##### Part I: Attachments

OMB Control Number: 1820-0664

Expiration Date: 10-31-2008

#### Attachment 1: Basic Information 

Name of Lead Agency:

State of Alaska, Department of Labor & Workforce Development,

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

Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)

Address of Lead Agency:

801 W. 10^th^ St., Suite A

Juneau, AK 99801

Name and Title of Certifying Representative for Lead Agency:

Gale Sinnott, Director, DVR

Address for Certifying Representative:

Same as above

Telephone for Certifying Representative:

907-465-6927

E-mail for Certifying Representative:

gale_sinnott@labor.state.ak.us

Name and Title of Program Director:

Sean O'Brien, Program Coordinator, DVR

Address for Program Director:

Same as above

Telephone for Program Director:

907-465-6969

E-mail for Program Director:

sean_obrien@labor.state.ak.us

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

Same as above

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

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}**
>
> Since the inception of statewide AT Programs in Alaska over 15 years
> ago, the State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) has been
> the Governor's designated lead agency for the statewide assistive
> technology program funded under the Assistive Technology Act. This
> will continue during the three years of this state plan.
>
> DVR has developed various comprehensive approaches for free access to
> information and referral services, an accessible website, numerous
> publications in accessible formats on extensive topics related to
> disability rights, ADA, laws, policies and funding opportunities for
> assistive technologies. In addition, DVR serves as the primary agency
> for supporting AT related to training, access, acquisition and
> financial loans for AT devices for consumers with disabilities
> throughout the state of Alaska. Individuals were assisted with
> obtaining home modifications and other technology that made it
> possible for them obtain and/or maintain employment and live more
> independently. Lastly, DVR's staff have consistently served over 4,000
> consumers per year and played a key role in directly supporting and
> facilitating AT awareness, access and direct acquisition of AT devices
> throughout Alaska.
>
> Though DVR is not appointing an implementing entity, it will contract
> primarily with ATLA to ensure the delivery of a program that is
> statewide and comprehensive. Relevant background information on ATLA
> follows:
>
> The Assistive Technology Library of Alaska, (ATLA) is a non-profit
> organization that celebrated its 12^th^ anniversary in January. It was
> founded by five AT specialists as a lending library and demonstration
> center -- a place where consumers, educators, service providers and
> parents could go to try out and borrow different types of technology,
> consult with AT specialists, and receive hands on training. ATLA
> received a small Tech Act grant the first year to establish a lending
> library and research the feasibility of consolidating other "tech
> closets" around the state. The lending library portion of ATLA was in
> existence three years; however, it was not as successful or used as
> much as originally thought. It was expensive to continue purchasing
> new items, maintaining and repairing the devices, paying for shipping,
> and paying for space to store the equipment for limited loans. As a
> result it was decided to discontinue the loan program and focus on
> other AT activities such as training, outreach, demonstration and
> education.
>
> Over the years ATLA evolved as a demonstration, consultation,
> educational, and vendor of technology devices in order to meet the
> needs of Alaskans. ATLA is located in Anchorage, Alaska, the largest
> city in Alaska with half the total population of the state. ATLA is
> the primary AT resource center in the state where an individual can
> get "hands on" support and training and purchase technology. ATLA has
> been able to leverage vendors around the country to provide technology
> at reduced prices for the demonstration centers. ATLA has conducted
> extensive outreach throughout Alaska. ATLA does not advocate or
> recommend pieces of assistive technology. Specific devices and vendor
> examples of different kinds of AT are available to individuals who
> come into the center so they can better understand what is available
> and make more informed choices.
>
> ATLA has had the flexibility and the quality staff to provide AT
> services to most individuals who could benefit from technology. ATLA
> continues to provide AT services to the following: children of all
> ages, youth in transition, individuals in rural and remote locations
> in Alaska, senior citizens, community service agencies, individuals
> with no funding and/or no agency support, and employers and employees.
>
> The mission of ATLA is to enhance the quality of life for Alaskans
> through education, demonstration, consultation, acquisition and
> implementation of assistive technologies.
>
> ATLA's staff consists of six highly motivated and skilled
> professionals from diverse backgrounds. All have technical expertise
> with assistive technology and/or working with individuals with
> disabilities. Staff include:

1)  Speech-language pathologist/ AT specialist with 36 years in the
    field of special education with 26 of those years focusing on
    assistive technology and augmentative communication for 3 years
    through 21 year olds. Fourteen of those years were as the assistive
    technology coordinator for a statewide special education service
    agency.

2)  Assistive technology specialist / vocational rehabilitation
    evaluator with 24 years experience primarily with the adult and
    senior population. His expertise is in the area of employment and
    adult education using computer access (hardware and software),
    different types of learning disabilities, and blind / visually
    impaired.

3)  Special education K-12 teacher with eleven years experience with
    assistive technology modifications and accommodations to access the
    curriculum, district and state presenter and district AT specialist
    for 8 years.

4)  Assistive technology consultant with expertise in deaf / hard of
    hearing / visually impaired technology with many years of experience
    working with individuals with disabilities including several members
    of her own family. She is an active member of the deaf community and
    has forged new relationships between the deaf and hearing community.
    She has attended multiple AT courses and completed an AT
    certification program through California State University at
    Northridge (CSUN).

5)  Public relations / marketing / web design / IT specialist with the
    last five years experience working for a statewide special education
    resource agency with lending library. Her expertise is in editing
    newsletters, designing websites, developing training videos and DVD,
    planning and coordinating trainings and workshops, and marketing
    assistive technology.

6)  Administrative assistant has worked at ATLA since 1994 with ATLA's
    lending library and then as ATLA's information and referral person.
    Her skills with clients and her knowledge of ATLA, consumers and
    service providers is invaluable to the organization.

7)  Other professionals, OT, PT, and vision specialists are available
    for consultation and technical assistance as needed.

> Ongoing professional development is built into ATLA's strategic plan
> for all staff members to keep up--to-date on their technical skills
> and what is changing in the field.
>
> ATLA addresses AT needs in the areas of life to include: employment,
> education, telecommunications and information technology. It provides
> consultation, training, and technical assistance in the following
> areas: augmentative communication, low-tech assistive technology
> (switches and software), computer access, environmental control,
> language and literacy, visually impaired /blind, and deaf/ hard of
> hearing. ATLA will contract with other AT experts as needed. ATLA
> collaborates with other agencies in the state to provide consultation
> and training in mobility, Braille, home modifications, and independent
> living services.
>
> During ATLA's 12 years it has developed relationships with schools,
> state and local agencies and organizations including: State
> Independent Living Centers, Center for Blind and Visually Impaired,
> Governor's Council on Disability and Special Education, various school
> districts, Department of Education and Early Development, Special
> Education Service Agency, Governor's Committee on Employment of People
> With Disabilities, First Health services Corporation, Medicaid,
> Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and One-Stop Job Centers.
>
> ATLA has Memorandums of Agreements (MOAs) with the following
> organizations for demonstration centers that will provide Alaskans
> with access to assistive technology, training and consultation:

-   Alaska Center for Blind and Visually Impaired

-   Stone Soup Group

-   Special Education Service Agency (SESA)

-   ACCESS Alaska Fairbanks

-   Southeast Alaska Independent Living Center (SAIL)

-   Kenai Peninsula Independent Living Center (KPILC)

MOAs describe how agencies work together and how individuals are
referred to and receive services from each agency.

Additional MOAs between ATLA and other organizations will be signed in
October (2006) with:

-   Arctic Access Independent Living Center (Nome and Kotzebue area)

All of the above groups work with individuals with disabilities in a
variety of capacities.

