[Federal Register: May 9, 2005 (Volume 70, Number 88)]
[Notices]
[Page 24428-24437]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr09my05-70]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration for Children and Families
Administration on Developmental Disabilities; Help America Vote
Act Training and Technical Assistance To Assist Protection and Advocacy
Systems To Establish or Improve Voting Access for Individuals with
Disabilities
Announcement Type: Grant--Initial.
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ADD-DH-0034.
CFDA Number: 93.618.
Dates: Due Date For Letter of Intent or Preapplications: June 8,
2005.
Due Date for Applications: June 23, 2005.
Executive Summary: The Administration on Developmental Disabilities
(ADD) in the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services announces the availability of
fiscal year (FY) 2005 funds for grants authorized under title II,
subtitle D, part 2, section 291 (42 U.S.C. 15461) of the Help America
Vote Act of 2002. Under this subtitle, funds will be awarded to provide
training and technical assistance to Protection and Advocacy Systems
(P&A's) in:
Promoting full participation in the electoral process for
individuals with disabilities, including registering to vote, casting a
vote, and accessing polling places;
Developing proficiency in the use of voting systems and
technologies as they affect individuals with disabilities;
Demonstrating and evaluating the use of such systems and
technologies by individuals with disabilities (including blindness) in
order to assess the availability and use of such systems and
technologies for such individuals; and,
Providing training and technical assistance for non-visual
access. (At least one grant recipient will be expected to provide
training and technical assistance in this area.)
Objectives: This announcement pertains to discretionary funds
available for the purpose of providing training and technical
assistance to the Protection and Advocacy (P & A) Systems in their
promotion of self-sufficiency and protection of the rights of
individuals with disabilities as this affects the establishment or
improvement of access to full participation in the voting process.
Background
The Help America Vote Act (HAVA), signed into law by President
George W. Bush on October 29, 2002, contains three grant programs that
will enable a grantee to establish, expand, and improve access to and
participation in the election process by individuals with the full
range of disabilities (e.g., visual impairments including blindness,
hearing impairments including deafness, the full range of mobility
impairments including gross motor and fine motor impairments, emotional
impairments, and intellectual impairments). These programs are: Voting
Access for Individuals With Disabilities (VOTE), which provides funding
to the states; Protection and Advocacy Systems: Help America to Vote,
which provides funds to the Protection and Advocacy Systems throughout
the United States; and Training and Technical Assistance to Assist
Protection and Advocacy Systems to Establish or Improve Voting Access
for Individuals with Disabilities, which this announcement addresses.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) in the
Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, announces the availability of fiscal year
(FY) 2005 funds authorized under the Help America Vote Act of 2002,
Public Law (P.L.) 107-252, title II subtitle D, part 2, section 291 (42
U.S.C. 15461). Provisions under this section provide for the award of
grants for Training and
[[Page 24429]]
Technical Assistance to assist P & A Systems in:
Promoting full participation in the electoral process for
individuals with disabilities, including registering to vote, casting a
vote, and accessing polling places;
Developing proficiency in the use of voting systems and
technologies as they affect individuals with disabilities;
Demonstrating and evaluating the use of such systems and
technologies by individuals with disabilities (including blindness) in
order to assess the availability and use of such systems and
technologies for such individuals; and,
Providing training and technical assistance for non-visual
access. (At least one recipient must provide training and technical
assistance in this area.)
Objectives: This announcement pertains to discretionary funds
available for the purpose of providing training and technical
assistance to the Protection and Advocacy Systems in their promotion of
self-sufficiency and protection of the rights of individuals with
disabilities as this affects the establishment or improvement of access
to full participation in the voting process.
