at @ work tools to accommodate individuals with disabilities revised may 2008 by the pennsylvania...

AT @ Work

Tools to Accommodate Individuals with DisabilitiesRevised May 2008 by the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology and Employment Collaborative,

with funding provided by the U.S. Department of Labor,Office of Disability and Employment Policy

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Assistive Technologyin the Workplace

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Why Are We Here?

• People with disabilities can work!

• Disability does not negate theindividual’s skills, talent, and knowledge.

• Increased pool of potential employees.

• Keep trained employees in the workplace after injuries.

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Large Pool ofPotential Employees

• 13.0% people in the United States have a disability (ages 21 - 64).– Pennsylvania – 13.7%

• 62.8% of all people with disabilities are unemployed (ages 16 - 64).

(from United States Census Bureau 2006American Community Survey)

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What Is Assistive Technology?

• Device– “any item, piece of equipment, or product system,

whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities” (AT Act of 1998, as amended).

• Service – "any service that directly assists an individual with a

disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device" (AT Act of 1998, as amended).

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Assistive Technology Devices

• Low Tech Devices: Inexpensive, easily made, easy to learn, readily available, easy to replace / maintain.

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Early PDA…!

Notebook with communication pictures

Reacher

Large timer

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Assistive Technology Devices

• Mid: May cost more, require some training, have special design, often need power source.

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Powerlink Communication device

Large button phone

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Assistive Technology Devices• High: Higher cost, need specific training to

learn, often customized.

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Refreshable braille display

Text to speech software

PDA with organizing software

Eye-gaze computer access 7

Where AreAssistive Technology Devices?

• Low, mid, and high tech devices can be found:– At common local stores (Home Depot, Staples)

– At specialized vendors (Maxi-Aids, Infogrip, Dynavox)

– In generic catalogs– On the Internet

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Assistive Technology Services

• Evaluation for appropriate devices.

• Selection of the appropriate device.

• Coordination with service providers (e.g., therapists, engineers).

• Training / technical assistance for the person and supporting individuals (e.g., personal assistants).

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Assistive Technology Specialists: A - O

• Academic Specialist• Adaptive Driving Specialist (car and van)• Adaptive Microcomputer Specialist• Assistive Technology Specialist• Audiologist• Home Modifications Specialist • Learning Disabilities Specialist• Occupational Therapist • Orientation and Mobility Specialist

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Assistive Technology Specialists: P - Z

• Physiatrist• Physical Therapist• Recreational Therapists• Rehabilitation Engineer / Fabricator• Sensory Aids Specialists• Specialized Career Evaluator• Speech Language Pathologist• Telecommunications Specialist • Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

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Universal Design

• Universal design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.–Ron Mace (NCSU)

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The Principles ofUniversal Design

• Equitable use.• Flexibility in use.• Simple and intuitive.• Perceptible information.• Tolerance for error.• Low physical effort.• Size and space for approach and use.

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Universal Design Advantages

• (Almost) everyone can benefit.

• Can reduce job accommodation costs associated with retrofitting and additional purchases.

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Universal Design Examples

• Tools• Curb Cuts• Automatic Doors• Accessible Websites ergonomic box cutter

• E-mail / Text Messaging

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Reasonable Accommodations

• Also known as job accommodations.

• Modifications or adjustments to job functions, work environments, or “the way things usually are done” so that an individual with a disability gets an equal employment opportunity.

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Enable a person with a disability to:• Participate equally in the job application process.• Perform “essential functions” of the job.– Fundamental job duties– Job descriptions are helpful

• Enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment.

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Reasonable Accommodations: Employers Covered

• Employers with 15 or more employees.

• The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act covers smaller employers.

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• Reasonable accommodations need not be the “best” or “ideal” but need only be “effective.”

• The employer does not have to provide an accommodation primarily for personal use.

• Accommodations should assist in performing job functions.

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Undue Hardship

• A particular accommodation may not be required if it would cause “significant difficulty or expense” by the employer.

