In a recession-riddled economy, finding dwindling funds for assistive technology requires knowledge, patience and a lot of creativity.  Ken Reid, assistive technology coordinator for the Utah Center for Assistive Technology (UCAT), is loaded with all three. A former professional bowler, Ken is now paraplegic from a 1990 automobile accident.  But he still competes as a wheelchair bowler, and has added “funding specialist” to his lengthy list of skills.

Assistive Technology Funding Specialist
“I started here in 2002 as an assistive technology coordinator,” says Ken, “but I am also a funding specialist because it has become a big part of my job.”  

It’s no wonder, with power wheelchairs costing upwards of $20,000 dollars, while federal, state and private funding sources are drying up. Many times Ken finds that a combination of several sources, along with some creative thinking, is what it takes to get the funds for a critical piece of assistive equipment. . 

Traditional Funding Sources
Traditional sources of funding for assistive technology include the client’s insurance company (if they are employed and have insurance), federally funded state agencies like the Utah State office of Vocational Rehabilitation and local Independent Living Centers. Others include state agencies, such as the Utah Assistive Technology Foundation, which provides low-interest loans and small grants, and the Utah-based Ability Foundation. He also looks to nonprofits like the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.  

Low- or No-cost Solutions
Often Ken will look at ways to provide the assistive device with a low- or no-cost solution.  A recent client needed a ramp to allow wheelchair access to his home.   Ken contacted a local Boy Scout troop to provide the labor to build the ramp with materials donated from a nearby lumber supplier.  He often contacts local community organizations such as fraternal lodges, scout troops, church groups and others with requests for funding, donated services or equipment. 

Recycled Assistive Technology Equipment
The tight economy has also increased the need for programs like CReATE, which stands for Citizens Reutilizing Assistive Technology Equipment.   This joint effort of the State Office of Rehabilitation and the Utah Assistive Technology Project at Utah State University is basically a pool of used mobility assistive technology like manual and motorized wheelchairs and motorized scooters.  “Through CReATE, individuals can sometimes obtain a motorized wheelchair that originally cost $20,000 for as little as $500 to $600,” says Ken. 

Creative Thinking
Funding specialist, professional bowler, consultant, speaker and author (Ken’s book “Choose A Lane” is due to be published this month)—Ken Reid is an example of how creative thinking can solve the most challenging puzzle, including assistive technology funding.