As a sub-grantee of the Maine CITE Project, C.A.R.E.S., Inc.’s role is to advocate for the institutionalization of assistive technology in all aspects of the Vocational Rehabilitation process. C.A.R.E.S. Inc.’s work has focused on increasing training opportunities for Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, advocating for the inclusion of assistive technology in policy and procedure, and working with other members of the Assistive Technology Consortia and the Maine CITE Coordinating Center regarding systemic barriers and solutions regarding Assistive Technology.
C.A.R.E.S., Inc. has developed a working relationship with the AT Lead Staff within the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. We have been providing these staff members with AT resource information (printed materials, videos, internet sites). We have also been advocating for comprehensive training on AT. This has been done in Maine with the DVR Training Coordinator and at the New England level with the Regional Continuing Education Program at Assumption College. For more information, please contact Stephen J. Beam at C.A.R.E.S., Inc.