![](media/image1.png){width="3.533333333333333in"
height="1.8527777777777779in"}

STAR Program

309 Administration Building

50 Sherburne Avenue

St. Paul, MN 55155

Phone: 651/296-2771

Fax: 651/282-6671

TTY: 651/296-9478

July 28, 2006

Edward Anthony, Acting Commissioner

Rehabilitation Services Administration

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.

Potomac Center Plaza, Room 5025

Washington, D.C. 20202-2800

Dear Acting Commissioner Anthony:

Enclosed herein please find the official signed copy of the FY2006
amended and updated Minnesota State Plan for Assistive Technology
submitted by the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council and the
STAR Program, the lead agency for the Assistive Technology Act of 1998,
as amended. This submission of the State Plan includes:

Part I with Attachments 1 through 11

Addendum to Part I

Part II -- required signed assurances

Certification regarding lobbying, and

Minnesota's response to the GEPA provision (Section 427)

Much of the AT Plan remains intact from when it was originally
submitted. Please note the following substantive changes.

-   Attachment 3: State Advisory Council. This attachment was revised on
    3/6/06 and previously approved.

-   Attachment 4: Measurable Goals. A data collection system was not
    available to establish a baseline in year one, so we will establish
    the baseline during year two of our state plan.

-   Attachment 5: State-level Activities. We added two reutilization
    resources, mentioned the reuse conference we plan to hold in 2007,
    added two device loan resources, addressed cooperative buying
    program and made minor changes to the device demonstration section.

-   Attachment 6: Comparable Support. Added a comment about Minnesota's
    Alternative Finance Program.

-   Attachment 8: State Leadership Activities. Added comments about
    transition activities and a collaboration update.

-   Attachment 11: Allocation and Utilization of Funds. Changed
    allocation to reflect the change in FY06 dollars and anticipated
    allocation.

An electronic version of this transmittal letter along with Part 1, the
Addendum and the GEPA provision has been sent to Jeremy Buzzell. We
respectfully request approval of this amended Minnesota State Plan for
Assistive Technology at your earliest convenience.

Sincerely,

Dana B. Badgerow

Commissioner

# 

# 

# [CERTIFICATION REGARDING LOBBYING]{.underline}

Applicants must review the requirements for certification regarding
lobbying included in the regulations cited below before completing this
form. Applicants must sign this form to comply with the certification
requirements under 34 CFR Part 82, \"New Restrictions on Lobbying.\"
This certification is a material representation of fact upon which the
Department of Education relies when it makes a grant or enters into a
cooperative agreement.

As required by Section 1352, Title 31 of the U.S. Code, and implemented
at 34 CFR Part 82, for persons entering into a Federal contract, grant
or cooperative agreement over \$100,000, as defined at 34 CFR Part 82,
Sections 82.105 and 82.110, the applicant certifies that:

\(a\) No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by
or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or
attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member
of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a
Member of Congress in connection with the making of any Federal grant,
the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension,
continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any Federal grant
or cooperative agreement;

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

\(c\) The undersigned shall require that the language of this
certification be included in the award documents for all subawards at
all tiers (including subgrants and contracts under grants and
cooperative agreements) and that all subrecipients shall certify and
disclose accordingly.

As the duly authorized representative of the applicant, I hereby certify
that the applicant will comply with the above certification.

+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+
| NAME OF APPLICANT PR/AWARD NUMBER AND / OR PROJECT NAME               |
|                                                                       |
| State of Minnesota Department of Administration                       |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+
| PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE                   |
|                                                                       |
| Dana B. Badgerow, Commissioner                                        |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+
| SIGNATURE DATE                                                        |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+

ED 80-0013 06/04

**Minnesota GEPA (Section 427) Provision**

The Minnesota STAR Program will take necessary steps to ensure equitable
access to, and participation in, all programs and services provided by
STAR as described in the State Plan for Assistive Technology.
Specifically, STAR will ensure equitable access regardless of gender,
race, national origin, color, disability or age and will implement the
following activities to address potential access barriers:

1.  All print materials will be available in alternative formats (e.g.,
    Braille, large print, electronic text, and audio) and available in
    languages other than English as needed. Materials will be developed
    with due consideration of cultural diversity issues along with
    literacy demands and other factors critical to ensuring usability by
    a diverse audience.

2.  All meetings or events will be held in facilities that comply with
    the Americans with Disabilities Act Architectural Guidelines and
    communication accommodations (e.g., real time captioning, sign
    language interpreters, other language interpreters, FM system) will
    be provided as needed.

3.  All Web based information will comply with Section 508 of the
    Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998 to ensure accessibility to a
    wide variety of individuals with diverse information processing
    needs.

4.  All information and marketing materials regarding services and
    programs outlined in the state AT plan will be distributed through
    various outreach efforts designed to reach diverse segments of the
    public such as individuals on fixed incomes, individuals with
    disabilities, seniors, rural residents, and residents from diverse
    cultural backgrounds. Examples of outreach efforts include statewide
    public announcements, as well as, contacting faith-based
    institutions and various community organizations and advocacy groups
    that represent or work with diverse populations that may experience
    barriers to information access.

5.  Steps will be taken to minimize financial barriers to gaining
    information about or participating in state plan activities include:
    providing multiple methods of contact through our toll-free phone
    number, state relay services and e-mail; providing materials such as
    our funding directory at no-cost; distributing free informational
    materials through state agencies and community organizations such as
    the public library; posting information on our Web site; providing
    referrals to the state's alternative financing program and other
    funding resources.

#### 

#### 

##### Part I: Attachments

OMB Control Number: 1820-0664

Expiration Date: 10/31/2008

Attachment 1: Basic Information

Name of Lead Agency: Minnesota Department of Administration

Name of Applicable Division and/or Subdivision of Lead Agency: Minnesota
STAR Program

Address of Lead Agency: Room 200, 50 Sherburne Ave, St. Paul, MN 55155

Name and Title of Certifying Representative for Lead Agency: Dana B.
Badgerow, Commissioner

Address for Certifying Representative: Room 200, 50 Sherburne Ave, St.
Paul, MN 55155

Telephone for Certifying Representative: 651/201-2566

E-mail for Certifying Representative: dana.badgerow@state.mn.us

Name and Title of Program Director: Charles D. Rassbach

Address for Program Director: Room 309, 50 Sherburne Ave, St. Paul, MN
55155

Telephone for Program Director: 651/201-2298

E-mail for Program Director: chuck.rassbach@state.mn.us

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

Address for Program Director: N/A

Telephone for Program Director: N/A

E-mail for Program Director: N/A

Name of Implementing Entity: Minnesota STAR Program

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

Address of Implementing Entity: Room 309, 50 Sherburne Ave, St. Paul, MN
55155

Name and Title of Program Director: N/A

Address for Program Director: N/A

Telephone for Program Director: N/A

E-mail for Program Director: N/A

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

Address for Program Director: N/A

Telephone for Program Director: N/A

E-mail for Program Director: N/A

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}:

In 1987, then-governor Rudy Perpich formed the Governor's Advisory
Council on Technology for People with Disabilities, to help Minnesotans
with disabilities improve the quality of their lives through the use of
assistive technology. With the passage of the federal Technology-Related
Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 (also known as
the Tech Act), Minnesota received one of the first federal grants from
the National Institute on Disability Research and Rehabilitation (NIDRR)
designed to help states "develop programs for individuals with
disabilities...utilizing new technologies and to enhance the ability of
the Federal Government to provide states with technical assistance and
funding for model demonstration and innovation projects."

