Adaptive Hardware
Assistive Joystick & Adapters
Assembled five Spruce Mini Joysticks utilizing joystick modules and 3D-printed hardware as well as 5 Forest Hubs.
01 / The Mission
Function Forward bridges the gap between mechanical/electrical engineering and accessible living. By translating functional CAD into physical devices, we work to dismantle everyday accessibility barriers while providing open-source hardware locally at no cost to recipients.
Supported by Makers Making Change and TakingITGlobal.
01 / Distributed
150+
Devices Delivered
Hand-assembled assistive tools, switches, and custom devices delivered locally.
02 / Commitment
500+
Hours Spent
Building and testing open-source devices to ensure they meet the needs of the community.
03 / Accessibility
$0
Cost to Recipients
Every device is printed, wired, tested, and distributed directly to users without charge.
02 / Leadership
Behind the Initiative
Founded by high school student Ethan, Function Forward bridges 3D design, electronics, and firmware with community accessibility needs.
Supported by Makers Making Change and TakingITGlobal’s Sprout Ideas Fellowship, Ethan leads hardware prototyping, assembly, and distribution—delivering open-source assistive tools free of cost.
03 / Hardware Portfolio
Recent Builds
MMC Open-Source Library
LipSync Assistive Mouse
A mouth-operated joystick that enables individuals with limited hand mobility to control touchscreens and computer cursors via sip-and-puff controls.
Custom Adaptation
Adapted Splattershot Water Gun
A custom modification of a recreational electric water blaster, switch-adapted with an external MMC60 switch for accessible summer play.
04 / Process
How Our Builds Work
STEP 01 // SELECT OR REQUEST
Choose from the Library
Browse the official Makers Making Change device library of over 200 open-source assistive tools, or submit a request for a custom adaptation.
STEP 02 // BUILD & ADAPT
Engineering & Assembly
Our team 3D-prints the enclosures, solders electronics, and hand-assembles each device to strict quality standards.
STEP 03 // DELIVER
Local Distribution
Finished devices are tested and delivered directly to individuals, families, and communities locally at zero cost.
05 / Community Feedback
Testimonials & Impact
COMMUNITY PARTNER
"Thank you so much for coming and giving back to the community so freely with your time and talent!"
— York South Family Network
COMMUNITY PARTNER
"Thanks again for all of your work. It helps me get assistive tech into the hands of kids that need it!"
— Community Partner
COMMUNITY PARTNER
"I have a young client who is very interested in getting a switch-adapted water gun to have water gun fights with his brother, so this is amazing news that you can take on this request."
— Community Partner
06 / Contact
Request a Device or Ask a Question
We build and distribute assistive technologies free of charge. Tell us which device you need, how many, and any specific adaptations required or simply ask us a question.