• Undue hardship is any accommodation that would be unduly costly, extensive, substantial, or disruptive, or that would fundamentally alter the nature of the business.

• Another effective accommodation should be sought and implemented, however.

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Ways to ProvideReasonable Accommodations

• Making the work environment physically accessible.• Altering when or how a job function is performed.• Part-time or modified work schedules.• Use of accrued paid leave or allowing unpaid extra

leave.• Providing or modifying equipment, including assistive

technology.

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Assistive Technology Accommodation Examples

• Can be low cost to high cost:– Use of color to mark files / bins / controls.– Simplified instructions using diagrams.– Tape recorder to record / review instructions.– Large button telephone.– Use of video to demonstrate tasks.– Information in large print or Braille.– Automatic soap dispensers and hand dryers.– Software or hardware for computer access.– Automatic doors and / or a ramp.

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Reasonable Accommodation:The Interactive Process

• The employee (or representative, such as spouse, friend, doctor, etc.) requests the reasonable accommodation.

• No “magic words” are required.

• It is a good idea for the request to be made in writing.

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After the request:

• The employer should start the interactive process, including the employee, supervisor, and other relevant people (e.g., human resources, doctors, computer experts, state vocational rehabilitation agency).

• The employer must take affirmative steps to help the employee identify an effective accommodation, including facilitating any necessary evaluations.

• The employer should use all available resources (e.g., EEOC, Job Accommodation Network, assistive technology specialist).

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• If an effective, reasonable accommodation is agreed upon, it should be implemented.

• The employer should follow up to ensure the effectiveness of the accommodation.

• The individual with a disability must be involved in and cooperate during the entire process.

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The Cost of Assistive Technology Accommodations

• The employer is responsible to fund any accommodations (generally including evaluation) for the application process or the job.

• However, there are resources to help!– Federal and state tax credits and deductions

• http://www.dli.state.pa.us/landi/cwp/view.asp?a=128&Q=168234

– Independent Capital Access Network (ICAN)– Pennsylvania’s Assistive Technology Lending Library– Assistive technology recycling programs– AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians

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Where To Get the Assistive Technology

• Always ask the person who needs it.• Contact an assistive technology specialist for

an evaluation.• Contact Pennsylvania’s Initiative on Assistive

Technology (PIAT).• Contact the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology

Foundation (PATF).• Search Internet, local stores, etc.

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Considerations for Assistive Technology Accommodations

• The environment and its affect:– Office temperature– Bright lights– Stress levels– Noise levels– Layout of office furniture

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Considerations for Assistive Technology Accommodations

• Match assistive technology device features to the individual’s needs and skills.

• Utilize concepts of:– Reasonable accommodation– Undue burden to employer– Risk reduction to employee or coworkers– No Tech or Low Tech may be appropriate and

sufficient

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Workplace AssistiveTechnology Scenario

• With the help of the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services (BBVS), William completed intensive blindness skills training and was hired by a local agency. He needed a talking calculator, Braille Note, and a Perkins Brailler to help him perform the essential functions of his job. Through a referral from the Pennsylvania Client Assistance Program, he obtained these items on loan from the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Lending Library while waiting for the delivery of these items purchased for him by BBVS. This enabled him to proceed with job training. William is now successfully employed.

(Scenario provided by the Pennsylvania Client Assistance Program)

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Why Assistive Technology?

• Draw from a greater pool of skilled and talented potential employees.

• Keep experienced and trained employees as disabilities surface from age, injury, or illness.

• Create opportunities for individuals with disabilities.• Increase productivity through assistive technology

and universal design.• Utilize financial incentives for employers.

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Why Assistive Technology?

• Given that assistive technology makes it possible to hire or retain an individual with a disability, employers are encouraged to integrate individuals with disabilities into the workplace through written policies, practices, and programs.

