[Federal Register: December 8, 2003 (Volume 68, Number 235)]
[Notices]
[Page 68393-68400]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08de03-80]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Office of Community Services
The Community Services Block Grant Training and Technical
Assistance Program
Announcement Type: Initial.
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-ACF-04-OCS 001.
CFDA Number: 93.570.
Funding Opportunity Description: The Office of Community Services
announces that competing applications will be accepted for a new
cooperative agreement for the collection, analysis, dissemination and
use of data and other information about Community Services Block Grant
(CSBG) activities and
[[Page 68394]]
effective approaches for ameliorating poverty.
Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement.
Category of Funding Activity: ISS Income Security and Social
Services.
Anticipated Total Program Funding: $500,000.
Anticipated Number of Awards: One.
Ceiling on amount of individual awards: $500,000.
Project Periods for Award: This announcement is soliciting
applications for project periods of up to five years. Awards, on a
competitive basis, will be for a one-year budget period, although
project periods may be for five years. Applications for continuation
grants funded under these awards beyond the one-year budget period but
within the five year project period will be entertained in subsequent
years on a noncompetitive basis, subject to availability of funds,
satisfactory progress of the grantee and a determination that continued
funding would be in the best interest of the government.
Electronic Link to Full Announcement: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs
.
Eligibility
Eligible applicants are Community Services Block Grant Eligible
Entities, statewide or local organizations or associations including
faith-based organizations, for-profit organizations and non-profit
organizations with demonstrated expertise in data collection on a
nationwide basis and knowledge of and experience with the Community
Services Network.
Proof of non-profit status is any one of the following:
(a) A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the
Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most recent list of tax-exempt
organizations described in the IRS code.
(b) A copy of a currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate.
(c) A statement from a State taxing body, State Attorney General,
or other appropriate State official certifying that the applicant
organization has a non-profit status and that none of the net earnings
accrue to any private shareholders or individuals.
(d) A certified copy of the organization's certificate of
incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes non-profit
status.
(e) Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately above for a
State or national parent organization and a statement singed by the
parent organization that the applicant organization is a local non-
profit affiliate.
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants''
at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Additional Information on Eligibility: On June 27, 2003, the Office
of Management and Budget published in the Federal Register a new
Federal policy applicable to all Federal grant applicants. The policy
requires all Federal grant applicants to provide a Dun and Bradstreet
Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number when applying for Federal
grants or cooperative agreements on or after October 1, 2003. The DUNS
number will be required whether an applicant is submitting a paper
application or using the government-wide electronic portal
(http://www.Grants.gov). A DUNS number will be required for every application
for a new award or renewal/continuation of an award, including
applications or plans under formula, entitlement and block grant
programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003.
Please ensure that your organization has a DUNS number. You may
acquire a DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free
DUNS number request line on 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number
on-line at http://www.dnb.com.
Cost Sharing or Matching: No.
Explanation of Application Due Dates: The closing time and date for
receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. (Eastern Time Zone) on January 7,
2004. Mailed or hand carried applications received after 4:30 p.m. on
the closing date will be classified as late.
Deadline: Mailed applications shall be considered as meeting an
announced deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time
and date at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants Management,
Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW. Mail
Stop: Aerospace Building Washington, DC 20447-0002 Attention: Daphne
Weeden. Applicants are responsible for mailing applications well in
advance, when using all mail services, to ensure that the applications
are received on or before the deadline time and date.
Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other
representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers
shall be considered as meeting an announced deadline if they are
received on or before the deadline date, between the hours of 8 a.m.
and 4:30 p.m., EST, at the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants
Management, Division of Discretionary Grants, ACF Mail Room, Second
Floor Loading Dock, Aerospace Center, 901 D Street, SW., Washington, DC
20024, between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays). This
address must appear on the envelope/package containing the application
with the note: ``Attention: Daphne Weeden''. Applicants are cautioned
that express/overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
Late applications: Applications which do not meet the criteria
above are considered late applications. ACF shall notify each late
applicant that its application will not be considered in the current
competition.