> Over the next two years, DVR also will formally utilize its role as a
> leader in the "Alaska Job Center Network" (AJCN) system to directly
> facilitate some of these AT activities such as demonstration, training
> and education. This will also increase and promote coordination among
> state agencies while also increasing the awareness and knowledge of
> the benefits of assistive technology. This will ensure that programs
> are available locally to individuals with disabilities throughout our
> state through our 22 local job centers as described in this plan.
>
> As the foundation for service delivery of AT throughout Alaska, the
> Governor's Committee on Employment and Rehabilitation of People with
> Disabilities will assist in the oversight and coordination of this
> program. They will serve as Alaska's AT Advisory Committee described
> in section III. This will ensure proper coordination to address the
> full spectrum of ages and huge geographic challenges associated with
> doing business in Alaska. Activities include direct coordination and
> collaboration with Alaska's school system, Independent Living Centers,
> specialized disability programs such as the Center for the Blind and
> Center for the Deaf, DVR and various community agencies working with
> persons with disabilities of all ages.
>
> DVR will also ensure that Alaska's Statewide AT Program will utilize
> the "usable" AT equipment that came from Elks Help, an AT loan program
> that closed the end of April 2006. The AT loan & re-utilization
> program described in attachment 5 are moving forward. In addition, DVR
> will establish baseline data and recommendations relative to their
> on-going AT loan program which is currently overseen by DVR as
> described later in this plan.
>
> In collaboration with the Governor's Committee, mentioned above and
> detailed in Attachment 3 of this plan, DVR will ensure that its
> program is consumer responsive through:

-   on-site interviews with participants;

-   follow-up surveys;

-   consumer focus groups to seek specific guidance on many of its
    programs and services.

2.1B [Identification and Description of the Lead Agency if an
Implementing Entity is Designated]{.underline}

> Not applicable. ATLA is the primary subcontractor for AT services via
> DVR but is not designated by the Governor as the "Implementing
> Entity".

1.  **[Identification and Description of the Implementing
    Entity]{.underline} -- Identify and describe the Implementing E**

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

> Not applicable.

3.  **[Show 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 re-designation.**

> Not applicable.

#### Attachment 3: State Advisory Council 

The Alaska Division of Vocational Rehabilitation will serve as the lead
agency for the statewide assistive technology program funded under the
Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended. The Division established
the Governor's Committee on Employment & Rehabilitation of People with
Disabilities in 1997, with the requirement that at least 51% of the
members be individuals who have a disability. This Committee acts as:
the Governor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities; the
State Rehabilitation Council for the Division; and, as the State AT
Advisory Council for the Alaska statewide Assistive Technology Program
(formerly known as the Tech Act).

The Governor's Committee will continue to serve as the AT Advisory
Council as required under the new statute. They have revised their
bylaws to allow one of the three existing Standing Committees within the
Governor's Committee to become the Standing Committee on AT. That
Standing Committee has recruited ad hoc members to meet the composition
requirements of the AT Advisory Council as stipulated in the AT Act of
1998, as amended. Those ad hoc members are official members of the
Standing Committee, but not official members of the Full Committee.

As stated in the Assistive Technology Act as amended, the Governor's
Committee is responsible, for providing:

-   consumer input

-   advice to the State for planning and implementation of AT activities
    including the development of measurable goals; and,

-   evaluation of AT programs and services

The Standing Committee on AT will work with Division staff to capture
consumer input through:

-   onsite interviews with participants at AT demonstration sites;

-   mail out surveys to participants and,

-   conducting consumer focus groups to seek specific guidance on AT
    programs and services.

Once the information has been gathered, the Standing Committee on AT
will formulate recommendations which they will present to the Full
Committee for approval. Upon approval, these recommendations will be
provided to the Division in writing. These recommendations will also be
included in the annual report to the Governor of Alaska.

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.

Currently there are 19 members on the Governor's Committee and the AT
Committee, the majority of whom are people with disabilities. The
Governor will continue to appoint new individuals to fill vacancies as
terms expire and seats become vacant. The full Committee is comprised of
over 51% of individuals with disabilities that use assistive technology
or the family members or guardians of those individuals.

Current members who are individuals with disabilities that use assistive
technology or family members or guardians of those individuals include:

Ruth L'Hommedieu, Ron Boynton, Jim Burton, Kristine Lewis, Cynthia Lynn,
Cindy Olson, Teisha Simmons, Pam Stratton, Jocelyn Singson and Richard
Webb.

The representative of the designated state agency is the Director of
Vocational Rehabilitation, Gale Sinnott.

Representative of Centers for Independent Living is Jerry Kainulainen\*
(\*Note: Unfortunately, Mr. Kainulainen died July 6^th^ 2006 so we are
in the process of re-filling this position. We'll update this
replacement status once re-filled).

Representative of the State Workforce Investment Board is Mayfield
Evans.

Representative of the State Educational Agency is Nancy Guthrie.

Representatives of other State Agencies, Public Agencies, and Private
Agencies include: Jackie Bisbee, (Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation
Program Director), Terri Burke, (Manager National Education Association)
Becky Simpson (Director Community Rehabilitation Program), Liza
Paramore, (Owner/Operator Community Rehabilitation Program), and
SueEllen O'Conner (State Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor).

Although several agency representatives have disabilities, they have not
been counted toward the majority membership of people with disabilities.

2.  Members reside throughout Alaska and represent a broad range of
    disabilities. Diversity of members is also evident in race,
    ethnicity and age span. [Structure and Operation of the Advisory
    Council]{.underline} -- Describe the structure and operations of the
    Advisory Council.

The Governor of the State of Alaska appoints members of the Full
Committee after soliciting recommendations from citizens of the State,
representatives of organizations representing a broad range of
individuals with disabilities, and organizations that provide services
to individuals with disabilities. As vacancies occur in the future
additional members with disabilities who use AT will be recruited for
the AT Committee

Within the Full Committee there are currently three Standing Committees
and one Executive Committee. The Executive Committee has five members
and is comprised of the Chairperson of each Standing Committee and the
elected Chairperson and Vice Chairperson from the Full Committee.

The Full Committee meets face-to-face four times a year throughout
Alaska. Each year one meeting takes place in a rural or remote area of
the State. The Executive Committee meets telephonically on a monthly
basis and outside of regularly scheduled quarterly meetings, has the
power and authority to act on behalf of the Full Committee. The three
Standing Committees develop annual goals and generally meet by telephone
on a monthly basis to conduct business. Each Standing Committee also
meets during the face-to-face quarterly meetings and delivers a progress
report to the Full Committee. However, no action can be taken by any
Standing Committee without the approval of the Full Committee.

The bylaws of the Full Committee have been amended to create the
Standing Committee on AT as one of the three existing Standing
Committees. The Standing Committee on AT is responsible for:

-   addressing issues related to AT

-   developing the AT State Plan,

-   developing measurable AT goals and

-   evaluation of AT programs and services.

On a quarterly basis the Division Director and other staff from the
Division will provide information relating to the AT program to the
Standing Committee on AT. The Standing AT Committee will deliver
quarterly progress reports, which may include recommendations to the
Full Committee.

Decisions by the Full Committee, Executive Committee and Standing
Committees are made by consensus or by member vote. The Full Committee
operates under bylaws which are reviewed and updated as needed on an
annual basis. The Committee conducts their meetings following Robert's
Rules of Order, Newly Revised, or a modified version thereof. These
rules prevail in all instances in which they are applicable and are not
in conflict with the Committee's bylaws. Members of the Full Committee
serve for a 3-year term and may be appointed to serve one additional
term. No member of the Full Committee serves more than two consecutive
full three-year terms with the exception of the Client Assistance
Program Director, (or the designee) and the Section 121 (Tribal V.R.
Program) representative.

