Peer Supports for Augmentative and Alternative Communication
This grant funds a 3-year project to create sustainable peer support networks for people who use or could benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication, promoting inclusion, independence, and self-advocacy.
Funder: Administration for Community Living
Due Dates: July 12, 2026 (optional notice of intent) | July 22, 2026 (full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $775,000 per year for 3 years (total $2,325,000); one award expected; no cost sharing required
Summary: Supports the development of a national, sustainable peer support network for individuals who use or could benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) across the lifespan.
Key Information: Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET on the due date; foreign entities and individuals are not eligible.
Description
This opportunity funds a three-year cooperative agreement to create and sustain a national peer support network for individuals who use or could benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) due to speech-related disabilities. The program aims to empower AAC users, foster leadership, and provide resources to improve self-determination, economic security, and community engagement. The funded project will build on recent demonstration and planning efforts, focusing on a user-led, modern, and accessible peer support infrastructure that addresses the needs of an estimated 5 million people in the U.S. with speech disabilities.
Key activities include:
- Leading a national AAC Peer Support Leadership Coalition, primarily composed of AAC users.
- Building and maintaining a national directory and hub for AAC peer support groups and mentors.
- Creating and disseminating user-friendly resources, toolkits, and training.
- Conducting targeted outreach to underserved and hard-to-reach populations.
- Evaluating project outcomes and sharing best practices.
