Federal grant would re-launch Alaska Native elder resource center; deadline July 27

The U.S. Administration on Aging has released a funding opportunity to re-establish a National Resource Center dedicated to Alaska Native elders, with applications due July 27.

One cooperative agreement will be awarded, providing approximately $215,000 annually for three years. Applicants must supply a 25 percent non-federal match. The center will deliver technical assistance, training, data collection, and best-practice guidance to organizations serving Alaska Native elders under Title VI of the Older Americans Act. Focus areas include healthy aging, long-term services and supports, elder abuse prevention, and other issues affecting Native elders.

The notice is part of a broader funding opportunity for three National Resource Centers serving American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian older adults. The previous center for Alaska Native elders was hosted at the University of Alaska Anchorage, providing local and national expertise on the unique strengths, needs, and priorities of Alaska Native elders and the communities that serve them. Eligible applicants include tribal organizations, institutions of higher education, and nonprofits with demonstrated expertise in Alaska Native aging.

A Backdrop of Uncertainty

The grant comes from the Administration for Community Living, the federal agency that houses the Administration on Aging. That agency's future is uncertain. Justice in Aging, a national elder-law advocacy organization, said earlier this year that HHS announced plans to dissolve ACL into other department offices. "The loss of an agency focused on older adults and people with disabilities will likely result in needs being overlooked and worse outcomes for older adults," Justice in Aging said in a statement.

Questions about the funding opportunity can be directed to [email protected].