Background
The Help America Vote Act (HAVA), signed into law by President
George W. Bush on October 29, 2002, contains three grant programs that
will enable a grantee to establish, expand, and improve access to and
participation in the election process by individuals with the full
range of disabilities (e.g., visual impairments including blindness,
hearing impairments including deafness, the full range of mobility
impairments including gross motor and fine motor impairments, emotional
impairments, and intellectual impairments). These programs are: Voting
Access for Individuals with Disabilities (VOTE), which provides funding
to the states and territories; Protection and Advocacy Systems: Help
America to Vote, which provides funding to Protection and Advocacy
Systems throughout the United States; and Training and Technical
Assistance to Assist Protection and Advocacy Systems to Establish or
Improve Voting Access for Individuals with Disabilities, which this
announcement addresses.
Background on ADD and ADD Programs
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.
ADD is the lead agency within ACF and HHS responsible for planning
and administering programs to promote the self-sufficiency and protect
the rights of persons with developmental disabilities. ADD administers
the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of
2000 (the DD Act). The DD Act provides for funding to States to provide
advocacy, promote consumer oriented systems change and capacity
building activities, and facilitate network formations.
The four programs funded under the DD Act are:
(1) State Councils on Developmental Disabilities that engage in
advocacy, capacity building, and systemic change activities.
(2) Protection and Advocacy Systems (P&A's) that protect the legal
and human rights of individuals with developmental disabilities.
(3) The National Network of University Centers for Excellence in
Developmental Disabilities, (UCEDD) that engages in training, outreach,
research, and dissemination activities.
(4) Projects of National Significance (PNS), including Family
Support Grants, that support the development of family-centered and
directed systems for families of children with developmental
disabilities.
In addition to responsibilities under the DD Act, ADD has been
given the responsibility by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services for three grant programs authorized under the
Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA), Public Law 107-252. This
announcement is for the HAVA Training and Technical Assistance to
Assist Protection and Advocacy Systems to Establish or Improve Voting
Access for Individuals with Disabilities program.
Priority Area
Help America Vote Act Training and Technical Assistance to Assist
Protection and Advocacy Systems to Establish or Improve Voting Access
for Individuals with Disabilities
1. Description: The purpose of funds awarded under this
announcement is to provide training and technical assistance to
Protection and Advocacy Systems (P & A's) in their promotion of full
participation in the electoral process for individuals with
disabilities, including registering to vote, casting a vote, and
accessing polling places; developing proficiency in the use of voting
systems and technologies as they affect individuals with disabilities;
and demonstrating and evaluating the use of such systems and
technologies by individuals with disabilities (including blindness) in
order to assess the availability and use of such systems and
technologies for such individuals. At least one recipient of these
funds must provide training and technical assistance for non-visual
access.
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument Type: Grant.
Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $347,177.
Anticipated Number of Awards: 1 to 4.
Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: $347,177 per budget period.
Floor on Amount of Individual Awards: $86,984 per budget period.
Average Projected Award Amount: $86,794 per budget period.
Length of Project Periods: 12 month project and budget period.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
County governments.
City or township governments.
Special district governments.
State controlled institutions of higher education.
Native American tribal governments (federally recognized).
Non-profits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other
than institutions of higher education.
Non-profits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the
IRS, other than institutions of higher education.
Private institutions of higher education.
Additional Information on Eligibility
In order for an entity to establish eligibility, the entity must
show that it: (A) is a public or private non-profit entity with
demonstrated experience in voting issues for individuals with
disabilities; (B) is governed by a board with respect to which the
majority of its members are individuals with disabilities or family
members of such individuals or individuals who are blind; and (C)
submits to the Secretary an application as required under this
announcement.
Faith-based and community organizations are eligible under this
announcement.
2. Cost Sharing/Matching
None.
3. Other
All applicants must have a Dun & Bradstreet number. On June 27,
2003 the Office of Management and Budget
[[Page 24430]]
published in the Federal Register a new Federal policy applicable to
all Federal grant applicants. The policy requires Federal grant
applicants to provide a Dun & 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.
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 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.
A copy of a currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate.
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
earning accrue to any private shareholders or individuals.
A certified copy of the organization's certificate of
incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes non-profit
status.
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.
When applying electronically we strongly suggest you attach your
proof of non-profit status with your electronic application.
