FY 2025 ilcl ~ state plan independent living centers

Access Living of Metropolitan Chicago received a $299,660 formula grant awarded September 30, 2025, under the ACL Centers for Independent Living program (CFDA 93.432) from the Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living. The award supports Access Living's operation as a Center for Independent Living (CIL) through the Illinois State Plan for Independent Living, with a completion date of September 29, 2027. As a consumer-controlled, community-based nonprofit organization, Access Living delivers core independent living services including information and referral, independent living skills training, peer counseling, individual and systems advocacy, and transition assistance to help individuals with significant disabilities transition from institutional to community-based living.

Beyond core CIL services, Access Living leverages its federal CIL funding through collaborative programming and sub-grant initiatives that expand service capacity in the Chicago metropolitan area. These complementary initiatives include arts-based training programs such as the Junior Artist-in-Residency program and Art & Advocacy Training Program, housing counseling services through Housing Action Illinois, specialized support for gun violence survivors, and participation in the MY-CIL learning collaborative project to support best practices across Centers for Independent Living nationwide. The formula grant represents a continuation award based on Access Living's demonstrated compliance with applicable standards and assurances under Section 725 of the Rehabilitation Act and the availability of federal appropriations.