The West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS), the state assistive technology program for West Virginia, works to increase access to assistive technology (AT) for individuals with disabilities across one of the most rural states in the nation. This presentation explores practical, collaborative strategies for identifying AT needs, strengthening service delivery and expanding access in rural communities through cross-region partnerships.
Participants will build foundational AT vocabulary and develop skills to recognize needs using culturally responsive, compassionate approaches. The session emphasizes unique barriers faced in rural areas, such as limited resources, geographic isolation, and service gaps, and how intentional collaboration can address these challenges. Successful partnerships among state agencies, universities, grassroots initiatives, and service providers will be highlighted, along with strategies for locating local AT resources and
Learning Outcomes
- Participants will develop foundational vocabulary, the ability to identify assistive technology needs, and culturally responsive compassion when working with rural populations.
- Participants will apply collaborative approaches among state agencies, universities, grass-root projects, and service providers to strengthen assistive technology services while maximizing resources.
- Participants will be able to locate assistive technology in their area and establish service delivery through donations and collaborations.