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,''
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Disqualification Factors
Applications that exceed the ceiling amount will be considered non-
responsive and will not be considered for funding under this
announcement.
Any application that fails to satisfy the deadline requirements
referenced in Section IV.3 will be considered non-responsive and will
not be considered for funding under this announcement.
IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Address to Request Application Package
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration
on Developmental Disabilities, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Mail Stop
HHH 405-D, Washington, DC 20447. Phone: 202-690-5962. E-mail:
mschaefer@acf.hhs.gov.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission:
Letter of Intent
Applicants should submit a letter of intent stating the name of the
applicant organization and/or lead organization that will apply for
this grant.
Letter of Intent information will be used to determine the number
of reviewers necessary to complete the panel review process. Failure to
submit a Letter of Intent will not impact eligibility to submit an
application and will not disqualify an application from competitive
review based on non-responsiveness.
The Application
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.
Application Requirements
A complete application consists of the following items in this
order:
--Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424);
--Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs (SF 424A);
--Budget justification for Section B--Budget Categories;
--Proof of designation as a lead agency;
--Table of Contents;
--Proof on Non-Profit Status, if applicable, (see Section III.3.);
--Copy of the applicant's approved indirect cost rate agreement, if
applicable;
--Project Summary/Abstract;
--Project Narrative;
--Any appendices/attachments (e.g., support letters);
--Assurances--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 424B);
--Certification Regarding Lobbying (SF-LLL);
--Certification of the Pro-Children Act of 1994 (Environmental Tobacco
Smoke), signature on the application represents certification.
Application Format
Length: Applications, including all forms and attachments, must not
exceed 50 pages.
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. ACF
will not accept grant applications via email or facsimile transmission.
Please note the following if you plan to submit your application
electronically via Grants.gov:
Electronic submission is voluntary, but strongly
encouraged.
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.
We recommend you visit Grants.gov at least 30 days prior
to filing your application to fully understand the process and
requirements. We encourage applicants who submit electronically to
submit well before the closing date and time so that if difficulties
are encountered an applicant can still send in a hard copy overnight.
If you encounter difficulties, please contact the Grants.gov Help Desk
at 1-800-518-4276 to report the problem and obtain assistance with the
system.
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
[[Page 24431]]
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.
Applicants that are submitting their application in paper format
should submit an original and two copies of the complete application.
The original and each of the two copies must include all required
forms, certifications, assurances, and appendices, be signed by an
authorized representative, have original signatures, and be submitted
unbound.
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,''
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Standard Forms and Certifications: The project description should
include all the information requirements described in the specific
evaluation criteria outlined in the program announcement under Section
V Application Review Information. In addition to the project
description, the applicant needs to complete all the standard forms
required for making applications for awards under this announcement.
Applicants seeking financial assistance under this announcement
must file the Standard Form (SF) 424, Application for Federal
Assistance; SF-424A, Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs; SF-
424B, Assurances--Non-Construction Programs. The forms may be
reproduced for use in submitting applications. Applicants must sign and
return the standard forms with their application.
Applicants must furnish prior to award an executed copy of the
Standard Form LLL, Certification Regarding Lobbying, when applying for
an award in excess of $100,000. Applicants who have used non-Federal
funds for lobbying activities in connection with receiving assistance
under this announcement shall complete a disclosure form, if
applicable, with their applications (approved by the Office of
Management and Budget under control number 0348-0046). Applicants must
sign and return the certification with their application.
Applicants must also understand they will be held accountable for
the smoking prohibition included within Public Law 103-227, Title XII
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (also known as the PRO-KIDS Act of 1994). A
copy of the Federal Register notice which implements the smoking
prohibition is included with this form. By signing and submitting the
application, applicants are providing the certification and need not
mail back the certification with the application.
Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their
compliance with all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By
signing and submitting the applications, applicants are providing the
certification and need not mail back the certification form. Complete
the standard forms and the associated certifications and assurances
based on the instructions on the forms. The forms and certifications
may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Those organizations required to provide proof of non-profit status,
please refer to Section III.3.