Extension of deadlines: ACF may extend application deadlines when
circumstances such as acts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur, or
when there are widespread disruptions of mails service. Determinations
to extend or waive deadline requirements rest with the Chief Grants
Management Officer.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
Sections 674(b)(2) and 678A(a)(1)(A) of the Community Services
Block Grant (CSBG) Act of 1981, (Pub. L. 97-35) as amended by the
Community Opportunities, Accountability, Training and Education
Services (COATES) Act of 1998 (Pub. L. 105-285), authorizes the
Secretary of Health and Human Services to use a percentage of
appropriated funds for training, technical assistance, planning,
evaluation, performance measurement, monitoring, to assist States in
carrying out corrective actions and to correct programmatic
deficiencies of eligible entities, and for reporting and data
collection activities related to programs or projects carried out under
the CSBG Act. The Secretary may administer these activities through
grants, contracts or cooperative agreements with appropriate entities.
Definitions of Terms
The following definitions apply:
Community Action Agency (CAA)--refers to local-level organizations
that are Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Eligible Entities. They
provide a number of types of assistance with the goals of reducing
poverty and enabling low-income families to become economically self-
sufficient.
[[Page 68395]]
Community Services Network--refers to the various organizations
involved in planning and implementing programs funded through the CSBG
or providing training, technical assistance or support to them. The
network includes local CAAs and other eligible entities; State CSBG
offices and their national association; CAA State, regional and
national associations; and related organizations that collaborate and
participate with CAAs and other eligible entities in their efforts on
behalf of low-income people.
Cooperative Agreement--an award instrument of financial assistance
when substantial involvement is anticipated between the awarding
office, (the Federal government) and the recipient during performance
of the contemplated project. Substantial involvement may include
collaboration or participation by OCS staff in activities specified in
the award and, as appropriate, decision-making at specified milestones
related to performance. The involvement may range from joint conduct of
a project to OCS approval prior to the recipient's undertaking the next
phase in a project.
Nationwide--refers to the scope of the technical assistance,
training, data collection, or other capacity-building projects to be
undertaken with grant funds. Nationwide projects must provide for the
implementation of technical assistance, training or data collection for
all or a significant number of States, and the CAAs and other local
service providers who administer CSBG funds.
Non-profit Organization--refers to an organization, including
faith-based and community-based, which meets the requirement for proof
of non-profit status in the ``Additional Information on Eligibility''
section of this announcement and has demonstrated experience in
providing training to individuals and organizations on methods of
effectively addressing the needs of low-income families and
communities.
Outcome Measures--are indicators that focus on the direct results
one wants to have on customers and on communities.
Performance Measurement--is a tool used to assess how a program is
accomplishing its mission through the delivery of products, services
and activities.
Results-Oriented Management and Accountability (ROMA) System--ROMA
is a system, which provides a framework for focusing on results for
local agencies funded by the CSBG Program. It involves setting goals
and strategies and developing plans and techniques that focus on a
result-oriented performance based model for management.
State--means all of the 50 States and the District of Columbia.
Except where specifically noted, for purposes of this program
announcement, it also includes Territories as defined below.
Technical assistance--is an activity, generally utilizing the
services of an expert (often a peer), aimed at enhancing capacity,
improving programs and systems, or solving specific problems. Such
services may be provided proactively to improve systems or as an
intervention to solve specific problems.
Territories--refers to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and American
Samoa for the purpose of this announcement.
Training--is an educational activity or event that is designed to
impart knowledge, understanding or increase the development of skills.
Such training activities may be in the form of assembled events such as
workshops, seminars, conferences or programs of self-instructional
activities.
Priority Area
Collection, Analysis, Dissemination and Use of Data and Other
Information about Community Services Block Grant Activities and
Effective Approaches for Ameliorating Poverty.
Program Purpose, Scope and Focus
The purpose of this new grant is to improve the collection,
analysis and dissemination of quantitative data and other information
about: (1) CSBG activities specifically; and (2) successful approaches
for ameliorating the effects of poverty generally.
The grant will support four important component activities. The
first is to revise and enhance the existing CSBG data collection
instrument and to develop and administer an improved strategy for
collecting, analyzing and disseminating information about quantitative,
statistical and results-oriented data nationwide using a process of
continuous collaboration with States and CAAs. The strategy must
include relevant technical assistance and training on data issues for
States and CAAs.
The second component is to assist in the development and
implementation of procedures for establishing performance targets for
anti-poverty programs at the State and local level. The information
should be comprehensive enough and disseminated in such formats as to
enable States and local service providers to improve their planning,
management and delivery of services. The information should also be
appropriate to assure that the public has a clear understanding of the
CSBG program and other anti-poverty programs and their outcomes. Of
particular importance is the continued knowledge building and
development of the concepts and technologies for results-oriented
management in order to meet the requirements of the CSBG Act and the
Government Performance and Results Act of 1993.
