one by one®: Assistive Technology of Alaska
Assistive Technology of Alaska (ATLA) is a unique resource for individuals with disabilities in Alaska. It offers comprehensive support and guidance to help people of all ages choose the most suitable assistive technology solutions to meet their specific needs. Team backpacks have become an essential tool for ATLA employees, who often find themselves journeying to remote locations to provide this service. The small planes they travel in have limited weight capacity, so every pound counts when packing. Having the right backpacks ensures that employees have all the necessary equipment without exceeding weight limits.
Withstanding various environments
ATLA is dedicated to servicing its customers, even in the most challenging of environments. “The Alyeska pipeline is over 800 miles long and conveys oil from Prudhoe Bay, on Alaska’s North Slope, south to Valdez, on the shores of Prince William Sound in Southcentral Alaska,” said Tori Phipps, operations and outreach manager. “Imagine hiking that on your way to work!”
Real-life experience
Phipps recounted a time when a storm rolled through, making travel difficult. Thanks to an invaluable connection, they received transportation, but not without a hitch. The team had to hop on a bush plane while it was rolling down the runway. Thankfully, they made it out just in time. Had they been stuck on location, they would have had limited resources due to the weight restrictions required for travel. “Getting the clients what they need comes first,” Phipps shared. “We’re not going to replace a device with something like a sleeping bag in case we get stuck.”
Making a practical impact with team backpacks
The backpacks are designed to be practical and lightweight, with multiple compartments to store the necessary tools and equipment ATLA employees need for their work. They are also durable, as they need to withstand the wear and tear of constant travel and rough terrain. “These backpacks make that much of an impact, so we need to make a budget for them,” said Phipps. The one by one grant covered backpacks for most of the staff who rely on them as trusted travel companions. Being able to carry the right tools ensures the ATLA team is always ready to serve its customers, no matter where they may be.
A note from Cheryl
It’s an honor to support an organization like ATLA in its mission to make a positive impact in the community. We were proud to play a small role in helping the staff reach their customers, no matter where they live. We hope that these team backpacks will aid in its journey to make a difference. If you’re interested in a one by one grant, visit onebyone.4imprint.com.