Please see Section V.1 for instructions on preparing the full
project description.
3. Submission Dates and Times
Due Date For Letter of Intent or Preapplications: June 8, 2005.
Due Date for Applications: June 23, 2005.
Explanation of Due Dates
The closing time and date for receipt of applications is referenced
above. Applications received after 4:30 p.m. eastern time on the
closing date will be classified as late.
Deadline: Applications shall be considered as meeting an announced
deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time and date
referenced in Section IV.6. Applicants are responsible for ensuring
applications are mailed or submitted electronically well in advance of
the application due 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., eastern time, at the address referenced in Section
IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays).
ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by facsimile.
Therefore, applications transmitted to ACF by fax will not be accepted
regardless of date or time of submission and time of receipt.
Late Applications: Applications that 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.
Any application received after 4:30 p.m. eastern time on the
deadline date will not be considered for competition.
Applicants using express/overnight mail services should allow two
working days prior to the deadline date for receipt of applications.
Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail services do not
always deliver as agreed.
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.
Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will not be
provided to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier
services, or by hand delivery. Applicants will receive an electronic
acknowledgement for applications that are submitted via http://www.Grants.gov
.
Checklist: You may use the checklist below as a guide when
preparing your application package.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Required form or
What to submit Required content format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Project Abstract.............. See Sections IV.2 and Found in Sections IV.2 By application due date.
V. and V.
Project Description........... See Sections IV.2 and Found in Sections IV.2 By application due date.
V. and V.
[[Page 24432]]
Budget Narrative/Justification See Sections IV.2 and Found in Sections IV.2 By application due date.
V. and V.
SF424......................... See Section IV.2...... See http:// By application due date.
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
SF-LLL Certification Regarding See Section IV.2...... See http:// By date of award.
Lobbying. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Certification Regarding See Section IV.2...... See http:// By date of award.
Environmental Tobacco Smoke. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Assurances.................... See Section IV.2...... http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By date of award.
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Letter of Intent.............. See Section IV.2...... Found in Section IV.2. June 8, 2005.
Table of Contents............. See Section IV.2...... Found in Section IV.2. By application due date.
SF424A........................ See Section IV.2...... See http:// By application due date.
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Support Letters............... See Section V......... See Section V......... By application due date.
SF424B........................ See Section IV.2...... See http:// By application due date.
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Proof of Non-Profit Status.... See Section III.3..... Found in Section III.3 By date of award.
Proof of Designation as Lead See Section IV.2...... See Section IV.2...... By application due date.
Agency (if appropriate).
Copy of Approved Indirect Cost See Section V......... See Section V......... By date of award.
Rate Agreement.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Forms: Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged
to submit with their applications the survey located under ``Grant
Related Documents and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant
Applicants,'' titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for
Applicants,'' at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Required form or
What to submit Required content format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Survey for Private, Non-Profit See form.............. Found in http:// By application due date.
Grant Applicants. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. 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, 2004, the following jurisdictions have elected to
participate in the Executive Order process: Arkansas, California,
Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa,
Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New
Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South
Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, American Samoa, Guam,
North Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and Virgin Islands. As these
jurisdictions have elected to participate in the Executive Order
process, they have established SPOCs. Applicants from participating
jurisdictions should contact their SPOC, as soon as possible, to alert
them of prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants
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 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 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., 4th
floor, Washington, DC 20447.
Although the remaining jurisdictions have chosen not to participate
in the process, entities that meet 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. Therefore,
applicants from these jurisdictions, or for projects administered by
federally-recognized Indian Tribes, need take no action in regard to
E.O. 12372.
The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions that
have elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following
URL: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.
5. Funding Restrictions
Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this
program.
6. Other Submission Requirements
Submission by Mail
An applicant must provide an original application with all
attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two copies.
Please see Section IV.3 for an explanation of due dates. Applications
should be mailed to: Tim Chappelle, U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families, Office of
Grants Management, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., 8th Floor West,
Washington, DC 20447.
