Programs → Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology
Assistive technology, often referred to as “A.T.,” includes just about anything – that is, any physical material, object or software – that makes it easier for a person to perform a task and expand their abilities.
Assistive Technology could be helpful with:
Coming home from the hospital and I will need a ramp for a step at my door.
Staying connected with loved ones despite experiencing increasing blindness.
Having a device to speak for me in times when speaking is difficult.
Getting out on the hiking trails, even though walking is difficult.
Consultations & Demonstrations
Engaging in one-on-one consultations with our Assistive Technology (AT) Coordinator is the first step in understanding which supports are best tailored to your needs. Whether your goals revolve around mobility, hearing, communication, vision devices, or cognitive challenges, we’re here to guide you through the myriad of options available.
The vast world of AT offers numerous devices and methods to acquire them. Starting with a conversation about your objectives is often the most effective way to navigate this landscape.
Beyond discussions, experiencing a device or software firsthand can provide invaluable insights into your needs and preferences. Our AT Coordinator is not only equipped to help you understand your options but can also connect you to opportunities to test out potential technologies.
Whether CIL has the device ready for a test run or if you need assistance connecting to Device Loan and Demonstration Centers, we’ve got you covered. We can even collaborate in reaching out to manufacturers for a test ride or demonstration of their products.
Fill out the form below to hear from us!
Our AT Coordinator is dedicated to understanding your unique needs and connecting you with the best possible options. Whether you’re exploring mobility aids, communication tools, or any other assistive device, we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way. Please take a few moments to provide us with the details below, ensuring a more personalized and effective consultation.
If you have any issues using this form please call us at 510-841-4776 or email us at info@thecil.org.
Someone from our team will reach out shortly!
Our AT Program Services
As part of our Advocacy Program, CIL offers trainings for community organizations and people with disabilities. Our trainings are available on a first come, first serve basis, based on Advocacy Program staff capacity.
Your old assistive device might be just what someone else is needing. CIL accepts donations of clean devices in good condition whenever we have space in our collection. Donations are tax-deductible too!
CIL cannot accept adjustable beds, due to the size and complication of storing them, but we do keep a waitlist and match donors to seekers whenever possible.
PLEASE NOTE: We also do not accept standard, 2-wheeled walkers due to the high number of offers.
CIL offers free loans of assistive devices when possible. Our Reuse Collection is in constant rotation, so contact us about your needs!
PLEASE NOTE: We have a limited number of devices available as this service is dependent on donated equipment.
Sales
CIL offers free loaner assistive technology (AT) devices as part of our AT Program. Please note that we have a limited number of devices available as this service is dependent on donated equipment.
Options
The Voice Options Program offers eligible Californians who are unable to speak, or who have difficulty speaking, with a free speech-generating device. The goal of this program is to ensure full and equal telephone communications access for all Californians with disabilities.
Through this program, any eligible Californian referred to a Voice Options provider (like CIL) will have the opportunity to test six different speech-generating applications for up to 14 days. The six applications that will be provided are:
- GoTalk NOW Plus
- LAMP Words for Life
- Predictable
- Proloquo2Go
- Proloquo4Text
- TouchChat HD with WordPower
Once the trial period has ended, the user will exchange the borrowed iPad for a new one with their preferred speech-generating application already loaded and ready to go.
Recent Posts
Do you have experience?
We're Looking For A.T. Volunteers
Do you have experience with any of the following and have time to donate your skills?
- Device repair, such as wheelchairs, power chairs, scooters, rollators (4-wheeled walkers with brakes)
- Sign painting
- Rough carpentry
- House painting
Do you enjoy comradery and learning while you work, plus have time and patience for tidying?
We’d also love help with any of these tasks:
- Cleaning donated items
- Sorting hardware like nuts and bolts
- Taking devices apart for responsible recycling
- Testing and charging batteries
Coming Soon
The Wheelhouse
The CIL houses multiple programs that involve devices and demonstrations at a workshop and storage location separate from our main office.
We are expanding! We will invite you to our new Wheelhouse location as soon as it is built out!
