specific devices upon request.

##### The ATPDC staff will customize trainings for specific audiences, organizations, government agencies or other interested groups such as independent living professionals and post-secondary administrative staff that request training on specific topics. Upon the completion of each training, participants will receive training materials including a hard copy of the Power Point presentation and other handouts as warranted. Participants will also have access to technical assistance by phone, the website or one-on-one tutorials. 

##### Participants will be asked to complete pre and post training evaluations to determine if the materials provided are appropriate to the trainees' needs. The evaluation will provide ATPDC staff with information to improve training materials and course content.

##### Technical Assistance

##### Over the next three years, ATPDC staff members will provide technical assistance (TA) that generally involves advice and consultation on assistive technology available in the marketplace, proper product application, and funding, purchase and vendor information. ATPDC program staff will provide TA to statewide, local and federal government agencies, service providers and all District of Columbia residents with and without disabilities. 

##### In the past, ATPDC has provided technical assistance such as the following:

-   ATPDC assisted the State Education Agency in developing a mobile
    "literacy van" which now provides tutorial services to DC
    communities. This assistance involved a needs assessment, advice on
    accessible computer systems, consultation on the procurement of new
    software and troubleshooting information on the installation of
    certain software and devices.

-   ATPDC Assistive Technology Specialist identified AT devices for the
    Department of Employment Services' One-Stop Centers to purchase to
    make them more accessible.

The ATPDC anticipates providing technical assistance in a similar manner
over the next three years.

During Year One of the state plan, ATPDC did not undertake this training
and technical assistance project to establish small assistive technology
resource centers with one elementary school and one high school. During
years Two and Three of the state plan, ATPDC staff and expert
consultants will identify educational, employment, and community living
programs that can benefit from an on-site assistive technology resource
center. The proposed project is designed to enhance the consideration
and use of assistive technology by students, teachers, family members,
administrators, case managers, and employment specialists in order to
improve academic and independence outcomes. Increased information
sources will empower those involved to make informed choices regarding
assistive technology devices and services.

This initiative is in the planning stages, but each resource center will
contain such things as specific product information, catalogs, assistive
technology related website information, citywide resource information,
AT assessment protocols and information about the services provided by
the ATPDC program. Each community- based assistive technology resource
center will designate staff that will be responsible for maintaining the
resource center with technical assistance from ATPDC program staff. The
designated staff can borrow equipment from the Equipment Lending Program
to determine if the AT device will meet their needs or the needs of
those persons they are serving. In Year Three, the effectiveness of this
project will be determined and a decision on expansion to more schools
will be made.

# Transition

The ATPDC will continue to focus on training and technical assistance
related to students with disabilities who are leaving high school for
employment, post-secondary education and independent living in their
communities.

During Year One of this state plan, ATPDC participated in the First
Annual District of Columbia Citywide Transition Resource Fair that was
sponsored by the state vocational rehabilitation office, District of
Columbia State Transition Team and District of Columbia Public Schools,
Office of Special Education. The fair provided teachers, parents and
students access to information about the resources that are available to
students that are transitioning from school to other post secondary
opportunities. ATPDC staff also provided information about the ATPDC
program's District of Columbia Public Schools Transition Resource and
Service Providers Directory. The AT Program also disseminated
information to the general public regarding a focus group for parents
who have youth with disabilities enrolled in high school. The focus
group participants provided input in the development of a "Transition
Guide for Parents" that will assist parents with the transition process.

During years Two and Three of this state plan, the ATPDC will work in
collaboration with government and local organizations in developing
focused training sessions and providing technical assistance to students
with disabilities as they transition from high school to post-secondary
education, employment or community-based independent living programs.
Specialized training will also be developed to help parents with
children with disabilities to understand the role of AT in the
transition process. Potential workshop topics will include assistive
technology and information technology in the post-secondary setting, and
how to utilize university disability support services and workplace
accommodations in the public and private sectors.

ATPDC will also develop training workshops specifically for case
managers, consumers with disabilities, their family members and other
service providers to increase their knowledge and skills to successfully
include appropriate AT in all transition planning for community based
programs. Potential subjects for training topics will include how to
select the appropriate AT device, local AT vendors that sell and repair
devices and technical assistance how to use the AT device.

