Assistive Technology

The Richard West Assistive Technology Advocacy Center (ATAC) of Disability Rights New Jersey serves as New Jersey’s federally-funded Assistive Technology Act project, through a sub-contract with New Jersey’s Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Its purpose is to assist individuals across New Jersey in overcoming barriers in the system and making assistive technology more accessible to individuals with disabilities throughout the state of New Jersey. 

What is Assistive Technology? 

Assistive Technology is any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified or customized that is  required to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of any person with disabilities, be it for school, work and/or for play. AT ranges from low-tech to high-tech devices or equipment. Examples include: computer, glasses, reacher or grabber, pencil grip, closed captions, wheelchair, ramp. 

How We Help

ATAC provides funding to sub-contractors throughout New Jersey in order to effectively provide the core services of the Assistive Technology Act. 

Device Demonstrations 

ATAC can provide opportunities for New Jersey residents with disabilities to become familiar with specific types of AT by comparing the functions and features of devices through hands-on exploration. 

Device Short Term Loans 

ATAC provides a library of AT devices available to New Jersey residents with disabilities to borrow, for a limited time period, to try before you buy. That way you can decide if a device is right for you before purchasing. 

Device Re-utilization 

Through a partnership with Goodwill Home Medical Equipment, ATAC supports the reuse of assistive technology, to get equipment out of the basements and storage facilities and into the hands of New Jersey residents with disabilities who can use it (at a significant cost savings to the individual). 

Training Activities 

Across New Jersey, ATAC performs a range of training opportunities for stakeholders. These activities are provided in accordance with the requirements of the Assistive Technology Act. Our staff conduct webinars, conferences and technical assistance support.  

Connect with the ATAC staff 

To learn more about the services provided by ATAC or Assistive Technology resources available to NJ residents with disabilities, visit the ATAC website. Email our staff at [email protected] or call (609) 292-9742.