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Five Tips from theJob Accommodation Network

• Have written policies and procedures.• Have a process for requests. – Must include the individual with a disability

• Train managers how to respond to a request for an accommodation.• Monitor and update accommodations.• Train new employees.• More information at www.jan.wvu.edu.

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Other Assistive Technology Resources for the Individual

• The individual with a disability may qualify for assistive technology funding for activities of daily living to help get him / her ready for and to work each day.– Examples: Home and Community Based Waivers funded

by Medicaid, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation services, public and private health insurance.

• Contact a Pennsylvania Assistive Technology and Employment Collaborative member for more information.

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Assistive Technology: A Glimpse of What Is Available

• Remember to consider:– For what task(s)– By whom– In what environment and conditions

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Amplified Phones

In-line amplifier Portable amplifier

Big button phone

Cordless amplified phone 36

Headsets

Cordless Amplifier with Headset

Amplified headsets

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Telecommunication Devices

Voice Carry-Over (VCO) Phone

TTY with Large Visual Display

CapTel Wyndtell (Wireless Device)38

Telephone Signalers

Strobe Signaler

Combo Super Loud Phone Ringerand Strobe Signaler

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Notification Systems

Ameriphone Alertmaster AM-600 alerting system

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Frequency Modulated (FM) Systems for Sound Amplification

Williams Sound Personal FM SystemConference Microphone

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Noise and Distractibility

Hearing Protector HeadsetSound Screen – White Noise

Noise Canceling Headphones

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Talking Products

Talking Rx

Talking Alarm ClockTalking Kitchen Scale43

Talking Products

Talking Tape Measure Talking Calculator

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Lighting

Full Spectrum & Natural Spectrum Lighting

Offices are typically over-lit with harsh and glare-producing lighting. A better setup is low background lighting supported by localized task lighting. In addition, you can replace standard bulbs, especially fluorescent bulbs, with bulbs that more closely approximate natural daylight.

Left: without filter tubes. Right: with filter tubes. Less glare and colors are truer.

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See It Right

Color transparencies

Colored transparent folders

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Magnifiers

Bar MagnifierDome Magnifier

Hand & Stand Magnifier

Illuminated Magnifier

Magnified Lamp47

Video Magnification

Tabletop stand alone video magnifier

Portable

Connects to TV or monitor 48

AlphaSmart

Neo Dana

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Individuals withLearning Disabilities

• Amplified or focused sound. • Changes in color.• Computer applications.• Personal Organizers.• PDAs with software.

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Word Prediction Software

WordQ

Co:Writer 4000

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Graphic Organizers

Inspiration

Draft:Builder

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Scan & Read Software

WYNN

Kurzweil 3000

Cast eReader

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Dexterity and Positioning Assistive Technology

• Arthwriter

• D-Grip (Image taken from: http://motus.mb.ca)

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Computer Access

• Cognition and Learning• Hearing• Vision• Dexterity

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“Keys” for Access

• Keyboards• Monitors / Screens• Alternative Mouse Options• Software• Workstation Setup

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Web Access

• Online information needs to be presented so that all individuals can understand.

• Web-based proprietary applications need to work with assistive technology.

• Focus:– Who can understand it?– Who can see it?– Who can read it? – Who can navigate it?

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Web Access Myths1. Accessible web pages are dull.

2. They are too time-consuming and expensive to design.

3. They only accommodate a few individuals.

4. Web authoring (coding) is too hard to learn.

5. The Web is graphical and cannot / should not be adapted for auditory or text-only users.

6. Assistive technology can solve the problem.58

Basic Concerns for Web Design

• Maintain a simple, consistent page layout.• Keep backgrounds simple. Make sure there is

enough contrast.• Provide text alternatives to graphics and image

maps.• Include descriptive captions for pictures.• Use tables and frames sparingly or consider

alternatives.• Design larger buttons.• Caption video and transcribe other audio.• Test your web pages with a variety of browsers.

