Assistive Technology Provided by the Solution Outreach Center

The Solution Outreach Center at OCCK, Inc. is one of five Assistive Technology Access Sites in Kansas, which are part of the Assistive Technology for Kansans (ATK) Project. Services include:

• Assistive Technology Assessments

  Whether you are an individual or a business seeking a solution, we can assist you. Assistive technology specialists match your capabilities and needs to the characteristics of an assistive technology device or service. A technology specialist will partner with you to:

  • Discuss needs.
  • Show potential solutions.
  • Explore funding options.
  • Provide training.
• Statewide Equipment Loan (“Try Before You Buy”)

  The Solution Outreach Center at OCCK operates the Statewide Equipment Loan System for the Assistive Technology for Kansans (ATK) Project, which has equipment for short-term loan so people with disabilities or health conditions, service providers, employers, educators, and others can determine if a device meets their needs.

  Equipment can be borrowed from the ATK Equipment Loan System for up to four weeks.  A small inventory of devices is available from the regional AT Access Sites. The “try before you buy” concept allows individuals the opportunity to try a variety of devices to make sure they will meet their needs prior to purchasing the device.

• Kansas Equipment Exchange

  Kansas Adult Medical Services and the Assistive Technology for Kansans (ATK) Project are working together to operate a statewide Durable Medical Equipment (DME) reuse program. Kansas Equipment Exchange (KEE) is designed to quickly move DME that is not being used and is still in good shape (or could be returned to good shape) to Kansans who need equipment. Through KEE, eligible Kansans can get quality refurbished DME at no charge.

  As one of the five regional Assistive Technology Access Sites overseeing this activity, the Solution Outreach Center works with individuals and organizations to make these exchanges possible.

  KEE also accepts donated equipment and will pick it up for you! If you need equipment or have some to donate, contact the Solution Outreach Center or the Kansas Equipment Exchange at (620) 421-4514. We’re always looking for volunteers to transport equipment and can reimburse you for your mileage.

• Kansas AgrAbility

  As you age or become injured, AgrAbility can offer education and assistance on safe, affordable ways for you to continue to work in production agriculture and maintain your lifestyle. The goal of the Kansas AgrAbility Project is to inform, educate, and assist you with your agricultural needs. Each year, AgrAbility helps hundreds of people succeed in agricultural production and rural community life.

  The Solution Outreach Center at OCCK is one of three AgrAbility sites in Kansas. Our staff combines their knowledge of agriculture with disability expertise to provide you with the specialized services needed to safely accommodate you in everyday farm and ranch operations. To assist in making the farm worksite, home, or rural business more accessible, an AT specialist can provide at no cost:

  • Agricultural worksite assessments.
  • Recommendations for modifications or adaptations to farm equipment, home, and tools for accessibility.
  • Peer support from other people in agricultural businesses.
  • Knowledge of adaptations, equipment changes, and resources to meet your needs.
  • Improved access for children with disabilities who live with a family member who has an agricultural business.

  Kansas AgrAbility is part of a national network of AgrAbility Projects administered by the United States Department of Agriculture as authorized by the 1990 Farm Bill.

• Telecommunications Access Program (TAP)

  The Kansas Telecommunications Access Program (TAP) provides specialized equipment to Kansans in order to access basic home telephone services. Kansas residents with existing telephone service and income below $55,000 per year will qualify if they also have trouble hearing, seeing, speaking, walking, remembering, or holding a telephone.

• Community Education/Workshops

  The Solution Outreach Center at OCCK offers training opportunities to individuals, schools, businesses, and other agencies regarding assistive technology devices and their uses. Demonstrations and presentations for conferences and community groups are available to enhance awareness of the many benefits of assistive technology.

• Business Consultations

  The Solution Outreach Center at OCCK provides business consultation to assist businesses with:

  • Job modifications for an individual returning to work following an injury or a current employee experiencing difficulty at their desk.
  • Developing accommodations to assist employees with disabilities to enhance job performance or prevent injuries. The modifications could be as simple as a different keyboard, repositioning the items on the work surface, or different seating.