Family Advocate
Forecasted
Family Advocate supports individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their families through family-to-family advocacy to access services and build integrated lives in their communities.
This grant is no longer accepting proposals
Illinois Department of Human Services has archived this opportunity.
Funder: Illinois Department of Human Services
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Application closing)
Funding Amounts: FY 2026: approximately $500,000 total; individual awards up to $500,000; 1–3 awards
Summary: Supports family-to-family advocacy helping individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their families access community-based services and supports.
Key Information: Applicants must demonstrate I/DD service experience and complete Illinois grant prequalification before the application deadline.
Description
The Family Advocate Program is administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), Division of Developmental Disabilities. It provides family-to-family support for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families selected for services through the division’s PUNS List. The program helps families understand Waiver-funded options, including Home-Based Support Services and Community Integrated Living Arrangement services, so individuals can build integrated lives of their choosing at home and in their communities.
Program goals include supporting Ligas Class Members, delivering culturally appropriate education about waiver services, and collaborating with Independent Service Coordination agencies to improve access. Advocates also identify service barriers and share information with the division. IDHS prioritizes equity, racial justice, and inclusive service delivery. The FY 2027 opportunity is identified as a competitive initial announcement, number 27-444-24-1506.
