Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS): Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA): Parent Information and Training Program: Technical Assistance for Parent Training and Information Centers, ALN 84.235G

The Parent Information and Training Program is administered by the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services under the U.S. Department of Education. This grant opportunity aims to enhance the capacity of individuals with disabilities and their families to better navigate vocational rehabilitation (VR) and independent living services. This initiative recognizes the particular challenges faced by underserved populations in accessing accurate information and services and seeks to fund efforts that will bridge these gaps. The program will fund two types of centers: eight Regional Parent Information and Training (PTI) Centers (Assistance Listing Number 84.235F) and one National PTI Technical Assistance (TA) Center (Assistance Listing Number 84.235G). Regional centers will focus on directly assisting individuals and their families through training and information dissemination, while the national center will provide technical assistance and coordination among the regional centers. Each application must address one specific priority; applicants interested in both roles must submit separate proposals. Funding is available up to $300,000 for each regional and the national center, totaling an estimated $2.4 million for the regional centers and $300,000 for the national center. The grant period can last up to 60 months, with nine awards expected in total. Eligible applicants must be private nonprofit organizations meeting the requirements outlined in section 303(c)(4) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. They must demonstrate capacity in coordinating with Centers for Independent Living and other PTIs, as well as governance by a board predominantly comprising individuals with disabilities or their family members. Key application requirements include demonstrating how the project will help individuals and families better understand VR programs, provide follow-up support for employment programs, and assist with planning for independent living. Specific selection criteria include significance, project design, evaluation quality, resource adequacy, and management planning. Applicants are expected to include measurable goals, community engagement strategies, and collaboration with relevant partners. Applications open on May 29, 2025, and must be submitted by July 18, 2025. The deadline for intergovernmental review is September 16, 2025. Applicants must follow detailed submission guidelines outlined in the Department’s Common Instructions for Discretionary Grant Programs. Further technical assistance is provided through contact with Tara Jordan at the Department of Education. Applications must adhere to specific formatting and documentation requirements, and successful applicants will be notified and expected to comply with open licensing and reporting rules under federal guidelines.