[Federal Register: April 9, 2004 (Volume 69, Number 69)]
[Notices]
[Page 18913-18923]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr09ap04-71]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration for Children and Families
Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD); Funding
Opportunity Title: Family Support Initiative 2004
Announcement Type: Initial.
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2004-ACF-ADD-DF-0001.
[[Page 18914]]
CFDA Number: 93.631--Developmental Disabilities--Projects of
National Significance.
Due Date for Applications: The due date for receipt of applications
is 4:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) on June 8, 2004.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
Objectives: To provide funds to States to create or expand
statewide systems change for Family Support. To allow for the award of
competitive grants to conduct training, technical assistance, and other
national activities designed to address the problems that impede the
self-sufficiency of families of children with developmental
disabilities. This program announcement will provide funds for the
development phase of the Family Support Initiative.
Statutory Authority Covered Under This Announcement
This announcement is covered under the Developmental Disabilities
Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000, 42 U.S.C. 15001-15115.
Projects of National Significance is Part E of the Developmental
Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000, 42 U.S.C.
15081-15083. Provisions under this section provide for the award of
grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements for Projects of National
Significance that support:
The development of national and State policies
that reinforce and promote the self-determination, independence,
productivity, integration, and inclusion in all facets of community
life of individuals with developmental disabilities;
Family support activities, data collection and
analysis, technical assistance to entities that provide family support
and data collection activities; and
Other projects of sufficient size and scope that
hold promise to expand or improve opportunities for individuals with
developmental disabilities.
General Description
The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is located
within the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Department
of Health and Human Services (DHHS). ADD shares goals with other ACF
programs that promote the economic and social well-being of families,
children, individuals, and communities. ACF and ADD envision:
Families and individuals empowered to increase
their own economic independence and productivity;
Strong, healthy, supportive communities having a
positive impact on the quality of life and the development of children;
Partnerships with individuals, front-line
service providers, communities, States, and Congress that enable
solutions that transcend traditional agency boundaries;
Services planned and integrated to improve
access to programs and supports for individuals and families;
A strong commitment to working with Native
Americans, persons with developmental disabilities, refugees, and
migrants to address their needs, strengths and abilities;
A recognition of the power and effectiveness of
public-private partnerships, including collaboration among community
groups, such as faith-based organizations, families, and public
agencies; and
A community-based approach that recognizes and
expands on the resources and benefits of diversity.
These goals will enable individuals, including people with
developmental disabilities, to live productive and independent lives
integrated into their communities. The Projects of National
Significance (PNS) program is one means through which ADD promotes the
achievement of these goals.
The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is the lead
agency within ACF and DHHS responsible for planning and administering
programs to promote self-sufficiency and protect the rights of persons
with developmental disabilities. ADD implements the Developmental
Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (the DD Act), which was
authorized by Congress in 2000.
This Act supports and provides assistance to States, public,
private non-profit agencies, and organizations, including faith-based
organizations, to assure that individuals with developmental
disabilities and their families participate in the design of and have
access to culturally competent services, supports, and other assistance
and opportunities that promote independence, productivity, integration,
and inclusion into the community.
As defined in the DD Act, the term ``developmental disabilities''
means a severe, chronic disability of an individual that is
attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of
mental and physical impairments that is manifested before the
individual attains age 22 and is likely to continue indefinitely.
Developmental disabilities result in substantial limitations in three
or more of the following functional areas; self-care, receptive and
expressive language, learning, mobility, self-direction, capacity for
independent living, and capacity for economic self-sufficiency.
A number of significant findings are identified in the DD Act,
including:
Disability is a natural part of the human
experience that does not diminish the right of individuals with
developmental disabilities to enjoy the opportunity for independence,
productivity, integration, and inclusion into the community;
Individuals whose disabilities occur during
their developmental period frequently have severe disabilities that are
likely to continue indefinitely; and
Individuals with developmental disabilities
often require lifelong specialized services and assistance, provided in
a coordinated and culturally competent manner by many agencies,
professionals, advocates, community representatives, and others to
eliminate barriers and to meet the needs of such individuals and their
families.
The DD Act also promotes the best practices and policies presented
below:
Individuals with developmental disabilities,
including those with the most severe developmental disabilities, are
capable of achieving independence, productivity, integration, and
inclusion into the community, and often require the provision of
services, supports, and other assistance to achieve such;
Individuals with developmental disabilities have
competencies, capabilities, and personal goals that should be
recognized, supported, and encouraged, and any assistance to such
individuals should be provided in an individualized manner, consistent
with the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities,
and capabilities of the individual; and
Individuals with developmental disabilities and
their families are the primary decision makers regarding the services
and supports such individuals and their families receive, and play
decision making roles in policies and programs that affect the lives of
such individuals and their families.
