Augmentative and Alternative Communication Peer Supports Service

The District of Columbia government is seeking a vendor to expand and strengthen a national peer support network for individuals who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication. The agency is trying to solve the isolation and lack of resources faced by people with speech-related disabilities by providing access to a modern, easy-to-use connection resource. Through this initiative, the agency aims to foster greater self-determination, leadership skills, confidence, and ongoing mentorship among communication aid users. The scope of work requires the selected vendor to facilitate the growth of peer support groups and increase the involvement of communication aid users in project leadership roles. The project covers the creation and sharing of resources to improve communication aid knowledge, alongside targeted outreach to engage hard-to-reach, unconnected individuals. Additionally, the agency expects the vendor to identify and secure new funding sources to sustain and grow the national peer support network over the long term. The ultimate goals of this initiative include achieving greater economic mobility, enhanced safety, and long-term security free from harm and exploitation for communication aid users. Eligible bidders must be onshore organizations located within the United States. The agency will allow the selected vendor to perform all project work offsite. The agency is currently looking for proposals to determine the budget, and bidders must submit their pricing structures as part of the application process.