Assistive Technology Program

phil demonstrates assitive technology devices to a group of visitors.

IndependenceFirst has information available on products and services regarding assistive technology and adaptive equipment. Formal and informal assessments, advocacy, information and referral, and equipment trials are services available through this program.

To help individuals with disabilities, family members, friends, and service providers make informed choices about adaptive equipment, and find cost effective ways to meet their adaptive equipment needs.

Goals

  • To assess the assistive technology needs of persons with disabilities.
  • To provide information on the full range of assistive technology options.
  • To provide information on funding options for assistive technology.
  • To provide individual and systems advocacy regarding assistive technology issues.
Contact Information
Staff Name: Cindi Pichler
Title: Lead Assistive Technology Specialist
Phone: 414-226-8385 (V/Relay), 414-291-7520 (V/TTY)
E-mail Address: Cindi Pichler

Program Availability
Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington & Waukesha Counties.
Setting - Technology Lab or in a home, workplace or school
Waiting list-none

Q&A

Who is this program for?
This program is for anyone, of any age, with any disability, who is looking for a way to accommodate their needs through technology.

Type of Assistance/Information
Will help identify useful adaptive equipment, vendor resources, and funding resources.

Eligibility Requirements
Must be a person with a disability, a family member or friend, or service provider.

Types of classes Offered (Individual or Group)
No classes offered Inservices for professionals and consumer groups on Assistive Technology Assessment, Assistive Technology in the Workplace, Assistive Technology and school transition, disability specific topics (such as Assistive Technology for ALS) and other related topics.

Consumer Responsibilities/Expectations
The consumer should be able to identify their disability and the barriers they would like to address through the use of assistive technology, as well as funding sources they currently have. The individual with the disability (or their representative) is expected to take an active role in selecting equipment and pursuing any additional funding.

Cost
Information and referral services-free
Assessment - fee-for-service if requested by a funder, such as DVR.
Equipment trials - free in lab, $5.00 if equipment is checked out.

Publications and Resources