Although members are reimbursed for all reasonable and necessary
expenses incurred in the performance of official duties, they are not
paid for their services.

Public comment is taken during each quarterly face-to-face meeting at
the meeting sites and through toll free teleconferences and is used to
provide advice to the state and to develop state policy and aide in
program direction. Public comment will be solicited regarding AT.

#### 

#### Attachment 4: Measurable Goals 

#### 

ATLA 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 identifying
the long term goal and short-term goals set to improve upon this
baseline during year three of the State Plan. This baseline will be
established by using a data collection instrument and procedures to be
determined by RSA after the State plan process has been completed.

4.1  GOAL: Improve Access to Assistive Technology in Education

-   Long-term goal

    -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

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    ```
    -   Short-term goal for Year 2: A baseline will be established of
        the percent of targeted individuals 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, formal data collection not
        established by RSA. (Note: ATLA has been collecting some
        relevant information on their own as noted in original plan).

4.2  GOAL: Improve Access to Assistive Technology for Employment

-   Long-term goal:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

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    <!-- -->
    ```
    -   Short-term goal for Year 2: A baseline will be established of
        the percent of targeted individuals 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.

    ```{=html}
    <!-- -->
    ```
    -   Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A, formal data collection not
        established by RSA. (Note: ATLA has been collecting some
        relevant information on their own as noted in original plan).

4.3  GOAL: Improve Access to Assistive Technology in Community Living

-   Long-term goal:

    -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

    ```{=html}
    <!-- -->
    ```
    -   Short-term goal for Year 2: A baseline will be established of
        the percent of targeted individuals who will access 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, formal data collection not
    established by RSA. (Note: ATLA has been collecting some relevant
    information on their own as noted in original plan).

**4.4  GOAL: Improve Access to Information Technology and
Telecommunications**

-   Long-term goal:

-   -   Short-term goal for Year 3:

    ```{=html}
    <!-- -->
    ```
    -   Short-term goal for Year 2: A baseline will be established of
        the percent of targeted 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
        information technology / telecommunications need as a result of
        the assistance they received.

    ```{=html}
    <!-- -->
    ```
    -   Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A, formal data collection not
        established by RSA. (Note: ATLA has been collecting some
        relevant information on their own as noted in original plan).

4.5  GOAL: Improve the Acquisition of Assistive Technology in Education

        Long-term goal:

> o       Short-term goal for Year 3:
>
> o       Short-term goal for Year 2: Establish a baseline of the
> percentage of individuals with disabilities from early childhood
> through higher education and vocational education 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.
>
> o       Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A, formal data collection not
> established by RSA. (Note: ATLA has been collecting some relevant
> information on their own as noted in original plan).

4.6  GOAL: Improve the Acquisition of Assistive Technology in Employment

        Long-term goal: percent of the appropriate targeted individuals
and entities who obtained devices or services from State financing
activities or reutilization programs for employment purposes would not
have otherwise obtained the AT device or service.

> o       Short-term goal for Year 3:
>
> o       Short-term goal for Year 2: A baseline will be established of
> the percent of appropriate targeted individuals and /or employers who
> obtained devices or services from State financing activities or
> reutilization programs for employment purposes who would not have
> otherwise obtained the AT device or service.
>
> o       Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A, formal data collection not
> established by RSA. (Note: ATLA has been collecting some relevant
> information on their own as noted in original plan).

4.7  GOAL: Improve Acquisition of Assistive Technology in Community
Living

        Long-term goal:

> o       Short-term goal for Year 3
>
> o       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.
>
>  
>
> o       Short-term goal for Year 1: N/A, formal data collection not
> established by RSA. (Note: ATLA has been collecting some relevant
> information on their own as noted in original plan).

#### Attachment 5: State-level Activities 

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.

After consulting further with RSA, our plan is amended to reflect our
AFP as a "comparable support" under section 6. Please refer to that
section for details.

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.

> **Reutilization / Recycling of Equipment:**
>
> Currently the IL Centers and various other non-profit organizations
> around the state have their own recycling of equipment, i.e.
> wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, etc. ATLA has initiated a discussion
> with the IL Centers and directors of other organizations and
> businesses to see interest and feasibility of a more centralized
> recycling center or putting items on an online database so anyone in
> Alaska can see if a particular item is available to borrow, to have,
> etc. There are still many items to be worked out but there appears to
> be high interest in this project. A barrier is currently space and the
> cost of the space and staffing. However, this barrier may be a "small
> one" once additional organizations become aware of the project and how
> beneficial it will become. ATLA is hoping to find an organization or
> several individuals who may want to take this on and "run with it."
> ATLA has been in contact with Habitat for Humanity and the Re-Store --
> a recycling center in Anchorage that is willing to assist.
>
> **"Swap Shop" --** ATLA, utilizes an internet based AT exchange
> program. This program is overseen by a web designer/administrator and
> will allow Alaskans from all regions of the state to access
> information regarding available AT for reutilization. As stated in the
> original plan, ATLA implements the program through the following
> activities:

1.  Increase the public and private awareness of the exchange program
    through the following marketing activities:

    a.  Onsite community presentations at local population hubs

    b.  Videoconference presentations

    c.  Mailing and distribution of brochures describing the program

    d.  Presentations at Education, Employment and Industry Conferences

2.  Develop the online exchange program through the use of a Web
    Designer / Media Specialist that will oversee the daily use of the
    program.

3.  As noted above, collaboration with existing programs such as
    Independent Living Centers, School Districts and Rehabilitation
    programs to identify available AT for posting on the website for
    loan or for purchase.

> If an individual has an AT device he or she no longer needs and would
> like to either sell or give away (a "seller"), he or she will contact
> ATLA through its accessible web site or a toll free line and request
> to post an ad. ATLA will respond to all requests by replying to the
> seller via email or letter and explaining the terms of the listing,
> which include:

-   ATLA does not warrant the condition of the device

-   ATLA accepts no liability that may result between the transaction of
    the buyer and the seller

-   The seller agrees to provide ATLA with the original price and the
    sold price of the item and the contact information of the buyer

-   The seller provides ATLA with a description of the device along with
    any special features.

-   There will be an option for device loan or dispersement that will
    allow for distribution of AT to those in need when the owner is not
    interested in profiting from the sale of AT.

-   No personal information is listed on the Swap Shop except for first
    name, city and borough.

-   The seller must renew the listing every 90 days or the item will
    automatically be removed from the list.