As a result of this grant, Minnesota established the STAR Program in
1989. Since that time, STAR has been working to provide Minnesotans with
a statewide, consumer-driven and responsive network of resources related
to assistive technology. The program has focused on educating consumers,
family members, professionals and others about assistive technology
devices and services. STAR has also provided Minnesotans with free
access to information and referral services, technical assistance on a
variety of AT and disability-related subjects. STAR has an accessible
Web site and has built a statewide capacity for AT delivery. With a
Braille embosser and audio equipment in house, STAR offers assistance to
state agencies and others as a provider for materials in alternate
formats.

The mission of the STAR Program is to increase access to and the
acquisition of assistive technology for Minnesotans of all ages and
disabilities through a variety of comprehensive activities and services
available statewide. Over the next three years under the Assistive
Technology Act of 1998, as amended, the STAR Program will continue its
responsibility for Minnesota's statewide AT Program and will build on
already established programs and begin new programs where there are
service gaps to accomplish this mission.

The Department of Administration is the lead agency for the statewide AT
Program in Minnesota. The STAR Program (an agency within the Department)
is directly responsible for conducting and overseeing the activities of
the statewide AT Program and will assure that these programs will be
accessible regardless of income, age, type of disability, or the reason
a person might need AT. Located in the accessible Department of
Administration Building in St. Paul, the STAR Program will make its
programs available statewide through a toll-free number, an accessible
Web site, conducting activities in all regions of the state on a
periodic basis and the use of regional centers that are operated through
subcontracts.

The STAR Program employs three dedicated individuals with technical
expertise in the field of AT and disability-related experience. The
executive director has over 30 years experience in the field of working
with people with disabilities and assistive technology; the program and
development coordinator (AT certificate through CSUN) has extensive
experience in managing an assistive technology program for a non-profit
vocational rehabilitation facility, conducting AT assessments,
conducting individual and group training, and managing an equipment loan
program; and the administrative assistant has over 30 years of state
employment experience that includes working with people with
disabilities and assistive technology. The STAR Program will ensure that
the skills of its staff remain current by providing them with training
opportunities throughout the three years covered by this state AT plan.

The STAR Program since its inception has established relationships with
public and private entities in the state. STAR staff members participate
on boards, advisory councils, workgroups, committees, and commissions
that address the needs of Minnesotans with disabilities. Some agencies
include: the Minnesota Department of Education, the Secretary of State's
Office, the Minnesota Department of Human Services, the Minnesota
Department of Employment and Economic Development, the Minnesota
Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, the Minnesota Disability Law
Center, State Services for the Blind, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services,
Ombudsman's Office, the Developmental Disabilities Council, the
Minnesota AT Loan Network, the Minnesota Regions AT Collaborative and
the Minnesota Council on Disability. STAR will continue working with and
providing training and technical assistance to these agencies and other
entities within the state. STAR will also work with these agencies and
others on new and ongoing initiatives to address the AT needs of
individuals with disabilities. These initiatives are described in more
detail as a part of "Coordination and Collaboration" in attachment 8.

STAR will conduct some of its activities through subcontractors
throughout the state. This will ensure that programs are available
locally to individuals with disabilities. STAR will issue Request for
Proposals (RFPs) to establish (or continue) both device demonstration
centers and for device loan programs in all parts of Minnesota. The
entities chosen must have expertise in various specific areas of
disability to help assure that the needs of a broad variety of consumers
and professionals are met. In the past five years alone, STAR has
subcontracted with about 40 different agencies in the amount of over
\$736,000 to help assure that assistive technology devices and services
are delivered to Minnesotans. Areas of emphasis for some of those
subcontracts include: device loan, device demonstration, mobile outreach
clinics, AgrAbility, recreation, accessibility and communication,
non-profit AT services, AT advocacy, vocational, outreach to non-English
speaking populations, AT device recycling, education, AT for adults who
are elderly and have a disability and computer access.

In addition to the AT Advisory Council described in attachment 3 of this
plan, STAR will ensure that its program is consumer responsive by
seeking direct feedback from those who access the program, either
through on-site interviews with participants or follow-up surveys.
Additionally, STAR will use consumer focus groups, when needed, to seek
specific guidance.

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

Not applicable.

2.2 [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.

Not Applicable

2.3 [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
redesignation.

Not Applicable

Attachment 3: State Advisory Council

3.1 [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.

Minnesota established its AT Advisory Council to meet the 2/22/05
requirements of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended. On
September 23, 2005 RSA granted Minnesota a conditional approval of its
AT Plan due to not meeting the requirements of Section 4(c)(2) of the AT
Act, as amended. Minnesota has worked diligently to meet full compliance
and added a member from the Governor's WorkForce Development Council
(Minnesota's state workforce reinvestment board) to its advisory council
in February 2006. This addition addresses the AT Plan deficiency.

Since the original AT Plan was submitted, one member resigned and
another died. Two new members with disabilities were added to replace
them. STAR's Advisory Council currently has 15 members. Eight of the at
large members (53%) are individuals with disabilities who use AT. For
confidentiality reasons, council members have asked STAR to not include
their names in this document. Three members of the council have multiple
disabilities that are reflected in the breakdown by disability type
provided below:

  ------------------------------------- ---------------------------------
  Disability                            \# of Council Members

  Blind/Low Visual Impairment           5

  Deaf/Hard of Hearing                  1

  Physical                              5
  ------------------------------------- ---------------------------------

In accordance with the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended,
STAR requested a representative be appointed to the council from each of
the five required state agencies. Appointed members from the five
agencies are listed below:

  --------------------------------- -------------------------------------
  Agency                            Representative

  Department of Education           Joan Breslin Larson

  State Services for the Blind      Dave Andrews

  Centers for Independent Living    Pam Parson

  Department of Employment and      Ray Griffin
  Economic Development              
  (Rehabilitation Services)         

  Governor's Workforce Development  Acting Commissioner Ward Einess with
  Council                           Kimberley T. Peck, Director of
                                    Rehabilitation Services/Workforce
                                    Development Division, as his
                                    designated representative.
  --------------------------------- -------------------------------------

In addition, the council also has two other members from the community
at large:

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------
  Name                                AT/Disability Experience
  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
  Jennifer Giesen                     Minnesota Disability Law Center and
                                      member of the National Assistive
                                      Technology Technical Assistance
                                      Partnership (NATTAP) Steering
                                      Committee.

  Bob Johnson                         Thirty years experience developing,
                                      contracting, and implementing
                                      community based employment
                                      opportunities for people with
                                      disabilities.
  -----------------------------------------------------------------------

During the three years covered by this state AT plan, the AT Advisory
Council will provide STAR with consumer-driven, consumer-responsive
advice for planning, implementing and evaluating state plan activities
funded through the federal grant.

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

[Meeting Structure]{.underline}: The AT Advisory Council has met eight
times (2/29/05, 5/3/05, 7/12/05, 8/16/05, 10/25/05, 1/24/06, 4/18/06 and
7/18/06). Meetings, which run from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm, usually take
place in an accessible conference room at the Administration Building
where the STAR office is located. STAR staff oversees meeting
arrangements by reserving the conference room, sending out the agenda
and meeting minutes and compiling documents for the meeting to ensure
that materials are accessible. The Council plans to convene quarterly on
the third Tuesday of the month.

[Leadership and Rules of Order]{.underline}: The members have elected a
chair and vice chair. The chair and the STAR Program executive director
plan the agenda jointly. The chair runs the meetings using a modified
version of Robert's Rules of Order.

[Decision Making and Operational Policies]{.underline}: The Council
adopted operational policies on how to contribute to council meetings.
These operational policies are provided as an addendum to this state
plan.

