Virtual Quarterly Vision Webinar on Mental Health

May 17 | 12:00 p.m. ET

The Assistive Technology (AT) Champions Program is a 6-month long program designed to empower youth and build connections with young disabled activists in the Mid-Atlantic region. Many thanks to our 2024–2025 AT Champion, Sydney, for contributing the following about her experience!

Hi everyone! My name is Sydney Kienzle, and I had the pleasure of participating in the AT Champions program this year, representing the state of Maryland. Throughout my time as an AT Champion, I got to learn about many different aspects relating to assistive technology and disability advocacy. Some of the topics we talked about included (but were not limited to) the Lending Libraries in every state within the AT Champions cohort and around the country, how to fabricate (create) assistive technology devices/gadgets out of things like InstaMorph, PVC pipes, and even simple household items like egg cartons and pool noodles, different events that took place in history relating to disabilities and assistive technology, how to find funds to purchase/rent assistive technology items, and how to teach the general population about these topics using social media, and making those videos more accessible.

Social Media Basics

During the first workshop, titled Social Media Basics, my AT Champions cohort and I learned about how to post videos on social media. Not only posting the videos, but making sure the videos were accessible to all disabilities. I learned how to add captions and video descriptions to my videos to make them easier for others to watch and follow along. I also was able to discuss an assistive technology device that I already owned, which was an electric can opener.

AT Lending Libraries

During the second workshop, titled AT Lending Libraries, my cohort and I learned about a helpful tool that provides assistive technology devices for people to borrow. These libraries, similar to the book library where you pick out books and return them after a period of time, allow people to borrow an assistive technology device, borrow it to see if they like it, then return it at the very nice cost of FREE 99! Each state in the country has their own lending library full of assistive technology gadgets ranging from low-tech to high-tech, and all people with disabilities are able to look around the library to see what device would be the best fit for them. Some states will ship the items to you if you reserve a device on their state-specific website, and other states require you to go in person to their lending library. For this month’s video, I described a grabber tool that would be helpful for people to reach high items off a shelf/cabinet.

AT Fabrication

During the third workshop, titled AT Fabrication, my cohort and I learned about how to create our own assistive devices. We learned that you don’t need super expensive tools to make assistive devices, and something as simple as rubber bands, construction paper, and other household items. We watched videos of people making wheelchairs with PVC pipes, and we watched videos of people making a playing card holder out of pool noodles. I especially enjoyed this month’s project and workshop because I love doing things with my hands and being crafty, so I enjoyed making something that could be helpful to others. For this month’s video, I showed how to create a card holder out of an empty egg carton, where all you need is an egg carton and a knife to cut slits into the egg carton.

Disability History

During the fourth workshop, titled Disability History, my cohort and I learned about important events and people that helped shape the future of disability rights and assistive technology. Some of the events that we learned about were the 504 Sit-Ins and the IDEA, and some of the famous people we learned about that have/had disabilities were Stephen Hawking and Frida Kahlo. We learned that Stephen Hawking was one of the first people to use an AAC (Alternative and Augmented Communication) device, as he had ALS and lost all muscle ability except for his eyes. For this month’s video, I discussed how Louis Braille invented Braille, the language that many blind individuals use.

Funding

During the fifth workshop, titled Funding, my cohort and I learned about many different funding resources that individuals with disabilities could use to purchase assistive technology. We discussed resources like Medicare/Medicaid, as well as state-specific loan programs available to people in those states. I also loved hearing about my fellow AT Champions and their stories about successes and setbacks regarding receiving assistive technology (insurance is OUR BEST FRIEND *sarcasm*). For this month’s video, I talked about the Assistive Technology Loan Program in Maryland. I discussed how to apply for it, and how much money an individual could receive.

Moving Forward

As mentioned before, I have loved being a part of the AT Champions program this year! I learned so much about how others live their lives, and being in the program has allowed me to be more aware of my surroundings and look to see if things are accessible to others with different disabilities. I am graduating college this spring with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), and with this degree, I hope to become a paraeducator for a special education classroom. I also sing in my free time and love music. With my experiences and things I have learned this year in the AT Champions program, I would love to find ways for people with disabilities (including myself) to play an instrument by either modifying it or purchasing a modified instrument, as I have always wanted to learn to play an instrument. You can find me on YouTube and TikTok, both under @sydkaykay to learn more about me and the work that I did in the AT Champions program. Thank you to all the employees at TechOWL and MDTAP for this amazing opportunity, and I hope that many of you will consider applying for the 2025–2026 cohort!

Guide to sensory-friendly doctor visits for children with autism spectrum disorder

By SingleCare Team | Jun. 24, 2024Medically reviewed by Gerardo Sison, Pharm.D.

