Peer Supports for Augmentative and Alternative Communication

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) is seeking to fund a 3-year cooperative agreement to develop sustainable peer support models for individuals who use or can benefit from the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) across the lifespan. The funded project must include, but not be limited to, individuals that use AAC, nonprofit community-based service-provider organization(s), self-advocacy organizations, youth and adults with I/DD, families, and others in their support system. The goal of the project is to provide a community where people who need or use AAC can come together in a safe space to share their positive and negative experiences and to increase knowledge, usage, and awareness of AAC for people with speech disabilities to live independent, self-determined lives using AAC that meets their interests and communication preferences. Key aspects of this opportunity include: • The project will address the needs of and provide support for the estimated five million people in the US that experience speech disabilities including individuals intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who use AAC or could benefit from AAC. • The project will promote self-determination, independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion in all facets of community life. • The funded project must include a variety of stakeholders, including individuals who use AAC, nonprofit organizations, and self-advocacy organizations. • Foreign entities are not eligible to compete for, or receive, awards made under this announcement.