Assistive Technology Grants (ALS Northwest) is sponsored by ALS Northwest (funded by CTA Foundation). ALS Northwest is expanding its Assistive Technology Program to improve access to updated equipment and services for people with ALS in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

The foundation’s grants strategically support programs that improve the lives of seniors and people with disabilities. Because we consider grants part of a partnership, we work closely with our grantees to ensure their programs’ success. A Little Help is enhancing its technology infrastructure to better connect older Coloradans with community volunteers.

Through a new module within the Finish’d mobile app and an improved member portal, the organization is streamlining service requests and expanding opportunities for intergenerational engagement. ALS Northwest is expanding its Assistive Technology Program to improve access to updated equipment and services for people with ALS in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

The project supports independence and quality of life through a larger AT inventory and enhanced service delivery. American Council of the Blind Arlington Neighborhood Village Arlington Neighborhood Village is implementing a CiviCRM database to enhance coordination and volunteer engagement for its services supporting older adults aging in place.

The upgrade will increase the organization’s capacity to fulfill assistance requests and improve operational efficiency. Axess Family Services is helping homebound seniors stay safe and connected by installing Echo Dot devices that enable Wi-Fi-based calling and access to voice-activated tools. By adding specialized software, the program supports seniors without smartphones, promoting independence and reducing isolation.

Connections at Home is providing personalized tablets to homebound older adults, along with in-home setup, training, and ongoing tech support. This effort helps reduce isolation by making it easier for seniors to access telehealth, stay in touch with loved ones, and engage with their communities online.

Easterseals Arkansas is expanding its use of smart home technology to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Roommate Housing apartments. By integrating remote in-home monitoring, the initiative boosts independence and allows individuals to make choices about their living environment while reducing reliance on in-person staff.

Encore Employment Enterprise, Inc. Encore Employment Enterprise (E3) is enhancing its call center training program for adults aged 50 and older by establishing an in-house call center. This next phase offers hands-on experience to strengthen technical and customer service skills, supporting long-term employment opportunities.

Helen Keller Services is launching a pilot project to help older adults who are DeafBlind more effectively use technology for daily living, communication, and independence. The initiative combines virtual guidance, in-person support, and training on tools like smartphones, alerting systems, and smart home devices.

ITNAmerica is developing a smartphone app to enhance its ITNRides platform, giving volunteer drivers real-time tools to manage rides, update statuses, and streamline communication. The app supports accessible, consumer-focused transportation for older adults and people with mobility challenges. Lorenzo’s House is developing the LIGHT App, a digital hub designed to connect and support families affected by younger-onset dementia.

The platform will offer community, resources, and shared experiences to reduce isolation and increase access to support worldwide. Lutheran Services in America Lutheran Services in America is introducing interactive digital displays to support older adults with memory loss and their family caregivers in Nebraska.

The devices foster meaningful connection through shared activities, while training helps staff and families use the technology to improve communication and quality of life. MAB Community Services is expanding its Access Technology Training program to reach underserved older adults with visual disabilities across Massachusetts.

By increasing awareness and training in historically excluded communities, the initiative empowers individuals to live more independently through technology. MOKA is expanding its smart home pilot to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in residential settings.

By integrating person-centered technology and evaluating outcomes with a local university, the initiative aims to improve independence, reduce care demands, and inform scalable housing solutions in Michigan. Older Adults Technology Services Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) is expanding its ExploreTech programming to introduce older adults to mainstream and emerging technologies at Senior Planet centers.

The initiative includes hands-on experiences with VR and other devices, supporting digital engagement and tech confidence through both in-person and virtual programs. Pepperdine University’s Foster Grandparent Program connects low-income older adults with opportunities to mentor and support vulnerable youth in educational and developmental settings.

The initiative fosters intergenerational connection while addressing social isolation among seniors and enhancing outcomes for children in need. Presbyterian Senior Services (PSS) The Project S. E.

R. V. E Program partners engineering students with veterans and first responders living with disabilities to develop custom assistive technology solutions.

By supporting capstone design projects at universities nationwide, Project S. E. R.

V. E advances innovation while improving quality of life for those who have served. Search and Care’s Silver Circles initiative pairs older New Yorkers with volunteer Computer Coaches for personalized, in-home tech instruction focused on telehealth access.

By offering device loans and hands-on support, the program promotes digital literacy, health equity, and social connection for homebound and low-income older adults. St. John's Community Services St.

John’s Community Services is integrating enabling technology into its supportive housing programs to help older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities age in place. Across locations in DC, Delaware, Virginia, and Tennessee, the initiative promotes safety, independence, and quality of life through personalized tech solutions.

World Institute on Disability The World Institute on Disability is supporting the launch of a database through AbleToPlay that helps disabled gamers find accessible games tailored to their needs. Featuring personalized recommendations and detailed evaluations, the platform promotes inclusive entertainment, social connection, and rehabilitative support. Learn more about the criteria for CTA Foundation Grants.