[Council Appointment]{.underline}: The following steps were taken to
ensure that the AT Advisory Council was composed of a representative
group of consumers, family members, and professionals that reflected
Minnesota's population at large. First, STAR met with the state
demographer. STAR then used the demographer's geographic breakdown of
population by disability for age, race/ethnicity and disability type to
determine the qualifications of council members. Next, we sought
applications by publishing a notice in the State Register (1/18/05),
running an article in our newsletter (7,200 statewide circulation),
posting notices on our listserv and Web site, issuing public service
announcements and through word of mouth. When the application period
ended on 2/1/05, STAR had received about 35 inquiries and 26
applications. The Department of Administration staff met on 2/2/05 to
evaluate the 26 applications for the at-large members of the Assistive
Technology (AT) Advisory Council. The Commissioner of Administration
then appointed the council members who met the spirit of the AT Act.

##  

## Attachment 4: Measurable Goals 

A data collection system was not available to establish a baseline
during year one, but we will establish a baseline for each of the goals
listed below in sections 4.1 through 4.7 during year two of our 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. A data collection system was not available to establish
a baseline, but we will establish a baseline during year two of our
state plan. After this baseline has been established, STAR will file an
amended Attachment 4 with RSA identifying specific long and short-term
goals for improving the baseline during year three.

1.  Goal for Improving Access to AT in Education

-   [Long-term goal]{.underline}:

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 3]{.underline}:

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

    ```{=html}
    <!-- -->
    ```
    -   [Short-term goal for Year 1]{.underline}: N/A-data collection
        not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Access to AT in Employment

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   [Long-term goal]{.underline}:

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 3]{.underline}:

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

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 1]{.underline}: N/A-data collection
        not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Access to AT in Community Living

-   [Long-term goal]{.underline}:

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 3]{.underline}:

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

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 1]{.underline}: N/A-data collection
        not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Access to IT and Telecommunications

-   [Long-term goal]{.underline}:

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 3]{.underline}:

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 2]{.underline}: Establish a baseline
        percent of appropriate targeted individuals and entities that
        accessed IT and Telecommunication devices and related services
        as a result of the assistance they received.

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 1]{.underline}: N/A-data collection
        not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Education

-   [Long-term goal]{.underline}:

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 3]{.underline}:

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 2]{.underline}: Establish a baseline
        percent of appropriate targeted individuals and entities who
        obtained through state financing or a reutilization program an
        AT device or service for educational purposes, which otherwise
        would not have been possible.

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 1]{.underline}: N/A-data collection
        not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Employment

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   [Long-term goal]{.underline}:

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 3]{.underline}:

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 2]{.underline}: Establish a baseline
        percent of appropriate targeted individuals and entities who
        obtained an AT device or service through state financing or a
        reutilization program for employment purposes, which otherwise
        would not have been possible.

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 1]{.underline}: N/A-data collection
        not established.

    1.  Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Community Living

-   [Long-term goal]{.underline}:

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 3]{.underline}:

    ```{=html}
    <!-- -->
    ```
    -   [Short-term goal for Year 2]{.underline}: Establish a baseline
        percent of appropriate targeted individuals and entities who
        obtained an AT device or service through state financing or
        reutilization program for community living purposes, which
        otherwise would not have been possible.

    -   [Short-term goal for Year 1]{.underline}: N/A-data collection
        not established.

    1.  [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.

See Attachment 6 of the state AT plan.

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.

Device Reutilization Programs provide for the exchange, repair,
recycling, or other reutilization of assistive technology devices, which
may include redistribution through device sales, loans, or rentals.
Although the STAR program does not currently operate a device
reutilization program it has in the past subcontracted a computer
recycling program through United Cerebral Palsy of Central Minnesota.
During the three years of this state AT plan, STAR will (1) explore the
possibility of establishing a reutilization network within Minnesota;
(2) establish an equipment exchange Web site; and, (3) contact community
colleges to discuss establishing a program for training students to
inspect and repair AT devices. These activities are described in detail
below.

1.  **Reutilization Program Network**[^1]

During the first year of the state AT plan, STAR:

a.  Met individually with six agencies that have device reutilization
    programs to discuss their current services and opportunities for
    collaborating with similar reutilization programs. We also spoke
    with several other reutilization programs to better understand their
    services and determine their interest in discussing opportunities to
    network and collaborate with similar programs Examples of current
    reutilization programs in Minnesota include:

-   Goodwill/Easter Seals of Minnesota provides free loans of medical
    equipment for up to 6 months. Items are cleaned, repaired and
    sanitized before each loan. Available items include: walkers,
    crutches, wheelchairs, transfer benches, and bathtub rails and
    chairs.

-   Courage Center reutilizes donated hearing aids and batteries, manual
    wheelchairs in good working condition, power wheelchairs in good
    working condition (two years old or newer), eyeglasses, Hoyer lifts
    (must be on wheels), walkers with wheels, computers in good working
    condition (Mac - newer than 4 years; PC - Pentium III or faster)
    and, laser printers, scanners, color monitors only, keyboards, mice.

-   Hear Now accepts donations of old, used and no longer used hearing
    aids. Donated aids are sold to a repair lab, and money generated
    through these sales is used to purchase the aids used in the
    program's hearing aid assistance program. In 2000, more than 23,000
    hearing aids were recycled generating more than \$150,000 to fund
    the program.

-   Computers Go Round is a program of United Cerebral Palsy of Central
    Minnesota. This program, which was established with STAR funds,
    refurbishes donated computers for distribution to individuals with
    disabilities living in Central Minnesota.

-   PACER Center administers Super Service an online device exchange
    program that was started through a STAR grant. PACER accepts used
    equipment in the following categories: ambulation and walking,
    architectural adaptation, augmentative communication, computer
    hardware and software, daily living aids, ramps and lifts,
    recreation and leisure, transportation, and wheelchairs and
    scooters.

-   MS Society, Minnesota Chapter has an online equipment exchange
    program specializing in ambulation and walking, bath safety, daily
    living aids, ramps and lifts, rehab exercise, seating and
    positioning, transportation, and wheelchairs and scooters.

During year one of its state AT Plan STAR determined that there is an
interest in exploring the possibility of establishing a reutilization
network in Minnesota for the purpose of sharing knowledge and possibly
resources, as well as, connecting with other reuse programs to identify
common barriers and possible solutions to help reutilization programs
better serve Minnesotans. In May 2006, STAR attended, *Pass it On,* a
National conference on reuse of assistive technology sponsored by the
Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation (OSERS), Rehabilitation
Services Administration (RSA) with the assistance of the Rehabilitation
Engineering and Assistive Technology Society (RESNA). As a result of
information gathered at this conference, STAR plans to convene a reuse
conference in 2007 with an open invitation to all those in Minnesota
with an interest in this topic. During the reuse conference STAR will
survey attendees to identify those interested in participating in a
statewide reutilization network. STAR will amend its state AT plan to
include a summary of the reuse conference including survey results and
additional information about the reutilization network, if one is
established as a result of this conference.

a.  As a facilitator of reutilization activities in Minnesota during
    years two and three STAR will:

-   Work to improve statewide access to reutilization services, which
    may include providing funding to establish services in areas of the
    state that lack reutilization programs. Funding for this activity
    may occur in year two or three and is dependent upon available
    funds.

-   Promote acquisition of used devices through awareness activities via
    its Web site and newsletter.

-   Identify trends regarding equipment reutilization such as popular
    items, increased needs for specific devices, or lack of
    reutilization resources. This information will be used for reporting
    purposes and to plan future state level activities.