> Once the seller has provided the appropriate information, the device
> is listed in the area of ATLA's website that is dedicated to the Swap
> Shop. Used AT devices will be listed by category and be accompanied by
> a brief description of the device and the asking price, or exchange
> terms. Recent Swap Shop items will be listed in the E-newsletter that
> is published every-other month and emailed to disability-related
> agencies/organizations and consumers who do not have access to the
> website.
>
> If an individual with a disability or family member is looking for a
> used device (a "buyer"), he or she will contact ATLA using the same
> methods as the seller. If a buyer locates a device to purchase, he or
> she will e-mail ATLA through its website or call ATLA directly. ATLA
> will then contact the seller and the buyer. The seller and buyer will
> negotiate the terms of exchanging the device, including price and
> shipping, between themselves without any involvement of ATLA. ATLA
> will contact the buyer and seller for a follow-up survey.
>
> Anyone in the state will be able to sell or buy an AT device through
> the Swap Shop, and there will be no limitations on the type of AT
> device that can be listed in want ads. The program will only be
> limited by what devices the sellers themselves choose to make
> available.
>
> The Swap Shop will help individuals with disabilities obtain AT
> devices in different ways. First, because the devices are used,
> sellers usually will offer them for free or at a low price, meaning
> they are more affordable. Second, individuals with disabilities do not
> need to meet eligibility criteria to obtain devices from the Swap
> Shop. Third, the Swap Shop will make available devices that are not
> covered by other private and public funding. Fourth, some devices made
> available will no longer be manufactured, so the Swap Shop is one of a
> limited source for this device. Fifth, individuals with disabilities
> often will get devices sooner through the want ads than if they waited
> for funding from public or private sources.
>
> ATLA will continue working to expand and improve the Swap Shop over
> the next two years. Plans for expansion and improvement include
> continued work with:
>
> \(1\) Independent Living Centers, School Districts, the State
> Vocational Rehabilitation Program and other Human Services and
> Rehabilitation agencies on a campaign to encourage individuals with
> disabilities who have received AT that is no longer in use to recycle
> this equipment through the Swap Shop. This will increase the selection
> of equipment available.
>
> \(2\) AT vendors to develop a program to refurbish used devices. Some
> used AT devices cannot be recycled as is, but can be fixed and become
> useful again. ATLA will be facilitating accepting such devices through
> the Swap Shop and having vendors refurbish them so they can be used
> again.

1.  [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.

> The privately funded AT Loan Program described in the initial grant
> closed in April 2006 and no longer provides loans. ATLA collected all
> the usable AT devices and software, cataloged all the items and
> recycled those items that were very out dated. ATLA will temporarily
> maintain the Loan Library but will be pursuing better ways to make the
> equipment available for loans around the state. ATLA has been working
> with all the agencies who have collaborated on demonstration centers
> about making some of the items available at their locations and have
> the centers loan out the equipment.
>
> Another program, Special Education Services Agency (SESA) operates an
> AT loan program that serves Infant Leaving Program children from 0 --
> 3 years of age and low incidence disability K-12 students in remote
> communities throughout Alaska.
>
> Additional AT loans are currently available through the State
> Independent Living Center programs, Southeast Alaska Independent
> Living (SAIL), Kenai Peninsula Independent Living Center (KPILC) and
> Access Alaska.
>
> Assistive Technologies of Alaska (ATLA) continues to loan
> demonstration equipment of vendors they retail for on a short term
> basis as funding allows.
>
> In all of these programs, limitations exist including limited funds
> for:

1.  Shipping/receiving of AT.

2.  Maintenance and repair of AT.

3.  Some of the equipment is outdated and not usable

4.  Cataloging and marketing of AT available.

> During the first year, ATLA met with school districts and programs
> across the state and offered to inventory their AT loan equipment into
> a single data base. As of the date of this writing no organization has
> agreed to the inventory; however, several organizations have expressed
> high interest in cataloging items into one database for online
> viewing. ATLA will continue to pursue discussions / partnering with
> other organizations to regionalize the equipment. Smaller communities
> are interested in having loan equipment closer to them rather than
> centralized in Anchorage.
>
> When Elks Help closed and all of the AT equipment that was out to
> consumers was "given" to the consumer who had it last, thus many of
> the larger items will no longer be available for a loan library.
> Hopefully the consumers who received the AT will find it beneficial
> and appropriate. The contractor (ATLA) had no role in the giving away
> of the equipment but they will try to follow up to ensure proper
> application and implementation of the AT.
>
> Where appropriate other agency representatives (IL, K-12, etc.) and
> professionals (OT's, PT's, Rehabilitation Professionals, etc.) will
> provide information on AT that lies within their fields of expertise
> such as independent living aids, durable medical equipment and other
> areas outside of the scope of services provided by the lead agency.
>
> ATLA has Memorandums of Agreements (MOAs) with the following
> organizations for demonstration centers that will provide Alaskans
> with access to assistive technology, training and consultation:

-   Alaska Center for Blind and Visually Impaired

-   Stone Soup Group

-   Special Education Service Agency (SESA)

-   ACCESS Alaska Fairbanks

-   Southeast Alaska Independent Living Center (SAIL)

-   Kenai Peninsula Independent Living Center (KPILC)

> Additional MOA's between ATLA and other organizations will be signed
> by the first quarter of 2007 with the following:

-   Arctic Access Independent Living Center (Nome and Kotzebue region)

> Under these agreements, demonstration sites have been established that
> provide a variety of the latest in AT for individuals with hearing,
> vision, cognitive, mobility and multi-sensory needs. These remote
> demonstration sites will have the ability to provide short term loan
> to local individuals, educators, rehabilitation professionals and
> health care professionals to ensure the AT is the proper "fit" for the
> individual's abilities and needs.
>
> In years two and three, the participating loan entities will provide
> collaborative loan services for Alaskans of all ages and disability
> populations. Each site will be responsible for the flow of AT located
> in their facility and will submit loan information to the statewide
> database monitored by the lead agency. The collaborative agreements
> with these partners prohibit them from denying a loan based on the
> age, race, type of disability, income, or location in the state of the
> applicant. The only reason a loan would be denied is if the device is
> not in stock. If the device is currently in stock -- meaning one of
> the partners has the device in its inventory and it is not currently
> being loaned, the partner will ship that device to any location in the
> state (if it is possible for the device to be shipped). If the device
> is not in stock, the requestor will be put on a waiting list; or, if
> none of the partners has the device in its inventory, the requestor
> will be referred to the appropriate vendor.
>
> The specifics of the loan programs are to be worked out to include
> length of loan, shipping cost (to and from the consumer), maintenance
> and repair of equipment and most important how to pay for the cost of
> new AT equipment. Tentatively the borrower may request a maximum of
> three devices at any one time. The length of the device loan may be
> from one to four weeks depending on the availability of the item and
> the length of the waiting list. The borrower will pay for shipping
> costs. A renter may choose to pick up and return the device from a
> loan closet partner in order to eliminate shipping fees. The partners
> will exchange devices from one location to another so that an
> individual can pick up the device at the nearest location. ATLA and
> it's partners are looking at different ways to get the loan equipment
> to consumers, i.e. meeting with trucking and airline companies for
> reduced shipping rates. Travel in Alaska is primarily by air (few
> roads in the state) , thus shipping is primarily via airplane which
> can be expensive.
>
> Each individual site will be responsible for and prepare for device
> maintenance and repair of equipment housed at their site by
> establishing a yearly budget line item for this aspect. Additional
> funds will be supplied to sites as available through grants and fund
> raising activities.
>
> **Loan Library:**
>
> In late April and early May ATLA acquired the entire "collection" of
> Elks Help Assistive Technology. Staff from ATLA, Anchorage School
> District and Special Education Service Agency (SESA) sorted all the
> equipment (many items were 15+ years old) and kept the devices and
> software that were usable and the remaining items were sent to an
> environmental recycling center.
>
> During the next quarter staff will reevaluate the items that were
> kept, repair and clean items and log them into an online data base.
> ATLA, in conjunction with the IL Centers and several other
> organizations around the state are in the process of discussing how to
> handle the loaning of the equipment -- a centralized location or items
> prepositioned in regions around the state.

1.  [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.

