Center for Assistive Technology Client Services
The Center for Assitive Technology (CAT)'s Client Service program provides assessment and training in the use of assistive technology (AT) devices, to persons with disabilities in schools and the workplace. CAT serves people of all ages across the eight counties of Western New York and upon request delivers AT demonstrations throughout the state.
CAT’s Client Services program consists of six professional staff working in approximately 6,000 square feet of accessible office space, operating on a budget of close to $1M per year in sponsored projects. These projects and sponsors include
• Buffalo Assistive Technology Center & Loan Program for the NYS Commission for the Blind
• NYS Adult Career and Continuing Education Services & Vocational Rehabilitation Core Services, for the NYS Access-VR agency
• Technology to Promote Non-Certified Housing Options for Individuals with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities*
• Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) Program, NYS Justice Center
• Elementary and Secondary School referral services for students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan
• University at Buffalo’s Office of Accessibility Resources
CAT annually provides direct assessment, training and support to approximately 350 clients’ educational or vocational goals, while also providing outreach information and demonstration to an additional 500 people through the over 100 community agencies in its regional network. CAT also provides fieldwork placements for undergraduate students, as well as short-term internships for graduate students attending local colleges and universities.
*Please note, the Technology to Promote Non-Certified Housing Options for Individuals with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities was a three-year project through the Westchester Institute for Human Development (WIHD) that concluded in March 2024. CAT was one of three NYS TRAID sites that partnered with WIHD on this project, aimed at promoting the independence of people with developmental disabilities living in non-certified housing through the provision of assistive technology. CAT staff assessed the need for, facilitated the purchasing of, and provided training on the use of assistive technology for identified project participants.
CAT Client Services provides an array of AT services for people with disabilities, in the areas of education, employment, and independent living. We provide assessment, training, consultation, demonstration, loan, and professional development services to individuals, school districts, colleges and universities, and other entities that need support in the utilization and integration of AT.
