NATRC - Nevada Assistive Technology Resource Center

The NATRC is a statewide project of the Nevada Center for Excellence in Disabilities (NCED), at the University of Nevada, Reno. As part of the Nevada Assistive Technology Collaborative the NATRC offers a variety of services and supports to anyone interested in exploring the world of assistive technology.

Assistive technology (AT) is any item, piece of equipment, software program, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities. It might help with speaking, writing, hearing, remembering, learning, walking and mobility, driving, and many other activities of daily living.

• AT can be low-tech: communication boards made of cardboard or fuzzy felt OR pencil with foam attached to grip it OR a cord tied to the doorknob to close the door easier.
• AT can be high-tech: special-purpose computers OR programmed electronics OR a smart phone or tablet.
• AT can be mobility devices: wheelchairs either powered or self-propelled, walker, cane, prosthetics.
• mounting systems, and seating and positioning devices.
• AT can be computer hardware: special switches, keyboards, and pointing devices.
• AT can be computer software: screen readers and communication programs.
• AT can be inclusive or specialized learning materials and curriculum aids.
• AT can be much more:  home modifications, home automation, vehicle modification, ramps, and much more.

Services Include

• Information and Assistance-resources, and basic information to people with disabilities, agencies, service providers, and the general public. Conversations about assistive technology exploration begin with this.
• Device demonstration-offers a comparison of options in order to make informed decisions.
• Device Loan-assists with decision making, or to serve as a loaner while the consumer is waiting for device repair or funding. To provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event. For training self-education or other personnel development activities. This is a short-term arrangement generally up to 14 days or longer if necessary.
• Training-classes, workshops, and presentations that have a goal of increasing skills, knowledge, and competency, as opposed to training intended only to increase general awareness of AT. 
• Technical Assistance (to programs and agencies) needs assessment, program planning or development, curriculum or materials development, administrative or management consultation, program evaluation and site reviews of external organizations, and policy development.
• Public Awareness-activities are designed to reach large numbers of people, including activities such as public service announcements, radio talk shows and news reports, newspaper stories and columns, newsletters, brochures, public forums and social media.
• Transition services (specific to training and technical assistance) supports and options of how assistive technology may help with education, community living, housing, aging, and other independent living transitions that occur throughout the lifespan.