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Web Design Resources

• World Wide Web Consortium– www.w3.org/WAI

• Web Accessibility Tool:– www.wave.webaim.org/index.jsp

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Filters

Glare Filter Privacy & Improved Contrast Filter

Laptop Shade61

Computer Screen Magnifiers

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Built-In Accessibility Features

• Both Microsoft and Macintosh have built-in accessibility features to address many disabilities.

• Go to www.microsoft.com or www.apple.com/mac for more information.

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Free Software Options

NaturalReaderReadPlease

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Voice Recognition Software (Speech to Text)

Voice Recognition allows a user to use his / her voice as an input device. Voice recognition may be used to dictate text into the computer or to give commands to the computer (such as opening application programs, pulling down menus, or saving work).

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Text To Speech Software

Universal Reader

Write:OutLoud

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Ergonomic Keyboards

Contoured Keyboard

Goldtouch Keyboard

Ergonomic Keyboard

Keypad67

Wireless for Bluetooth

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BigKeys Keyboard Large Print Keyboard Sticker Labels

Large Print / Large Size Keyboards

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Mini Keyboard

Compact Keyboard

Little Fingers Keyboard

Small / Compact Keyboards

Portable keyboard for PDA

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One Handed Keyboards

Maltron One Handed KeyboardHalf Keyboard

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Typing Aids

Slip-on typing aid

Standard keyboard with acrylic keyguard

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On-Screen Keyboard

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Ergonomic Mice

Contour Design Perfit Mouse

Vertical Mouse

Renaissance Mouse 74

Trackballs

Penny & Giles Roller Trackball

Kensington Turbo Mouse

Microsoft Optical Trackball

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Alternative Mice Controls

Penny & Giles Roller Joystick QuadJoy

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Head Mouse

SmartNav AT

SmartNav Toolbar

SmartNav reflective dots

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Workstation SetupMouse Placement:

• Keep the pointer / mouse close to the keyboard. • Alternate hands with which you operate the pointer / mouse. • Use keyboard short cuts to reduce extended use.

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Workstation SetupWork Surface:

• Desk surface should allow you to place the monitor directly in front of you, at least 20 inches away. • Avoid storing items, such as a CPU, under desks. • Desks should be able to accommodate a variety of working postures.

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Arm & Wrist Supports

ErgoRest Forearm Support

Gel Wrist Rests 80

Copy Holders / Phone Arm

EasyView Document HolderArticulating Document Holder

Height Adjustable HolderPhone Arm

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Monitor Placement

Standard CRT arm

Monitor Stackers

Flat Screen Arm

Electric Monitor & Keyboard Lift

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Desks / Workstations

Sit / Stand Adjustable Desks Height Adjustable Desk with Hand Crank

Motorized Height Adjustable Desk 83

Pennsylvania Assistive Technology and

Employment Collaborative• A network of Pennsylvania organizations that can provide

information on:– Assistive technology and how it can help individuals with disabilities in

employment.– Understanding the employer’s responsibility for providing assistive

technology.– How to locate, try, and buy assistive technology devices and services,

including employer resources and incentives.

• Funding provided by the U.S. Department of Labor,Office of Disability and Employment Policy

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Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN)

• The Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN) is a federally-funded, non-profit agency that is mandated to protect and advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.

• DRN works with people with disabilities, families, organizations, and advocates to ensure that people with disabilities can live in their communities free of discrimination, abuse, and neglect.

• DRN’s mission is to advance, protect, and advocate for the civil, human, and legal rights of Pennsylvanians with disabilities.

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Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN) Services

• Services:– Intake and referral– Individual and systemic policy advocacy– Legal advice and representation– Training and education

• Among other issues, DRN helps with:– Access to assistive technology devices and services– Employment matters, including SSI and SSDI recipients

who want employment

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Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN)

Contact Information

• Website: www.drnpa.org• Offices in Harrisburg, Philadelphia, & Pittsburgh:– Main Intake in Harrisburg:

• 800-692-7443 [Voice]• 877-375-7139 [TTY]

• Assistive Technology Project Director: Chava Kintisch, Esq.– Philadelphia, 215-238-8070 ext. 210 [Voice] – [email protected]

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Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology (PIAT)

• P ublic awareness, information and assistance

• I ncreasing access through demonstrations and device lending

• A cquisition of devices and services, including device reuse programs and free adapted telephones

• T raining and technical assistance88

PIAT Assistive Technology Resource Centers

LIFTCRI

TRCIL

UCP of NE PA

Tri-County

Community Resources for Independence, Inc.

