Latino Outreach

The Latino Outreach program, offered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) through its Division of Developmental Disabilities, is a state-funded initiative aimed at addressing disparities in service access among Latino/Hispanic individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD). The program is specifically designed to support those not currently receiving any Home and Community-Based Waiver (HCBS) services from state agencies such as the Department on Aging (IDoA), Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS), or the Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC). This initiative ensures that linguistically and culturally appropriate services are extended to a vulnerable demographic that may otherwise remain underserved. The program seeks to preserve community living and maximize independence for Latino individuals with I/DD while also empowering their families with critical tools and information. Program objectives emphasize strengthening familial support systems and increasing access to vital services. To accomplish this, the initiative funds nonprofit organizations that can deliver targeted outreach, referral services, and resource navigation in a culturally responsive manner. Services include mental health assistance, Medicaid navigation, vocational rehabilitation, and support in legal or educational areas such as guardianship and IEP/504 plan meetings. Each funded entity is responsible for quarterly reporting on the number and demographics of individuals served, the nature of services provided, and participation in outreach activities. Performance expectations include delivering a minimum of four peer support and family resource presentations annually, ensuring at least 80% of diagnosed I/DD individuals who contact the program are served, and maintaining a satisfaction rate of 80% or higher. All program interactions, services, and survey results must be documented and submitted to IDHS as part of compliance requirements. Application to the program is limited to nonprofit organizations with demonstrated experience in providing services to individuals with I/DD and their families. Organizations must meet prequalification requirements through the Illinois GATA portal, including registration with SAM.gov and compliance with good standing and exclusion list checks. The submission package must include a comprehensive program narrative, a Uniform Grant Budget entered via the CSA system, and the required forms (Uniform Application and Conflict of Interest Disclosure). Applications must adhere strictly to formatting guidelines and cannot exceed 25 pages excluding required forms. The application window closes on March 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. CST, and submissions must be emailed to DHS.DDDGrantProg@illinois.gov. Only electronic submissions to this designated email will be accepted. Awards will be announced within 45–60 days post-deadline. Successful applicants will receive a Notice of State Award (NOSA) followed by a Uniform Grant Agreement (UGA) to initiate the performance period, which will run for 12 months with potential renewals under a 36-month term. This grant does not require matching funds, and pre-award costs are not allowable. The program is funded entirely through state appropriations, with recent fiscal year appropriations averaging around $161,000–$165,000. Award amounts for individual grantees vary but have ranged from $65,000 to $100,000 in past years. While funding is contingent on state budget approval, this program represents a continuing commitment by the state of Illinois to foster equity and accessibility in services for its Latino/Hispanic residents with developmental disabilities.

Follow formatting instructions carefully; ensure all required documents are complete and signed; incomplete applications will not be considered.