The ATPDC training program will include individual consumers, consumer
organizations, service providers, housing and assisted living providers,
professionals in training or university settings and employers. The
tailored training and technical assistance they receive will help them
understand how appropriate AT equipment and services can enable
individuals with disabilities to live more independently in their
communities, achieve academic goals and maintain employment.

8.2 [Public Awareness Activities]{.underline} -- Describe how the State
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 next three years, ATPDC will use a multifaceted approach that
will include mailings, website, publications, public service
announcements, local cable TV advertising, and participation with other
agencies, conferences, exhibits, presentations, and trainings to
increase awareness of the benefits of AT devices and services, the types
of available AT devices and services, funding for AT devices and
services, and policies related to AT. ATPDC will submit articles related
to AT to other community disability-related organizations, publications
and newsletters.

ATPDC staff members will be visible throughout the city at exhibits and
conferences and will also conduct presentations. All of our public
awareness activities will be accessible to all individuals with and
without disabilities that reside in the District of Columbia.

ATPDC will provide the following public awareness activities:

**Information and Referral.** ATPDC staff will provide information on
the availability, benefits, appropriateness and cost of AT devices and
services, upon request. In addition, ATPDC staff will mail callers AT
resource and device information in order for them to make a more
informed decision. A consumer satisfaction survey will be mailed or
*emailed* to callers approximately six months following their call to
determine if they are satisfied with the information provided by ATPDC
or if they need additional information.

**Website.** ATPDC's website,
[http://www.atpdc.org](http://www.atpdc.org/) will feature in-depth
information on the State Level activities of the ATPDC program as well
as information on other programs ATPDC is involved in outside of the AT
Act. The ATPDC's website will provide information on Assistive
Legislation and Public Policy, ATPDC publications, resources and links
to a variety of links related to disability resources, local and
national training, and professional development activities related to
assistive technology. The website will also provide an opportunity for
individuals to directly contact ATPDC for purposes of feedback,
information and referral, and acquire on-line information such as an
application for the financial loan program and the equipment loan
program.

**Publications.** ATPDC will disseminate training materials and
publications that cover the benefits of assistive technology and the
ways individuals with disabilities may obtain appropriate equipment and
services for all types of audiences, across a broad array of AT related
issues. All publications will be free of charge on the website and will
be available in any requested alternative format. The ATPDC will also
disseminate the program brochures where individuals with disabilities
access services in the community such as grocery stores, churches, banks
and doctors' offices. The ATPDC will make the information available in
school libraries, parent resource centers and PTA's meetings.

**Newsletter.** The ATPDC newsletter will be disseminated on a
semi-annual basis on the website. The newsletter will specifically
feature articles about users of assistive technology, AT devices for
education, employment and community living and information technology
and telecommunications. The newsletter will also include articles on
assistive technology funding resources, upcoming assistive technology
program events and training sessions, classified listing of assistive
technology equipment, and equipment availability.

**Video.** ATPDC will continue to distribute the program's "Creative
Solutions for Living" video that features minorities in an urban
environment using assistive technology in a variety of settings, such as
at home, work, school and recreation. This video is part of an expanded
and intensified outreach campaign aimed at informing individuals with
disabilities from minority populations about the benefits of assistive
technology devices and services. The video will encourage individuals
with disabilities from minority populations to advocate for appropriate
AT devices and services and to become active participants in the AT
service delivery system.

1.  [Coordination and Collaboration]{.underline} -- Describe how the
    State 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.

The District of Columbia will continue coordination and collaboration
with public and private entities to improve access to AT and other
accessible technologies. The structure of the APTDC Assistive Technology
Council provides a natural mechanism for coordination and collaboration
with those agencies responsible for policies, procedures, funding and
provision of AT devices and services. In the past, coordination and
collaboration involved the proposal of new or modified AT policies,
input on proposed AT policies, and analysis of the impact of current AT
policies. ATPDC achieved this by participating on task forces and
advisory councils sponsored by state agencies, membership on consumer
groups, advocacy groups and disability networks throughout the state and
through independent efforts.

