Adapt for Access
A hands-on program that creates custom equipment for children and adults with disabilities. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to support real needs in real environments, whether at home, in school, or out in the community.
Access is not one size fits all
Why It Matters
Every person deserves the chance to participate fully in life. For many families, access to adaptive equipment is limited by high costs, long wait times, or a lack of personalized options. Sometimes what is needed simply does not exist yet.
Adapt for Access was created to meet those needs. By designing custom solutions quickly and thoughtfully, we help children and adults gain independence, comfort, and the opportunity to be part of their communities. Each adaptation is more than a piece of equipment. It is a pathway to greater confidence, connection, and possibility.
How It Works
Every project begins with a real need. It might be a child who cannot sit comfortably at school, a therapist searching for the right tool, or a family looking for support at home. When existing equipment is unavailable, does not fit, or takes too long to arrive, we step in with thoughtful, custom solutions.
Submit a adaptation request
Anyone including parents, therapists, teachers, or caregivers can fill out our request form online. We ask a few simple questions to learn more about the challenge and the person the adaptation will support.
We listen and collaborate
Once we receive a request, someone from our team will reach out to learn more. We may schedule a visit, collect measurements, or ask for photos or videos to better understand the context and goals.
We design and build
Our team of designers begins prototyping using cardboard carpentry and other accessible materials to create a safe, functional, and personalized solution. Most adaptations are completed within six to eight weeks.
We follow up and refine
Once delivered, we check in to make sure the equipment is working as intended. If needed, we make modifications to improve comfort, function, or fit.
Stories from Adapt for Access
Behind every adaptation is a story of creativity, collaboration, and new possibilities.
Saul is Ready to Rumble
Meet Saul—a high-energy kid who loves speed but faces mobility and sensory challenges. At a CHARGE Conference, he received a fully customized “Wild Thing” scooter from ADA, built to support his oxygen tank and spine.
Chuckie's 'Do Everything' Chair
Chuckie is a growing teen learning to harness the power of his upper body. To support his independence and provide a safe space during seizures, ADA designers created a one-of-a-kind “Everything Chair” custom-built to adapt with him as he grows, strengthens, and thrives.
How this work is funded
Adapt for Access is made possible through the generosity of individual donors and foundation grants. We never let cost stand in the way of someone receiving the equipment they need. Many of the families we serve may face financial barriers, and we receive only limited reimbursement from schools and clinical settings. Your support directly funds the materials, time, and care that go into each custom adaptation.
Let’s Build Something Together
Whether you need a custom adaptation or want to support this work, we would love to hear from you.
Request a custom adaptation
If you or someone you know needs a personalized piece of equipment, we are here to help.
Help stock the shop
Help us keep our workshop supplied with materials that bring custom adaptations to life. Every donation supports hands-on solutions for people with disabilities.
Collaborate with us
Are you an educator, therapist, or organization interested in collaborating? We are always looking for ways to expand our impact.
Teacher Wishlist items
Every classroom has unique accessibility needs. Through our Teacher Wishlist, we help educators access adaptive tools and resources that support their students. Explore the gallery below to see examples of past wishlist requests.
Contact our team to learn more about the Teacher Wishlist program.
