People with disabilities rely on a wide variety of tools to simplify their lives. These tools are known as assistive technology. ConnectAbility MN is looking for people to partner with us to create a Lab of Assistive Technology that will allow people try technology before they purchase the items. When the Lab is fully operational, the hope is to also allow people to check out items for short-term use.
Assistive technology is any item, device, system, piece of equipment, or software program that is used to help someone complete an activity or task that they would not be able to perform otherwise. This technology helps someone living with a disability to maintain or improve their functional capabilities.
Assistive technology covers a wide range of options, from computers and specialized software to pencil holders and walkers. The aim is to help those living with disabilities to read, write, hear, walk, remember things, see, and speak, among countless other tasks that they may struggle with.
In 2022, we began the fund-raising effort for The AT Lab, and have begun the work to partner with funders and organizations to ensure the success of the AT Lab.
It is our hope to have the AT Lab functional by July 2023. When it opens, we will continue to grow the Assistive Technology Collection and work to expand access to these items.
