Federal Grant Award Summary

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living awarded Opportunities For Access a formula grant of $183,311 on September 30, 2025, through the ACL Centers for Independent Living program (CFDA 93.432) to support a statewide network of centers for independent living (CILs) in Illinois. The two-year award, which extends through September 29, 2027, funds the delivery of 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. These services are designed to empower individuals with significant disabilities to achieve maximum independence, self-sufficiency, and full community integration within their communities.

Opportunities For Access operates as a consumer-controlled, community-based nonprofit organization that serves as an eligible CIL program grantee under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The organization provides comprehensive disability services through its statewide network of independent living centers operated primarily by individuals with disabilities themselves. This formula grant award represents continuation funding for an established center network that meets all applicable standards and assurances, consistent with the State Plan for Independent Living and the statutory priority of supporting existing compliant centers.