Peer Supports for Augmentative and Alternative Communication

AoD plans to fund one (1) 3-year cooperative agreement to develop sustainable peer support models for individuals who use or can benefit from the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) across the lifespan. The funded project must include, but not be limited to, individuals that use AAC, nonprofit community-based service-provider organization(s), self-advocacy organizations, youth and adults with I/DD, families, and others in their support system. The project will address the needs of and provide support for the estimated five million people in the US that experience speech disabilities including individuals intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who use AAC or could benefit from AAC to ensure access to needed community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination, independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion in all facets of community life. The goal will be to provide a community where people who need or use AAC can come together in a safe space to share their positive and negative experiences and to increase knowledge, usage, and awareness of AAC for people with speech disabilities to live independent, self-determined lives using AAC that meets their interests and communication preferences.