The third component is to assist in expanding the use of computer-
based technologies by CAAs and other Community Services Network
partners. This will include providing training and technical assistance
and other technical expertise directed at two objectives: (1)
Increasing the entire Community Services Network's ability to
participate fully on the information highway; and (2) Enhancing the
network's ability to use and disseminate data, research and information
regarding poverty issues, particularly activities and outcomes produced
by CAAs and the entire Community Services Network.
A fourth component will be to provide training and technical
assistance to CAAs and other Community Services Network partners
concerning a new system-wide integrated program management system. The
project supported with this grant will be expected to coordinate and
collaborate with the organizations that are planning and designing the
system to make it more likely that the CAAs and Community Services
Network partners will use the system for authorized CSBG purposes.
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement.
Anticipated total Priority Area Funding: $500,000.
Anticipated Number of Awards: One.
Ceiling on amount of individual Awards: $500,000.
An application that exceeds the upper value of the dollar range
specified will be considered ``non-responsive'' and be returned to the
applicant without further review.
Floor of Individual Award Amounts: $500,000.
Average projected Award Amount: $500,000.
III. Eligibility Information
Eligibility
Eligible applicants are Community Services Block Grant Eligible
Entities, statewide or local organizations or associations including
faith-based organizations, for-profit organizations and non-profit
organizations with
[[Page 68396]]
demonstrated expertise in data collection on a nationwide basis and
knowledge of and experience with the Community Services Network.
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants''
at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Additional Information on Eligibility
On June 27, 2003, the Office of Management and Budget published in
the Federal Register a new Federal policy applicable to all Federal
grant applicants. The policy requires all Federal grant applicants to
provide a Dun and Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS)
number when applying for Federal grants or cooperative agreements on or
after October 1, 2003. The DUNS number will be required whether an
applicant is submitting a paper application or using the government-
wide electronic portal (http://www.Grants.gov). A DUNS number will be required
for every application for a new award or renewal/continuation of an
award, including applications or plans under formula, entitlement and
block grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003.
Please ensure that your organization has a DUNS number. You may
acquire a DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free
DUNS number request line on 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number
on-line at http://www.dnb.com.
1. Cost Sharing or Matching
None.
VI. Application and Submission Information
1. Address To Request Application Package
Margaret Washnitzer, Office of Community Services, Administration
for Children and Families, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Suite 500 West, Washington, DC 20447, Email: mwashnitzer@acf.hhs.gov, Telephone: (202)
401-9333.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
1. Application Content
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants''
at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Each application must include the following components:
1. Table of Contents.
2. Abstract of the Proposed Project--very brief, not to exceed 250
words, that would be suitable for use in an announcement that the
application has been selected for a grant award and which identifies
the type of project, the target population and the major elements of
the work plan.
3. Completed Standard Form 424--that has been signed by an Official
of the organization applying for the grant who has authority to
obligate the organization legally.
4. Standard Form 424A--Budget Information-Non-Construction
Programs.
5. Narrative Budget Justification--for each object class category
required under Section B, Standard Form 424A.
6. Project Narrative--A narrative that addresses issues described
in the ``Application Review Information'' and the ``Review and
Selection Criteria'' sections of this announcement.
2. Application Format
Each application should include one signed original application and
two additional copies of the same application.
Submit application materials on white 8\1/2\x11 inch paper only. Do
not use colored, oversized or folded materials.
Please do not include organizational brochures or other promotional
materials, slides, films, clips, etc.
The font size may be no smaller than 12 pitch and the margins must
be at least one inch on all sides.
Number all application pages sequentially throughout the package,
beginning with the abstract of the proposed project as page number one.
Please present application materials either in loose-leaf notebooks
or in folders with pages two-hole punched at the top center and
fastened separately with a slide paper fastener.
3. Page Limitation
The application package including sections for the Table of
Contents, Project Abstract, Project and Budget Narratives and Business
Plan must not exceed 65 pages. The page limitation does not include the
following attachments and appendices: Standard Forms for Assurances,
Certifications, Disclosures and appendices. The page limitation also
does not apply to any supplemental documents as required in this
announcement.
