The Ability Program: improving statewide access to assistive technology for adults with disabilities.

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Disability Studies
• Public Health Initiatives

Background:

• The Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust initiated the Ability Program in 1995 with $2.4 million funding.
• The program aimed to enhance awareness and accessibility of assistive technology for adults with disabilities in North Carolina.
• A coordinated statewide effort involved 11 distinct projects targeting rural communities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and implementation of the Ability Program in North Carolina.
• To document the accomplishments of the program's grantees.
• To present findings from a comprehensive evaluation of the program's processes and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A statewide initiative was established, funded by the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust.
• Eleven projects were funded, each employing unique strategies for assistive technology delivery.
• A central management, technical assistance, and evaluation program oversaw fund utilization and outcomes.

Main Results:

• The Ability Program successfully increased the availability and scope of assistive technology services.
• Over two years, the program demonstrated positive impacts on assistive technology access for adults with disabilities.
• Grantees reported various accomplishments in delivering services to target populations.

Conclusions:

• The Ability Program significantly enhanced assistive technology services for adults with disabilities in North Carolina.
• The coordinated, multi-project approach proved effective in improving access and awareness.
• Program evaluation data confirmed the positive outcomes of the statewide initiative.