The Consumer Involvement Fund is program that helps Alabamians with developmental disabilities and their family members participate in professional or informational conferences, legislative advocacy skills training events, public forums, focus groups, hearings, and other similar activities. For eligible applicants, CIF provides partial funding for these activities. The goal of the program is to promote the involvement and empowerment of people with developmental disabilities, their family members, and their guardians.

How Do I Apply?

The Consumer Involvement Fund Committee (CIFC) has downloadable applications for organizations and individuals. After the application is sent, the applicant will receive a letter informing them of the amount the CIFC has awarded. The letter will also include details for reimbursement. The CIFC gives considerable weight to applicants that are first time users, first time attendees of an event, individuals attending to enhance ethnic or cultural sensitivity, and applicants residing in rural or other underserved and/or unserved areas.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

There are certain requirements to be eligible to apply. You must be an individual with a developmental disability, or you must be the parent, family member, or guardian of an individual with a developmental disability.

The Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities Can Help

The Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities offers downloadable forms for the Consumer Involvement Fund applications on the ACDD website. ACDD also answers frequently asked questions about CIF and provides the contact information of individuals that can offer applicant support. For more information about the Consumer Involvement Fund or other resources for individuals with developmental disabilities, contact us today.