Initiative Description
Since 2010, WATAP has supported the services provided by Washington State’s Department of Social and Health Services Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) through increased awareness of and expansion of access to assistive technology for school and work. This collaborative partnership came about through the initiative of the DVR Advisory Council Member on WATAP’s Advisory Council, and a formal contract was already in place when WIOA was signed into law. WATAP leverages its federally mandated activities and resources to support professional development and increase access to assistive technology in DVR services.
Lessons Learned/Replication
Through this partnership, WATAP supports the professional needs of DVR staff, Tribal VR staff, DVR Contractors, and other DVR partners and increase effective implementation of AT to meet employment outcomes through the delivery of statewide and comprehensive training. WATAP has expanded its device demonstration program through the provision and maintenance of assistive technology provided to the regional DVR Assistive Technology Assessment Practitioners (ATAPs) that is used in device demonstrations and evaluations provided by the ATAPs. Funds provided by DVR has expanded WATAP's assistive technology device lending program that allows unlimited borrowing by Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors (VRCs) and DVR Customers to inform DVR's purchasing decisions and reduce the purchase and storage of devices that end up not working for DVR Customers.