> Demonstration of AT is currently provided by ATLA through the
> following activities:

1.  Onsite demonstration at locations traveled to throughout Alaska. To
    demonstrate the scope of these activities, the following Alaskan
    communities sites have been provided AT demonstration presentations
    in the past two years:

  ----------------------- --------------------- -------------------------
  Kotzebue                Nome                  Anchorage

  Fairbanks               Sitka                 Juneau

  Ketchikan               Bethel                Kodiak

  Soldotna                Kenai                 Seward

  Dillingham              Wasilla               Palmer

  Homer                   Eagle River           Port Lions

  King Salmon             Naknek                Metlakatla

  Alukanuk                                      
  ----------------------- --------------------- -------------------------

> A series of five 1-1/2hr hands on AT trainings / demonstrations have
> been presented during a summer "lecture series" at one Anchorage based
> non-profit. At all presentations, efforts are always made to locate
> educational professionals, parents and administrators that are
> interested in serving as a point of contact on A.T. issues within
> their area. This will continue through ATLA and communities will
> continue to be visited in a manner that serves both the population
> centers and the outlying "bush" areas of Alaska.

2.  Videoconference demonstration training sessions. ATLA will continue
    to develop the ability to reach outlying areas that have existing
    videoconference facilities. This network presently extends from the
    population centers to the smallest villages in bush Alaska with
    centers being located generally in the school system.

3.  Referral to existing AT demonstration sites. In year one the state
    lead agency has established two demonstration sites in the Anchorage
    area and in Southeast Alaska (Juneau), Southcentral Coastal Alaska
    (Soldotna) and Interior Alaska (Fairbanks). ATLA provides training
    and support to the staff at these sites.

> ATLA will focus their AT demonstration related activities during the
> next two years by focusing on the following seven goals:
>
> **Goal 1: Improving Access to Assistive Technology in education:**
>
> ATLA has sought to improve access to AT in education through the
> development of new marketing materials, increased AT Awareness
> presentations throughout the State, identifying key personnel in
> educational settings as "lead" AT resources and the improvement of our
> website as more of an educational and informative website.
>
> When traveling the State, ATLA employees bring along new marketing
> materials to distribute at every location. These include new K-12
> brochures, "rack cards" that list each employees area of expertise to
> be used as desk references, new ATLA general brochures and a host of
> items such as pens, sticky pads and other marketing items given to
> ATLA by our vendors.
>
> ATLA will continue to do AT awareness presentations with educational
> professionals in attendance across the state. At these presentations,
> efforts are always made to locate educational professionals, parents
> and administrators that are interested in serving as a point of
> contact on AT issues within their area.
>
> **Goal 2: Improving Access to Assistive Technology for Employment:**
>
> ATLA has focused on the use of improved marketing materials, onsite
> visits to employers as requested, development and distribution of an
> Employer AT Handbook and marketing of the website.
>
> Marketing materials have been distributed at Chamber of Commerce
> meetings in Anchorage and have resulted in employers calling with
> questions about AT onsite visits to their company for reviews of
> accessibility and assistance with incorporating AT into their work.
> Some visits have resulted in implementation of voice recognition
> technologies, aids for deaf and hard of hearing individuals and low
> vision aids for their consumers to use. In addition, the Employer AT
> Handbook has been completed and was introduced at a health fair being
> held at one of Alaska's largest employers. It was well received and is
> ready for a large distribution at a Chamber event or similar event
> with a large number of human resource professionals for various
> companies. This will continue in year 2 and year 3.
>
> Staff training and demonstration have been held at many One Stop Job
> Centers throughout the state (Kenai, Homer, Juneau, Bethel, Fairbanks,
> Dillingham, Kodiak, and Nome) in an effort to give staff a "refresher"
> course on what they currently have in place in terms of AT. The other
> purpose is to help them understand that these technologies provide
> more that mere access to their services and materials but also to
> assist job seekers with realizing their true employment potential
> through the use of AT. Ongoing meetings and discussions are being held
> with the Division of Employment Security to determine needed upgrades
> and to refine how job center personnel can best use these technologies
> for their clients. This effort will also include making assessment and
> evaluation of AT needs throughout Alaska's one-stop job centers to
> build AT capacity at these centers by facilitating hands-on AT
> training sessions for one-stop staff and partners. AT funds may also
> be used, in conjunction with existing job-center partner resources, to
> purchase items to ensure adequate AT resources are available for the
> public at these sites. This will facilitate the ability to adequately
> demonstrate AT throughout Alaska as well as ensure AT access for the
> public at these job centers after the demonstrations are over. This
> will continue in year 2 and year 3.
>
> **Goal 3: Improving Access to Assistive Technology in Community
> Living**
>
> In building upon recent success with the Independent Living Centers
> throughout the State, ATLA now has collaborative agreements with the
> Kenai Peninsula Independent Living Center (KPILC), the Southeast
> Alaska Independent Living Center (SAIL) and the Fairbanks branch
> office of ACCESS Alaska. Through a collaborative effort with the State
> Independent Living Council (SILC), ATLA was able to split costs of
> equipment in building an AT demonstration site at each location. ATLA
> will continue traveling to each site over the next two years to
> provide information and technical assistance in an Open House format
> so that their agency and their constituents are familiar with the
> equipment.
>
> ATLA continues to work on two possible AT demonstration homes in the
> Fairbanks and Juneau areas. The purpose of which is to display working
> assistive technologies in a home setting that all residents of the
> community will have access to. These settings are more in line with
> the community living aspect of AT and include technologies that are
> designed to increase independence.
>
> The hospitality industry has been targeted during year 2 and 3. ATLA
> sent letters and called hotels in the Anchorage area sharing
> information about AT and accessibility and offering assistance with
> enhancing their ability to serve individuals with disabilities.
> Additionally, ATLA has purchased an "ADA kit" and shown it to hotels
> and businesses so they are aware of simple accommodations that can be
> on hand when people with disabilities choose to stay at their
> facility. This has been met with some success and ACCESS Alaska has
> assisted by taking it to businesses outside of Anchorage when they
> travel. This has resulted in a request by a Fairbanks IL Center to
> purchase more to show their local employers. In addition, information
> has been presented at the Anchorage Municipal Disability Council and
> they too are collaborating with ATLA and with other disability
> organizations in events for individuals with disabilities. Hundreds of
> brochures and desk reference cards have been distributed during these
> activities.
>
> **Goal 4: Improve Access to Information Technology and
> Telecommunications**
>
> The IT and Telecommunications within the Anchorage area have been
> targeted for these activities. ATLA's lead staff person that
> specializes in technologies for hearing and vision has approached
> Alaska Communications Systems (ACS), a statewide leader in telephone
> and computer communications and ongoing discussions are being held to
> assist them with better understanding the needs of deaf and hard of
> hearing individuals in using their systems. Future training for their
> front line staff is being sought to reduce the barriers that
> individuals face when attempting to obtain a phone that works for
> them. This has resulted in their company testing cellphones for
> hearing aid accessibility when introduced to the market. This process
> will continue during years 2 and 3.
>
> **Goal 5: Improve Acquisition of Assistive Technology in Education**
>
> ATLA has sought to reduce the barriers to acquisition of AT through
> providing information regarding funding sources, hosting a "Swap Shop"
> on our website and providing individuals across the state with marking
> materials that explain and steer them towards the Swap Shop. ATLA does
> Medicaid, Medicare, waivers and third party insurance filing for
> durable medical equipment, (primarily communication devices and closed
> circuit televisions (CCTV) as a "courtesy" so that individuals of all
> ages can acquire the technology they need. During years 2 and 3, ATLA
> plans to continue providing this service as well as provide
> individuals with other possible funding sources for non-speech
> generating devices and CCTVs.
>
> Onsite discussions and calls to school administrators and instructors
> regarding the need for and use of AT in the classroom and use of the
> IEP to ensure its acquisition occurs regularly through ATLA's K-12
> specialist. ATLA's E-newsletter also reaches a vast number of
> educators and administrators that have signed up with ATLA's listserv
> at conferences and onsite visits. This will continue through years 2
> and 3.
>
> **Goal 6: Improve Acquisition of Assistive Technology in Employment**
>
> ATLA has developed a strong relationship with the State Division of
> Vocational Rehabilitation, the Veteran's Administration Vocational
> Rehabilitation program and the State Department of Labor (Job
> Centers). By educating counselors and employment security specialists
> on the value of having the appropriate technology for their job
> seekers, the goal is to increase employment of their clients through
> the purchase of appropriate technology using agency funding.
>
> Employers at Chamber of Commerce luncheons and at one-on-one meetings
> have been educated on statistics that show how low cost and no cost
> solutions can reduce their rate of losing long term employees. They
> are shown how simple solutions can allow them to keep valuable
> employees instead of having to hire inexperienced workers to fill the
> void left by the employee with the disability that could no longer do
> the job without accommodation. The success of this approach, however,
> seems to happen less frequently than desired given that many employers
> continue to see assistive technology as a "high costs" undertaking.
> ATLA will continue working on breaking down this barrier.
>
> ATLA shares information regarding our website at all events and
> meeting with employers and employer related agencies. Completion of
> the Employer section of the website is slated for late July. From this
> site, links to Employer incentives, tax breaks, disability information
> and other helpful information will assist employers with the proper
> implementation of AT and the accommodation process.
>
> The employer handbooks are completed and a second printing and CD
> format will occur within the next quarter as they are distributed.
> These handbooks contain much of the same information as will be on the
> website and will easily be transferred there to complete that section.
>
> **Goal 7: Improve Acquisition to Assistive Technology in Community
> Living**
>
> By setting up new demonstration centers in Juneau, Kenai / Soldotna,
> and Fairbanks in the Independent Living Centers and at the Stone Soup
> Group in Anchorage, individuals have more access to try out a variety
> of assistive technologies that can enhance their ability to decide if
> the technology will work for them. Within the AT process (Awareness /
> Selection / Trial / Acquisition / Implementation), the ability to try
> out AT is often the determining factor whether or not individuals will
> ever obtain what they need. Now that they can access technologies
> closer to their home and ultimately purchase the technology. ATLA
> continues to train staff at the IL centers on proper use and selection
> with the hope that they (IL staff) will eventually have the skills to
> assist their client directly. ATLA also carries a 30 day money back
> guarantee on all technologies purchased through ATLA so that clients
> at these remote locations have a no-risk option should it be
> determined later that it is not a good fit for them. IL staff are also
> shown the Swap Shop so that they can assist their clients locally with
> finding AT across the state that may be appropriate. The Swap Shop has
> had thousands of "hits" since inception and through marketing it is
> hoped that this will be the first point of contact for many who need
> to either acquire a new technology or put a technology they can no
> longer use in a place where others can benefit.
>
> Onsite demonstration at locations traveled to throughout Alaska. This
> will continue through ATLA and communities will continue to be visited
> in a manner that serves both the population centers and the outlying
> "bush" areas of Alaska. ATLA will continue to develop the ability to
> reach outlying areas that have existing videoconference facilities.
> This network presently extends from the population centers to the
> smallest villages in bush Alaska with centers being located generally
> in the school system. Eventually, ATLA imagines creating a network of
> these programs that work together across the state and work in
> collaboration with the One Stop and Independent Living AT
> demonstration centers, to exchange devices and knowledge.
>
> In all of the above plans, ATLA is working toward establishing
> conveniently located device demonstration centers that individuals can
> easily reach. It is also working on plans for presenting device
> demonstrations that are "mobile" and take place in various locations
> throughout the zone. Regardless of how they operate, the demonstration
> programs will be designed to offer individuals with disabilities,
> their families, and professionals the opportunity to experience a
> number of different devices while being guided by experts. Allowing
> them to compare and contrast different devices will help them to make
> an informed decision about what device to purchase or whether to
> purchase a device at all.

