Technology Matters

Fall 2023

Connecting Nebraskans with opportunities through assistive technology


On November 1, 2023, ATP celebrated their 34th Anniversary.


ATP accomplishes their mission everyday as they serve Nebraskans of all ages and disabilities, their families, employers, service providers, educators, and other professionals.


Program Updates


May Faith

ATP Program Supervisor

may.faith@nebraska.gov

(402) 207-9028


Tobias J. Orr

Director

tobias.orr@nebraska.gov

(402) 853-1582

Contractor Recruitment

ATP is continuously looking for new contractors. If you know of someone that might be interested in becoming an enrolled contractor, please guide them to our contractor recruitment page or

contact Elizabeth Lamborn at (402) 429-5407.



Timelines

ATP continues to experience higher than average referral numbers leading to increased timelines to complete assessments with consumers. Please keep in mind that it may take up to 50 days for new referrals to be assigned to Technology Specialists.  

 

Currently enrolled contractors are booked out several months in advance between completing accessibility projects for ATP and private projects. Because of this, it may take between 5 – 8 months for some contractors to get to a project.

 

New Face on the HHS Team

Late in the summer ATP’s HHS team of Technology Specialists added an additional position and welcomed Delia Michalski. If you cross paths with Delia in the coming months, please take a moment to get acquainted as she will be working on more of your referrals in the future.

 

Seasonal Impacts

Please keep in mind as the weather gets colder, contractor ability to complete outdoor projects will be negatively impacted. If concrete is involved in a project, low temperatures may prevent concrete from being poured. 

Success Stories: Making a Difference!

Mark Wentz, ATP Technology Specialist works with consumers of all ages. Two of his recent cases are making a difference in the lives of a senior citizen and a 14 year old.


Mark says, "Each referral is unique. During the assessment, age, disability, mobility, client goals, and their residence (entrances, bathrooms, steps, etc.) are all considerations in determining the best and cost effective solution."

A senior had been unable to shower for two years due to multiple heath conditions and a bathroom that was not accessible. The caregivers would slide her onto the toilet and then lay her on the shower bench and provide a sponge bath. Unable to maintain her hygiene they were at risk of going to a care facility.


Thanks to the accessible bathroom the consumer remains living in her home.

The consumer had to wait 24 hours for the installation to cure. They shared they took their first shower 24 hours and 5 minutes after the contractor had finished!

A family of a 14 year old missed events because they could not transport the wheelchair in the trunk of their car. Relying on public transportation resulted in missed appointments.


ATP was able to connect the family to a vendor to purchase an affordable pre-owned van. Thanks to the addition of a ramp the family can attend school activities and church events, go shopping, and spend time with friends, etc.


Welcome to the ATP Team

Delia Michalski

Technology Specialist


Lincoln ATP office

500 S. 84th Street

Lincoln, NE 68510-2611

Email Delia

(402) 531-207-2418

Toll Free (877) 713-4002

Fax (402) 471-6052


I look forward to my new role as a technology specialist with ATP, after 20 years in special education. In my previous positions, I enjoyed mentoring new educators on effective strategies for modifying learning environments and curricula to ensure student success. Securing literacy and autism grants for my students was rewarding. 


I enjoyed presenting to teachers and administrators on integrating technology into language arts, especially for students coping with emotional disturbances.


Academic background: M.Ed. in Special Education and B.S. in Business Administration

ATP Lincoln office

has moved!



500 South 84th Street

Lincoln, NE 68510-2611

Mailing address:

PO Box 94987

Lincoln, NE 68509-4987


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