Our Purpose
The purpose of the Task Force is to develop a comprehensive, statewide blueprint for the implementation of Technology First in Michigan.
Tech First Task Force
Tasks
Assess the role of enabling technology for our IDD population
Identify technologies that are already being used to support individuals with IDD in Michigan and other states
Create an education, training and communications plan to engage all stakeholders
Recommend the necessary Medicaid policy and funding changes
Propose an ongoing mechanism for supporting technology users within the IDD population
Identify alternative strategies for funding as necessary
Task Force Members
Name | Organization | Last Name |
|---|---|---|
Aimee Sterk | Michigan Disability Rights Coalition and Self Advocate | |
Al Jansen | Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (Retired) | |
Carolyn Bloodworth | Consumers Energy (Retired) | |
Cheryl Ohman | Lakestate Industries | |
Christie Kay | The Arc of Oakland County | |
Colleen Allen | Autism Alliance of Michigan | |
Dawn Calnen | The Arc of Oakland County | |
Dennis Bott | Easterseals MORC (Retired) | |
Jason Ray | SimplyHome | |
Jennifer Bohne | Progressive Lifestyles | |
Kathy Lentz | Integrated Services of Kalamazoo | |
Lindsay Calcatera | Easterseals MORC | |
Margaret Overton | Anesthesiologist (Retired) | |
Meegan Winters | AbleVue and AbleEyes | |
Neil Vill | World Data Products | |
Sarah George | Peckham Industries | |
Susan Chaplin | Deloitte (Retired) and Parent Advocate | |
Taylor Remski | On My Own and Self Adovocate | |
Todd Culver | Incompass Michigan | |
Tracey Hamlet | MOKA |
Committees
Oversee the development and implementation of strategies to integrate technology and remote supports for individuals with disabilities in Michigan. The Task Force will collaborate across multiple committees to evaluate best practices, policies, and infrastructure needs, and work toward the creation of a sustainable, state-wide program that supports independent living through technology.
Communications, Education, and Training Committee
This committee identifies stakeholders impacted by Tech First, explores best practices from other states, and develops Michigan’s strategy for communication and training. It evaluates training delivery mechanisms and organizations, plans stakeholder engagement, and prepares recommendations for blueprint distribution and reporting.
Medicaid Waiver and Policy Committee
The committee examines Medicaid waivers and billing codes across states to understand how technology including remote supports is funded. It reviews Michigan’s current policies and CMH billing practices, identifies barriers, and drafts recommended updates to expand access to and funding for technology-enabled services.
Technology Committee
This committee explores how technology can support independent living for individuals with disabilities. It reviews solutions used in other states, estimates costs and ROI, assesses infrastructure needs, and identifies providers. The committee also develops recommendations for assessing individual needs and training strategies, and compiles findings into a final report.
Strategy Committee
Explores long-term sustainability through relationships and structural entities including funding, training, access, and blueprint development for lasting impact beyond the Task Force. The Committee draws together the insights from all committees to draft the final blueprint document.