ACL (Administration For Community Living)

What is ACL (Administration For Community Living)?

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) is a U.S. federal agency responsible for increasing access to community supports and resources for older Americans and people with disabilities across the lifespan. For government contractors, understanding ACL's mission and priorities is essential when pursuing opportunities related to aging, disability, and related health and human services.

Definition

ACL was created in 2012 by bringing together the Administration on Aging (AoA), the Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD), and the HHS Office on Disability. As a division of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), ACL is the federal agency responsible for implementing the Older Americans Act, the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, and other key legislations. It plays a central role in shaping the policy landscape and funding opportunities related to aging and disability services. Because ACL funds programs and conducts research, contractors with relevant expertise may find opportunities to provide services and support to ACL and its grantees.

ACL operates through a network of state and community-based organizations, and its funding supports a wide range of programs, including home and community-based services, senior nutrition programs, caregiver support, and protection and advocacy services. Contracts awarded by ACL can vary significantly, including the provision of direct services and supports, research and evaluation projects, and technical assistance to state and local grantees. Staying up-to-date on ACL's strategic plan and priorities is essential for contractors seeking to align their capabilities with the agency's needs.

Key Points

• Mission Focus: ACL’s overarching mission is to maximize the independence, well-being, and health of older adults, people with disabilities, and their families and caregivers. Contract proposals should demonstrate an understanding of this mission.
• Funding Streams: ACL administers several grant and contract programs. Understanding the specific funding streams related to your expertise will help you identify relevant opportunities.
• Federal Regulations: ACL is governed by federal regulations that dictate how its programs are administered and how contracts are awarded. Compliance with these regulations is essential.
• Program Evaluation: ACL prioritizes program evaluation to assess the effectiveness of its initiatives. Contractors may be needed to conduct independent program evaluations.

Practical Examples

1. Developing Training Programs: ACL might contract with a training organization to develop and deliver training programs for direct care workers who support older adults in their homes. Contractors must demonstrate experience with adult learning principles and the specific needs of the target population.
2. Evaluating a Grant Program: A contractor could be hired to evaluate the impact of an ACL-funded grant program designed to increase access to assistive technology for people with disabilities. The evaluation would require strong quantitative and qualitative research skills.
3. Providing Technical Assistance: ACL might contract with a consulting firm to provide technical assistance to state agencies on how to implement evidence-based practices for dementia care. The consulting firm would need expertise in dementia care and the ability to effectively communicate best practices to state-level stakeholders.