-   Facilitate sharing of equipment between programs if appropriate. For
    instance if an agency has an abundance of previously owned walkers,
    it may wish to donate extra walkers to an area of the state that
    needs walkers.

2.  **Equipment Exchange**

The STAR program often receives requests from consumers to help them buy
and sell used equipment. During the three years of this state AT plan,
STAR will help Minnesotans with disabilities gain access to used
equipment by establishing an equipment exchange Web site. This Web site
will connect buyers and sellers of used assistive technology and will be
accessible from any computer with an Internet connection or by calling
STAR from anywhere in the state using the program's toll-free phone
number.

State level activities planned to implement this service include:

-   **Year One** -- STAR researched software and technology requirements
    needed to implement a Web based equipment exchange site. Several AT
    programs in other states offered to share resources with STAR as
    outlined in our state AT Plan dated 12/31/2005. Based upon available
    options and input from its Advisory Council, STAR contracted with
    AgoraNet to establish a Web-based AT device exchange program. It is
    anticipated that this site will be online and ready for use by
    September 15, 2006. In addition, STAR is collaborating with the
    Kansas AT Act program to promote awareness of its site, ATMatch.com,
    an online marketplace where donors and sellers can locate buyers for
    a wide range of assistive technology and durable medical products.
    STAR published information regarding ATMatch.com in its newsletter
    and has a link to this site on our Web site.

-   Once the equipment exchange site is established, STAR will
    distribute information about the site to state agencies such as
    Rehabilitation Services, Department of Human Services and the
    Department of Education. Information will also be distributed to
    public libraries and other institutions that provide information to
    the general public.

-   **Years Two and Three**: Individuals using the site will be asked to
    complete a follow-up survey. The survey will be available online, in
    print or alternative format if requested. Survey results will be
    used to monitor the effectiveness of this site and to make changes
    to the site if needed.

-   **Years Two and Three**: The equipment exchange site will be
    monitored to track trends including types of equipment routinely
    purchased or posted for sale and current used equipment needs based
    upon disability or geographical location. This information will be
    used for reporting purposes and to provide direction regarding ways
    to improve this program.

STAR will also use this site to provide additional information regarding
assistive technology services such as assessment, training and funding
options. Those visiting the site will find links to similar exchange
programs to increase their options for buying and selling used
equipment. The equipment exchange site will be open to all used AT
devices that are in good working condition and meet current technology
requirements. Items for sale will be categorized by device function.
Individuals using this site will be required to pass through a
disclaimer page that explains the terms of the listing and use of the
site. Terms include:

-   STAR does not inspect items listed and does not warrant the
    condition of any item listed.

-   STAR will not be held liable for outcomes resulting from any
    transaction made through this site.

-   Sales are strictly between individuals and not for use by vendors or
    distributors. Items will be removed after 90 days; however an
    individual may re-list an item if desired.

STAR will file an amended state plan at the end of year two. The amended
plan will outline the status of the equipment exchange program and
identify activities to be conducted during year three.

3.  **Connect with Community Colleges**

Access to equipment repair and servicing is a real need and concern of
most AT users. Often a device must be sent back to the vendor for
servicing and repair, which leaves the consumer without a device to
use---sometimes for a prolonged period of time. There are more than 20
community technical colleges located across Minnesota. The AT Advisory
Council requested that during the three years of this state AT Plan STAR
contact community colleges to discuss the possibility of establishing a
program to train students to perform equipment repairs and/or safety
inspections. STAR also hopes that collaborating with community colleges
will promote student interest in the field of assistive technology.

During year one STAR:

-   Established a list of contacts at the community technical colleges
    in Minnesota. Some colleges were contacted informally during year
    one. It is anticipated that more in-depth discussions will take
    place during year two of this plan. In addition colleges will be
    invited to the year two reuse conference where AT device service and
    refurbishment will be discussed.

-   If an interest exists in establishing a training program, STAR will
    help coordinate future meetings with schools to facilitate the
    process of developing curriculum and connecting potential partners.

At the end of year two, STAR will amend its state AT plan to reflect the
status of this state level activity.

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.

Device Loan Programs provide short-term loans of assistive technology
devices to individuals, schools, employers, public agencies, or others
seeking to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Minnesota's AT
Act Program is in the process of developing a statewide device loan
program with the intention of complementing and collaborating with
existing loan programs throughout the state. In the past, STAR has
funded loan programs in parts of the state. Loan programs that have
received STAR funding include: Minnesota Assistive Technology Loan
Network (MATLN), which loans augmentative and alternative communication
equipment and three Assistive Technology Network agencies that loan a
variety of devices and serve the Northwest, Northeast and Southwest
regions of Minnesota.

PACER Center (which currently has over 2,000 AT items in its Simon
Technology Center) has been a source of device loans and information for
a number of years. Another resource available to Minnesotans is the
Telephone Equipment Distribution Program specializing in
telecommunications equipment available to eligible Minnesotans.

Equipment loan programs provide a valuable service by enabling:

-   Individuals to try a device in order to make an informed purchasing
    decision

-   Professionals to borrow a device for assessment purposes

-   Individuals to borrow a device while their own device is being
    repaired or while they are waiting to receive a newly purchased
    device

-   AT Trainers to borrow devices for training and demonstration

During the three years of this state AT plan, STAR will work to form a
collaborative between existing device loan programs in Minnesota and to
create new loan programs in un-served regions of the state. Consumers
currently may contact MATLN, PACER Center, the Telephone Equipment
Distribution Program, STAR or one of Minnesota's six regional ATNs[^2]
for assistance. Each agency provides assistive technology services that
meet the needs of the individuals in their region or statewide.

During year two of its state AT Plan, STAR will facilitate discussion
among loan programs in Minnesota to determine opportunities for
collaboration among interested programs. Possible collaborative
activities include creating a centralized online database of loan
equipment to provide consumers with a one-stop resource for locating
available equipment statewide. If preferred, consumers could call STAR's
toll-free phone number for assistance in obtaining device loan
information.

In year one STAR planned and wrote an RFP to establish 7 AT Centers
throughout Minnesota for the purpose of delivering AT demonstrations and
device loans. STAR will announce the RFP in August 2006 and will award
funding in October 2006. It is anticipated that these Centers will
expand options for device loans and demonstrations in Minnesota.

Mailing requested loan items provides homebound or rural consumers with
equal access to the device loan program; however, costs associated with
mailing items can place a strain on loan program budgets. During year
two, STAR plans to explore low-cost, no-cost ways to defray costs
associated with transporting devices to consumers.

During year one of the plan, STAR:

-   Met with representatives of Minnesota's AT device loan programs to
    discuss current services and to pave the way for future discussions
    regarding opportunities for collaboration.

-   STAR researched the database software needs for providing an
    accessible online device database.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   STAR consulted with other AT Act Programs with existing AT device
    loan programs to learn more about their policies, procedures, and
    data collection methods. This information will be used to identify
    and avoid potential pitfalls and to establish consistent guidelines
    for device loan programs participating in the network.

-   Met with assistive technology service providers to discuss how to
    provide adequate training and support to consumers during the loan
    period to ensure that trial devices are used appropriately. Possible
    options include establishing a mentorship program and/or providing
    an accompanying fact sheet with online training resources, as well
    as, providing vendor and state resource information.

-   Did not survey users to evaluate service satisfaction and
    effectiveness of the device loan network of the AT Centers since it
    has not yet been established. This activity will be started when the
    subcontracts for the AT Centers have been awarded and the Centers
    are up and running. STAR expects to award these subcontracts early
    in year two.

-   STAR will submit an amended state AT plan outlining the status of
    this initiative at the end of year two.

