Initiative Description
On August 19, 2023, and September 16, 2023, the Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) partnered with Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Project for a mini-conference and various outreach activities. The initiative involved GSAT staff presenting on the program's alternative financing activity and providing demonstrations of devices tailored to the participants' specific needs. The major collaborating organizations were GSAT and Guam EHDI Project, with GSAT's role being the presentation and demonstration of assistive technology devices. The EHDI Project supports the development of a statewide program and system of care that ensures that deaf or hard of hearing children are identified through newborn and infant hearing screening and receive evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate intervention that optimize their language, literacy, and social-emotional development. The initiative served and benefited family members, individuals with developmental disabilities, daycare providers, and representatives from the Parent Training Information and Autism Community Together.
The partnership between the Guam System for Assistive Technology and the Guam (EHDI) Project resulted in measurable changes in access to assistive technology, awareness of assistive technology, and the reach of the state AT program. Over 75 individuals attended the mini-conference, and as a result, participants gained a deeper understanding of assistive technology and its importance within the broader community, including senior citizens and family members. Additionally, GSAT's approach of obtaining participant surveys during each session to identify specific assistive technology needs has proven to be effective in customizing content for the audience and ensuring that it is more purposeful. The partnership's success can be attributed to the intentional approach of tailoring content to the participants' needs and the collaborative efforts of the two organizations, which facilitated a wider reach and impact. Given the positive outcomes and the available funding resources, the initiative is expected to continue rather than being a one-time event. To replicate the initiative successfully, it is recommended to prioritize interactive sessions that capture the specific needs of participants and to strengthen partnerships with relevant organizations.