Destinie Allen uses a speech-generating device.AT: LAST Inc., the Maryland Assistive Technology Cooperative, hosted a grand opening for its Assistive Technology Learning Center July 31, which showcased many adapted devices available to people with disabilities, The Examiner reported.
Assistive technology includes things such as adapted phones, dressing and grooming aids and reconfigured games to make them accessible.
“Most people are not even aware that some of these items exist,” Susan Garber, the organization’s executive director, who 10 years ago founded the nonprofit purchasing cooperative that allows schools, agencies, organizations and families to buy assistive technology at a reduced price, said in the story.
"More than 18,000 products from more than 90 companies are discounted," Garber said. "In 2007 and 2008, the organization processed nearly $2 million worth of orders."
“It’s amazing what technology can do for you through all these different gadgets,” said Amanda Cheong, purchasing director with AT: LAST, who aids those looking for discounts for the products by working with the vendors. Her 19-year-old daughter, who has a disability, accesses a computer using specially designed switches.