Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, Pennsylvania's UCEDD - University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology (PIAT)

2 people discussing education enrichment in classroom

"For people without disabilities, technology makes things easier. For people with disabilities, technology makes things possible."

Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology (PIAT) strives to enhance the lives of all Pennsylvanians with disabilities, older Pennsylvanians, and their families, through access to and acquisition of assistive technology devices and services, which allow for choice, control and independence at home, work, school, play, and in their neighborhoods.

PIAT leads the Commonwealth's efforts to implement the provisions of the federal Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended.

Pennsylvania State Plan for Assistive Technology (download Word document, 213KB)

This is Done Through a Variety of Activities

Access to Assistive Technology (AT), or "How do I Know What I Need?"
- Device Demonstrations—A hands-on opportunity to learn more about different AT devices so individuals can make an informed choice about what will work best for them. For more information, email ATdemo@temple.edu.
- Device Loans—Pennsylvanians of any age and ability can borrow AT devices, at no cost, to try at work, school, home or in their neighborhoods. This short-term loan program has a "try before you buy" philosophy, and helps people with disabilities and their families make the right choice of AT devices before they obtain a device. For more information, email ATlend@temple.edu.
Acquisition of Assistive Technology, or "How do I Get What I Need?"—Device Reutilization and Recycling: Previously owned devices are an affordable option instead of buying new, and several options are available to Pennsylvanians, including classified listing of used devices (REEP), an online auction site (www.ATMATCH.com) and refurbishing programs (Into New Hands and Liberty Wheels). For more information, email ATreuse@temple.edu.

In addition to these Access and Acquisition activities, PIAT also provides:

Training—Outreach to service providers to increase their AT-related knowledge and skills to better support people with disabilities. For more information, email ATinfo@temple.edu.

Making Things Possible: Assistive Technology Training Topics
Text version
PDF version
Technical Assistance—Outreach to public and private agencies to develop and improve policies related to AT as well as transition from school to work or from nursing home to community living. For more information, email piat@temple.edu.
Public Awareness Activities—Information and referral which educates consumers, via phone, email or letter, about their choices of AT devices and services; AT exhibits and presentations at conferences, group meetings, staff in-services, and other events; and Case Management to help consumers navigate the maze of funding options available to obtain needed AT. For more information, call 1-800-204-9428 or email ATinfo@temple.edu.