**Cooperative Buying Program**

In a time of limited funding and constrained budgets, cooperative buying
programs provide a needed cost saving benefit. Minnesota currently has a
state cooperative buying program. STAR had hoped to pass cost savings on
to its subcontractors through use of the cooperative buying program to
purchase AT devices.

During year one, STAR contacted the cooperative buying program currently
in existence in Minnesota to see if it was possible for STAR's
subcontractors to purchase assistive technology through this program.
Unfortunately, STAR discovered that using the existing state cooperative
buying program was impractical at this time due to state policies and
procedures. Instead Minnesota will rely on the nation-wide efforts of
organizations such as NATTAP and ATAP to negotiate better prices with
vendors. STAR will in turn pass those savings through to its
subcontractors.

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.

Device demonstrations provide consumers with product information, and an
opportunity to ask questions and try devices, as well as, providing
general information regarding AT services including assessment, training
and funding options. Device demonstrations provide important hands-on
experience and information necessary to ensure purchasing the right
device. Demonstrations may be held in-center or on-the-road to meet the
needs of the consumer. The STAR Program has a variety of AT devices that
it demonstrates at conferences, public information fairs, workshops, and
AT training or upon request at its office. STAR also provides referrals
to other device demonstration programs. Referrals increase the
opportunities to see a variety of products in action.

During year one STAR:

-   Worked with Minnesota's ATNs and other state AT providers to promote
    opportunities for device demonstrations by:

    -   Facilitating access to devices for demonstration through loans
        of STAR's devices.

    -   Referring requests for demonstrations to an appropriate ATN, AT
        service provider or vendor.

-   Conducted an information outreach campaign utilizing its newsletter,
    Web site, Directory of Resources, and listserv to distribute
    information regarding device demonstration programs available in
    Minnesota. STAR will continue to pursue this activity in year two.

-   STAR did not coordinate demonstrations at non-traditional host sites
    such as public libraries, museums, senior centers, and shopping
    malls/stores during year one but plans to pursue this activity in
    year two.

-   STAR did not coordinate demonstrations at Minnesota WorkForce
    Centers but plans to pursue this activity in year two.

-   Established a listing of statewide device demonstration events on
    STAR's Web site to educate Minnesota consumers and professionals of
    opportunities available throughout the state. STAR routinely
    contacts vendors, agencies and programs that provide AT
    demonstrations to request event announcements for posting on STAR's
    Web site.

-   Based upon the number of demonstrations during year one, STAR will
    work to increase the number of demonstrations in years two and
    three. With the addition of AT Centers, STAR anticipates a 100%
    increase in device demonstrations during year two.

-   Although STAR did not create and distribute a guide for consumers
    and professionals outlining things they should consider when
    purchasing assistive technology, it did publish an article on this
    topic in its newsletter. This article addressed areas of
    consideration including the need for a professional assessment,
    training, support and funding. STAR will continue to work during
    year two to create and distribute this proposed guide to the AT
    Centers and AT service providers to give consumers who attend device
    demonstrations.

-   STAR did not establish a blog for users of AT to share their
    experiences regarding the devices they use. Reasons for not going
    forward with this activity include lack of staffing and resources.
    At this time, STAR does not plan to pursue this activity during year
    two.

-   STAR filed the required annual report at the end of year one
    indicating the status of the activities outlined above and based
    upon the results of year one will provide a timeline of activities
    for years two and three.

-   STAR will issue an RFP in 2006 to establish 7 AT Centers throughout
    Minnesota for the purpose of delivering AT demonstrations and device
    loans.

#### Attachment 6: Comparable Support

6.1 [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.

Minnesota's AT Council recommended that the AT Plan for year one and
beyond should include a declaration of comparable support for
State-level financing activities. Minnesota has a federally funded
Alternate Financing Program (AFP) through its community-based partner,
Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn\*). Therefore, STAR will not
pursue duplicating such financing activities during the next three
years. STAR will, however, provide evidence in its yearly report that
there continues to be comparable alternative financing for Minnesotans
and file an amendment to the state AT plan, if needed.

The Minnesota Governor's Advisory Council on Technology for People with
Disabilities, the STAR Program and interested stakeholders created a
community based organization to provide statewide activities related to
the Assistive Technology Act of 1998. Organized and incorporated as a
statewide 501(c)(3) non-profit in 1998, Assistive Technology of
Minnesota was identified as the organization that would provide
alternative financing for the purchase of assistive technology devices
and services. In the early years, 1998-2000, ATMn\* was managed under an
Executive Loan Agreement with the STAR Program. In 2000, a local
foundation provided a grant award of \$10,000 to ATMn\* to begin the
process of developing a loan program specifically for the purpose of
financing AT devices and services. Over the next four years, ATMn\* was
privatized and continued developing the loan program. Without long-term
financial support to operate the program ATMn\* realized how important
it was to access available federal funding under Title III of the
Assistive Technology Act of 1998.

In September of 2003 Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn\*) jointly
applied with the Minnesota Department of Administration and the STAR
Program for federal funds under Title III of the Assistive Technology
Act of 1998 to ensure long-term funding for an Alternative Finance
Program for Minnesotans with disabilities. Concurrently, an application
was submitted to the U.S. Rehabilitation Services Administration for
funding to support the development of a new program, Access to Telework
(loans for the purchase of employment related equipment). The federal
government approved both applications. A condition of the award required
Minnesota to provide a "matching" share of funds. The federal government
awarded \$1,270,981 to develop the Alternative Finance Project referred
to as the ATMn\* Micro-Loan Program. With the addition of the local
match requirement of \$423,660, ATMn\*'s Micro-Loan Program will total
\$1,694,641 offering a long-term funding solution for the purchase of
assistive technology devices and services to Minnesotans with
disabilities.

ATMn\* is required by the contractual agreement with the State of
Minnesota, the STAR Program to raise the required match. To date, ATMn\*
has raised \$210,000 that was matched by \$630,000 of federal funds for
a balance of \$840,000. A portion of the funds, \$100,000 was recently
awarded to ATMn\* by the 2005 Legislature through a one time special
appropriation to support the required local match. Additional funds for
the required local match were provided by foundation, corporate and
individual donors. ATMn\* will continue fund development activities
until the entire balance of the required local match are raised ensuring
the federal dollars allocated to Minnesota are capitalized. Securing all
the federal and local funds will ensure that alternative financing is
available to consumers in need and provide fiscal sustainability for
ATMn\*'s Micro-Loan Program many years into the future.

With more than \$1 million available for loans, ATMn\* continues to
provide comparable support for state-level financing activities.

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

Given the substantial amount of funding already in place under the AFP
it makes better sense to serve the AT needs of its citizens by using the
alternative financing portion of the AT Act grant for the other required
activities.

As part of contractual agreement with the federal government, the STAR
Program and ATMn\* are required to assist all eligible Minnesotans to
obtain AT devices and services regardless of their type of disability,
age, income level or location of residence within the state. ATMn\*'s
policies/procedures governing the program require comprehensive access
(i.e., that services be provided in a non-discriminatory manner and
protect the privacy of all applicants).

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.

The Minnesota Department of Administration has designated the STAR
Program to administer the contract with ATMn\*. ATMn\* operates the AFP
independently from STAR. STAR and ATMn\* usually meet monthly as part of
a collaborative of AT organizations and discuss AFP issues when needed
in person. ATMn\* provides written reports to the STAR Program on a
quarterly basis with details of the loan activities, progress toward
program goals and information required by the federal government in the
administration and implementation of the AFP.

