Richard
West Assistive Technology Advocacy Center
What is ATAC?
The Richard West Assistive
Technology Advocacy Center (ATAC) of Disability Rights New Jersey
(DRNJ) serves as New Jersey’s federally funded assistive technology
project through a sub-contract with New Jersey’s Department of Labor
and Workforce Development. Its purpose is to assist individuals
in overcoming barriers in the system and making assistive technology
more accessible to individuals with disabilities throughout the
state.
Meet
the members of the Assistive Technology Network for New Jersey
ATAC Summit scheduled
for September 24, 2019 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/atac-of-drnj-at-summit-2019-tickets-55237183904
What
is DRNJ?
Disability Rights New
Jersey (DRNJ) is the consumer-directed, non-profit organization
that serves as New Jersey’s designated protection and advocacy system
for people with disabilities in the state. DRNJ was formerly known
as New Jersey Protection and Advocacy, Inc. (NJP&A).
In partnership with individuals
with disabilities and their families, DRNJ works to protect and
advance the rights of people with disabilities. DRNJ provides information
and referral and a broad range of advocacy services, including legal
representation in numerous cases in state and federal courts.
What
is Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology
(AT) is a term that describes devices and services created and used
to help people with disabilities live more independently and productively.
Assistive technology enables people with disabilities to participate
fully in every aspect of life – at school and work, at home, and
in the community.
Some examples of AT devices
are: manual and motorized wheelchairs, augmentative communication
devices, reaching and grabbing aids, ramps, lifts, grab bars and
adapted vehicles.
Some examples of AT services
are: evaluation to determine the most appropriate devices for an
individual, training to use devices, and repair and maintenance
of devices.
ATAC
Services
ATAC offers the following
services:
Device Demonstration
– ATAC, through its network of contractors, provides a variety of
AT devices for demonstration. A demonstration is a good way to introduce
individuals with disabilities to the features of different types
of AT devices.
Device Loans – ATAC,
through its network of contractors, provides a library of devices
for temporary loan. Borrowing a device for a short period of time
is a good way for a person with a disability to determine whether
a given device will meet their needs.
Device Reutilization
– ATAC supports a used equipment recycling program called BACK IN
ACTION. Its mission is to provide an alternative source for assistive
technology devices. BACK IN ACTION acts as a clearinghouse for items
that are for sale (usually at a minimal cost) or offered for donation
or loan. BACK IN ACTION can be reached by visiting the website at
http://backinaction.drnj.org/.
Financing – ATAC has
information about financing programs available through many different
programs to help individuals with disabilities have enhanced access
to AT devices and services.
Information and Referral
– Anyone with questions regarding assistive technology devices and
assistive technology services can contact ATAC. ATAC has information
on where to obtain assistive technology devices and assistive technology
services, the costs of assistive technology devices and assistive
technology services, and suggestions about where to obtain assistance
in paying for assistive technology devices and assistive technology
services.
Technical Assistance
– ATAC can also provide detailed technical assistance on AT devices,
services, policies, and procedures.
Training – Educational
programs are provided to describe the benefits of assistive technology
devices and assistive technology services, and to suggest strategies
for obtaining assistive technology. These educational programs are
offered to consumer groups, professional organizations, agencies,
employers, and any other group interested.
Advocacy Services and
Legal Representation – When necessary, ATAC can provide advocacy
services and legal representation for individuals with disabilities
who are denied access to assistive technology devices and/or assistive
technology services.
