Customized AT Services Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can you help me?

A: We build customized assistive technology that allows someone with a disability to do something they could not do before. Assistive Technology is not one-size-fits-all, and we develop solutions that meet the unique needs of each of our clients. In some cases, we invent something new; in other cases, we modify something that already exists to better meets the needs of that particular client. View examples of previous projects  

Q: How much does this cost?

A: We charge our individual clients a fee on a sliding scale. The fee scale begins at $25 and increases based on the client’s ability to pay. The fee covers both the design and construction of a customized assistive device. In some cases an institution, like a school, asks us to build a device that will be used by many people. In these cases, we charge approximately $100 depending on the size of the institution.

Q: Are there any income qualifications?

A: No, we accept requests from people of all income levels.

Q: What can I request?

A: We have built a wide range of customized assistive devices, and there is no one specific “type” we create. View examples of previous projects. When making a request, it helps to be as specific as possible. For example, it is hard for us to grant requests such as, “I want my son to be more independent” or “I want to be stronger.” Think about how we might specifically be able to help, such as “I want my son to be able to independently transfer from his wheelchair to a chair” or “I want to exercise my legs so they can get stronger.”

Q: Can you make anything I ask for?

A: We try to grant each request we receive, but there are some limits to the type of requests we can grant. If there is a product that is commercially available, we will not take the project on, but instead, refer the requestor to that product. If we do not believe it would be safe to build the requested device or we do not have the skills to do so, we will be unable to grant the request. However, you should make a request even if you are not sure we can grant it. Our volunteers are exceptionally talented and dedicated individuals who will help if they can.

Q: Do you build ramps?

A: No, we do not build ramps because they are commercially available. However, there are several organizations in Maryland that do so for qualifying individuals:  

Q: Can you provide medical supplies

A: No, our services are limited to building or modifying assistive technology.

Q: I need a wheelchair – can you help?

A: We do not supply wheelchairs. However, if you obtain a wheelchair and you need it modified to meet your specific needs, we can help.

Q: Do you do home repairs?

A: No, our services are limited to building or modifying assistive technology. If there is something specific in your home that needs to be modified to meet your unique needs and a commercial solution does not already exist, we can help. Some organizations in Maryland do home repairs for qualified individuals:

Q: I need someone to assess my home and make recommendations for how I can make it more handicaps accessible. Do you do that?

A: We do not provide home assessments. We suggest you check with your local health, aging, or disabilities departments because sometimes they provide this sort of service. If you determine there is something specific in your home that needs to be modified to meet your unique needs and a commercial solution does not already exist, we may be able to help.

Assistive Technology

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Free Software

BLINK System - Created in the 1980’s by V-LINC (VME).

Now available for any platform (download)

Thanks to Volunteer Telly Stroumbis.

Read More and Download the system here.