#### 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.

**[Alternative Financing Program (AFP):]{.underline}**

The State of Alaska's Assistive Technology AFP provides loans to
individuals with disabilities and their families for the purchase of AT
devices and services. This AFP became officially adopted as a state
program through the passage of state legislation back in 1995 (AS
23.15). The program was then implemented by the State Division of
Vocational Rehabilitation in 1996 using funds provided under the AT
federal grant and is called the Assistive Technology Loan Guarantee Fund
(ATLGF). Since that time, the program has evolved into a self-sustaining
state loan program. The AFP may solicit and accept available public and
private money for distribution from the fund. The ATLGF had
contributions of \$350,000 as of August 2006.

The States Assistive Technology Program administers the ATLGF with the
assistants of a financial institution Northrim Bank. Northrim has agreed
to provide and service financial loans to individuals with disabilities
or their families for the purchase of AT. Individuals with disabilities
or their families apply through Northrim Bank who works with the AT
Coordinator to determine if the applicants have a disability and if an
AT loan will benefit the applicant. Northrim Bank evaluates the
applicant's credit risk. Most applicants for an AT loan are referred by
Independent Living Centers and ATLA. The ATLGF has limited marketing due
to the relative small funding balance but can be accessed across the
state.

Northrim will review a loan application for the purchase of AT in the
same manner it reviews other loan applications. Northrim will determine
the level of assistance an applicant will need. Loan assistance includes
either guaranteeing the loan so that Northrim will provide it or
offering to buy down the interest on the loan so the individual with a
disability can afford it.

The AT program will ensure that Northrim continues to enforce policies
which prohibit them from denying a loan to an individual based on race,
age, type of disability, type of device needed. The size of the loans is
limited to a minimum of \$2,000. An applicant may be denied a loan based
on credit history or financial consideration other than income that may
limit the applicant's ability to pay the loan back. However, because of
the guarantee, the ATLGF will support loans to individuals with credit
scores below the standard for typical loans.

Over the next two years, the AT Program will work with Northrim to
expand and improve the ATLGF. Plans for expansion and improvement over
the next three years include:

1.  Expand usage of these funds so more consumers across the state
    access these funds over the next 2 years.

2.  Work with the AT Advisory Committee to evaluate the loan ratio to
    available funds and reducing it from 100% to a lower amount to allow
    more loans to be issued.

3.  Increase marketing efforts to improve outreach to rural communities
    and general public

6.2 [Comparability]{.underline} \-- Demonstrate that this support is
comparable in terms of funding and that the activities are comparable in
terms of scope.

> As described above, this program is in alignment with consumer targets
> and the overall scope listed under the current AT act relative to
> Alternative Financing Program (AFP). Regarding actual loan funding
> availability, our current AT loan program currently exceeds the amount
> we could allocate for this purpose under existing AT funds.

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.

> Described above

#### Attachment 7: State Flexibility 

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

Not applicable. Alaska is carrying out each state-level activity.

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

7.3 [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.

7.4 [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.