[[Page 24433]]
Hand Delivery
An applicant must provide an original application with all
attachments signed by an authorized representative and two copies. The
application must be received at the address below by 4:30 p.m. eastern
time on or before the closing date. Applications that are hand
delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
eastern time, Monday through Friday. Applications should be delivered
to: Tim Chappelle, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS),
Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants Management,
370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., 8th Floor West, Washington, DC 20447.
Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV.2 for guidelines and
requirements when submitting applications electronically via http://www.Grants.gov
.
V. Application Review Information
The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13)
Public reporting burden for this collection of information is
estimated to average 50 hours per response, including the time for
reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and
reviewing the collection information.
The project description is approved under OMB control number 0970-
0139 which expires 4/30/2007.
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.
1. Criteria
The following are instructions and guidelines on how to prepare the
``project summary/abstract'' and ``full project description'' sections
of the application. Under the evaluation criteria section, note that
each criterion is preceded by the generic evaluation requirement under
the ACF Uniform Project Description (UPD).
Part I The Project Description Overview
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, information responsive to each of the requested evaluation
criteria must 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 in a
manner that is clear and complete.
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 how the activities that your organization
undertakes will promote the full participation in the electoral process
for individuals with the full range of disabilities, including
registering to vote, casting a vote, and accessing polling places.
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.
Evaluation
Provide a narrative addressing how the conduct of the project and
the results 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 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. If the
applicant is a non-profit organization, submit proof of non-profit
status in its application.
The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing: (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 immediately above for a State or national parent organization
and a
[[Page 24434]]
statement signed by the parent organization that the applicant
organization is a local non-profit affiliate.
Budget and Budget Justification
Provide a budget with 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. 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.
General
Use the following guidelines for preparing the budget and budget
justification. Both Federal and non-Federal resources shall be detailed
and justified in the budget and narrative justification. ``Federal
resources'' refers only to the ACF grant for which you are applying.
``Non Federal resources'' are all other Federal and non-Federal
resources. It is suggested that budget amounts and computations be
presented in a columnar format: first column, object class categories;
second column, Federal budget; next column(s), non-Federal budget(s),
and last column, total budget. The budget justification should be a
narrative.
Personnel
Description: Costs of employee salaries and wages.
Justification: Identify the project director or principal
investigator, if known. For each staff person, provide the title, time
commitment to the project (in months), time commitment to the project
(as a percentage or full-time equivalent), annual salary, grant salary,
wage rates, etc. Do not include the costs of consultants or personnel
costs of delegate agencies or of specific project(s) or businesses to
be financed by the applicant.
Fringe Benefits
Description: Costs of employee fringe benefits unless treated as
part of an approved indirect cost rate.
Justification: Provide a breakdown of the amounts and percentages
that comprise fringe benefit costs such as health insurance, FICA,
retirement insurance, taxes, etc.
Travel
Description: Costs of project-related travel by employees of the
applicant organization (does not include costs of consultant travel).
Justification: For each trip, show the total number of traveler(s),
travel destination, duration of trip, per diem, mileage allowances, if
privately owned vehicles will be used, and other transportation costs
and subsistence allowances. Travel costs for key staff to attend ACF-
sponsored workshops should be detailed in the budget.
Equipment
Description: ``Equipment'' means an article of nonexpendable,
tangible personal property having a useful life of more than one year
and an acquisition cost which equals or exceeds the lesser of (a) the
capitalization level established by the organization for the financial
statement purposes, or (b) $5,000. (Note: Acquisition cost means the
net invoice unit price of an item of equipment, including the cost of
any modifications, attachments, accessories, or auxiliary apparatus
necessary to make it usable for the purpose for which it is acquired.
Ancillary charges, such as taxes, duty, protective in-transit
insurance, freight, and installation shall be included in or excluded
from acquisition cost in accordance with the organization's regular
written accounting practices.)
