Minnesota STAR Program
A System of Technology to Achieve Results
A System of Technology to Achieve Results (STAR) is located within the Minnesota Department of Administration. STAR's mission is to help ALL MINNESOTANS with disabilities gain access to and acquire the assistive technology they need to live, learn, work and play. The Minnesota STAR Program is federally funded by the Rehabilitation Services Administration in accordance with the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended (P.L. 108-364).
SAVE THE DATE! ADA 20th Anniversary Celebration
Monday, July 26, 2010 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Nicollet Island Pavilion, 40 Power Street, Minneapolis
On July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law. Join us in celebrating the 20th anniversary of this historic legislation. Comedian Josh Blue and former U.S. Senator David Durenberger will headline an inspiring program. Speakers and entertainers scheduled to present include:
- Comedian Josh Blue
- Former US Senator David Durenberger
- Local/National Politicians
- ASL Storyteller Nic Zapko
- ADA Expert Peter Berg
- And more!
For more information, visit http://www.adaminnesota.org or download the PDF Flyer or Text Flyer
Study Shows Majority of Minnesota Employers Believe Americans with Disabilities Act Has Had A Positive Impact
The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities commissioned a study on the impact the Americans with Disabilities Act has had on Minnesota businesses over the past 20 years. You can read the Awareness, Attitudes and Impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act Among Minnesota Businesses survey results on the Council’s Web site.
Seeking applications to fill vacancies on the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council.
Free ZAM Communicators Available
The Minnesota STAR program recently received a shipment of ZAM Communicators donated by AstraZeneca, a Delaware-based pharmaceutical company. This device was originally designed to help patients and medical professionals communicate with each other. It has built-in handles and comes with an optional table & wall mount for tabletop use and easy storage. While the ZAM Communicator does not have voice output, it does have a two-sided LCD screen that displays typed messages. The device contains an alphabet keypad on one side and pre-made messages including a pain meter on the reverse side. It is approximately 9 inches wide and 11 inches high. A docking station for charging the ZAM Communicator is included and equipped with an indicator light to let the user know when the device is fully charged.
Because this device may no longer be distributed to hospitals, medical facilities, and healthcare professionals, STAR is able to give this device directly to individuals who can benefit from using it to communicate. This is a limited offer, good only while supplies last. The device may not be sold and STAR requests that the device be returned if no longer needed. The ZAM Communicator is being provided as is; AstraZeneca, the State of Minnesota and the Minnesota STAR Program make no warranty and assume no liability on the device or any of the included components.
If you would like to request a ZAM Communicator or need additional information, please contact STAR at 651-201-2640 or via email at star.program@state.mn.us .
ZAM Communicator
Campaign for Disability Employment Public Service Announcement
Visit The Campaign for Disability Employment Web site.
Stay Informed: Join STAR's Email List
Discuss and share assistive technology information by subscribing to STAR Point.
Directory of Funding and Assistive Technology Resources
Looking for resources to help you try or buy assistive technology? Request a free copy of the 2008-2009 Directory of Funding and Assistive Technology Resources by calling 651-201-2640, 888-234-1267 (toll-free), or send an email to STAR. Minnesotans with a hearing or speech disability may call through the Minnesota Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 800-627-3529 (toll-free).
Minnesota E-Government Accessibility/Usability Compliments and Concerns Line
Having accessibility or usability problems with any Minnesota state government Web site or software? Or have you used a state Web site or software that works especially well for people with disabilities? We want to hear about your experiences. Please visit the new Minnesota E-Government Accessibility/Usability Compliments and Concerns Line.