Toward these ends, ADD seeks to support and accomplish the
following:
Enhance the capabilities of families in
assisting individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve their
maximum potential;
Support the increasing ability of individuals
with developmental disabilities to exercise greater choice and self-
determination and to engage in leadership activities in their
communities; and
[[Page 18915]]
Ensure the protection of individuals with
developmental disabilities' legal and human rights.
The four programs funded under the Act are:
State Developmental Disabilities Councils;
State Protection and Advocacy Systems for
Individuals with Developmental Disabilities' Rights;
Grants to the National Network of University
Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Education,
Research, and Service; and
Grants for Projects of National Significance.
A. Description of the Family Support Program. The Developmental
Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000, 42 U.S.C.
15001-15115 was authorized on October 30, 2000. The purpose of the
family support program is for states to create or expand statewide
systems change. It allows for the award of competitive grants to
conduct training, technical assistance, and other national activities
designed to address the problems that impede the self-sufficiency of
families of children with developmental disabilities.
B. Requirements. Project funds must be used to support the planning
and development of family support activities contributing to the self-
determination, independence, productivity, and integration and
inclusion in all facets of community life of such individuals. Projects
will:
(1) Ensure the full participation, choice and control of families
of children with developmental disabilities, in decisions related to
the provisions of such family support for their family;
(2) Ensure the active involvement of families of children with
developmental disabilities in the planning, development,
implementation, and evaluation of the project; increase the
availability of, funding for, access to, and provision of family
support for families of children with developmental disabilities;
(3) Promote training activities that are family-centered and
family-directed and that enhance the ability of family members of
children with developmental disabilities to increase participation,
choice, and control in the provision of family support for families of
children with developmental disabilities;
(4) Increase and promote interagency coordination among State
agencies, and between State agencies and private entities that are
involved in these projects; and
(5) Increase the awareness of laws, regulations, policies,
practices, procedures, and organizational structures that facilitate or
impede the availability or provision of family support for families of
children with developmental disabilities.
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument Type: Grant.
Category of Funding Activity: ISS Income Security and Social
Services.
Anticipated Total Program Funding: $550,000.
Anticipated Number of Awards: 6.
Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: $100,000 for a State Entity
per project period; $50,000 for a Territorial Entity per project
period.
An application received 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 on Amount of Individual Awards: None.
Project Periods for Awards: Up to 17 month project period with up
to one 17 month budget period.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
State governments
County governments
City or township governments
Special district governments
Independent school districts
State controlled institutions of higher education
Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities.
Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) IRS status, other than institutions of
higher education.
Private institutions of higher education.
Small businesses.
Faith-based and Community-based Organizations
Additional Information on Eligibility: Eligible States and
territorial entities under this announcement are: Alabama, Arkansas,
Louisiana, Iowa, Tennessee, American Samoa. States not listed above are
not eligible to apply.
Eligible applicants include any public or private non-profit
organization, including State and local governments, federally
recognized Indian tribes, faith-based organizations, and private non-
profit organizations including universities and other institutions of
higher education designated by the governor or chief executive officer
of the State as the lead agency for this project. Applicants awarded
planning grants last year (FY 2003) under this announcement are not
eligible. Applicants awarded planning grants in Fiscal Years, 1999
through 2002 that have never received a development grant are eligible
to apply under this announcement for development funds. A letter from
the office of the governor or the chief executive officer designating
the applicant as the lead agency for the State or Territory must
accompany the application. This lead agency is responsible for
coordinating the planning, development, implementation (or expansion
and enhancement), and evaluation of a statewide system of family
support services for families of children with developmental
disabilities. If the Governor's letter does not accompany the
application, it will not be reviewed and ranked for funding
consideration.
Applicants who have not previously been awarded family support
development grants are eligible for family support development grants
under this announcement.
All applications developed jointly by more than one agency or
organization must identify only one organization as the lead
organization and the official applicant. The other participating
agencies and organizations can be included as co-participants,
subgrantees, or subcontractors.
Before applications under this Program Announcement are reviewed,
each one will be screened to determine whether the applicant is
eligible for funding. Applications from organizations that do not meet
eligibility requirements will not be considered or reviewed in the
competition, and the applicant will be so informed.
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.
Non-profit organizations applying for funding are required to
submit proof of their non-profit status. 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.
