ODEP Announces Grant Opportunities under "Working for Freedom, Opportunity and Real Choice Through Community Employment (WorkFORCE)" Initiative; Non-Profits, FBOs, CBOs Eligible to Apply

June 2003

The Department's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) has announced the availability of $2.5 million to award up to 6 competitive Working for Freedom, Opportunity and Real Choice through Community Employment (WorkFORCE) Action Grant Initiative grants. These grants -- ranging from approximately $400,000 to $625,000 - are designed to continue support for increasing and improving employment opportunities that allow individuals with disabilities to:

• Move from nursing homes or other institutions and residential facilities into the community;
• continue living in the community;
• achieve economic self-sufficiency; and
• attain full access to, and participation in their communities.

These demonstration grants will begin or expand the delivery and implementation of customized community employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities so that they may live, work, and fully participate in their communities.

Non-profit organizations -- including faith-based and community organizations -- working in coordination with the One-Stop delivery system, as provided under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) are eligible applicants for WorkFORCE Action Grants.

Deadline for receipt of applications is July 14, 2003.

The May 29 FEDERAL REGISTER (PDF) provides additional background, application requirements, and submission instructions.