4. Required Standard Forms
Applicants requesting financial assistance for a non-construction
project must sign and return Standard Form 424B, Assurances: Non-
Construction Programs with their applications.
Applicants must provide a Certification Regarding Lobbying. Prior
to receiving an award in excess of $100,000, applicants shall furnish
an executed copy of the lobbying certification. Applicants must sign
and return the certification with their application.
Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their
compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988. By signing and
submitting the applications, applicants are providing the certification
and need not mail back the certification with the applications.
Applicants must make the appropriate certification that they are
not debarred, suspended or otherwise ineligible for award. By signing
and submitting the applications, applicants are providing the
certification and need not mail back the certification with the
applications.
Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their
compliance with all Federal statues relating to nondiscrimination. By
signing and submitting the applications, applicants are providing the
certification and need not mail back a certification form.
Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their
compliance with the requirements of the Pro-Children Act of 1994 as
outlined in Certification Regarding Environmental Tobacco Smoke.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Required form or
What to submit Required content format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table of Contents.............. As described above Consistent with By application due date.
guidance in
``Application
Format'' section
of this
announcement.
Abstract of Proposed Project... Brief abstract Consistent with By application due date.
that identifies guidance in
the type of ``Application
project, the Format'' section
target population of this
and the major announcement.
elements of the
proposed project.
[[Page 68397]]
Completed Standard From 424.... As described above May be found on By application due date.
and per required http://form.
www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs /ofs/
forms.htm.
Completed Standard Form 424A... As described above May be found on By application due date.
and per required http://form.
www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs /ofs/
forms.htm.
Narrative Budget Justification. As described above Consistent with By application due date.
``Application guidance in of
Format'' section. this
announcement.
Project Narrative.............. A narrative that Consistent with By application due date.
addresses issues guidance in
described in the ``Application
``Application Format'' section
Review of this
Information'' and announcement.
the ``Review and
Selection
Criteria''
sections of this
announcement.
Certification regarding As described above May be found on By application due date.
lobbying. and per required http://form.
www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs /ofs/
forms.htm.
Certification regarding drug- As described above May be found on By application due date.
free workplace. and per required http://form.
www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Certification regarding As described above May be found on By application due date.
environmental tobacco smoke. and per required http://form.
www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs /ofs/
forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submission Date and Times
The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m.
(Eastern Time Zone) on January 7, 2004. Mailed or hand carried
applications received after 4:30 p.m. on the closing date will be
classified as late.
Deadline: Mailed applications shall be considered as meeting an
announced deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time
and date at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants Management,
Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW. Mail
Stop: Aerospace Building Washington, DC 20447-0002 Attention: Daphne
Weeden. Applicants are responsible for mailing applications well in
advance, when using all mail services, to ensure that the applications
are received on or before the deadline time and date.
Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other
representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers
shall be considered as meeting an announced deadline if they are
received on or before the deadline date, between the hours of 8 a.m.
and 4:30 p.m., EST, at the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants
Management, Division of Discretionary Grants, ACF Mail Room, Second
Floor Loading Dock, Aerospace Center, 901 D Street, SW., Washington, DC
20024, between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays). This
address must appear on the envelope/package containing the application
with the note: ``Attention: Daphne Weeden''. Applicants are cautioned
that express/overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
Late applications: Applications which do not meet the criteria
above are considered late applications. ACF shall notify each late
applicant that its application will not be considered in the current
competition.
Extension of deadlines: ACF may extend application deadlines when
circumstances such as acts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur, or
when there are widespread disruptions of mails service. Determinations
to extend or waive deadline requirements rest with the Chief Grants
Management Officer.
ACF will not send acknowledgements of receipt of application
materials.
Intergovernmental Review
State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
This program is covered under Executive Order 12372,
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' and 45 CFR Part 100,
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services
Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance
under covered programs. As of October 1, 2003, the following
jurisdictions have elected not to participate in the Executive Order
process. Applicants from these jurisdictions or for projects
administered by federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take no action
in regard to E.O. 12372:
All States and Territories except Alabama, Alaska, Arizona,
Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana,
Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York,
Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont,
Virginia, Washington, Wyoming and Palau have elected to participate in
the Executive Order process and have established Single Points of
Contact (SPOCs). Applicants from these twenty-seven jurisdictions need
take no action.
Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State,
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. All remaining
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have
established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the
prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must
submit any required material to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that
the program office can obtain and review SPOC comments as part of the
award process. The applicant must submit all required materials, if
any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date
of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item
16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are
requested to
[[Page 68398]]
clearly differentiate between mere advisory comments and those official
State process recommendations which may trigger the ``accommodate or
explain'' rule.
When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Mail Stop 6C-462, Washington, DC 20447.
A list of the Single Points of Contact for each State and Territory
is included with the application materials for this announcement.
Funding Restrictions
Sub-Contracting or Delegating Projects
OCS will not fund any project where the role of the applicant is
primarily to serve as a conduit for funds to organizations other than
the applicant. The applicant must have a substantive role in the
implementation of the project for which funding is requested. This
prohibition does not bar the making of sub-grants or sub-contracting
for specific services or activities needed to conduct the project.
Number of Projects in Application
Each application may include only one proposed project.
Other Submission Requirements
Electronic Copy Address Submission
ACF will not accept electronic applications for this grant.
V. Application Review Information
Purpose
The project description provides a major means by which an
application is evaluated and ranked to compete with other applications
for available assistance. The project description should be concise and
complete and should address the activity for which Federal funds are
being requested. Supporting documents should be included where they can
present information clearly and succinctly. In preparing your project
description, all information requested through each specific evaluation
criteria should be provided. Awarding offices use this and other
information in making their funding recommendations. It is important,
therefore, that this information be included in the application.
Introduction
Applicants required to submit a full project description shall
prepare the project description statement in accordance with the
following instructions and the specified evaluation criteria. The
instructions give a broad overview of what your project description
should include while the evaluation criteria expands and clarifies more
program-specific information that is needed.
Project Summary/Abstract
Provide a summary of the project description (a page or less) with
reference to the funding request.
Objectives and Need for Assistance
Clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial,
institutional, and/or other problem(s) requiring a solution. The need
for assistance must be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate
objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting
documentation, such as letters of support and testimonials from
concerned interests other than the applicant, may be included. Any
relevant data based on planning studies should be included or referred
to in the endnotes/footnotes. Incorporate demographic data and
participant/beneficiary information, as needed. In developing the
project description, the applicant may volunteer or be requested to
provide information on the total range of projects currently being
conducted and supported (or to be initiated), some of which may be
outside the scope of the program announcement.
Results or Benefits Expected
Identify the results and benefits to be derived. For example,
describe the population to be served by the program and the number of
new jobs that will be targeted to the target population. Explain how
the project will reach the targeted population, how it will benefit
participants including how it will support individuals to become more
economically self-sufficient.
Approach
Outline a plan of action which describes the scope and detail of
how the proposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions
or activities identified in the application. Cite factors which might
accelerate or decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the
proposed approach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of
the project such as design or technological innovations, reductions in
cost or time, or extraordinary social and community involvement.
Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the
accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such
terms as the number of people to be served and the number of activities
accomplished. Account for all functions or activities identified in the
application. Cite factors that might accelerate or decelerate the work
and state your reasons for taking the proposed approach rather than
others. Describe any unusual features of the project such as design or
technical innovations, reductions in cost or time or extraordinary
social and community involvement.
Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the
accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in, for
example such terms as the ``number of people served.'' When
accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function, list them
in chronological order to show the schedule of accomplishments and
their target dates.
If any data is to be collected, maintained, and/or disseminated,
clearance may be required from the U.S. Office of Management and Budget
(OMB). This clearance pertains to any ``collection of information that
is conducted or sponsored by ACF.''
List organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other key
individuals who will work on the project along with a short description
of the nature of their effort or contribution.
Evaluation
Provide a narrative addressing how the results of the project and
the conduct of the project will be evaluated. In addressing the
evaluation of results, state how you will determine the extent to which
the project has achieved its stated objectives and the extent to which
the accomplishment of objectives can be attributed to the project.
Discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate results, and explain the
methodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified and
discussed are being met and if the project results and benefits are
being achieved. With respect to the conduct of the project, define the
procedures to be employed to determine whether the project is being
conducted in a manner consistent with the work plan presented and
discuss the impact of the project's various activities on the project's
effectiveness.