[[Page 18916]]
(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 signed by the
parent organization that the applicant organization is a local non-
profit affiliate.
2. Cost Sharing or Matching
Yes. Grantees must provide at least 25 percent of the total
approved cost of the project. Grantees must match $1 for every $3
requested in Federal funding to reach 25% of the total approved cost of
the project. The total approved cost of the project is the sum of the
total approved cost of the project. The total approved cost of the
project is the sum of the ACF share and the non-Federal share. The non-
Federal share may be met by cash or in-kind contribution although
applicants are encouraged to meet their match requirements through cash
contributions. Therefore, a project requesting $100,000 in Federal
funds (based on an award of $100,000 per budget period) must provide a
match of at least $33,333. Grantees will be held accountable for
commitments of non-Federal resources even if over the amount of the
required match. Failure to provide the amount will result in
disallowance of Federal funds.
Applications that fail to include the required amount of cost-
sharing will be considered non-responsive and will not be eligible for
funding under this announcement.
3. Other
All Applicants must have a Duns & Bradstreet Number. 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 Federal grant applicants to provide a
Duns 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 at 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number
on-line at http://www.dnb.com
Applications that fail to follow the required format described in
section IV.2 Application Requirements will be considered non-responsive
and will not be eligible for funding under this announcement.
Applications that fail to include the required amount of cost-
sharing will be considered non-responsive and will not be eligible for
funding under this announcement.
Applications that exceed the ceiling of $100,000 for a State Entity
and $50,000 for a Territorial Entity will be considered non-responsive
and will not be eligible for funding under this announcement.
IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Address To Request Application Package
Valerie Reese, Program Specialist, U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Administration for Children and Families,
Administration on Developmental Disabilities, 370 L'Enfant Promenade,
SW., Mail Stop Room 405D HHH Bldg., Washington, DC 20447, E-mail:
vreese@acf.hhs.gov. Phone: (202) 690-5805, Fax: (202) 690-6904.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
You may submit your application to us in either electronic or paper
format.
To submit an application electronically, please use the http://www.Grants.gov
apply site. If you use Grants.gov, you will be able to
download a copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and
then upload and submit the application via the Grants.gov site. You may
not e-mail an electronic copy of a grant application to us.
Please note the following if you plan to submit your application
electronically via Grants.gov:
Electronic submission is voluntary.
When you enter the Grants.gov site, you will
find information about submitting an application electronically through
the site, as well as the hours of operation. We strongly recommend that
you do not wait until the application deadline date to begin the
application process through Grants.gov.
To use Grants.gov, you, as the applicant, must
have a DUNS Number and register in the Central Contractor Registry
(CCR). You should allow a minimum of five days to complete the CCR
registration.
You will not receive additional point value
because you submit a grant application in electronic format, nor will
we penalize you if you submit an application in paper format.
You may submit all documents electronically,
including all information typically included on the SF 424 and all
necessary assurances and certifications.
Your application must comply with any page
limitation requirements described in this program announcement.
After you electronically submit your
application, you will receive an automatic acknowledgement from
Grants.gov. that contains a Grants.gov tracking number. The
Administration for Children and Families will retrieve your application
from Grants.gov
We may request that you provide original
signatures on forms at a later date.
You may access the electronic application for
this program on http://www.Grants.gov.
You must search for the downloadable application
package by the CFDA number.
Private non-profit organizations may voluntarily 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.
Please see Section V for instructions on preparing the project
summary/abstract and the full project description.
A. Project Summary/Abstract
Clearly mark this separate page with the applicant name as shown in
item 5 of the SF 424, the priority area number as shown at the top of
the SF 424, and the title of the project as shown in item 11 of the SF
424. The summary description should not exceed 300 words. These 300
words become part of the computer database on each project.
Provide a summary description that accurately and concisely
reflects the proposal. The summary should describe the objectives of
the project, the approaches to be used and the expected outcomes. The
description should also include a list of major products that will
result from the proposed project, such as software packages, materials,
management procedures, data collection instruments, training packages,
or videos (please note that audiovisuals must be closed captioned and
audio described). The project summary description, together with the
information on the SF 424, will constitute the project ``abstract.''
This is a major source of information about the
[[Page 18917]]
proposed project and is usually the first part of the application that
the reviewers read in evaluating the application.
B. Project Description
The Project Description is a very important part of an application.
It should be clear, concise, and address the specific requirements
mentioned in Part I.
