Technology can be harnessed to diminish or eliminate environmental barriers for people with disabilities. People with disabilities have the right to control and direct their own choices, and the right to access the information they need in order to make informed decisions according to their goals and interests. People with disabilities have the right to employ assistive technologies, strategies for implementation, and necessary training support to maximize their independence and productivity. Meaningful and lasting change occurs when the search for solutions begins with individuals defining their own dreams and expectations. Program Each ATA center is an independent, nonprofit organization.
Every center has a comprehensive program reflecting community needs, local talents and resources.
Although each center is unique in many ways, all Alliance centers provide services that help family members, teachers, employers, children and adults with disabilities explore computer systems, adaptive devices and software. An expanded list of services is included later in this report. ATA Centers serve many individuals directly who, in turn, are able to serve the assistive technology needs of others, for example, special education teachers, counselors, employers, and therapists. There is a growing number of individuals who have benefitted indirectly from the Alliance over the years. General Activities Technology decisions are very personal ones regardless of whether or not a person has a disability.