1. AT Manufacturers, Service Providers & AT Reuse Programs Presented by: Caroline Van Howe Director of Programs, ATIA Email: programs@atia.org Web Site: www.atia.orgprograms@atia.orgwww.atia.org Reuse Conference, Sept 15-17, 2009 Atlanta, GA

2. Assistive Technology Industry Association The Assistive Technology Industry Association ("ATIA") is a not-for-profit membership organization of manufacturers, sellers and providers of technology-based assistive devices and/or services. AT Education programs including: – Online: On Demand & Live Webinars – In person: Conferences & Leadership Forum

3. ATIA Member Segments AAC Blind/Low Vision Deaf/hard of hearing Education/Learning Physical/ Computer Access/Mobility Transition/Vocational Includes 130+ private, non-profit, charitable and government agencies

4. Alliance Partners

5. AT Devices/Software Reuse Landscape Data Collection Results – Based on programs included – Broadest definition of AT – includes DME & IL – Approximately 5% are AT devices/software Other unsurveyed sources – Blind/Low Vision: Lighthouses, NFB chapters – Physical Access/Mobility: Easter Seals, UCP – Schools – “own” AT devices and reuse for next generation of students

6. Some Models of Success Statewide /AT Act Programs – Kansas – local manufacturer/s – Delaware - excess device donation – NEAT Collaborative AT Pass It On Reuse Centers – Alabama STAR Center Virtual networks – Virginia email/listserv practitioner network Manufacturer programs

7. Considerations Keep in mind the 4 Keys of Reuse – Safe- Effective – Appropriate - Consumer Choice Challenges – same as DME & Computers – Personal data issues /Sanitization – Legal & Safety – Shipping and storage – Specialized expertise e.g. SLP or OT – Specialized device/s for specific needs

8. Looking Ahead: Increase Reused AT Devices – Consider including AT devices in existing programs where appropriate – Partner with existing reuse units in other programs e.g. Lighthouse network – Partner locally – Partner with AT practitioner networks e.g. ASHA – Broaden survey scope to include 3 rd party/virtual network data – Raise awareness about AT Reuse at ATIA events and with ATIA members

9. Questions & Answers Over to you…. Thanks so much for your time and ideas!