The Arc and AT&T have joined forces on a nationwide program that is bringing digital skills training to people with disabilities and their families. Digital literacy is critical in today’s world to learn, apply for jobs, be socially connected, and more. Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, people with disabilities are three times more likely to not go online than people without disabilities.

The Arc, The Arc San Francisco, and AT&T have collaborated to create safe and accessible digital skills trainings that accommodate the different learning styles of people with disabilities.

LEARN MORE

Join Us for a Town Hall on the LISS Program in Maryland – January 29th

The Governor’s FY26 Budget includes a proposed elimination of the Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) Program.

The LISS Program currently serves between 2,000 and 2,500 people with IDD and families a year with small grants (max $2,000 a year) for approved purchases like respite, home modifications to reduce barriers, adaptive equipment, and summer camps. Individuals are eligible for the grant through a lottery and may only access the fund if they do not receive other waiver services.

We are hosting a Virtual Town Hall on Wednesday, January 29th, from 12 to 1:30 PM. It is open to people with IDD and families who receive/have received LISS funds, legislators, members of the administration, the press, and other concerned Marylanders.

Over the course of the Town Hall, we will cover the following:

• Share information on draft budget details affecting the LISS Program.
• Get questions from stakeholders answered by the DDA.
• Collect stories from families on how they use or have used LISS Program funds for critical support.
• Review an advocacy toolkit with the group to keep the LISS Program intact.

REGISTER FOR THE VIRTUAL TOWN HALL

Article Contributed by Patrick Young

Accessible Living: How to Find Your Dream Home

Searching for an accessible home can feel overwhelming, especially with the unique requirements and considerations it entails. Whether you’re looking for wider doorways, step-free entryways, or other features that ensure ease and comfort, finding the right property requires a strategic approach. This guide shares some essential tips to help you navigate the market and discover the perfect accessible home that meets your needs and enhances your quality of life.

Consider the Neighborhood

The neighborhood surrounding your potential home plays a pivotal role in your daily life. It’s important to assess whether the community is supportive of accessibility needs. Check for nearby amenities, public transportation options, and community resources that are designed to be accessible. The right neighborhood can enhance your quality of life, support your independence and mobility, and boost your property value.

Modification Potential

Not every home will tick all the boxes on your checklist initially. Assessing a home’s potential for modifications is vital. Determine if the structure can accommodate necessary changes like ramps and widened doorways. Understanding this potential allows you to envision the home not just as it is, but how it could be tailored to suit your specific needs. Remember, If you’re on a tight budget, you can always try to find used equipment to help you outfit your home to your specifications – reach out to

Make Bathrooms More Accessible

Accessible bathrooms are key, so be prepared to make modifications as needed. You might also want to chat with a plumber for options that fit with your personal situation and home. For instance, they can install features like walk-in tubs, roll-in showers, and handheld showerheads. They can also adjust sink heights and relocate fixtures to create more space for mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers. By ensuring the plumbing meets accessibility standards, plumbers help create a safe and functional environment that suits your specific needs.

Essential Accessibility Features

Identify key accessibility features that are crucial for daily functioning. This might include no-step entries, lower countertops, or spacious bathrooms. Knowing these non-negotiable features will streamline your search and prevent you from settling for a property that doesn’t meet your essential requirements. Identifying non-negotiable accessibility features is crucial to ensuring that your new home meets your needs. Consider also specifics like threshold heights, door widths, and bathroom layouts, which are critical for mobility aids.

Partner with a Specialist

When looking for an accessible home, consider the advantages of working with a real estate agent who specializes in this niche. These professionals are equipped with the expertise to pinpoint properties that meet specific accessibility requirements. They not only understand the market but also have insights into features that can make a house truly accessible. By leveraging their specialized knowledge, you enhance your chances of finding a home that suits your needs.

Future-Proof Your Home

Think long-term about how your needs might evolve. A home that fits your current situation might need adjustments as circumstances change. Considering future needs now can save you time, effort, and resources later. This foresight ensures your home remains a comfortable and supportive space for years to come. Future-proof your living situation by considering how your needs might change, ensuring your home can adapt to these changes without extensive modifications.

Accessibility Inspection

When you find a home that seems like a match, conducting a thorough inspection focused on accessibility is crucial. This involves more than checking for structural integrity; it means ensuring that the home can comfortably accommodate mobility aids, like wheelchairs or walkers, and that it adheres to accessibility standards that support your lifestyle. Ensure the home can comfortably accommodate mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers during your inspection, focusing on accessibility adaptations.

Finding an accessible home can be a rewarding journey with the right approach and resources. By focusing on your specific needs and considering future accessibility, you can secure a home that provides both comfort and functionality for years to come. Remember to leverage the expertise of real estate professionals and advocacy organizations dedicated to accessible housing. With careful planning and perseverance, your dream of a fully accessible home is well within reach!