This blog is the second in a three-part series based on the recent webinar presentation “Your Future, Your Tools: AT for the Road Ahead.” The segment, titled “Differences Between IDEA/504 (K–12) and ADA Protections,” was presented by Jan Garrett, Deputy Director of ADA Programs at the Pacific ADA Center. The series explores how key disability…
This blog is the first in a three-part series based on the recent webinar presentation “Your Future, Your Tools: AT for the Road Ahead.” The segment, titled “Differences Between IDEA/504 (K–12) and ADA Protections,” was presented by Jan Garrett, Deputy Director of ADA Programs at the Pacific ADA Center. The series explores how key disability…
This blog is based on a segment from the recent webinar presentation “Your Future, Your Tools: AT for the Road Ahead.” The segment, titled “Self-Advocacy & The Art of the Persistent Complaint,” was presented by YO! Disabled & Proud staffer Jem Moore explored how self-advocacy, collective advocacy, and systemic change intersect and how AT can…
Welcome to the final post in “Adulting with AT,” our blog series following the Your Future, Your Tools webinar! So far, we’ve covered how AT supports learning and independent living. Now, we’re heading into the workplace, because adulting includes jobs, internships, and launching your career. Whether you’re applying for your first job, starting a new…
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to set up and pair the ThirdReality Door Sensor using an Amazon Echo device and the Alexa app. Whether you’re new to smart home technology or supporting someone who is, this step-by-step guide is here to help. Plus, we’ve included a YouTube video tutorial for extra visual…
Section 1: Unboxing & Setting Up Amazon Echo Access full video instructions via the Ability Tools YouTube channel. “Setting Up Amazon Echo” Overview of the Amazon Echo (4th Gen): The Amazon Echo is a smart home device that works like a helpful assistant. It responds to your voice and can assist with tasks like making…
There’s more to workplace success than just having the right tech. With the right funding, training, and self-advocacy tools, powerful support is within reach; you just need to know where to find it. Assistive technology (AT) can open doors, but real success comes with the right support. Across California, programs exist to fund, train, and…
If you made it to Abilities Expo 2025 and stopped by the Ability Tools booth, you couldn’t miss the top-secret, spy-themed experience! Our team went all out to engage attendees of all ages, making sure everyone got a mission briefing on the latest and greatest in assistive technology (AT). The Expo was packed with incredible…
If you are a student with a disability who needs specialized educational services, have completed high school and are moving into post-secondary education, you are no longer eligible for an Individualized Education Plan or IEP and must take steps to self-advocate to get the support you are entitled to. *Post-secondary education is ANY educational instruction…
If you are a student with a disability who needs specialized educational services, are under the age of 22 and have not yet graduated from high school with a typical diploma, you are eligible for an Individualized Education Plan or IEP. You can request Assistive Technology (AT) or AT assessments through your IEP. Eligibility will…