Guam Options for Alternative Loans - Assistive Technology (GOAL-AT)
Project Description:
The Guam Options for Alternative Loans – Assistive Technology (GOAL-AT) program aims to maximize independence and participation in society by individuals with disabilities through the establishment of alternative financing mechanisms. Given that Guam is not entitled to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid caps preclude the provisions of waivers, Guam residents have not had support through public assistance programs to finance equipment and services. This project will establish a program to fund alternatives to the traditional payment options of public assistance and self-financing so that individuals with disabilities can acquire assistive technology devices and services.
Planned goals and objectives of the GOAL-AT Project include: 1) to establish a permanent and separate account with a financial institution on Guam utilizing a proposal process; 2) to generate policies and procedures for GOAL-AT; 3) to formulate and disseminate a Request For Proposal for a community based organization that has individuals with disabilities involved in organizational decision making at all organizational levels to administer the project; 4) to advertise the availability of the GOAL-AT program and the applications for loans; 5)to work with interested applicants in determining specific assistive technology needed to facilitate independence and participation in the community; 6)to provide training on assistive technology for recipients of a loan or lease on the particular device they acquire to ensure appropriate usage; 7)to provide follow up monitoring and technical assistance to recipients of the loan or lease program; and 9) to maintain data and reporting information on the status of success of program and status of funding.
The short-term goal of the program is to expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their family members, guardians, advocates, and authorized representative to purchase assistive technology. The long-term outcome is to establish a nationwide network of permanent state AFPs taht promote independence and choice. Guam's AFP project GOAL-AT supports President Bush's New Freedom Initiative to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities for assistive technology, which will promote choice, independence, and community inclusion.
Keyword(s):
Alternative Financing Mechanism Program
Core Function(s):
Training Trainees, Performing Technical Assistance and/or Training, Developing & Disseminating Information
Area of Emphasis
Quality of Life, Other - Assistive Technology
Target Audience:
Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, General Public
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Geographic Areas, Territory
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
