WHEREAS, some North Carolinians benefit from assistive technology devices and services in order to live independently and to participate more fully in their lives, families, and communities; and
WHEREAS, assistive technology refers to any item, piece of equipment, or product used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities or older adults; and
WHEREAS, assistive technology plays an important role in fulfilling the promise of the Americans with Disabilities Act by enhancing the lives of people with disabilities and increasing access to educational and employment opportunities alongside their peers without disabilities; and
WHEREAS, the availability of assistive technology in the workplace promotes economic self-sufficiency, enhances work participation, and may be critical to the employment of people with disabilities and older adults; and
WHEREAS, access to and availability of assistive technology in the home promotes aging in place initiatives across North Carolina; and
WHEREAS, the North Carolina Assistive Technology Program provides services that include education on the purchase and use of devices; device demonstrations to inform consumer decision-making; device reutilization and short-term loans; and financing activities to help people obtain devices through a variety of initiatives; and
WHEREAS, the North Carolina Assistive Technology Program has provided assistive technology equipment, expert guidance, and support services to North Carolinians for 35 years; and
WHEREAS, in collaboration with inter-agency partners, the North Carolina Assistive Technology Program supports the State of North Carolina's Employment First efforts to be a leader in creating an inclusive climate and recruiting workers with disabilities;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim April, 2024, as “ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.