Organizational Profiles
Provide information on the applicant organization(s) and
cooperating partners such as organizational charts, financial
statements, audit reports or statements from CPAs/Licensed Public
Accountants, Employer Identification
[[Page 68399]]
Numbers, names of bond carriers, contact persons and telephone numbers,
child care licenses and other documentation of professional
accreditation, information on compliance with Federal/State/local
government standards, documentation of experience in the program area,
and other pertinent information. Any non-profit organization submitting
an application must submit proof of its non-profit status in its
application at the time of submission.
The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing a copy of
the applicant's listing in the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most
recent list of tax-exempt organizations described in Section 501(c)(3)
of the IRS code, or by providing a copy of the currently valid IRS tax
exemption certificate, or by providing a copy of the articles of
incorporation bearing the seal of the State in which the corporation or
association is domiciled.
Budget and Budget Justification
Provide line item detail and detailed calculations for each budget
object class identified on the Budget Information form. Detailed
calculations must include estimation methods, quantities, unit costs,
and other similar quantitative detail sufficient for the calculation to
be duplicated. The detailed budget must also include a breakout by the
funding sources identified in Block 15 of the SF-424.
Provide a narrative budget justification that describes how the
categorical costs are derived. Discuss the necessity, reasonableness,
and allocability of the proposed costs.
1. Evaluation Criteria
Evaluation Criterion I: Approach (Maximum: 35 Points)
Factors:
(1) The work program is results-oriented, approximately related to
the legislative mandate and specifically related to the priority area
under which funds are being requested. Applicant addresses the
following: specific outcomes to be achieved; performance targets that
the project is committed to achieving, including a discussion of and
how the project will verify the achievement of these targets; critical
milestones which must be achieved if results are to be gained;
organizational support, the level of support from the applicant
organization; past performance in similar work; and specific resources
contributed to the project that are critical to success.
(2) The applicant defines the comprehensive nature of the project
and methods that will be used to ensure that the results can be used to
address a statewide or nationwide project as defined by the description
of the particular priority area.
Evaluation Criterion II: Objectives and Need for Assistance (Maximum:
20 Points)
Factors:
(1) The applicant documents that the proposed project addresses
vital needs related to the program purposes and provides statistics and
other data and information in support of its contention.
(2) The application provides current supporting documentation or
other testimonies regarding needs from State CSBG Directors, CAAs and
local service providers and/or State and Regional organizations of CAAs
and other local service providers.
Evaluation Criterion III: Organizational Profiles (Maximum: 25 Points)
Factors:
(1) The applicant demonstrates that it has experience and a
successful record of accomplishment relevant to the specific activities
it proposes to accomplish.
(2) If the applicant proposes to provide training and technical
assistance, it details its abilities to provide those services on a
nationwide basis. If applicable, information provided by the applicant
also addresses related achievements and competence of each cooperating
or sponsoring organization.
(3) The applicant fully describes, for example in a resume, the
experience and skills of the proposed project director and primary
staff showing specific qualifications and professional experiences
relevant to the successful implementation of the proposed project.
(4) The applicant describes how it will involve partners in the
Community Services Network in its activities. Where appropriate,
applicant describes how it will interface with other related
organizations.
(5) If subcontracts are proposed, the applicant documents the
willingness and capacity of the subcontracting organization(s) to
participate as described.
Evaluation Criterion IV: Results or Benefits Expected (Maximum: 15
Points)
Factors:
(1) The applicant describes how the project will assure long-term
program and management improvements for State CSBG offices, CAA State
and/or regional associations, CAAs and/or other local providers of CSBG
services and activities.
(2) The applicant indicates the types and amounts of public and/or
private resources it will mobilize, how those resources will directly
benefit the project, and how the project will ultimately benefit low-
income individuals and families.
(3) If the applicant proposes a project with a training and
technical assistance focus, the applicant indicates the number of
organizations and/or staff that will benefit from those services.
(4) If the applicant proposes a project with data collection focus,
applicant describes the mechanism it will use to collect data, how it
can assure collections from a significant number of States, and the
number of States willing to submit data to the applicant.
(5) If the applicant proposes to develop a symposium series or
other policy-related project(s), the applicant identifies the number
and types of beneficiaries.
(6) The applicant describes methods of securing participant
feedback and evaluations of activities.
Criterion V: Budget and Budget Justification (Maximum: 5 points)
Factors:
(1) The resources requested are reasonable and adequate to
accomplish the project
(2) Total costs are reasonable and consistent with anticipated
results.
