Federal Grant Award Summary

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) awarded Dakota Center for Independent Living a formula grant of $520,774 on September 30, 2025, under the ACL Centers for Independent Living program (CFDA 93.432). This two-year award, extending through September 29, 2027, supports Dakota CIL's statewide network operations serving individuals with significant disabilities across North Dakota. The center delivers five core independent living services: information and referral, independent living skills training, peer counseling, individual and systems advocacy, and transition assistance from institutional to community-based living environments. These services are designed to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve maximum independence, self-sufficiency, and full community integration consistent with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Dakota CIL operates as a consumer-controlled, community-based nonprofit organization with a governance structure featuring board and key staff representation by individuals with disabilities themselves. The award supports the continuation of established independent living services that comply with federal standards and assurances under section 725 of the Rehabilitation Act. This formula grant reflects the ACL's statutory priority to maintain funding for existing compliant centers while supporting cost-of-living increases, enabling Dakota CIL to sustain its comprehensive service delivery network across North Dakota's disability communities.