This project is funded through the STAR Program by the Rehabilitation Services Administration under the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended in 2004 (P.L. 108-364). $47,000 of this project is financed with Federal Funds. Content of this publication does not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the STAR Program or the Minnesota Department of Administration or Rehabilitation Services Administration.

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Southern Minnesota Assistive Technology Center
 Program Description

 INTRODUCTION

The program originally called People Achieving Change Through Technology (PACTT) started under ARC of Southeastern MN and became an Ability Building Center program in 1996. The program provides assistive technology services to individuals with disabilities of all ages, their caregivers, and the professionals who work with them.  Over the years, PACTT continued to develop its reputation as the regional assistive technology center.  PACTT has undergone a name change in June 2012 in order to better highlight the program initiatives and the regional nature of our services. Beginning June 2012, PACTT came to be known as the Southern Minnesota Assistive Technology Center (SMATC).  Currently the program is funded in part by the Minnesota STAR Program (A System of Technology to Achieve Results), and the United Way of Olmsted County.  The program maintains an extensive library of assistive technology (AT) devices available for either 30-day loan or demonstration.  Borrowing devices from the loan program, and receiving device demonstrations are offered free of charge.  SMATC is dedicated to making the benefits of technology more accessible to children and adults with disabilities. Using a team approach, involving parents and professionals, SMATC can provide numerous AT services, as well as, information and resources to help secure appropriate technology.  The program helps individuals to achieve independence in work, home and in the classroom.   

ADMISSION CRITERIA 
  • Individuals seeking SMATC services must have a disability and have a funding source to pay for fee-related services requested.

SERVICES PROVIDED

SMATC provides the following services relating to assistive technology:
  • iPad Assessments
  • Individualized/Group Training
  • Workshops/Presentations
  • Assistive Technology Device Loans
  • Device Demonstrations
Services are provided in the program office, home, school, work, etc.

SMATC Fees
  • Fees are $92.00/hr. + travel for iPad assessments.
  • Individual training services are $45.00/hr. + travel.
  • Group trainings/workshops $25.00/person + travel.

Contact Information
To learn more about the program and its services please contact: Program Manager, 1911 14th Street NW, PO Box 6938, Rochester, MN 55903, 507-281-6262