Assistive Technology Exchange Network ATEN solicits donated computers, printers modems, software, etc., reconditions and sends them out to Illinois schools who request technology. The program is expanding. Check to see if they now serve your group.
Assistive Technology Checklist The checklist illustrates a "hierarchy of selection" when looking for appropriate assistive devices for a student. It lists 2-3 low or no-tech examples of AT, then 2-3 medium-tech and finally 2-3 high-tech examples. The examples in the checklist are just that examples, not an exhaustive list of options for each functional task. But, it can provide ideas that may be helpful.
Association of Tech Act Projects that receive funds under the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-394). These programs are IATP's "sister projects."
Infinitec aims to bring assistive technology to people with disabilities of all types in the Illinois counties of Cook, DuPage, Lake and Kane.
Department of Labor, Office of Civil Rights has a WIA SECTION 188 DISABILITY CHECKLIST that can help agencies and organizations comply with WIA standards when they modify or develop their web site.
Section 508.gov is a website designed to eliminate barriers in information technology, to make available new opportunities for people with disabilities, and to encourage development of technologies that will help achieve these goals.
The Great Lakes ADA and Accessible IT Center provides information, problem solving assistance and referrals for implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other related laws.
Assistive Technology Training, Online
This federally funded project provides both general and specific training in assistive technology (AT) and special education, focusing on adapted computer use. They concentrate on AT hardware and software applications.
RESNA Home page of the Rehabilitation Engineers and Assistive Technology Society of North America; contains information on Tech Act grantees and credentialing.
Research Institute for Assistive and Training Technologies (RIATT) Discover how easy it is to earn academic credit and competency certificates in Assistive and Instructional Technology in a self-paced format. This program is under the National Association of State Directors of Special Education
Closing The Gap, Inc. An organization that focuses on computer technology for people with special needs through its bi-monthly newspaper, annual international conference and extensive web site.
Able-Data Search for over 20,000 specially designed tools for people with disabilities. Search by word, type of product, company name or product name.
AbleProject.org provides a database to easily find and obtain Mobility and Assistive products that support a more independent life.
AccessIT Knowledge Base, a searchable, growing database of questions and answers regarding accessible E&IT for educators, policy makers, librarians, technical support staff, students and employees with disabilities.
National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC) Disseminates results of federally funded research projects. Collection includes books, journal articles, and audiovisuals. Averages around 200 new documents per month.
Job Accommodation Network JAN, a free consulting service that helps to increase people with disabilities chances to work by: providing individualized worksite accommodations solutions, providing technical assistance regarding the ADA and other disability related legislation, and educating callers about self-employment options.
Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists has a searchable database for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists in Illinois. ADRS supports professionals working in the field of driver education and transportation equipment modification for persons with disabilities.
Equip for Equality (EFE) This federally mandated Protection & Advocacy System in Illinois safeguards the rights of children and adults with physical and mental disabilities (including developmental disabilities and mental illnesses).
National Association of the Deaf promotes, protects, and preserves the rights and quality of life of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America. A good place to get your questions answered.
Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission An executive agency that advocates for public policies, regulations, and programs to improve the quality and coordination of existing services for people with hearing loss.
National Easter Seal Society Information about programs and services, disability law page and links by disability category.
United Cerebral Palsy Association Information on programs and services and a variety of disability-related topics; current issue of Washington Watch is also available at this site.
Dictionary: For Parents of Children with Disabilities terminology used in Testing/Evaluation, Early Intervention, Special Education and Related Services, Medical and Therapeutic Services, Family Supports and Resources, Vocational Training, Independent Living, Guardianship, and Insurance.
EDLAW Basic legal information of use to special educators, parents and advocates.
IDEA Training Packets on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Amendments of 1997 on-line.
Low-Tech Assistive Devices: A Handbook for the School Setting This book by Lynn Ciampa Stoller, sells for between $40-60.00 A how-to book with step by step directions and illustrations for fabrication of frequently requested low-tech assistive devices. Divided into two major sections: Devices used throughout the school (classroom positioning, mobility, switches, and other aids) and Devices used in specific curriculum subjects (for reading, writing, math, and more). Includes sections on materials and how to work with them and a resource directory of commercial supplies. Also provides information regarding devices used in specific curriculum areas including reading, writing, math, arts and crafts, music, industrial arts, home economics, and the lunchroom. A resource directory and an additional reading list are also available.
Special Needs Family Fun provides family fun, family health and resources to enhance the fun and quality of family life for families that have members with disabilities.
Work Site This site promotes jobs for people with disabilities who receive Social Security benefits
Worksupport.com Information, resources and research about work and disabilities. This site is funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), U.S. Department of Education, Washington, DC.
Social Security Disability Benefits Helps people with disabilities prove their Social Security disability claims, manage periodic disability reviews, and resume productive activity.
Barbara Doyle- In her private practice,
Barbara educates and supports schools, families, child welfare systems, adult services agencies, employment training programs,
employers and others who are interested in improving the lives of people with autism spectrum disorders and others disabilities.
Manual of Style - for Depicting People with Disabilities in stories, newspapers, radio and television. Words paint pictures. What kind of picture do you paint?
Recreation Access Illinois has resources available through The Center on Physical Activity and Disability. It's sponsored by the University of Illinois at Chicago. Funded through the Vitamin Anti-Trust Settlement and administered by the Attorney General.
VSA Creates learning opportunities through the arts for people with disabilities. offers creative writing, dance, drama, music and the visual arts. Serves 2.2 million Americans. Info on current job vacancies, internships, and volunteer opportunities.
