We recognize that establishing relationships is vital to the safe and successful integration of people with
I/DD in all facets of community life. We further believe through personal connections, stigma can be

In the spirit of this mission, MDOD and the Alliance are accepting applications from non-profit
organizations that propose creative and innovative ways to improve the relationships between the
people they support and the law enforcement and/or other first responder community. Grant awards

Applications will be due electronically by 5pm on March 6, 2023.

Use of Grant Funding

Grant proposals will be accepted for a variety of proposed programs, inclusive community events, and
activities. For example, conducting joint trainings, holding a Be Safe event, organizing ride-a-longs,
bowling, pool parties or fitness events, assembling and disseminating disability awareness kits for
officers, engaging in role-playing exercises, or compensating self-advocates/individuals with I/DD for
their role in training. Applications for direct programming will be given preference over applications for
administrative and organizational costs. Applicants are encouraged to submit proposals for what they
consider the most meaningful use of funds and what would make the most impact. Be creative!

Eligibility

To be eligible, the applicant must be:

• A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supporting people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities in Maryland; and
• In good standing with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT).

Grant Review

All grant applications will be vetted by MDOD staff to determine initial eligibility and then by the
Alliance’s Steering Committee for final approval. Strong applicant submissions will engage people with
I/DD meaningfully in the creation and implementation of the activity/intervention as well as include
those from geographically, culturally, and linguistically diverse communities. Preference will be given to
proposals that target law enforcement entities, but partnering with Fire, EMS, and other first responder
entities is allowed. Proposals must support full inclusion of people with disabilities as equals. Activities
under the proposal must be completed by December 31, 2023.

Grant Requirements

The grant requires a brief programmatic and financial report. Submitting pictures, videos, testimonials,
and any materials developed for the project is also encouraged and will be posted on the Alliance’s
website or to social media. (By submitting media for MDOD’s usage, we are assuming you have received
consent from all individuals and have collected appropriate photo releases.) Applicants will be required
to prepare a budget and narrative explaining how the funds will be spent. All communications related to
the project must credit The Ethan Saylor Alliance for Self-Advocates as Educators within the MD
Department of Disabilities. Successful curricula and ideas may be approached for replication by the

Grant Schedule

Applications due: March 6, 2023, no later than 5pm
Awards will be announced via email no later than March 31, 2023
Checks will be mailed the week of April 3, 2023.
Final report due: 30 calendar days following the event, activity or program, and no later than January 31,
2024.