Justification: For each type of equipment requested, provide a
description of the equipment, the cost per unit, the number of units,
the total cost, and a plan for use on the project, as well as use or
disposal of the equipment after the project ends. An applicant
organization that uses its own definition for equipment should provide
a copy of its policy or section of its policy which includes the
equipment definition.
Supplies
Description: Costs of all tangible personal property other than
that included under the Equipment category.
Justification: Specify general categories of supplies and their
costs. Show computations and provide other information which supports
the amount requested.
Contractual
Description: Costs of all contracts for services and goods except
for those that belong under other categories such as equipment,
supplies, construction, etc. Include third party evaluation contracts
(if applicable) and contracts with secondary recipient organizations,
including delegate agencies and specific project(s) or businesses to be
financed by the applicant.
Justification: Demonstrate that all procurement transactions will
be conducted in a manner to provide, to the maximum extent practical,
open and free competition. Recipients and subrecipients, other than
States that are required to use Part 92 procedures, must justify any
anticipated procurement action that is expected to be awarded without
competition and exceed the simplified acquisition threshold fixed at 41
U.S.C. 403(11) (currently set at $100,000).
Recipients might be required to make available to ACF pre-award
review and procurement documents, such as request for proposals or
invitations for bids, independent cost estimates, etc.
Note: Whenever the applicant intends to delegate part of the
project to another agency, the applicant must provide a detailed
budget and budget narrative for each delegate agency, by agency
title, along with the required supporting information referred to in
these instructions.
Other
Enter the total of all other costs. Such costs, where applicable
and appropriate, may include but are not limited to insurance, food,
medical and dental costs (noncontractual), professional services costs,
space and equipment rentals, printing and publication, computer use,
training costs, such as tuition and stipends, staff development costs,
and administrative costs.
Justification: Provide computations, a narrative description and a
justification for each cost under this category.
Indirect Charges
Description: Total amount of indirect costs. This category should
be used only when the applicant currently has an indirect cost rate
approved by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or
another cognizant Federal agency.
Justification: An applicant that will charge indirect costs to the
grant must enclose a copy of the current rate agreement. If the
applicant organization is in the process of initially developing or
renegotiating a rate, upon notification that an award will be made, it
should immediately develop a tentative indirect cost rate proposal
based on its most recently completed fiscal year, in accordance with
the cognizant agency's guidelines for establishing indirect cost rates,
and submit it to the cognizant agency. Applicants awaiting approval of
their indirect cost proposals may also request indirect costs. When an
indirect cost rate is requested, those costs included in the indirect
cost pool
[[Page 24435]]
should not also be charged as direct costs to the grant. Also, if the
applicant is requesting a rate which is less than what is allowed under
the program, the authorized representative of the applicant
organization must submit a signed acknowledgement that the applicant is
accepting a lower rate than allowed.
Program Income
Description: The estimated amount of income, if any, expected to be
generated from this project.
Justification: Describe the nature, source and anticipated use of
program income in the budget or refer to the pages in the application
which contain this information.
Evaluation Criteria
The following evaluation criteria appear in weighted descending
order. The corresponding score values indicate the relative importance
that ACF places on each evaluation criterion; however, applicants need
not develop their applications precisely according to the order
presented. Application components may be organized such that a reviewer
will be able to follow a seamless and logical flow of information
(i.e., from a broad overview of the project to more detailed
information about how it will be conducted).
In considering how applicants will carry out the responsibilities
addressed under this announcement, competing applications for financial
assistance will be reviewed and evaluated against the following
criteria:
Approach--35 Points
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate the results, explain the
methodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified and
discussed are being met, and the results and benefits identified are
being achieved. Applicants will be evaluated based on the extent to
which they present a plan that (1) clearly reflects an understanding of
the characteristics, needs and services currently available to the
targeted population; (2) provides appropriate 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; and
(5) can be reliably evaluated.
