Frequently Asked Questions

Ability Central is a nonprofit organization focused on improving communication and information access for individuals with disabilities. Its mission is to ensure that people with disabilities can access the information they need and express themselves effectively.  

Ability Central’s mission is to be a leading educator, convener, and resource provider for people with disabilities and their support communities. We aim to make relevant, researched information about disabilities easily accessible. 

Yes. The California Communications Access Foundation (CCAF) and its philanthropic arm, Ability Central, is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, EIN 61-1411655. 

Ability Central’s mission is to be a leading educator, convener, and resource provider for people with disabilities and their support communities. The organization aims to make relevant, researched information about disabilities easily accessible. 

The Ability Central Portal offers several essential features designed to support people with disabilities: 

• Discover Devices: Search through an international database of mobile phones and tablets tailored to your accessibility needs. 

• Locate Disability Services: Find organizations across the nation offering support services for individuals with disabilities. 

• Explore Articles on Disability: Read the latest news, research, and resources focused on disability-related topics. 

• Connect with Disability Events: Stay informed about upcoming events in the disability community. 

You can use the Portal's international database to discover mobile phones, tablets, and other devices that meet your accessibility needs. The database allows you to research devices by specific features like screen readers, voice commands, and more. 

Our mobile device information is taken from the Global Accessibility Reporting Initiative (GARI) database. GARI was created by the Mobile Manufacturers Forum to provide one central source of information on accessibility features in mobile phones and to help consumers identify devices that support these features. GARI’s database is constantly updated and currently has details on more than 110 accessible features and over 1,100 mobile phone models around the world in many languages.

The Articles section of the Portal is a curated collection of disability-related content, including news, research, best practices, personal stories, and information on assistive technology. Topics range from policy updates to in-depth resources on accessibility and inclusion.

The information on the Ability Central Portal comes from a variety of sources. Our team has spent years building tools from government and international data and compiling a diverse set of resources from the web, community organizations, and more. We collaborate with experts, researchers, and members from the Deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent communities to create high-quality, reliable content. Every resource shared is carefully vetted to meet the needs and standards of the disability community. 

Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date resources, some information may become outdated or incomplete. Always consult with your care provider.

The Ability Central Portal features an events section where you can explore upcoming local and national events related to disability awareness, assistive technology, advocacy, and more. You can filter events by date and location to stay connected. 

There are many disabilities that can impact different aspects of our minds and bodies. While the Portal contains resources about dozens of disabilities, we are still adding information and resources for many more. If you see a missing category, please contact us and suggest adding it.

Donate 

Want to help us and other organizations empowering Deaf, disabled, and neurodiverse communities? Consider a one-time or monthly donation to increase the impact of the Ability Central Portal. Donate today! 

For any questions about your gift, visit our Donation FAQs. 

Share 

Share the Portal with your organization, family, friends, and community. Together, let’s spread the word and expand information and communications access for those who need it most. 

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Want to help us and other organizations empowering Deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent communities? Consider a one-time or monthly donation to increase the impact of the Ability Central Portal. Your gift allows us to add more features, content, and organizations that support these communities. Your donation is tax-deductible to the full extent of US law, and we make the process simple. Donate today! 

Want to learn how to get donations matched by your employer, give stock, or leave a legacy? For any questions about your gift visit our Donation FAQs. 

Ability Central does not provide direct services to individuals. Instead, it functions as a resource hub, helping people with disabilities find information, connect with support organizations, and access tools and technology to improve accessibility.

To get in touch with Ability Central for questions or support, visit our contact page. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the resources and services available through the Portal.