####  

#### 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 

As described in section 5, over the next two years, the state lead
contractor, ATLA will provide training to a variety of populations
including the employment, human services, health services, educational,
government and private sector. Training activities will include:

-   Presentations on AT at professional conferences

-   Videoconference training to local educators, employers and the
    public through the statewide videoconference network

-   Onsite training seminars at remote and large communities

-   DVD training modules

-   One on one individualized training

-   Audio conference training to individuals with AT

-   WEB based training to individuals with AT

-   Website assistance with AT assessment, identification, process,
    implementation and follow-up

These methods of training will be applied with a focus on the following
sectors:

-   [Education professionals]{.underline} (special education teachers,
    speech therapists, occupational and physical therapists). The state
    lead contractor will present and provide an informational booth at
    conferences for the special education teachers, statewide directors
    of special education and state special education conference on a
    yearly basis. ATLA will enlist the services of renowned AT
    professionals across the nation as funding allows.

    -   ATLA will seek to establish contracts with school districts
        statewide to provide AT research, consultation, device selection
        assistance, implementation and follow up services for educators,
        parents and students. Training will include overviews of AT,
        specific areas of AT, individual AT item demonstration and
        training and onsite/online assistance with students using AT.
        These contracts will be developed at a level comfortable for the
        individual school district and be renegotiated yearly based upon
        usage and future needs.

    -   Given the vast geographic challenges between Alaskan
        communities, ATLA will continue and expand upon using
        videoconference technologies to provide regular training to
        education professional linked to the statewide videoconference
        system. Presentations will be designed to take advantage of the
        technology by incorporating computer demonstration of software
        and use of multimedia in conjunction with face to face question
        and answer regarding the AT being demonstrated.

    -   ATLA will work with individuals in the university system to
        develop an AT course for students at local universities enrolled
        into education majors. The course will be marketed to the
        statewide university system for inclusion as a requirement for
        students in a special education track. The course will be
        videotaped for possible use as a telecourse for future and
        outlying areas.

-   [Training for employment professionals]{.underline}. ATLA will
    continue to provide training to employers and perform outreach to
    Alaska's employers.

    -   Outreach activities will include distributing marketing
        materials (brochures, rack cards, business cards, informational
        articles, etc.) and presentations at Chambers of Commerce,
        Rotary and Human Resource organizations.

    -   ATLA will expand upon the Employer AT Handbooks developed and
        distributed in the previous year through updates / development
        of additional sections to be distributed at AT presentations
        around the state.

    -   ATLA will expand upon the Employer AT Handbooks developed and
        distributed in the previous year through updates and development
        of more handbooks to be distributed at AT presentations across
        the state.

    -   The new website of ATLA will have a section devoted entirely to
        employers. The information will include information regarding
        the ADA, funding of AT, employer tax incentives and forms and
        information regarding the benefits of providing AT to employees
        and customers for access to their products and services.

-   [Training for human services professionals]{.underline}.

    -   ATLA currently provides training to the State Vocational
        Rehabilitation agency counselors and staff on an as needed
        basis. Formal trainings to specific regions will be provided as
        staff travel to various offices around the state. This is done
        on a paid contract and this contract is renegotiated yearly to
        meet the needs of VR staff and consumers. The lead contractor
        will expand this type of training through negotiation with other
        rehabilitation and human services providers to include the
        Veteran's Administration Vocational Rehabilitation Program,
        Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation, school district personnel, one
        stops, private rehabilitation agencies and other human services
        organizations through marketing via flyers, brochures, email
        notifications and posting training sessions on the website.

-   [Training for Centers for Independent Living]{.underline}.

    -   ATLA has Memorandums of Agreement with three of the four Centers
        for Independent Living for AT demonstration sites that will
        include onsite training for IL staff on proper use and
        implementation of AT at their site.

ATLA will also customize training for organizations that request
training on specific topics or for specific audiences.

# Technical Assistance

ATLA provides technical assistance on AT related to Augmentative
Communication, Blindness and Visually Impaired, Deaf and Hard of
Hearing, Learning Disabilities, Cognitive Disabilities ,and Computer
access. This assistance includes device awareness, selection, training,
implementation and follow up assistance.

-   The state lead contractor provides technical assistance on AT
    products and services per request from all populations. These
    services are provided via contract with human service agencies,
    private funding from individuals not covered under targeted
    underserved populations and through grant funding for those targeted
    populations (low income, no supports, youth, seniors, etc.) that
    have limited means with which to pay for services.

-   Types of AT technical assistance provided by the contractor include:

    -   Telephone Information and Referral

    -   Research on devices and software

    -   Device and software troubleshooting

    -   Onsite visits to determine possible AT solutions

    -   WebX training to individuals needing assistance with software

-   ATLA will develop digital recordings of training sessions to be
    available upon request as a DVD or internet based file that can be
    accessed with media players. This will provide greater access to AT
    technical assistance and training across the state and maximize the
    efficiency of the AT specialists with the state lead contractor.

# 

# 

# Transition

ATLA recognizes the importance of AT for students with disabilities that
receive transition services and for adults with disabilities who need
assistive technology to maintain and/or transition to community living.

[Transition for Youth]{.underline}:

During the first year of this state plan, ATLA worked with State
Transition grants and did training sessions for the Southeast Alaska
Independent Living Center (SAIL) for students, educators, parents and
care providers. ATLA will also present AT services at the Special
Education Directors Conference, the Alaska Special Education Conference
(ASSEC) and the Alaska Society for Technology in Education (ASTE) in
years 2 and 3.

-   ATLA established contracts with two school districts and will try to
    establish AT service contracts with additional school districts in
    Alaska with an emphasis on meeting the needs of students in
    transition. ATLA staff will seek to work with special education
    instructors and directors to identify students that can benefit from
    AT and assist with proper AT selection, demonstration, training and
    implementation of the AT into the student's curriculum and IEP.

-   Training will be held onsite and through distance delivery for local
    educators throughout the year and will take advantage of
    videoconferencing to reach outlying districts and schools. This
    training will have an emphasis on students in transition and
    inclusion of AT into the curriculum where appropriate and necessary.

[Adult Transition / Community Living:]{.underline}

ATLA has collaborative agreements with six community based
organizations, Alaska Center for Blind and Visually Impaired, Stone
Soup, Special Education Service Agency and three Independent Living
Centers. They are completing an agreement with an additional Independent
Living Center located in Kotzebue. ATLA will provide demonstrations,
trainings, technical assistance, and assist in providing access to AT
that will enable individuals with disabilities to remain in their
communities or transition to community living.

-   Trainings will be held at Independent Living Centers and Senior
    Centers around Alaska. Individuals and staff will be made aware of
    AT and will be able to try out the technology that will assist
    adults with independence and access in areas of living, specifically
    vision, hearing, and communication. Other professionals and
    organizations will collaborate with ATLA in the areas of mobility,
    transportation and activities of daily living.

-   ATLA will continue to make presentations about the benefits of AT to
    individuals/family members, organizations, health fairs and at
    conferences. The hands on demonstration and information about the
    loan program will be a part of all presentations.

-   ATLA has attended Health Fairs around the state and provided
    demonstrations of AT that can be used to keep individuals in their
    homes and/or communities.

-   ATLA has worked directly with Senior Centers, independent living
    programs and developmental disability groups in Nome and Kotzebue
    sharing information, providing demonstrations and trainings related
    to AT. During the second year ATLA will help establish smaller, more
    personal demonstration centers in Nome and at the hospital in
    Kotzebue.

-   ATLA will seek to establish AT services contracts and/or cooperative
    agreements with other public and private organizations and
    businesses including assisted living centers, senior centers, senior
    groups, eye doctors, audiologists, etc. that assist adults with
    disabilities. The emphasis will be to provide awareness, access to
    and training and support of AT in home and community settings

    1.  [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.