Three Rivers Center for Independent Living

Life and Independence for Today

United Cerebral Palsy Central PA

Center for Independent Living of Northcentral PA

United Cerebral Palsy of Northeastern PA

Tri-County Patriots for Independent Living

PA’s Initiative on Assistive Technology, Institute on Disabilities

Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital

CIL of NC PA

GSRH

PIAT

UCP of

Central PA

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• 1-800-204-7428 (PIAT) -Voice• 1-866-268-0579 - TTY• http://disabilities.temple.edu/piat • [email protected]• Institute on Disabilities at Temple University,

610 USB, 1601 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122

• Statewide AT Resource Centers - ATRC

Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology (PIAT)

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Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) Programs

• The Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) Programs assist Social Security beneficiaries with transitioning from dependence on public benefits to paid employment and greater economic self-sufficiency.

• Pennsylvania has three WIPA Programs: AHEDD, Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN) WIPA Program, and Goodwill PASSABCO.

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Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) Programs

• Help Social Security beneficiaries who have received a Ticket to Work and are interested in working.

• Help Social Security beneficiaries understand work rules and regulations.

• Recommend work incentives that can maximize income and healthcare options.

• Help Social Security beneficiaries understand how returning to work will impact benefits.

• Connect Social Security beneficiaries with Employment Networks and other employment support services.

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AHEDD Contact Information• AHEDD is a private, non-profit company established

in 1977 with a mission to serve the community as a catalyst in the employment and development of persons with disabilities. AHEDD operates an array of employment programs by partnering with business and persons with disabilities through a network throughout Pennsylvania and Delaware.

• Website: www.ahedd.org• Vice President: John Miller

(717) 763-0968 ext. 118 [Voice][email protected] [Email]

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Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN) WIPA Program Contact Information

• Serves Bucks, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia Counties

• Website: www.drnpa.org• Project Director: Phyllis Hilley

800-692-7443 [Voice]877-375-7139 [email protected] [Email]

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Goodwill PASSABCO Contact Information

• Serves 36 counties in Eastern Pennsylvania.• Website: www.yourgoodwill.org • Project Director: Corey Nelson

866-541-7005 [Voice]866-541-7001 [TTY][email protected] [Email]

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Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF)

• The Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF) is a non-profit organization that helps people with disabilities and their families purchase the assistive technology devices and services they want.

• PATF serves people with all disabilities, family members, and older adults, regardless of where they live within Pennsylvania. PATF can help people of ALL income levels, but individuals must have an ability to repay a loan.

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Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF)

• Provides low-interest loans, mini-loans / mini-grants, information about other assistive technology programs in Pennsylvania, and information about other possible funding sources in Pennsylvania.

• Provides significantly lower interest rates, extended repayment periods, flexible eligibility requirements, and rescue payments.

• Consumer choice program. Borrowers choose the technology they want from the vendor of their choice!

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Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF) Contact Information

• Website: www.patf.us • 888-744-1938 [Toll-free voice/TTY]

484-674-0510 [Fax]1004 West 9th Avenue1st FloorKing of Prussia, PA 19406

Independence is priceless…we help make it affordable

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Bureau of Workforce Development Partnership

• Mission– To ensure the efficient and effective advancement

and encouragement for statewide and local productivity, achievement, growth and development that focuses on the abilities, innovation and creativity at the state and local level of a consolidated workforce program.

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• Responsible for the management, administration and oversight of operations for programs funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), including: enrollment, service delivery, job training, contract development, and certification of training providers. Responsible for the management, administration and oversight of operations for programs funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), including: enrollment, service delivery, job training, contract

development, and certification of training providers.

