Category: AT Champions

By CJ Tabor, AT Champion

Introduction

Assistive technology (AT) — from power wheelchairs and mobility devices to screen readers, speech-generating devices, and adaptive software — has the power to transform daily life and open doors to employment. But the cost of these tools can be a significant barrier. For Marylanders with disabilities, the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) is one of the most important and underutilized funding resources available.

Here is what you need to know.

What Is DORS?

DORS is an agency of the Maryland State Department of Education. Its mission is to promote employment, economic self-sufficiency, and independence for individuals with disabilities. Through its public Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program, DORS helps eligible Marylanders prepare for work, find jobs, and stay employed — and assistive technology is a core part of how it does that.

How DORS Funds Assistive Technology

DORS may fund assistive technology when it increases an individual’s ability to obtain or maintain employment. This includes a wide range of tools:

• Mobility devices and adaptive equipment
• Voice recognition and screen reading software
• Mobile devices for organization and time management
• Communication devices and AAC tools
• Adaptive workstation equipment

The process begins with a customized AT assessment, conducted by DORS Rehabilitation Technology Services (RTS) staff. Assessments can take place at the Workforce & Technology Center (WTC) in Baltimore or within the individual’s own community. This step ensures the right technology is matched to each person’s specific employment goals.

The Workforce & Technology Center (WTC)

Located in northeast Baltimore, the WTC is a comprehensive rehabilitation facility that offers AT services alongside career training, job placement assistance, and behavioral health support. For individuals who travel to use services on campus, onsite housing is available.

The WTC’s RTS team provides not only assessments, but ongoing training and technical support so individuals can make full use of their devices and software.

WTC Contact:

• Address: 2301 Argonne Drive, Baltimore, MD 21218
• Voice: 410-554-9100
• Voice, toll-free: 1-888-200-7117

Who Is Eligible?

DORS is an eligibility-based program, not an entitlement. To receive services, individuals must have a documented disability that creates a barrier to employment. Individuals with the most significant disabilities are served first. SSI and SSDI recipients are automatically eligible, though some may be placed on a waiting list.

To apply, visit dors.maryland.gov and select “Request DORS Services.” An intake meeting with a DORS counselor will follow to assess eligibility and begin planning.

Other Maryland AT Funding to Know

DORS is often the starting point, but not the only option. Other Maryland-specific resources include:

• Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MD TAP) – Offers AT demonstrations, device loans, and guidance on funding options. Reach them at 1-800-832-4827.
• Assistive Technology Guaranteed Loan Program – A low-interest loan program run by MD TAP and the Maryland Department of Disabilities for residents who need help purchasing AT.
• Maryland Work Incentives Network (MD-WIN) – Provides free benefits counseling for Social Security recipients exploring how work and AT funding may affect their benefits.

Take the First Step

Navigating AT funding takes persistence, but Marylanders do not have to figure it out alone. A DORS counselor can assess your needs, coordinate an AT evaluation, and help build a plan that puts the right tools in your hands.

Visit dors.maryland.gov to get started, or call your local DORS office to schedule an intake appointment today.

By CJ Tabor, AT Champion

Disability History Through Documentary

This month’s AT Champions project theme is disability history, and I watched Crip Camp, a documentary that explores the origins of the disability rights movement in the United States. The film centers on Camp Jened, a summer camp in New York for teens with disabilities in the 1970s. For many campers, it was a rare space to build community, gain independence, and experience the joy of being fully themselves. As a university student with a disability, I could relate to how crucial environments that support accommodations and advocacy can be in shaping confidence and identity.

Cross-Disability Approach

One thing I appreciated about the film was how it highlighted a variety of disabilities, showing that the movement was inclusive and diverse. There were moments that were challenging for me personally—rapid color changes on screen were frustrating because I have epilepsy—but I was able to navigate these moments by closing my eyes while still following the narrative.

Disability Activism and Advocacy

The film also provided concrete examples of activism, particularly the push for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). I found it interesting to see how grassroots organizing—from the camp to the streets—helped transform policy. For example, the documentary covered the efforts of “rolling quads” and other activists to challenge systemic barriers. Even though my university has strong advocacy and support for students with disabilities, seeing these historical efforts deepened my appreciation for the movement’s scope and impact.

Beyond the history lessons, Crip Camp shows how advocacy and accommodations are interlinked. The community at Camp Jened emphasized that when people with disabilities are given resources and space, they can thrive and drive meaningful change. The film also draws clear connections between past activism and ongoing issues, showing that the fight for accessibility and equity continues today.

Bottom Line

Overall, Crip Camp was informative, moving, and inspiring. It balances historical context with personal stories, illustrating both the challenges and triumphs of the disability rights movement. For anyone interested in disability history or advocacy, it’s a compelling watch.

More on Crip Camp

Check out my colleague Sarah’s video on the same topic here: Sarah’s Instagram Crip Camp video.