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
outline a plan of action pertaining to the scope and detail on how the
proposed work will be accomplished for each project, and include a
definition of the goals and specific measurable objectives for the
project. (8 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
identify 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. For example, the applicant may provide a description of how
the proposed project will be evaluated to determine the extent to which
it has achieved its stated goals and objectives; the applicant may also
provide a description of methods of evaluation that include the use of
performance measures that are clearly related to the intended outcome
of the project. (8 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
describe 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)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
provide for each project, when possible, a quantitative description of
the accomplishments to be achieved and, when quantification is not
possible, a list of activities, in chronological order, to show the
schedule of accomplishments and their target date. (4 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
describe the products to be developed during the implementation of the
proposed project, such as questionnaires, interview guides, data
collection instruments, software, internet applications, reports,
article outcomes, evaluation results, and a dissemination plan for
conveying the information. (4 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
cite factors which might accelerate or decelerate the work and provide
reasons for taking this approach as opposed to others. (3 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
list 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 of contribution. (3 points)
Objectives and Need for Assistance--25 Points
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which the
applicant describes 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 will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
demonstrate the need for assistance and describe the principal and
subordinate objectives for the project. (10 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
specifically mention any relevant physical, economic, social,
financial, institutional, or other problems requiring a solution. (5
points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
provide supporting documentation or other testimonies from concerned
interests other than the applicant. (5 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
provide relevant data based on planning studies. (4 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
provide relevant maps and other graphic aids. (1 point)
Results or Benefits Expected--20 Points
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
identify the results and benefits to be derived and the anticipated
contribution to policy, practice, theory, and research.
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
clearly describe the project benefits and results as they relate to the
objectives of the project. (10 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
provide information regarding how the project will build on current
theory, research, evaluation and best practices to contribute to
increased knowledge and understanding of the problems, issues, or
effective strategies and practices in training and technical
assistance. (10 points)
Organizational Profiles--15 Points
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
identify how the applicant organization (or the unit within the
organization that will have responsibility for the project) is
structured, the types and quantity of services, and the research and
management capabilities it possesses. Applications will be evaluated
based on the extent to which the applicant demonstrates a capacity to
implement the proposed project including (1) experience with similar
projects; (2) experience with the target population; (3) qualifications
and experience of the project leadership; (4) commitment to developing
and sustaining work among key stakeholders; (5) experience and
commitment of any proposed consultants and subcontractors; and (6)
appropriateness of the organizational
[[Page 24436]]
structure, including its management information system, to carry out
the project.
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
identify the background of the project director/principal investigator
and key project staff (such as the inclusion of name, address,
training, educational background, and other qualifying experience) and
the extent to which they demonstrate that the experience of the
organization is such that the applicant may effectively and efficiently
administer this project, for example, this can include providing brief
resumes of key project staff. (4 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
provide 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)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
describe the competence of the project team and its demonstrated
ability to produce a final product that is readily comprehensible and
usable. (4 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
demonstrate the direct relationship of the project to the applicant
organization such as an organizational chart that illustrates the
relationship of the project to the current organization. (3 points)
Budget and Budget Justification--5 Points
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which the
applicant presents a budget with reasonable project costs,
appropriately allocated across component areas and sufficient to
accomplish the objectives, such as the inclusion of a justification for
and documentation of the dollar amount requested.
Applications will be evaluated based upon the extent to which they
include a narrative budget justification that describes how the
categorical costs are derived and a discussion of the reasonableness
and appropriateness of the proposed costs. Line item allocations and
justifications are required for Federal funds.
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
discuss and justify the costs of the proposed project as being
reasonable and programmatically justified in view of the activities to
be conducted and the anticipated results and benefits. (3 points)
Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they
describe the fiscal controls 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)
Note: Applicants have the option of omitting the Social Security
Numbers and specific salary rates of the proposed project personnel
from the two copies submitted with the original applications to ACF.
For purposes of the outside review process, applicants may elect to
summarize salary information on the copies of their application. All
necessary salary information must, however, appear on the signed
original application for ACF.
2. Review and Selection Process: No grant award will be made under
this announcement on the basis of an incomplete application.