Currently, ATPDC is collaborating and coordinating with:

####### The One Stop Career Centers to identify and procure accessible AT devices so that consumers with disabilities can produce resumes and make use of the web for employment searches. 

####### The Statewide Independent Living Council on the provision of AT for clients served by the DC Center for Independent Living. 

-   District of Columbia Public School Office of Special Education and
    the District of Columbia State Transition to develop resources for
    youth with disabilities and their parents to help them understand
    the benefits of assistive technology devices and services in the
    transition process from high school to other post secondary
    opportunities.

-   Disability Rights Host Committee to sponsor the DC Disability
    Community Mayor Forum and other community events related to
    addressing the disability issues for individuals with disabilities
    residing in the District of Columbia. ATPDC will help monitor the
    election polling sites for accessibility.

-   D.C. Office on Aging as part of their community events schedule
    through demonstrations of the benefits of AT devices for senior
    citizens.

ATPDC anticipates coordinating and collaborating on policies in a
similar manner over the next three years.

Attachment 9: Involvement of Public and Private Entities

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

As described in Attachment 5, ATPDC will work with the City First Bank
of DC to implement the AT Financial Loan Program. City First Bank of DC
will provide administrative support to process AT loan applications as
an in-kind contribution. The ATPDC will partner with the Independent
Living for the Handicapped (ILH), DC Center for Independent
Living(DCCIL) and the Washington Area Wheelchair Society and other
organizations to expand the District of Columbia Equipment Recycling
Program. The Independent Living for the Handicapped will provide the
space for the recycling program and the DCCIL will be a distribution
site for durable medical equipment (DME). The Washington Area Wheelchair
Society will coordinate all logistics for developing the equipment
recycling program in the District of Columbia including refurbishing and
maintaining donated equipment, and hiring and training staff and
volunteers.

9.2 [Mechanisms to Ensure Coordination]{.underline} - Describe the
mechanisms established to ensure coordination of activities and
collaboration between the implementing entity, if any, and the State.

The Implementing Entity, University Legal Services will enter into a
contract with the District of Columbia's Lead Agency (the District of
Columbia Department of Human Services, Rehabilitation Services
Administration or DCRSA). This contract will set forth activities that
ATPDC must conduct on behalf of DCRSA and the system oversight to be
provided by the U.S. Department of Education. A DCRSA Project Officer
will oversee administration of the contract, and the Program Manager of
ATPDC will meet quarterly with this Project Officer to discuss
activities and the implementation of this state plan.

The Project Officer or designee will attend all Advisory Council
meetings for ATPDC, while the ATPDC Program Manager will serve on the
advisory committee to DCRSA. ATPDC will submit monthly expenditures
reports to the DCRSA Administrator for review and appropriate assistance
to ATPDC. ATPDC will also provide quarterly and annual reports to DCRSA
on activities completed, activities planned, and any data related those
activities.

9.3 [Involvement of State Advisory Council]{.underline} - 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 Advisory Council met twice before the submittal of this plan in
order to set general goals and objectives and to provide advice on how
activities are to be carried out.

The plan for disseminating public awareness brochures (Attachment 8)
where individuals with disabilities access services in the community is
directly based on the suggestions of the Council and other stakeholders
involved in planning. The AT Advisory Council was instrumental in
providing suggestions for the training activities for students
transitioning from secondary school to postsecondary educational,
employment or independent living programs and for integrating AT
training into the orientation and training schedules of schools,
teachers, therapists, and medical personnel.

The Council will meet three times per year to evaluate progress toward
established goals and to offer suggestions for improvement and change.
Measurable goals contained in this plan will be reviewed and evaluated
when the council meets and adjustments will be made in response to and
under the guidance of the Advisory Council.

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## Attachment 10: State Support

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

The District of Columbia Rehabilitation Services Administration (DCRSA)
will continue to provide the space for the District of Columbia
Assistive Technology Center (DCATRC) within the RSA premises at 810
First Street, N.E., Washington, D.C as an in-kind contribution. The
space includes the cost of rent and utilities, security, maintenance,
concierge, janitorial and trash pick-up services. The building is
handicapped accessible and convenient to Metrorail and Metro bus.

10.2 [State Support for State Leadership Activities]{.underline} - 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.

##