ADAPT Community Network was recently selected as one of 22 organizations to provide educational training on Artificial Intelligence (AI) through the New York City Council grant program. This is the second consecutive year that ADAPT has been selected and ADAPT is the only disability services organization to receive the grant. 

“Underserved populations often get left behind. Seniors, those who use English as a second language, young people impacted by the criminal justice system, and people with disabilities took years to catch up when computers, email, and other technological necessities became widespread. The idea behind this project is to have those populations get the education they need right away, and to understand both the benefits and the dangers of these technologies” shared Peter Cobb, Coordinator of Operations and Community Outreach at ADAPT Community Network.  

Launched in 2025, the project will continue until 2027. During that time, over 200 people with disabilities will be trained throughout 8 of ADAPT’s programs. The grant will also provide continuing education materials for ADAPT staff and educators to create their own classes once the program ends. Topics include cybersecurity, protecting sensitive information, learning how AI works, the environmental impact, identifying misinformation, and self-advocacy.  

Misinformation is one of the biggest issues affecting the I/DD community. These classes help cover important information such as how to identify if something is real, clues on when to do more research, and how to adjust settings and preferences to make information safer. It helps students understand that AI isn’t a person, it isn’t secure, and that it isn’t a place for credit cards or medical, easily identifiable, or sensitive information.  

One of the most helpful topics from the program is learning ways to use AI to gain independence. “I know one example of someone who does travel independently, but she has a lot of anxiety with going to places she doesn’t know yet. Something that really helped with her comfort level is being able to use AI to generate what it’s going to look like when she gets out of the station so she can prepare herself” shared Peter Cobb.  

The classes have also helped self-advocates use AI tools to communicate with elected officials about issues affecting their lives. From budget concerns and access to durable medical equipment to transportation barriers and broken elevators in their buildings, participants are learning how technology can help them articulate their concerns and advocate for change. 

“I think it’s been really rewarding to see people become more comfortable with technology and better able to identify things for themselves. The best part is seeing people who are typically left out of technology conversations find themselves included and no longer feel completely overwhelmed” shared Ebonee Ragins, Community Events Specialist and AI Education Instructor at ADAPT Community Network.