2. Review and Selection Process
Initial OCS Screening
Each application submitted to OCS will be screened to determine
whether it was received by the closing date and time.
Applications received by the closing date and time will be screened
for completeness and conformity with the following requirements. Only
complete applications that meet the requirements listed below will be
reviewed and evaluated competitively. Other applications will be
returned to the applicants with a notation that they were unacceptable
and will not be reviewed.
All applications must comply with the following requirements except
as noted:
(a) The application must contain a signed Standard Form 424
Application for Federal Assistance ``SF-424'', a Standard Form 424-A
Budget Information ``SF-424A'' and signed Standard Form 424B
Assurance--Non-Construction Programs ``SF-424B'' completed according to
instructions provided in this Program Announcement. The forms SF-424
and the SF-424B must be signed by an
[[Page 68400]]
official of the organization applying for the grant who has authority
to obligate the organization legally. The applicant's legal name as
required on the SF-424 (Item 5) must match that listed as corresponding
to the Employer Identification Number (Item 6);
(b) The application must include a project narrative that meets
requirements set for in this announcement.
(c) The application must contain documentation of the applicant's
tax-exempt status as indicated in the ``Additional Information on
Eligibility'' section of this announcement.
OCS Evaluation of Applications
Applications that pass the initial OCS screening will be reviewed
and rated by a panel based on the program elements and review criteria
presented in relevant sections of this program announcement.
The review criteria are designed to enable the review panel to
assess the quality of a proposed project and determine the likelihood
of its success. The criteria are closely related to each other and are
considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of an application.
The review panel awards points only to applications that are responsive
to the program elements and relevant review criteria within the context
of this program announcement.
The OCS Director and program staff use the reviewer scores when
considering competing applications. Reviewer scores will weigh heavily
in funding decisions, but will not be the only factors considered.
Applications generally will be considered in order of the average
scores assigned by the review panel. Because other important factors
are taken into consideration, highly ranked applications are not
guaranteed funding. These other considerations include, for example:
the timely and proper completion by the applicant of projects funded
with OCS funds granted in the last five (5) years; comments of
reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation and input; amount
and duration of the grant requested and the proposed project's
consistency and harmony with OCS goals and policy; geographic
distribution of applications; previous program performance of
applicants; compliance with grant terms under previous HHS grants,
including the actual dedication to program of mobilized resources as
set forth in project applications; audit reports; investigative
reports; and applicant's progress in resolving any final audit
disallowance on previous OCS or other Federal agency grants.
VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices: 90 days after the due date of applications.
Following approval of the application selected for funding, ACF will
mail a written notice of project approval and authority to draw down
project funds. The official award document is the Financial Assistance
Award that specifies the amount of Federal funds approved for use in
the project, the project and budget period for which support is
provided and the terms and conditions of the award.
ACF will notify unsuccessful applicants after the award is issued
to the successful applicant.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements: 45 CFR part 74.
3. Special Terms and Conditions of Awards: None.
4. Reporting Requirements.
Programmatic Reports: Semi-annually.
Financial Reports: Semi-annually.
Special Reporting Requirements: None.
VII. Agency Contacts
Program Office Contact: Margaret Washnitzer, Office of Community
Services, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Suite 500 West,Aerospace
Building, Washington, DC 20447-0002,Email: mwashnitzer@acf.hhs.gov,Telephone: (202) 401-9333.
Grants Management Office Contact: Daphne Weeden, Office of Grants
Management, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade,
SW., Aerospace Building, Washington, DC 20447-0002, Email: dweeden@acf.hhs.gov, Telephone: (202) 401-2344.
VIII. Other Information
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13): Under the
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Pub. L. 104-13, the Department is
required to submit to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for
review and approval of any reporting and record keeping requirements in
regulations including program announcements. This program announcement
does not contain information collection requirements beyond those
approved for ACF grant applications under the Program Narrative
Statement by OMB (Approval Numbers: 0348-0043, 0348-0044, 034800040,
0348-0046, 0925-0418 and 0970-0139).
Public reporting burden for this collection is estimated to average
25 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions,
gathering and maintaining the data needed and reviewing the collection
of information.
The project description is approved under OMB control
0970-0139 which expires 12/31/03.
An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required
to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a
currently valid OMB control number.
Dated: November 24, 2003.
Clarence H. Carter,
Director, Office of Community Services.
[FR Doc. 03-30392 Filed 12-5-03; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P