The narrative should also provide information concerning how the
application meets the evaluation criteria, using the following
headings:
(a) Objectives and Need for Assistance;
(b) Results and Benefits Expected;
(c) Approach;
(a) Organization Profile; and
(b) Budget and Budget Justification.
C. Assurances, Certifications and Other Forms
Applicants are required to submit a SF 424B, Assurances--Non-
Construction Programs and the Certification Regarding Lobbying. Prior
to receiving an award in excess of $100,000, applicants should furnish
an executed copy of the lobbying certification (approved by the Office
of Management and Budget under control number 0348-0046). Applicants
must sign and return the certification with their application.
Applicant must also understand that they will be held accountable
for the smoking prohibition included within Pub. L. 103-227, Part C
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (also known as the Pro-Children's Act of
1994). By signing and submitting the application, applicants are
providing the certification and need not mail back the certification
with the application.
In addition, applicants are required under Section 162(c)(3) of the
Act to provide assurances that the human rights of all individuals with
developmental disabilities (especially those individuals without
familial protection) who will receive services under projects assisted
under Part E will be protected consistent with section 110 (relating to
the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities). Each
application must include a statement providing this assurance.
For research projects in which human subjects may be at risk, a
Protection of Human Subjects Assurance may be required. If there is a
question regarding the applicability of this assurance, contact the
Office for Research Risks of the National Institutes of Health at (301)
496-7041.
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.
D. Checklist for a Complete Application
The checklist below is for your use to ensure that your application
package has been properly prepared.
--One original, signed and dated application, plus two copies;
--Application is from an organization that is eligible under the
eligibility requirements, defined in the Priority Area description; and
--Application length does not exceed 60 pages, including attachments
and all federally required forms.
A complete application consists of the following items in this
order:
Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424, REV 4-88);
--A completed SPOC certification with the date of SPOC contact entered
in line 16, page 1 of the SF 424 if applicable;
--Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs (SF 424A, REV 4-88);
--Budget justification for Section B--Budget Categories;
--Table of Contents;
--Letter from the Internal Revenue Service, etc. to prove non-profit
status, if necessary;
--Copy of the applicant's approved indirect cost rate agreement, if
appropriate; (when charging indirect costs to Federal funds or when
using indirect costs as a matching share);
--Letter from the Governor in the applicant's State or Territory
designating the applicant as the lead agency as required by the Program
Announcement;
--Project Description;
--Letter(s) of commitment verifying non-Federal cost share
--Any appendices/attachments;
--Assurances--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 424B, REV 4-88);
--Certification Regarding Lobbying;
--Certification of Protection of Human Subjects, if necessary; and
--Certification of the Pro Children Act of 1994, signature on the
application represents certification.
--Voluntary Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants
E. The Application Package
Each application package must include an original and two copies of
the complete application. Each copy should be stapled securely (front
and back if necessary) in the upper left-hand corner. All pages of the
narrative (including charts, tables, maps, exhibits, etc.) must be
sequentially numbered, beginning with page one. In order to facilitate
handling, please do not use covers, binders or tabs. Do not include
extraneous materials as attachments, such as agency promotion
brochures, slides, tapes, film clips, minutes of meetings, survey
instruments or articles of incorporation.
The narrative should be typed double spaced on a single side of an
8\1/2\'' x 11'' plain white paper, with 1'' margins on all sides, using
black print no smaller than 12 pitch or 12 point size. All pages of the
narrative, including attachments (such as charts, references/footnotes,
tables, maps, exhibits, etc.) and letters of support must be
sequentially numbered, beginning with ``Objectives and Need for
Assistance'' as page number one. Applicants should not submit
reproductions of larger size paper, reduced to meet the size
requirement.
The length of the application, including all attachments and
required Federal forms, must not exceed 60 pages. The federally
required forms will be count towards the total number of pages. The 60-
page limit will be strictly enforced. All pages beyond the first 60
pages of text will be removed prior to applications being evaluated by
the reviewers. A page is a single side of an 8\1/2\ x 11'' sheet of
paper with 1'' margins.
Applicants are requested not to send pamphlets, brochures or other
printed material along with their application as these pose copying
difficulties. These materials, if submitted, will not be included in
the review process if they exceed the 60-page limit. Each page of the
application will be counted to determine the total length.
Applicants have the option of omitting the Social Security Numbers
and specific salary rates of the proposed projects from the two copies
submitted with the original application to ACF. For purposes of the
outside review process, applicants may elect to summarize salary
information on the copies of their application. All salary information
must, however, appear on the signed original application for ACF.