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Contact Information• Creating opportunities for Pennsylvanians by

ensuring universal access to workforce development, training, and education programs that equip individuals with the skills employers need to be successful.

• For additional information please contact:– Bill Moulfair at (717) 772-8855 [Voice]– [email protected] [Email]

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Pennsylvania BusinessLeadership Network (PA BLN)

• The Pennsylvania Business Leadership Network (PA BLN) is an employer driven program designed for business leaders to promote hiring practices that enable qualified people with disabilities to enter and succeed in the workplace.

• The emphasis of the PA BLN is to create opportunities where employers can communicate, peer-to-peer, to provide candid and frank assessments of hiring successes and challenges.

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• Provides employers with access to a network of their peers as well as opportunities for training, positive public relations, an increased number of applicants with a disability, and a centralized source of information.

• Part of a national initiative of about 43 chapters of BLNs in 32 states.

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Contact Information

• Website: www.blnofpa.org• Project Director: Stacy Kyle

717-763-0968 ext. 115 [Voice][email protected] [Email]

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Pennsylvania Client Assistance Program (CAP)

• The Pennsylvania Client Assistance Program (CAP) serves as a vital link between vocational rehabilitation, independent living, and people with disabilities in the community.

• CAP advises applicants and clients of services available under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

• CAP provides information and referral about Title I of the ADA.

• CAP provides outreach to unserved / underserved populations.

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• Helps individuals pursue administrative and legal remedies to ensure protection of their rights under the Rehabilitation Act.

• Helps individuals to resolve questions or concerns about vocational rehabilitation, independent living, and other services funded under the Rehabilitation Act.

• Provides systemic advocacy on issues impacting the delivery of vocational rehabilitation services.

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Contact Information

• Website: www.equalemployment.org• 888-745-2357 [Voice/TTY - toll free in PA]888-745-2357 [Voice/TTY - toll free in PA]

[email protected] [Email]1617 JFK Blvd., Suite 8001617 JFK Blvd., Suite 800Philadelphia, PA 19103Philadelphia, PA 19103

““The statewide advocate for people with disabilities: The statewide advocate for people with disabilities: ensuring that vocational rehabilitation is open and responsive ensuring that vocational rehabilitation is open and responsive to your needs.”to your needs.”

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Pennsylvania Statewide Independent Living Council

Employment Committee• The Pennsylvania Statewide Independent

Living Council Employment Committee’s goal is to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities by working with employers, trade associations, Centers for Independent Living, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, and others crucial to the employment of people with disabilities.

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Pennsylvania Statewide Independent Living Council

Employment CommitteeContact Information

• Website: www.pasilc.org• Coordinator: Melissa Simmons

(717) 364-1732 ext. 106 [Voice][email protected] [Email][email protected] [Email]2 North 2nd St., Suite 100Harrisburg, PA 17101

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Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR)

• OVR’s mission is to help Pennsylvanians with disabilities secure and maintain employment and independence.

• The Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (BVRS) serves vocational needs of all individuals with disabilities except those with blindness or visual impairments.

• The agency has 21 district offices in two field Bureaus located in 15 different communities across the Commonwealth.

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• The Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services (BBVS) focuses on the rehabilitation and independence of citizens with blindness or low vision.

• BBVS also provides Rehabilitation Teaching, Orientation and Mobility Training, and Social Work services.

• Individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria to receive services and services are individualized according to need and employment goal.

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Contact Information

All services are eligibility based, individualized based on need, and may only be provided in relation to achievement of an employment goal (with exception of the specialized services in BBVS).

• Website: http://www.dli.state.pa.us/ Keyword OVR• 1-800-442-635 / (717) 787-5244 (Voice)• 1-866-830-7327 / (717) 787-4885 (TTY)• 1-800-622-2842 / (717) 787-6176 (BBVS only)

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Thank you!

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