Finally, Help Through the Funding Maze. . .
            Illinois Assistive Technology Program Funding Manual

What is Assistive Technology (AT)?

Most people think AT is a complicated piece of equipment that only technically minded people can operate. It is NOT that! Assistive technology is any "tool" that makes life easier. You know . . . Like a magnifying glass or grab bar next to the shower or toilet. In some cases it is an adaptation to a computer or steering wheel. What about large button phones or loud volume alarm clocks?

Yes, AT is Everywhere!

If AT is everywhere why can't I find anything to help me . . . Reach across the table? Follow directions to the restroom? Read my mail? Hear music? Remember to take the correct dose of medicine at the right time? Maybe we can help.

The Federal government has defined AT as:

any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially or off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.

It goes on to define AT service as:

a range of services that directly assist and supports the selection, acquisition, or use of the device. Such services may include evaluation; the actual purchase, lease, or acquisition of assistive devices; as well as the services needed to select, design, fit, customize, adapt, maintain, repair, or replace assistive technology devices.

Developing A Funding Strategy

Types of Funding Resources

The way you use assistive technology points you to possible funding sources. Knowing why you need the device -- medical need, an education tool or means of holding a job, points you to likely funding choices.

For example: Medicare is the health care program for people over age 65 and some people with disabilities under age 65. Medicaid (Department of Public Aid) is the joint federal/state program that provides medical and health care services to people with low income. Both programs can purchase certain types of assistive technology, and both require that the technology be medically necessary. Under federal Medicaid rules each state can develop its own definition of medical necessity.

In Illinois, it is defined as:

Necessary medical care that is generally recognized standard medical treatment, needed because of disease, disability, infirmity or impairment, is not experimental, and is not a convenience item.

Private insurance comes in many forms, and is largely unregulated when it comes to assistive technology. Although insurance companies do purchase some assistive technology, insurance plans and policies are often silent about what technology and services they cover. However, technology and services must be medically necessary if we expect health insurance to cover the costs.

A school district may purchase technology devices for its students if it is written into the child's Individual Education Plan (IEP). If a school district purchases equipment, the district owns it, not the user. This may mean the student will have to leave it at school after school hours, during the summer or permanently, if the child moves or graduates. Schools provide assistive technology when it is "appropriate and necessary" for the child to reach his/her educational goals.

The Department of Human Services, Vocational Rehabilitation Program, can fund assistive devices that increase a person with a disability's chance to get a job. The Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) must document the need for AT. When the Program purchases the device, the customer owns it.

Nonprofit, advocacy organizations and manufacturers of assistive technology can be valuable funding and information sources . . . and sometimes they even pay for devices. In addition, some manufacturers have special payment plans or offer low-interest loans for their products.

Local service clubs (Kiwanis, Knights of Columbus, Lions, etc.) often grant money or organize fund-raisers. Contact your chamber of commerce for a list of clubs and contacts. If you contact a service club, be specific about the assistive device, why you need it and it's cost. But, there's much more "how to" information later in this guide. Research your options. Your local library can point you to general information about state and national foundations. For more in-depth information, Illinois has four libraries containing special collections of "Foundation Directories." The librarians there are very helpful. They will not do the work for you, but will point you in the right direction.

Those four libraries are:

Donors Forum of Chicago
208 South LaSalle, Suite 740
Chicago, IL 60604
312-578-0175

Evanston Public Library
1703 Orrington Avenue
Evanston, IL 60201
708-866-0305

Rock Island Public Library
401 19th Street
Rock Island, IL 61201
309-788-7627

University of Illinois at Springfield
Brookens Library, Shepherd Road
Springfield, IL 62794
217-786-6633
These three guides may also help:

• Directory of Grants for Organizations Serving People with Disabilities
• Directory of Computer and High Technology Grants, and
• Directory of Building and Equipment Grants.

All are edited by Richard M. Eckstein and published by Research Grant Guides, Inc., P.O. Box 1214,
Loxahatchee, FL 33470.

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