Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute

Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute is located on the campus of Wayne State University

04/06/2026

Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) can offer free and confidential assistance if you’re denied Assistive Technology (AT)

If your insurance denies a request for assistive technology (AT) or related AT services, you may have the right to appeal. Review the denial notice carefully, gather supporting documentation from your healthcare provider, and follow the insurer’s appeal process within the required timelines.

Visit our AT resource page to learn more
https://www.drmich.org/resources/assistive-technology/


Michigan Assistive Technology Program
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council
Michigan Assistive Technology Loan

04/06/2026

The Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP) is committed to connecting Michiganders with the assistive technology they need through various services:

• Information and Assistance: Contact MATP by phone or email with questions about AT options, funding resources, or service providers in your area.
• Training Programs: Workshops and training sessions are offered virtually and in person on a variety of AT topics.
• Business and Organization Partnerships: MATP collaborates with employers, schools, healthcare facilities, and community organizations to improve accessibility and AT awareness.
• Community Outreach: Through social media, presentations, and community activities, MATP spreads awareness about the life-changing potential of assistive technology.

Whether you’re a person with a disability or an older adult, a caregiver, or a professional supporting someone with a disability or an older adult, MATP is here to help you explore the tools that make life easier and more connected.

Contact MATP:
800-578-0280
Email: AT@mi-at.org
Facebook: Michigan Assistive Technology Program
Reach out to them on Facebook
Request a demonstration or device loan online
Check out their Website


Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council
Michigan Assistive Technology Loan
Michigan Assistive Technology Program

04/03/2026

Have you heard of the Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP)?

MATP helps people with disabilities of all ages access tools and devices that make everyday life and community participation easier. Think of them as your guide to trying assistive technology in the places you actually live.

How MATP Helps:
• Free demonstrations
• Device loans
• Statewide support
• By people with disabilities, for people with disabilities: MATP staff use assistive technology themselves, so they know what works.
• Guided by the Assistive Technology Act: MATP programs are designed to increase access, choice, and independence for people with disabilities.

MATP does not sell devices nor promote one device over another. Their focus is on helping you explore options, try them out, and make informed decisions.

Contact MATP:
800-578-0280
Email: AT@mi-at.org
Facebook: Michigan Assistive Technology Program
Reach out to them on Facebook
Request a demonstration or device loan online


Michigan Assistive Technology Program
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council
Michigan Assistive Technology Loan

Know a self-advocate making a difference? Or is that you?Applications are now open for our 2026 Jane Vermeulen Leadershi...
04/02/2026

Know a self-advocate making a difference? Or is that you?

Applications are now open for our 2026 Jane Vermeulen Leadership Award!

This award honors a self-advocate who demonstrates leadership and is making a positive impact in their community.

Named in honor of Jane “Janey” Vermeulen, a passionate disability rights advocate. The award celebrates individuals who are helping others live active, respected, and empowered lives.

What you’ll receive:
Up to $500 to attend a leadership training or conference

Who can apply:
• Self-advocates (yes,you can nominate yourself!)
• Anyone who knows a deserving self-advocate

Deadline: May 1, 2026, don’t wait!

Submit a nomination today: https://tinyurl.com/34bpawmz

04/02/2026

Assistive Technology (AT) is everywhere. 2.5 Billion people use AT globally, by 2050 the number is expected to grow by 3.5 billion. Source: World Health Organization. Most people use more than one assistive technology device as well.

Assistive technology includes simple tools like a jar opener!
Small solutions can make a big impact on independence.

Disability Rights Michigan
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute
Michigan Assistive Technology Loan


Day 2

[ID: Graphic with the heading “Did you know?” Text reads, “Assistive Technology includes kitchen items like a jar opener.” An image of a green jar opener is shown, including the “30 Days, 30 AT Ways” logo. , Day 2.]

04/01/2026

We’re excited to kick off 30 Days, 30 AT Ways!

All month long, we’ll be highlighting how assistive technology helps people across Michigan live, learn, work, and participate more independently.

Follow along for daily tools, tips, and resources that support independence, accessibility, and opportunity.

Michigan Assistive Technology Loan
Michigan Assistive Technology Program
Disability Rights Michigan
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute



[Alt text: Graphic reading “Introducing: 30 Days, 30 AT Ways” with the hashtag and an outline of Michigan. Text, A statewide campaign to highlight how assistive technology helps people live, learn, work, and participate more independently. MI-DDI, MiDDC, MATLF, DRM, MI-DDI logos.]

04/01/2026

We’re proud to congratulate the winners of our 2026 Ernie Reynolds Essay Contest!

This year brought a record-breaking 42 submissions, showcasing incredible talent and thoughtful perspectives. After careful consideration, three outstanding essays were selected as winners.

First Place: Jessica L. (Lake Orion, MI)
Second Place: Doug T. (Lapeer, MI)
Third Place: Gabrielle B. (Marine City, MI)

Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this contest such a meaningful tradition for DRM - we truly appreciate your continued support.

Read the winning essays: https://www.drmich.org/ernie-reynolds-essay-contest/

The State of Michigan is asking adults with disabilities to share their experiences with to***co use and state programs ...
03/31/2026

The State of Michigan is asking adults with disabilities to share their experiences with to***co use and state programs designed to help people quit smoking.

Many people with disabilities face barriers when trying to find or use health programs. This short online survey looks at whether people know about these programs, how easy they are to access, and whether they are working as intended.

Any adult age 18 or older in Michigan who has a disability can take part. You can participate whether you use to***co or not, and whether or not you want to quit.

Your feedback will help the state understand how well these programs are reaching people and how they can be improved.

Survey link: tinyurl.com/mito***cosurvey

[Alt Text] A man using a wheelchair and a woman sit outdoors by a river, looking at a smartphone together.

03/30/2026

People with disabilities are part of the fabric of every Maine community!Last summer, Disability Rights Maine (DRM) partnered with the Center for Community I...

03/30/2026

Our next "Let's Talk About It" webinar is on April 16:

"Office of Recipient Rights and the MI Mental Health Code," presented by Waverly Henkel and Austin Cox, Investigator-Advocates, Disability Rights Michigan.

📅Thursday, April 16
🕛 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
📍Virtual webinar (Zoom)

Join us to learn about the roles and responsibilities of the Office of Recipient Rights and what steps to take if it does not fulfill its legal responsibilities during an investigation or intervention.

💬 Let's Talk About It is a webinar series for people with disabilities, families, caregivers, and anyone interested in strengthening family wellbeing.

🔗 Register here: https://go.mi.gov/4u7hs2096

The State of Michigan is asking adults with disabilities to share their experiences with to***co use and state programs ...
03/26/2026

The State of Michigan is asking adults with disabilities to share their experiences with to***co use and state programs designed to help people quit smoking.

Many people with disabilities face barriers when trying to find or use health programs. This short online survey looks at whether people know about these programs, how easy they are to access, and whether they are working as intended.

Any adult age 18 or older in Michigan who has a disability can take part. You can participate whether you use to***co or not, and whether or not you want to quit.

Your feedback will help the state understand how well these programs are reaching people and how they can be improved.

Survey link: tinyurl.com/mito***cosurvey

[Alt Text] A young woman sitting in a wheelchair at a kitchen table, looking at a tablet. A laptop, mouse, and notebook are on the table in front of her, and a modern kitchen with a sink and stove is visible in the background.

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Detroit, MI
48202

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