Notification of State Developmental Disabilities Planning Councils
A copy of the application must also be submitted for review and
comment to the State Developmental Disabilities Council in each State
in which the applicant's project will be conducted. A list of the State
Developmental Disabilities Councils can be found at ADD's Web site:
http:///www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/add or by contacting Joan Rucker,
ADD, 370
[[Page 18918]]
L'Enfant Promenade SW., Mail Stop 405D HHH Bldg, Washington, DC 20447,
(202) 690-7898.
3. Submission Dates and Times
The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m.
Eastern Standard Time (EST) on June 8, 2004. Mailed or hand carried
applications received after 4:30 p.m. EST 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: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants
Management, 8th Floor, Aerospace Building, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW.,
Washington, DC 20447-0002, Attention: Lois Hodge.
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,
Division of Discretionary Grants ACF Mailroom, 2nd Floor (near 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: Lois Hodge.''
Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail services do
not always deliver as agreed. ACF cannot accommodate transmission of
applications by fax.
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 mail service, or in other rare
cases. A determination to extend or waive deadline requirements rests
with the Chief Grants Management Officer.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Required form or format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SF424, SF424A, SF424B.............. Per required form..... May be found at 60 http:// 60 days from release
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/program/ date.
ofs/forms.htm.
------------------------------------
Project Summary/Abstract........... Summary of application One page limit............. 60 days from release
request. date.
------------------------------------
Disclosure of Lobbying Activities Per required form..... May be found at http:// 60 days from release
(SF-LLL). http://www.acf.hhs.gov/program/ date.
ofs/forms.htm.
------------------------------------
Environmental Tobacco Smoke Per required form..... May be found at http:// 60 days from release
Certification. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/program/ date.
ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Forms:
Private non-profit organizations may voluntarily 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.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Required form or format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Survey for Private, Non-Profit Per required form..... May be found at http:// 60 days from release
Grant Applicant. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ date.
ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Intergovernmental Review
State Single Point of Contact (SPOC), Notification Under Executive
Order 12372
This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 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 January, 2003, of the most recent SPOC list, 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: Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut,
Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana,
Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Palau,
Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia and
Washington.
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.
[[Page 18919]]
SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are
requested to 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, Office of Grants Management, Division of
Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Mail Stop 6C-462,
Washington, DC 20447. The official list, including addresses, of the
jurisdictions elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found at:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/ omb/grants/spoc.html.
A list of the Single Points of Contact for each State and Territory
is included with the application materials in this announcement.
5. Funding Restrictions
Reimbursement of pre-award costs, costs for foreign travel or costs
for construction activity are not allowable charges to the program
grant.
6. Other Submission Requirements:
Electronic Link to Full Announcement: http//http://www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/add/announce.htm
Electronic Address to Submit Applications: http://www.grants.gov.
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, Division of Discretionary Grants, Attention:
Lois Hodge 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447.
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.
Hand Delivery: 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,
Division of Discretionary Grants ACF Mailroom, 2nd Floor (near 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: Lois Hodge. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.''
ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by fax.
Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV. 2. Content and Form
of Application Submission, for guidelines and requirements when
submitting applications electronically.
V. Application Review Information:
1. Criteria
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13)
Public reporting burden for this collection of information is
estimated to average 20 hours per response, including the time for
reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and
reviewing the collection information. The following ACF Uniform Project
Description (UPD) has been approved under OMB Control Number 0970-0139.
General Instructions for the Uniform Project Description
Applicants required to submit a full project description should
prepare the project description statement in accordance with the
following instructions.
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, 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, extent to which the application is consistent
with the objectives of the application, and the extent to which the
application indicates the anticipated contributions to policy practice,
theory and research. Extent to which the proposed project cost is
reasonable in view of the expected results.
Approach: Outline a plan of action that 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
that 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. 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 are to be
collected, maintained, and 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.
Organizational Profile: Provide information on the applicant
organization(s) and cooperating partners such as with organizational
charts, financial statements, audit reports or statements from CPAs/
Licensed Public Accountants, Employer Identification 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
[[Page 18920]]
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.