As described earlier, over the next two years, ATLA will engage in a
variety of marketing and public awareness activities (mailings,
Internet, exhibits, presentations, and trainings) to increase awareness
about the benefits of assistive technology devices and services, their
availability, funding for AT devices and services, and policies related
to AT. ATLA employs a web designer and media specialist to provide
marketing and dissemination of information regarding AT. This is
primarily done through the lead agency website, brochures, cards, CD's,
advertisements in local paper and radio, email announcements to
interested individuals and through onsite visits.

The Division will require ATLA to negotiate cooperative public awareness
activities such as demonstrations and presentations that include local
employment, human services, health services and disability related
service providers. The two-fold purpose is to increase awareness and
knowledge of AT and to provide the opportunity for local providers to
network on AT issues related to their clients.

**Information and Referral.** ATLA's toll free line provides free
information and referral services on AT for people of all ages with all
disabilities. Family members, services providers and others who work in
fields related to disabilities or AT may also use this service. The
staff provides information to those who call on the availability,
benefits, appropriateness and cost of AT devices and services.

**Newsletter --** ATLA will continue to publish a bi-monthly
E-newsletter and distribute it to over 600 individuals who provide their
email addresses for direct distribution. The newsletter will contain
areas for information on new AT, funding sources, local resources and
advertise where upcoming training sessions will be held.

**Web site --** The website will contain an online swap shop for AT
recycling and reutilization, listservers for specific areas of AT,
device and software descriptions, links to nationally recognized AT
websites, direct email links to ATLA staff for consultation and referral
and will be accessible and user-friendly to screen reading technologies.

**Publications --** ATLA will expand upon the Employer AT Handbook and
develop additional handbooks for state educators, human services
professionals and health care professionals over the next three years.

**Onsite demonstrations** -- When traveling, ATLA staff will conduct AT
demonstration presentations and seminars at community centers. Staff
will work with local human services organizations, one stop job centers,
independent living centers and other helping organizations to advertise
the seminars via radio, flyers and email to ensure awareness and
attendance.

2.  [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.

In the past year, ATLA engaged in a campaign to develop collaborative
agreements between the lead state agency and disability related
organizations statewide in an attempt to increase both the knowledge and
availability of A.T. devices and services in local areas. To date, six
of the agreements have been signed and one more is slated to be signed
by October 31, 2006.

As stated in section 5, the current programs involved in this effort
include:

1.  Alaska Center for Blind and Deaf Adults -- Anchorage

2.  Stone Soup Group -- Anchorage

3.  Access Alaska -- Fairbanks

4.  Kenai Peninsula Independent Living Center -- Soldotna

5.  Southeast Alaska Independent Living Center -- Juneau

6.  Special Education Service Agency -- SESA -- Anchorage (statewide
    services)

> Over the next two years, starting with a baseline of 6 agreements ATLA
> will continue to seek out collaborative agreements with agencies and
> programs that serve the needs of individuals with disabilities. Within
> those agreements, the following areas are targeted:

-   Cross training with staff at demonstration sites

-   Shared equipment loan tracking

-   Shared financial assistance for demonstration AT

-   Cross referral when appropriate

-   Shared responsibility for maintenance of demonstration AT

-   Joint efforts in assisting with Statewide AT Policy and the State
    Advisory Committee

> By increasing the availability of AT in more communities through
> demonstration sites and increasing AT awareness in the human services,
> health care and rehabilitation fields through cross training,
> individuals should have their AT needs met in a more informed and
> comprehensive manner.

#### Attachment 9: Involvement of Public and Private Entities 

A variety of individuals were involved in the development of this State
Plan for Assistive Technology. Members of the Governor's Committee (i.e.
State AT Advisory Council) participated as did professional level staff
who are experienced in AT and individuals who have a disability and use
assistive technology. Weekly teleconferences were conducted for over two
months to gain input into the development of this AT Plan.

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.

The Division which is the Lead Agency, will work closely with the lead
contractor ATLA. Each year ATLA generates approximately \$125,000 from
fees-for-service and puts these funds directly back into the AT program.
These funds are used to pursue and accomplish the identified AT goals
and objectives.

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.

Although the Division will not be appointing an implementing entity,
ATLA will be the primary contractor and will ensure the delivery of a
program that is statewide and comprehensive. The Division will develop
and administer a contract to be awarded to ATLA. The contract will set
forth the activities and goals that must be conducted by ATLA. The
Division's Grants Administrator and the AT Program Director will monitor
the progress made in achieving the goals and objectives. ATLA will
provide fiscal reports to the Division on a quarterly basis and
narrative and statistical reports biannually. The Grants Administrator
will ensure that copies of the fiscal, statistical and narrative reports
are submitted to the Standing Committee on AT. A review team, comprised
of staff from the Division and specified members of the Standing
Committee on AT will conduct an onsite evaluation of ATLA's AT Program
following the first year of the contract, and every three years
afterwards. Technical assistance from the Division will be available to
ATLA on an ongoing basis.

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 Governor's Committee has recruited ad hoc members to meet the
composition requirements of the AT Advisory Council as stipulated in the
AT Act of 1998 as amended. Members of the Governor's Committee, the
Standing Committee on AT and Division staff have met telephonically on a
monthly basis and participated in the development of this AT Plan. This
group participated in setting general goals and providing feedback on
how activities are to be carried out. Division staff formally met with
the Full Committee during their face-to-face quarterly meeting and
provided AT updates explained the purpose and responsibility of the AT
Advisory Council.

As stated in attachment 3, the Standing Committee on AT will meet
telephonically on a monthly basis and also during quarterly meetings of
the Full Committee. The Standing Committee on AT will review and
evaluate on a quarterly basis the progress made on AT goals and
activities. They will also participate in developing additional
measurable goals and objectives. Advice will be given to the Full
Committee regarding any recommendations or necessary adjustments.

#### 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).

Not applicable for Alaska.

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 for Alaska

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

#### 

1.  [Tracking Expenditures]{.underline} -- Describe planned procedures
    for tracking expenditures for activities described in sections
    4(e)(2) and (3).

AT expenditures will be tracked in the State of Alaska's accounting
system, which uses accounting structures to track expenditures by
federal grant on either a state or federal fiscal year. The accounting
structures keep track of line item expenditures for each grant. Majority
of the AT funds will be granted to ATLA for the State Level and State
Leadership activities.

ATLA uses Quick Books to monitor grant expenditures. Quick Books assigns
grant codes to track specific funding source expenditures. ATLA's staff
time working on AT activities will be tracked using Quick Books Time
Tracker. ATLA will report AT financial activity quarterly to the State.

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

The following are proposed budget allocations for State Leadership and
State Level Activities for Year 2 this State Plan.

**Proposed Distribution Total Award Amount**

**[Allocation \$376,000]{.underline}**

State Level 60% \$185,500

State Leadership 40% \$142,500

*Leadership Activities 95% (of 40%) \$135,375*

*Transition 5% (of 40%) \$ 7,125*

Personal Services \$ 25,000

Indirect Costs (Rate 19% of Personal Services) \$ 7,750

Travel \$ 7,000

Commodities \$ 3,000

Contractual \$ 5,250

**TOTAL** **\$376,000**

Within the above budget, Alaska proposes to apportion funds for specific
activities in the following manner for year 2.

**State Level Activities** **Proposed Allocation**

State Financing Activities \$18,000

Device Reutilization Program \$18,000

Device Loan Program \$77,500

Device Demonstration Program \$72,000

**State Leadership Activities Proposed Allocation**

Training and Technical Assistance Activities \$60,000

Transition \$12,350

Public Awareness Activities \$52,150

Coordination and Collaboration \$18,000