Celebrating 30 Years of Empowering
Floridians Through Assistive Technology
Welcome! We’re excited you’re here to help us honor FAAST’s 30th anniversary!
For the past three decades, FAAST has been a leader in providing assistive technology services, advocacy, and support to Floridians with disabilities. This special milestone is a tribute to our community, partners, and the incredible people we’ve had the privilege to serve. As we look to the future, we remain committed to driving innovation and offering life-changing support for the next 30 years and beyond.
— Eric Reed, Executive Director, FAAST
A Brief History
FAAST’s story began in 1988 when the Technology Act prompted states to create programs focused on assistive technology (A.T.). In Florida, leaders like Dr. Calvin Melton and Terry Ward, Ph.D., alongside a dedicated group of advocates, worked tirelessly to secure federal funding for what would become FAAST.
Originally managed under the State of Florida Department of Employment and Security’s Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) sector, the team realized that FAAST needed to operate as an independent nonprofit to better serve the community. On October 20, 1994, FAAST was officially incorporated, and soon after, the organization began establishing partnerships with Regional Demonstration Centers (RDCs) across Florida to expand its reach.
Terry Ward became FAAST’s first Executive Director, leading the way in securing ongoing federal funding and overseeing important initiatives like the Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Program and the New Horizon Loan Program. These early efforts laid the foundation for FAAST’s continued growth and its mission to support Floridians with disabilities through innovative assistive technology services.
Empowering Independence:
Key Laws That Drive Access to Assistive Technology
The Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988, often called the Assistive Technology Act, was a game-changer for people with disabilities. This law recognized the vital role of assistive technology (AT) in helping individuals gain independence, access education, and participate fully in society. It provided funding to states like Florida, helping programs like FAAST increase access to AT devices and services. The Act also emphasized consumer involvement, public awareness, and the development of new technologies—ensuring that AT is affordable, accessible, and empowering for those who need it most.
The Assistive Technology Act of 2004 built on the foundation laid by the 1988 law, ensuring continued federal support for assistive technology programs. It helped refine and expand the ways states like Florida could offer services, making AT even more accessible to people with disabilities. This law reauthorized key programs and reinforced the importance of empowering individuals with the tools they need to lead independent, fulfilling lives. Thanks to these laws, FAAST has been able to grow and provide life-changing assistive technology to countless Floridians over the years.
Join Us in Commemorating FAAST's 30th Anniversary!
Over the years, we’ve grown into a vital resource for Floridians with disabilities, thanks to our dedicated leadership, community partners, and supporters. Curious about our journey, the people behind FAAST, or the impact of our Regional Demonstration Centers? Dive into our history and meet the sponsors who help make it all possible by exploring our 30th Anniversary Commemorative Booklet. Discover how we’ve been empowering lives for three decades and look ahead with us to the future!
Join Us for FAAST’s 30th Anniversary Festivities!
We’re celebrating 30 years of empowering lives through assistive technology, and we want you to be a part of it! On October 22, 2024, we invite you to visit your local Regional Demonstration Center (RDC) and join us in marking this special milestone. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about FAAST, explore available assistive technology, and celebrate with your community. We can’t wait to see you there!
- Atlantic RDC: 11 – 2 PM
- Broward and South RDC: 12 – 4 PM
- Central RDC: 1 – 7 PM
- Gulf Coast RDC: 1 – 4 PM
- Midland RDC: 8 – 4 PM
- North Central RDC: 4 – 7 PM
- Northeast RDC: 4 – 7 PM
- Northwest RDC: 1 – 7 PM
- Southeast RDC: 1 – 7 PM
- Southwest RDC: 1 – 7 PM
- West Central RDC: 8 – 4 PM
Not sure which facility is closest to you? Fill out the form below and someone will contact you with the details!
Meet the Sponsors Powering FAAST's Mission
We couldn’t do what we do without the incredible support of our sponsors! Their generosity and commitment help us provide essential services and assistive technology to Floridians with disabilities. Take a moment to meet the organizations and businesses that are making a difference in our community. Check out our amazing sponsors who are helping us change lives.
Advanced Driving Systems
ImaginAble Solutions Inc.
SportsAbility Alliance
TobiiDynavox
Watson & Associates, PA
Audiology Associates of North Florida
Able United
Florida Vision Technology
Diversity in Toys
Forbes AAC
Emerald Coast Vision Aids
First Federal Bank
Florida Visually Impaired and Blind Services
Lighthouse of the Big Bend
Sunny Pediatric Services
FAAST Advisory Council Board of Directors
Join Us in Empowering Lives
Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply sharing our story, your support helps make assistive technology accessible to those who need it most. Here’s how you can get involved:
Donate: Help us keep providing essential services.
Volunteer: Join our amazing team.
Spread the Word: Share FAAST’s mission with your community.