Centers for Independent Living Competition - American Samoa

The Centers for Independent Living Competition for American Samoa is administered by the Administration for Community Living within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Office of Independent Living Programs. This funding opportunity supports the establishment and operation of a disability-led Center for Independent Living designed to promote autonomy, inclusion, and community participation for individuals with significant disabilities. The program is authorized under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and aligns with federal priorities to enhance independence, reduce institutionalization, and expand access to community-based services. The primary purpose of this grant is to fund a single eligible organization to operate a Center for Independent Living in American Samoa. These centers are consumer-controlled, community-based organizations that provide core services including information and referral, independent living skills training, peer counseling, and individual and systems advocacy. Additional services may include housing assistance, transportation support, rehabilitation technology, and services that assist individuals transitioning out of institutional settings or at risk of entering them. The program emphasizes cross-disability inclusion and requires that services support individuals in achieving self-directed independent living goals. Funding under this opportunity totals 319524 dollars over a two-year period, distributed as 159762 dollars per year across two 12-month budget periods. The anticipated period of performance runs from September 30 2026 through September 29 2028. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement, and funds must be used in accordance with federal regulations including 2 CFR Part 200 and program-specific restrictions. Unallowable costs include construction, major rehabilitation, and basic research. Administrative and indirect costs must comply with federal guidelines, and recipients may elect to use a de minimis indirect cost rate of up to 15 percent if no negotiated rate exists. Eligibility is restricted to consumer-controlled, nonprofit organizations that are community-based, cross-disability, and nonresidential. Eligible applicants include nonprofit entities such as tribal organizations, faith-based organizations, and community-based organizations. In limited circumstances, a designated state entity may apply if no eligible nonprofit is available. Applicants must demonstrate that the proposed center aligns with the territory’s Plan for Independent Living and serves unserved or underserved populations. Additionally, the majority of staff and board members must be individuals with significant disabilities, ensuring that the center remains consumer-driven. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov by August 3 2026 at 1159 PM Eastern Time. Applicants must complete required federal forms, including SF 424, SF 424A, and SF 424B, along with a project narrative limited to 20 pages and a detailed budget narrative. Supporting documentation includes proof of nonprofit status, resumes or job descriptions, and commitment letters. Applicants must also maintain active registrations with SAM.gov and Grants.gov prior to submission. Applications are evaluated through a competitive merit review process based on criteria including project need, approach, impact, organizational capacity, and budget justification. Reviewers assess alignment with statutory requirements and strategic priorities, including improving access to services, supporting caregivers, and promoting economic security and community living. Final funding decisions also consider geographic distribution, past performance, and cost reasonableness. The expected award date is September 30 2026, with project activities beginning immediately thereafter. For questions regarding the program, applicants may contact Peter Nye via email at peter.nye@acl.hhs.gov or by phone at 2027957606. Financial inquiries may be directed to Rasheed Williams. This funding opportunity represents a targeted investment in expanding independent living services within American Samoa and strengthening the capacity of disability-led organizations to support community integration and independence.

Align proposal with ACL strategic priorities clearly demonstrate measurable outcomes ensure strong governance and disability led leadership and provide detailed work plan tied to outcomes