The STAR Program through its information and referral service promote
the AFP, link to ATMn\*'s Web site, provide information at
education/vendor/AT events and work to increase awareness of the
program. Educators have direct access to the information through the
State of MN Department of Education Assistive Technology Specialist who
leads a Statewide Leadership Team. Dissemination of information through
an annual AT conference sponsored by the Education Department ensures
that school personnel, case-managers, parents and other professionals
have access to the program information. Other collaborative efforts with
vendors, hospitals, clinics, specialty medical personnel and
social/rehabilitative counselors assist in increasing awareness of the
program.

The Minnesota AT Advisory Council issued an invitation to ATMn\* to
attend a council meeting to share information about the AFP. ATMn\*
accepted the invitation and told the council about its financing
options. The AT Council also discussed at the 8/16/05 meeting offering
one of its members to ATMn\* as a member of the AFP advisory council so
that there is better communication between the organizations.

Attachment 7: State Flexibility

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

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.

**This attachment is not applicable to Minnesota's State AT Plan.**

## Attachment 8: State Leadership Activities

8.1 [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]{.underline}: Over the years STAR has presented a number of
training sessions for state employees, AT professionals, employers and
consumers and it will continue to do so over the next three years. Some
of these training sessions will be based upon curriculum already
established by STAR on relevant AT topics while others will provide
training on new and evolving AT trends. Training activities will
include:

-   [Training for education professionals]{.underline}: Schools in
    Minnesota may contact STAR to request AT training. STAR is a member
    of the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) AT State Leadership
    Team. As a member of this team STAR serves in an advisory capacity
    to MDE and assists with planning statewide professional development
    activities relating to assistive technology such as MDE's annual
    assistive technology conferences (Charting the Cs and Up to the
    MN\*AT Summer Institute) that provide AT information and training
    for teachers and professionals statewide. Training sessions range
    from an overview of assistive technology in the classroom to
    sessions focusing on the use of specific devices, software, as well
    as, strategies teachers may use to implement AT into classroom
    curriculum. Future sessions will be developed on Universal Design in
    Learning. During year one STAR provided schools statewide with
    updated information regarding STAR services and training. In year
    two STAR will also contact charter school representatives to make
    sure that these schools are aware of STAR training and services.

-   [Training for employment professionals]{.underline}: STAR works with
    Rehabilitation Services staff to educate individuals with
    disabilities and employment professionals on how assistive
    technology can be used to break down barriers to employment.
    Training sessions, which are available upon request, cover a variety
    of topics on AT in the workplace or may be customized to focus on
    specific AT needs.

-   [Training for information technology professionals]{.underline}:
    STAR provides training on creating accessible electronic information
    technology and Web design on a quarterly basis and technical
    assistance upon request.

-   [Training for general public/consumers]{.underline}: Topics include
    AT and disability awareness, access to information, future trends,
    and other topics upon request.

-   [Training for Human Service professionals]{.underline}: STAR is
    available to provide training to Human Service Agencies on topics
    ranging from basic AT awareness to funding strategies and state
    resources.

# [Technical Assistance]{.underline}: STAR will continue to provide technical assistance upon request over the next three years. The type of technical assistance provided will be determined by future requests; therefore, STAR is unable to describe specific activities at this time. It is likely, however, that STAR will receive requests similar to past requests. Examples of technical assistance provided by STAR in the past include:

-   Help America Vote Act (HAVA)---STAR was a member of the Minnesota
    Secretary of State's advisory council during the drafting of the
    Help America Vote Act. Technical assistance included testing
    accessible voting machine design and providing feedback. STAR also
    trained the Minnesota Secretary of State's office and the HAVA
    advisory council on assistive technology and the important role it
    plays in providing independence in voting.

-   STAR provides technical assistance to a variety of agencies
    including Minnesota's Department of Human Services
    (MinnesotaHelp.info an information and referral Website), Department
    of Education, and. Agencies may request technical assistance from
    STAR while designing and creating electronic information and Web
    pages. STAR tests for accessibility and 508 compliance; provides
    additional guidance by reporting errors that hinder accessibility
    and provides information on how to correct the errors.

[Transition]{.underline}: STAR will address the transitioning needs of
Minnesotans through the following state leadership activities:

-   Students\--Year 1 -- STAR conducted a transition event called
    Transition Day at the U in collaboration with the Minnesota
    Department of Education (MDE). This event provided transitioning
    students with access to assistive technology information,
    demonstration and hands-on training necessary for developing
    technological and AT advocacy skills that support successful
    transition. In addition, the camp provided an opportunity for peer
    mentorship and networking. Thirteen students and forty three adults
    attended the event. The evaluations stated that the event was
    valuable to the attendees. At the July AT Advisory Council meeting,
    members recommended that STAR should sponsor a similar transition
    event next year.

-   Community Living\--Year 1 -- STAR developed and disseminated
    information on assistive technology devices, services and funding
    options that provide opportunities for maintaining or transitioning
    to community living. STAR included articles called Technology for
    Transition in its quarterly newsletter *Constellations*. These
    articles discussed assistive technology that supports the many
    aspects of transitioning to community living. STAR did not broadcast
    interviews with community transition experts on *STAR Point*, STAR's
    Internet radio program, but plans to as time and technical resources
    allow in year two. STAR worked with interagency transition teams to
    ensure that assistive technology was included in the transition
    planning process. In addition, STAR researched the costs and
    technology required to hold teleconferences and web conferences, but
    did not garner the necessary resources to sponsor one or more
    telephone/web conferences on transitioning to community living. STAR
    will attempt to use this format to host an open forum to discuss
    statewide community transition needs with consumers, caregivers,
    advocates and professionals in year two.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   Students/Community Living\--Year 2 -- STAR will partner with
    community organizations to offer information and training to
    individuals with disabilities preparing for academic, employment, or
    community transition. At the AT Advisory Council's recommendation,
    STAR will repeat the year one transition activity and explore a
    wider collaboration of partners relative to the above categories.

-   Students/Community Living\--Year 3 -- Expand the year two transition
    activities to include workshops for professionals working with
    people with disabilities.

STAR purchased assistive technology to provide the transition event
participants with hands-on training. During the rest of the year, the
equipment became part of the statewide device loan network for use by
agencies (schools, workforce centers, VA, county services, regional AT
Centers) and consumers.

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.

STAR provides Minnesotans with assistive technology related information
through multiple forms of media as outlined below. All STAR materials
are available in a variety of formats including Braille, electronic and
audio.

[Information and Referral]{.underline}: STAR provides information and
referral to professionals and consumers locally and statewide through
its toll-free phone number, e-mail and in-person at events and
trainings.

# [Newsletter]{.underline}: STAR's newsletter *Constellations* is published quarterly (Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter) and has a circulation of approximately 7,200. Each issue covers a wide range of assistive technology topics such as new products and services, funding resources, tips and strategies, legislative updates, training opportunities and special events. 

# [Web site]{.underline}: STAR maintains a Web site that provides information regarding

-   STAR Program mission and services

-   Assistive Technology -- general information and resources

-   Funding strategies and resources -- including an online version of
    STAR's funding directory in English and Spanish

-   Statewide resources including information on Minnesota's Assistive
    Technology Network (ATN), which consists of six Assistive Technology
    partners serving the Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast and
    Central regions of the state.

-   A direct link to MATLN (Minnesota Assistive Technology Loan Network)
    operated by United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota. The Web site is
    housed on the STAR server.

-   Alternative Financing information and resources including a direct
    link to Minnesota's alternative financing program ATMn\*.

