What is LATAN?
LATAN is a 501(c)(3) statewide nonprofit organization that connects individuals with disabilities and older persons to the Assistive Technology (AT) that enables independence in employment, school, and community living.
LATAN Governance and Management
LATAN is governed by a 16-member Board of Directors, representing a diversity of perspectives with regard to disability, ethnic and geographic cultures. Board members are recruited statewide to include AT users, family members of AT users and community leaders. Volunteers are involved in LATAN activities through its board, committees, focus groups, advisory councils, program services, and special projects. Overall operations of LATAN are managed by President & CEO Julie Nesbit.
Financial Record and Standards for Excellence
LATAN conducts annual independent audits of its financial affairs and enjoys a stellar financial record. LATAN is the recipient of the Louisiana Association of Nonprofit Organizations' (LANO) Certificate of Excellence for meeting the Louisiana Standards for Excellence in nonprofits.
Board and Staff Members Understand Disabilities
Consumer involvement is the key element to LATAN's ability to know what AT needs and barriers exist in our state. Currently, a majority of LATAN's board of directors and most staff members are individuals with disabilities and/or family members of individuals with disabilities. Likewise our statewide advisory council is composed of a majority of AT users and family members.
Funding through the Assistive Technology Act State Grant
LATAN, Louisiana's Assistive Technology Act Program, has been designated by the Governor as the implementing agency for the Assistive Technology Act (AT Act) state grant. This federal grant, LATAN's major funding source, was first received in 1991, and mandates certain required activities for AT access and acquisition for individuals of all ages with all types of disabilities. The AT Act grant has been renewed each year since 1991, and is dependent upon annual Congressional appropriations for any continued funding, which has decreased over the years. The Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) remains the fiscal agent through which AT Act grant funds flow to LATAN.
Funding through State Appropriations
For the past several years, LATAN has received funding from state appropriations to carry out the AT activities for Louisiana, supplementing the federal AT Act grant, and enabling LATAN to establish demonstration centers in north and south Louisiana.
Additional Funding
Additional LATAN funding is derived from individual donations, corporate and community foundation giving, grants and state contracts. Since LATAN is an incorporated 501(c)(3) organization, all donations are tax-deductible and greatly appreciated.
Contact LATAN at (800) 270.6185 (V/TT) or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