Each application submitted under this program announcement will
undergo a pre-review to determine that (1) the application was received
by the closing date (see Section IV.3.) and (2) that the amount
requested does not exceed the stated ceiling (see Section II.). It is
necessary that applicants state specifically which funding announcement
they are applying for.
Applications will be evaluated and rated by an independent review
panel on the basis of specific evaluation criteria. The results of
these reviews will assist the Commissioner and ADD program staff in
considering competing applications. Reviewers' 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 reviewers. The evaluation criteria were
designed to assess the quality of a proposed project, and to determine
the likelihood of its success. The evaluation criteria are closely
related and are considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of
an application. Points are awarded only to applications which are
responsive to the evaluation criteria within the context of this
program announcement. Non-Federal reviewers will be used for the review
process.
Since ACF will be using non-Federal reviewers in the process,
applicants have the option of omitting from the application copies (not
the original) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals
specified in the application budget and Social Security Numbers, if
otherwise required for individuals. The copies may include summary
salary information.
Approved But Unfunded Applications
Applications that are approved but unfunded may be held over for
funding in the next funding cycle, pending the availability of funds,
for a period not to exceed one year.
VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices
The successful applicants will be notified through the issuance of
a Financial Assistance Award document which sets forth the amount of
funds granted, the terms and conditions of the grant, the effective
date of the grant, the budget period for which initial support will be
given, the non-Federal share to be provided (if applicable), and the
total project period for which support is contemplated. The Financial
Assistance Award will be signed by the Grants Officer and transmitted
via postal mail.
Organizations whose applications will not be funded will be
notified in writing.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
Grantees are subject to the requirements in 45 CFR part 74 (non-
governmental) or 45 CFR part 92 (governmental).
Direct Federal grants, sub-award funds, or contracts under this
Family Support Initiative 2005 program shall not be used to support
inherently religious activities such as religious instruction, worship,
or proselytization. Therefore, organizations must take steps to
separate, in time or location, their inherently religious activities
from the services funded under this Program. Regulations pertaining to
the Equal Treatment For Faith-Based Organizations, which includes the
prohibition against Federal funding of inherently religious activities,
can be found at either 45 CFR 87.1 or the HHS Web site at: http://www.os.dhhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf
.
3. Reporting Requirements
Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financial
reports (SF-269 found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm)
throughout the project period. Program progress and financial reports
are due 30 days after the reporting period. Final programmatic and
financial reports are due 90 days after the close of the project
period.
Program Progress Reports: Semi-Annually.
Financial Reports: Semi-Annually.
Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financial
reports (SF-269) throughout the project period. Program progress and
financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. In
addition, final programmatic
[[Page 24437]]
and financial reports are due 90 days after the close of the project
period.
VII. Agency Contacts
Program Office Contact: Margaret Schaefer, Administration for
Children and Families, Administration on Developmental Disabilities,
370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Mail Stop HHH 405-D, Washington, DC 20447.
Phone: 202-690-5962. Fax: 202-205-8037. E-mail: mschaefer@acf.hhs.gov.
Grants Management Office Contact: Tim Chappelle, Administration for
Children and Families, Office of Grants Management, 370 L'Enfant
Promenade, SW., 8th Floor West, Washington, DC 20447. Phone: 202-401-
4855. E-mail: tichappelle@acf.hhs.gov.
VIII. Other Information
Additional information about this program and its purpose can be
located on the following Web sites: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/add and http://www.nass.org.
Notice: Beginning with FY 2006, the Administration for Children and
Families (ACF) will no longer publish grant announcements in the
Federal Register. Beginning October 1, 2005, applicants will be able to
find a synopsis of all ACF grant opportunities and apply electronically
for opportunities via: http://www.Grants.gov. Applicants will also be
able to find the complete text of all ACF grant announcements on the
ACF Web site located at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/index.html.
Please reference Section IV.3 for details about acknowledgement of
received applications.
Dated: May 4, 2005.
Debbie Powell,
Director, Office of Operations and Discretionary Grant Programs,
Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
[FR Doc. 05-9224 Filed 5-6-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P