-   A direct link to Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology
    Service of North America ([www.RESNA.org](http://www.RESNA.org/))

-   A direct link to Rehabilitation Service Administration

-   Online version of *Constellations* (STAR's newsletter) in electronic
    and audio format

-   On-demand Internet radio program (See *STAR Point* description
    below)

-   Information and resources regarding access to electronic and
    information technology including a Web form for reporting
    inaccessible Web sites. STAR reviews each report and, if necessary,
    contacts the agency in question and works with them to improve
    accessibility of the site.

[Internet Radio Show]{.underline}: Over the next three years STAR will
continue to produce and broadcast *STAR Point*, an on-demand Internet
radio program. *STAR Point* educates Minnesotans on a broad array of
issues related to assistive technology, assistive technology services
and legislation regarding access to information technology and
accessibility issues. Each half-hour program features experts in their
respective fields. Guests to date have included government employees
(federal and state of Minnesota), educators, members of advocacy groups,
as well as representatives from service providers, vendors and
manufacturers. A transcript of each show is posted as an alternative
access option.

[Publications]{.underline}: Finding the money to purchase assistive
technology can be a difficult and time-consuming task. That is why for
the past eight years the STAR program has published its *Directory of
Funding Resources for Assistive Technology in Minnesota.* This 105 page
directory is available to all Minnesotans, agencies and organizations
free of charge. Directory content includes:

-   General information on assistive technology

-   A guide on how to develop a funding strategy

-   State and national resources

-   Sample letter of medical necessity

-   Sample Appeal letter

-   Listing of AT and disability related Web sites

-   Fact page for each identified provider available to Minnesotans.
    Each fact page includes a detailed description of the funding
    provider including who they serve (age, disability, region, etc.)
    eligibility criteria, as well as, contact information (address,
    phone number, Web site, etc.)

To date, STAR has given away approximately 10,000 copies of the most
recent edition of its funding directory. An updated edition was issued
in June 2006. Later in the year STAR will release its funding directory
on CD, which will allow Minnesotans to choose a format that best meets
their needs. The funding directory is also available online at STAR's
Web site in English and Spanish and in alternative formats upon request.
Approximately 9,400 visitors have viewed the online directory during the
past 12 months.

STAR distributes its funding directory at various events throughout the
year such as the State Fair and Charting the Cs, which is an annual
statewide assistive technology conference. The directory is also given
to a variety of agencies in Minnesota including AT centers,
rehabilitation facilities to assist professionals and their consumers
during the funding process. The directory may be requested by contacting
STAR through its toll free number, Web site or e-mail. During year one
STAR expanded its distribution of the directory to include public
libraries, senior centers and other public institutions statewide to
increase its reach to a diverse group of consumers. By providing this
information in one easy to access directory, consumers of all ages,
disabilities and needs and professionals statewide spend less time
searching for funding resources. Furthermore, by providing consumers and
professionals with a comprehensive directory of funding options and
resources the likelihood of acquiring needed assistive technology is
increased.

8.3 [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.

Minnesota STAR Program currently collaborates and coordinates with
public and private entities that are responsible for establishing
policies, procedures, or AT funding. Activities include:

-   Serving as a member of the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE)
    AT State Leadership Team. This team serves in an advisory capacity
    to MDE and assists with planning statewide professional development
    activities relating to assistive technology. STAR participates in
    developing the annual assistive technology conference (Charting the
    Cs) and summer AT institute (Up to the MN\*AT) that provides AT
    information and training for teachers and professionals statewide.

-   A member of the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities
    (MN-CCD). This consortium is a broad-based coalition of
    organizations of people with disabilities, providers and advocates
    dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities. MN-CCD
    addresses public policy issues that affect people with disabilities
    by collaborating with others, advocating, educating, influencing
    change and creating awareness. STAR attends monthly meetings to
    discuss issues that impact the lives of Minnesotans with
    disabilities and participates in work groups to develop AT
    initiatives in the areas of health care, transportation, employment,
    education and housing.

-   Advisory member to the Minnesota Disability Law Center

-   A member of Minnesota Regions AT Collaborative (MNRATC), which is a
    collaborative of the regional network of AT centers originally
    created by STAR. The collaborative meets on a bi-monthly basis to
    discuss what is happening statewide regarding AT. Members of the
    collaborative work together sharing information and, when
    appropriate resources, to maximize the capacity for AT use within
    Minnesota.

-   Meets on a regular basis with a number of state agencies that work
    with individuals with disabilities (State Services for the Blind,
    Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, Rehabilitation Services, DD
    Council) to discuss disability issues, share legislative planning
    and funding strategies.

-   Works with MinnesotaHelp.info
    ([www.minnesotahelp.info](http://www.minnesotahelp.info/)) to
    provide networking opportunities with other agencies; shares
    information to make sure that MinnesotaHelp.info has current
    information regarding AT services in Minnesota; and, promote
    awareness of each other's services. MinnesotaHelp.info is an online
    directory of services designed to help people in Minnesota identify
    resources such as human services, information and referral,
    financial assistance, assistive technology and other forms of
    assistance within Minnesota. The Web site is especially rich in
    resource information for seniors and their caregivers; people with
    disabilities and their caregivers; parents and families; and
    low-income people. STAR distributes information on
    MinnesotaHelp.info to consumers at various outreach events and
    MinnesotaHelp.info refers to STAR individuals and professionals in
    need of AT assistance. In the next year STAR will formalize
    arrangements with MinnesotaHelp.info to assess their referral
    protocols to assure seamless services for consumers.

-   Works with Disability Linkage Line a toll-free disability
    information and referral service (1-866-333-2466) through
    information sharing and by promoting each other's services.
    Disability Linkage Line is a single statewide information and
    referral resource for all disability-related questions. It provides
    free confidential assistance that links Minnesotans with
    disabilities to local and statewide resources. A resource specialist
    answers the call, listens to needs, explores options and provides
    information. STAR distributes information regarding Disability
    Linkage Line and they, in turn, refer to STAR consumers and
    professionals in need of AT assistance. In year one STAR formalized
    trainings about AT resources for the Disability Linkage Line staff.
    STAR will also do a joint data analysis with Disability Linkage Line
    to help assure seamless services for consumers.

-   Collaborating with Medtronic, Courage Center, MCIL and PACER Center
    on an AT in business awareness exhibit for the National Business
    Leadership Network Conference scheduled for October 4-6, 2006.

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.

The 2005 legislature appropriated \$150,000 to support the Alternative
Financing Program. STAR anticipates that the Minnesota Department of
Education will help fund the planned transition camp and the University
of Minnesota will provide the space to hold it. The umbrella
organizations for the Assistive Technology Network donate salaries and
in kind resources for their members so that information and referral
services, device demonstration, device loan and other AT-related
activities occur.

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 STAR Program is an agency composed of state employees located within
the Department of Administration.

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).

Minnesota's AT Council has played an integral role in developing this
state AT plan through regular meetings and discussions on its listserv.
The Council met four times before the submittal of this plan to set
goals and objectives and to provide advice on how activities are to be
carried out. Currently, there is one active workgroup focusing on
transition with plans for additional workgroups in each of the state
level activity areas. Council members are committed to lending their
expertise, knowledge and leveraging resources when possible.

Council meetings are held quarterly on the third Tuesday of the month to
evaluate STAR's progress toward the established goals and to offer
suggestions for improvement and change. The Advisory Council will review
and evaluate the state AT Plan's measurable goals giving feedback and
guidance to make any needed 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).

The State of Minnesota does not support any of STAR's State-level
activities with a direct appropriation of state dollars. Other
state-funded agencies, such as State Services for the Blind and the
Department of Human Services offer demonstration and telephone equipment
distribution programs.

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.