Minimum Requirements for Project Design. ADD requires grant funds
to be used to support the development of State policies that reinforce
and promote (with the support of families, guardians, advocates, and
communities of individuals with developmental disabilities) the self-
determination, independence, productivity and integration and inclusion
in all facets of community life of such individuals through family
support activities. Project activities should accomplish any of the
following:
Establishment of a State Policy Council of
families of children with developmental disabilities, or utilization of
an existing council which will advise and assist the lead entity in the
performance of activities under the project. The State Policy Council
shall be composed of a majority of participants who are family members
of children with developmental disabilities, or who are youth with
developmental disabilities (ages 18-21), or qualify under both
categories;
Training and technical assistance for family
members, service providers, community members, professionals, members
of the Policy Council, State agency staff, students and others;
Interagency coordination of Federal and State
policies, resources, and services; establishment of interagency
workgroups to enhance public funding options and coordination; and
other interagency activities that promote coordination;
Outreach to locate families who are eligible for
family support and to identify groups who are underserved or unserved;
Policy studies that relate to the development
and implementation, or expansion and enhancement, of a statewide system
of family support for families of children with developmental
disabilities;
Hearings and forums to solicit input from
families of children with developmental disabilities, regarding family
support programs, policies, and plans for such families;
Public awareness and education to families of
children with developmental disabilities, parent groups and
organizations, public and private agencies, students, policymakers, and
the general public;
Needs assessment;
Data collection and analysis related to the
statewide system of family support for families of children with
developmental disabilities;
Implementation plans must include innovative
partnerships with community organizations to increase the utilization
of generic services by families of children with developmental
disabilities;
Pilot demonstration projects to demonstrate new
approaches to the provision of family support for families of children
with developmental disabilities, that includes family strengthening
services such as parenting education and marriage education;
Development of an evaluation system that uses
measurable outcomes based on family satisfaction indicators. Indicators
include the extent to which a service or support meets a need, solves a
problem, or adds value for families of children with developmental
disabilities, as determined by the individual family.
ADD expects to fund applications that include or incorporate into
these activities one or more of the following populations relevant to
their State: (1) Unserved and underserved populations that include
populations such as individuals from racial and ethnic minority
backgrounds, economically disadvantaged individuals, individuals with
limited-English proficiency, and individuals from underserved
geographic areas (rural or urban); (2) aging families of adult children
with developmental disabilities, who are over age 21 with a focus on
assisting those families and their adult child to be included as self-
determining members of their communities; (3) foster/adoptive families
of children with developmental disabilities; (4) families participating
in the State's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program (TANF),
welfare-to-work, and/or SSI program; (5) veterans with families having
a child with a developmental disability; (6) parents with developmental
disabilities (especially cognitive disabilities) who have children with
or without disabilities; and (7) families of children with
developmental disabilities who have behavioral/emotional issues.
ADD intends to fund those applications that describe how the
project will:
Ensure consumer/self-advocate orientation and
participation;
Include key project personnel with direct life
experience living with a developmental disability;
Have strong advisory components that consist of
a majority of individuals with developmental disabilities and a
structure where individuals with developmental disabilities make real
decisions that determine the outcome of the grant;
If the project includes research, reflect the
principles of participatory action;
Consider cultural competency (``cultural
competency'' as defined in the DD Act as--services, supports, or other
assistance that is conducted or provided in a manner that is responsive
to the beliefs, interpersonal styles, attitudes, language, and behavior
of individuals who are receiving the services, supports or other
assistance, and in a manner that has the greatest likelihood of
ensuring their maximum participation in the program involved);
Allow individuals with developmental
disabilities and their families to be involved in all aspects of the
design, implementation, and evaluation of the project;
Attend to unserved and inadequately served
individuals, who have developmental disabilities (from mild to severe),
and who are from multicultural backgrounds, rural and inner-city areas,
and migrant, homeless, and refugee families;
Comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act,
if applicable, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as
amended by the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998 (Pub. L. 105-220);
Use collaboration through partnerships and
coalitions;
Develop the capacity to communicate and
disseminate information and technical assistance through e-mail and
other effective, affordable, and accessible forms of electronic
communication;
Develop and establish system change activities
beyond the project period; and
[[Page 18921]]
Disseminate models, products, best practices,
and strategies for distribution between networks and beyond.
Applications must also include provisions for the travel of a key
staff person during the project period to Washington, DC.
Evaluation Criteria
Five (5) criteria will be used to review and evaluate each
application under this announcement. Each criterion should be addressed
in the project description section of the application. The point values
indicate the maximum numerical weight possible for a criterion in the
review process. The specific information to be included under each of
these headings is described in the General Instructions for the Uniform
Project Description. Additional information that must be included is
described below.
Criterion 1: Approach (Maximum 35 points)
Applicants are expected to present a plan that (1) reflects an
understanding of the characteristics, needs and services currently
available to the targeted population; (2) provides services that
directly address the needs of the target population; (3) is evidence-
based and grounded in theory and practice; (4) is appropriate and
feasible; (5) can be reliably evaluated; and (6) if successfully
implemented, can be sustained after Federal funding has ceased.
