Peer Supports for Augmentative and Alternative Communication

The contract involves a three-year cooperative agreement funded by the Administration for Community Living aimed at developing sustainable peer support models for individuals who use or could benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) throughout their lives. The project must actively engage a diverse group of stakeholders including individuals who use AAC, nonprofit community-based service providers, self-advocacy organizations, youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), families, and their support networks. Its focus is on addressing the needs of approximately five million Americans who experience speech disabilities, ensuring they have access to community services, personalized support, and other assistance that fosters self-determination, independence, productivity, and inclusive community integration. The initiative seeks to create a safe, inclusive community environment where AAC users can share their experiences and challenges, thereby enhancing knowledge, usage, and awareness of AAC. The ultimate objective is to empower individuals with speech disabilities, including those with I/DD, to live independent and self-directed lives using communication methods tailored to their preferences and interests. This project underscores the importance of collaboration among stakeholders and aims to promote broad societal inclusion by supporting communication accessibility for a vulnerable population.