STAR is a member of the Minnesota Department of Education AT Leadership
Team that helps plan such activities as Charting the Cs (the premier
AT/Education conference in Minnesota) and Up to the MN\*AT (MDE's AT
summer institute). STAR's partnership with the Department of Education
helps assure that the AT Act is represented in these activities.

## 

## 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).

All departments of the State of Minnesota use the same Web based
Minnesota Accounting and Procurement System (MAPS) to record and track
income and expenditures. A coding system has been developed within MAPS
to enable detailed accounting by reporting categories and types of
expenditure. STAR will request separate reporting categories for State
Level and State Leadership Activities under this grant and will code
expenditures accordingly. At any time, a report can be obtained to
monitor expenditures to assure that STAR is in compliance with the
percentages and budget amounts as per the State Plan. It will be the
responsibility of the STAR Director to monitor expenditures on a monthly
basis. Indirect costs (less than 5%) are included in the overall budget.

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 of the project. These numbers will
serve as an estimate only for Year 3 of this State Plan.

**Proposed Distribution Total Award Amount**

**[Allocation \$397,860]{.underline}**

State Level 60% \$238,716

State Leadership 40% \$159,144

#### Leadership Activities 95% (of 40%) \$151,186

###  Transition 5% (of 40%) \$ 7,958

**TOTAL** **\$397,860**

Within the above budget, STAR proposes to apportion funds for specific
activities in the following manner. However, these numbers reflect a
proposal only, and will serve as an estimate only for Year 3 of this
State Plan.

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

State Financing Activities \$ 0 (Comparability)

Device Reutilization Program \$50,000

Device Loan Program \$100,000

Device Demonstration Program \$88,716

**State Leadership Activities Proposed Allocation**

Training and Technical Assistance Activities \$56,186

Transition \$ 7,958

Public Awareness Activities \$70,000

Coordination and Collaboration \$25,000

Addendum to Part I

OMB Control Number: 1820-0664

Expiration Date: 10/31/2008

Minnesota AT Advisory Council

Operational Policies

Introduction

The STAR Program was established in 1989 as Minnesota's AT Act Project
to plan and coordinate AT information and services for the citizens of
Minnesota with disabilities. The STAR Program has served as an advocate
for federal and state AT policy and legislation, builds AT capacity in
state government and helps assure statewide AT services for individuals
with disabilities. The Governor's Advisory Council on Technology for
People with Disabilities provided direction to STAR. The Governor
abolished this council in 2002.

# Purpose of the Council

The purpose for the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council is
to provide consumer input to STAR staff in the planning, development,
implementation and evaluation of AT device loan and recycling programs,
as provided in the AT Act of 1998, as amended.

# Membership

The council shall consist of no more that 15 members.

Five members are dictated by Statute:

-   One representative of the Centers for Independent Living

-   One representative of the State Services for the Blind

-   One representative of state workforce reinvestment board

-   One representative of Minnesota Department of Education

-   One representative of the Department of Employment and Economic
    Development

Ten members are appointed by the Commissioner of Administration, but
must represent Minnesotans in the following areas: geography, ethnicity,
types of disabilities, age and users of types of services that an
individual with disabilities may receive.

The council will elect its own chair and vice-chair.

# Attendance

Member attendance at scheduled council meetings is mandatory. In the
event that a council member or designated state agency representative
does not attend two consecutive meetings of the council, the member
shall be notified in writing of the attendance policy. If the member
misses a third consecutive meeting, the commissioner's office will be
notified and a request will be made for a replacement.

# Terms of office for council members

Members serve at the pleasure of the Commissioner.

## Participation of Non-Council Members

Participation in council activities and implementation of activities may
be extended by the Chair to all individuals, organizations, public or
private entities that have an ongoing interest in the use of technology
by people with disabilities.

## Meetings

The Minnesota Assistive Technology Act Council will meet on a regular
schedule as established by the council. Council meetings shall be open
to the public.

## Quorum

A quorum shall consist of those voting members present.

## Written Notice

Written notice of all regular and special meetings of the council shall
be provided at least seven days in advance of the meeting.

# Sub-Committees

Sub-committees may be established to assist the council in carrying out
its duties. The council may delegate the responsibilities of its
functions to a committee. Committee recommendations shall be submitted
to the full council for review and action.

Sub-committee chairs shall be appointed by the council Chair from among
the council membership. A quorum of the sub-committee shall consist of a
majority of those present.

**Conflict of Interest Statement**

This Council may determine that grants will be required to carry out the
duties set before it. The process of determining grant specifications,
reviewing grant applications and arriving at recommendations must be as
free from conflict of interest as possible. A conflict of interest
exists when members of the Council participate in the process that
results in recommendations relative to funding of projects, while they
have a person or financial interest in one or more of the projects. In
order to avoid problems in this area, Council members who have a person
or financial interest in an application or an organization that submits
an application should abstain from participating in the entire process
of reviewing and evaluating the applications in which the Council member
has a conflict of interest. In this context, "personal or financial
interest" means the following:

-   The council member or a member of the family is an officer of the
    applicant organization, serves on a committee that governs the
    applicant organization, or serves on the Board of the applicant
    organization.

-   The council member or a member of the family is employed by or is
    paid a consultant fee by the applicant organization.

-   The council member or a member of the family will be employed by the
    applicant organization in any capacity if the application is funded.

Those members of the council who have, or believe they have, a personal
or financial interest in any of the applications being considered by the
council should abstain from participating in the entire process of
reviewing the applications and any and all matters concerning the grant
in which the council member has a conflict of interest and should be
recorded as abstaining when votes are taken.

Guidelines on How to Contribute at Council Meetings

By Duane Shimpach

Former Chair

Governor's Council on Technology for People with Disabilities

# Know Why You Are Here

-   Read agendas and materials.

-   Plan and prepare by thinking how you can help the meeting to be
    productive.

    -   Think about the information, topic or issues.

    -   Think about questions and varying viewpoints.

    -   If the topic is a problem, think of solutions and/or how to
        reduce conflicts.

# Be Here on Time

-   Get to the meeting before it is scheduled to begin.

-   Encourage the Chair to begin the meeting on time.

# Stay on the Subject

-   Be sure you know what subject is being discussed and the purpose of
    the discussion.

-   If you aren't sure of the subject or purpose, ask for clarification.
    It will benefit you and benefit the committee/council.

# Contribute to Group Cohesion

-   Come to the meeting with a positive attitude and an objective to
    help make the meeting as productive as possible.

-   Give your full attention to speakers. Ignore anyone who tries to
    start a side conversation with you.

-   Refuse interruptions by a telephone message unless it's an
    emergency.

-   Challenge, but avoid arguments.

-   Control your emotions.

-   Ask questions if you aren't sure about something -- make sure you
    understand.

-   Do the work of the council during the meetings and not what you'd
    regularly be doing.

-   Disagree fairly. Deal with issues at meetings with people involved,
    not outside meetings or in cliques.

# Be Open to the Ideas of Others

-   Open-mindedness begets open-mindedness.

-   Be willing to listen.

-   Respond to others' ideas with comments such as, "I see what you
    mean," "I understand how you feel," "I hadn't thought of it that
    way."

**REMEMBER: You are the most important ingredient of a productive
meeting.**

[^1]: Refers to a group of reutilizations programs interested in coming
    together, either formally or informally to share knowledge, to
    discuss barriers to reutilization and explore potential solutions,
    as well as, provide an opportunity for collaboration.

[^2]: The Assistive Technology Network (ATN) is a collaborative of six
    agencies created by STAR to help assure access to and the
    acquisition of AT devices and services for individuals with
    disabilities and their family members, guardians, advocates, and
    authorized representatives throughout Minnesota.