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it:
(1) Outlines a plan of action pertaining to the scope and detail on
how the proposed work will be accomplished for each project. Defines
goals and specific measurable objectives for the project (8 points);
(2) Identifies the kinds of data to be collected and maintained,
and discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate the results and success
of the project. Describes how the proposed project will be evaluated to
determine the extent to which it has achieved its stated goals and
objectives; and whether the methods of evaluation include the use of
performance measures that are clearly related to the intended outcome
of the project (8 points);
(3) Describes any unusual features of the project, such as design
or technological innovation, reductions in cost or time, or
extraordinary social and community involvement (5 points);
(4) Provides 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. When accomplishments cannot be quantified, activities
should be listed in chronological order to show the schedule of
accomplishments and their target dates (4 points);
(5) Describes the products to be developed during the
implementation of the proposed project. These can include
questionnaires, interview guides, data collection instruments,
software, Internet applications, reports, outcomes and evaluation
results. Also present a dissemination plan for conveying the
information (4 points);
(6) Cites factors which might accelerate or decelerate the work and
provide reasons for taking this approach as opposed to others (3
points);
(7) Lists each organization, operator, consultant, or other key
individual who will work on the project along with a short description
of the nature of their effort or contribution (3 points).
Criterion 2: Objectives and Need for Assistance (Maximum 25 points)
The application should describe the context of the proposed
demonstration project, including the geographic location, environment,
magnitude and severity of the problem(s) to be solved and the needs to
be addressed. Applications requesting development funds, in addition to
providing the following information, should include a summary/abstract
of the project goals and accomplishments during the planning grant.
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it:
(1) Demonstrates the need for the assistance and states the
principal and subordinate objectives for the project (10 points).
(2) Pinpoints any relevant physical, economic, social, financial,
institutional, or other problems requiring a solution (5 points).
(3) Provides supporting documentation or other testimonies from
concerned interests other than the applicant (5 points).
(4) Provides any relevant data based on planning studies (4
points); and
(5) Provides maps and other graphic aids (1 point).
Criterion 3: Results or Benefits Expected (Maximum 20 points)
The application should identify results and benefits to be derived
and the anticipated contribution to policy, practice, theory and
research should be indicated.
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it:
(1) Clearly describes project benefits and results as they relate
to the objectives of the project (10 points); and
(2) Provides information as to the extent to which the project will
build on current theory, research, evaluation and best practices to
contribute to increased knowledge of understanding the problems, issues
or effective strategies and practices in family support (10 points).
Criterion 4: Organizational Profile (13 points)
Applications should demonstrate a capacity to implement the
proposed project. Capacity includes (1) experience with similar
projects; (2) experience with the target population; (3) qualifications
and experience of the project leadership; (4) commitment to developing
sustaining work among key stakeholders; (5) experience and commitment
of any proposed consultants and subcontractors; and (6) appropriateness
of the organizational structure, including its management information
system, to carry out the project.
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it:
(1) Identifies the background of the project director/principal
investigator and key project staff (including name, address, training,
educational background and other qualifying experience) and the
experience of the organization that demonstrates the an ability to
effectively and efficiently administer this project; present brief
resumes (4 points);
(2) Provides a brief background description of how the applicant
organization is organized, the types and quantity of services it
provides, and the research and management capabilities it possesses (4
points);
(3) Describes the competence of the project team and its
demonstrated ability to produce a final product that is readily
comprehensible and usable (3 points); and
(4) Provides an organization chart showing the relationship of the
project to the current organization (2 points).
Criterion 5: Budget and Budget Justification (7 points)
Applications must present a budget with reasonable project costs,
appropriately allocated across component areas, and sufficient to
accomplish the objectives. The dollar amount requested must be fully
justified and documented.
A letter of commitment of non-Federal resources must be submitted
with the application in order to be given credit in the review process.
A fully explained non-Federal share budget must be prepared for each
funding source.
[[Page 18922]]
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it:
(1) Discusses and justifies the costs of the proposed project which
are reasonable and programmatically justified in view of the activities
to be conducted and the anticipated results and benefits (3 points);
(2) Describes the fiscal control and accounting procedures that
will be used to ensure prudent use, proper disbursement, and accurate
accounting of funds received under this program announcement (2
points); and
(3) Includes a fully explained non-Federal share budget and its
source(s) (2 points).
