Assistive Technology for Kansans Project (ATKP)

Purpose of Assistive Technology for Kansans

Increase statewide access of assistive technology devices and services to people of all ages and abilities. Kansans of all ages with any type of disability or health condition can request information/referral, evaluation, and demonstration of equipment, technical assistance or training supports by calling 1-800-KAN-DO-IT. Assistive Technology for Kansans has five regional Assistive Technology Access sites that have assistive technology specialists, funding specialists, access to technology devices, and contacts with experts in all areas of technology. Areas of assistive technology covered: computer access devices and software, activities of daily living, assisted listening, communication, education/learning, environmental control, leisure/play, and mobility. The project is guided by an Executive Advisory Board composed of consumers and disability agency and organization representatives. This group reviews barriers to technology access and suggests strategies related to finance of technology, reutilization/recycling of technology to increase access at low to no cost, increased demonstration and loan or trial use of possible technology solutions.

ATK Services

Five Access Sites across the state, provide AT services to people with disabilities of all ages in Kansas
Technical consultation in selecting appropriate devices to meet an individual's need
Hands-on demonstration of AT
An equipment loan program with more than 12,000 items that can be borrowed on a trial basis
An equipment reassignment/reutilization program to promote access at low to no cost devices
Funding resource information and assistance locating a funding source for a device
Provide assistive technology evaluation for entities such as Vocational Rehabilitation, Veteran's Administration, Worker's Compensation, Infant-Toddler Services and AgrAbility
Presentations to groups on specific AT topics
Related community resource information & referral
Provide home modification evaluations

ATK Serves

Children, adults, and older adults with disabilities and their families
Older adults experiencing difficulty with daily activities
Professionals in various fields (i.e., health care, social services, or education)
Employers and employees in private and public settings

Funding Agencies

U.S. Department of Education

Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services (OSERS)

Collaborating Agencies

Western Assistive Technology Access Site, Oakley

Northwest Kansas Educational Service Center North Central Assistive Technology Access Site, Salina

Occupational Center of Central Kansas Northeast Assistive Technology Access Site, Topeka

Resource Center for Independent Living South Central Assistive Technology Access Site, Wichita

Southeast Kansas Independent Living Center Southeast Assistive Technology Access Site, Parsons

Southeast Kansas Independent Living Center