Additional Points
This year, five additional points will be added to the total in the
score for an application for any project that includes partnership and
collaboration with one or more of the 140 Empowerment Zones/Enterprise
Communities. To receive the additional five points, the application
must provide a clear outline for the collaboration and a discussion of
how the involvement of the EZ/EC is related to the objectives and the
activities of the project. Also, a letter from the appropriate
representatives of the EZ/EC must accompany the application indicating
its agreement to participate and describing its role in the project.
For further information on Empowerment Zones and Enterprise
Communities, please visit the ACF Office of Community Service's Web
site at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/ez-ec.
2. Review and Selection Process
A. Selection Process
Applications under this Program Announcement from eligible
applicants received by the deadline date will be competitively reviewed
and scored. Experts in the field, generally persons from outside the
Federal Government, will use the evaluation criteria listed later in
the evaluation section of the Program Announcement to review and score
the applications. The results of this review are a primary factor in
making funding decisions.
ADD reserves the option of discussing applications with, or
referring them to, other Federal or non-Federal funding sources when
this is determined to be in the best interest of the Federal Government
or the applicant.
In making PNS decisions for 2004 grant awards, ADD will consider
whether applications focus on or feature the following aspects/
activities in their project design to the extent appropriate:
A substantially innovative strategy with the
potential to improve theory or practice in the field of human services;
A model practice or set of procedures that holds
the potential for replication by organizations administering or
delivering human services;
A substantial involvement of volunteers, the
private sector (either financial or programmatic), faith-based and
community organizations, and/or national or community foundations;
A favorable balance between Federal and non-
Federal funds available for the proposed project, which is likely to
result in the potential for high benefit for low Federal investment;
and
A programmatic focus on those most in need of
services and assistance, such as unserved and underserved populations,
including underserved cultural, ethnic, and racial minority
populations.
To the greatest extent possible, efforts will be made to ensure
that funding decisions reflect an equitable distribution of assistance
among the States and geographical regions of the country, and rural and
urban areas. In making these decisions, ADD may also take into account
the need to avoid unnecessary duplication of effort.
B. Review Process
Using the evaluation criteria described above, a panel of at least
three reviewers (primarily experts from outside the Federal Government)
will evaluate and score the applications. To facilitate this review,
applicants should ensure that they address the minimum requirements
identified in the Priority Area description under the appropriate
section of the Program Narrative Statement.
Reviewers will determine the strengths and weaknesses of each
application in terms of the evaluation criteria listed below, provide
comments, and assign numerical scores. The point value following each
criterion indicates the maximum numerical weight that each applicant
may receive per section in the review process.
VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices
Subject to the availability of funding, ADD intends to award new
grants resulting from this Program Announcement during the fourth
quarter of Fiscal Year 2004. Up to $550,000 in Federal funds will be
available to support these projects this fiscal year.
Successful and unsuccessful applicants will be notified of the
results of this grant competition within 90 days of the application
deadline.
Following approval of the application selected for funding, ACF
will mail a written notice of award to the applicant organization. The
official award document is the Financial Assistance Award that
specifies the amount of the 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. The notice of award signed
by the grants management officer is the authorizing document.
For the purpose of the awards under this Program Announcement, the
successful applicants should expect a project start date of September
1, 2004.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
45 CFR Part 74, Administration of Grants for Institutions of Higher
Education, non-profit organizations and Indian Tribal Governments.
45 CFR Part 92, Uniform Administrative Requirement for Grants and
Cooperative Agreements to State and Local Governments.
Public Law 108-96.
3. Reporting Requirements
A. Programmatic Reports: semi-annually, and a final report due 90
days after end of Project Period.
B. Financial Reports: semi-annually, and a final report due 90 days
after end of Project Period.
Original reports and one copy should be mailed to: Lois Hodge,
Grants Officer, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC, 20447.
VII. Agency Contacts
Program Office Contact: Joan Rucker, Program Specialist, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447, (202) 690-7898,
jrucker@acf.hhs.gov, or fax (202) 690-6904.
Grants Management Office Contact: Lois Hodge, Grants Officer, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447, (202) 401-2344, or e-
mail lhodge@acf.hhs.gov.
Application Materials Contact: Valerie Reese, Program Specialist,
370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447, (202) 690-5805,
vreese@acflhhs.gov, or fax (202) 690-6904.
VIII. Other Information
All forms are available online at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/form/htm
.
[[Page 18923]]
Dated: April 5, 2004.
Patricia A. Morrissey,
Commissioner, Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
[FR Doc. 04-8081 Filed 4-8-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P