FR Doc 05-9225

[Federal Register: May 9, 2005 (Volume 70, Number 88)]
[Notices]
[Page 24437-24449]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr09my05-71]

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families

Administration on Developmental Disabilities; University Centers
for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and
Service (UCEDDs)

Announcement Type: Grant--Initial.
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ADD-DD-0096.
CFDA Number: 93.632.
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 (DHHS) announces the
availability of fiscal year 2005 funds to award grants to support the
expansion of the National Network of University Centers for Excellence
in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service
(UCEDDs). The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights
Act of 2000 (Pub. L. 106-402) section 152(d) (42 U.S.C. 15062)
authorizes the expansion of the National Network of UCEDDs, ``* * * for
States or populations that are unserved or underserved by Centers due
to such factors as (1) population; (2) a high concentration of rural or
urban areas; or (3) a high concentration of unserved or underserved
populations.''
Applicants should have expertise in addressing the health
disparities and education issues of ethnic and racial minority groups.
This funding opportunity will support the administration and operation
of up to three new UCEDDs that are interdisciplinary education,
research, and public service units of universities, or public or not-
for-profit entities associated with universities that engage in core
functions (e.g., provision of interdisciplinary pre-service preparation
and continuing education of students and fellows; provision of
community services, including training and/or technical assistance;
conduct of research; and dissemination of information) addressing,
directly or indirectly, one or more of the areas of emphasis (e.g.,
quality assurance, education and early intervention, child care,
health, employment, housing, transportation, recreation, and other
services available or offered to individuals in a community, including
formal and informal community supports, that affect their quality of
life). This program announcement contains instructions for the
submission of the fiscal year 2005 grant applications for core funding.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

Legislative Authority

The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) in the
Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Department of Health
and Human Services (DHHS) shares common 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 community-based approach that recognizes and expands on
the resources and benefits of diversity; and
A recognition of the power and effectiveness of public-
private partnerships, including collaboration among a variety of
community groups and government agencies, such as a coalition of faith-
based organizations, grassroots groups, families, and public agencies
to address a community need.
The vision, listed above, will enable more individuals, including
people with developmental disabilities, to live productive and
independent lives integrated into their communities. The University
Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education,
Research, and Service are a means by which ADD promotes the achievement
of this vision.
ADD is the lead agency in ACF, DHHS, for administering the
Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000
(DD Act of 2000) (42 U.S.C. 15001, et seq.). The DD Act of 2000
authorizes support and assistance to States, public agencies, and
private, non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community
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 of 2000, 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 are manifested before the
individual attains age 22 and are likely to continue indefinitely.
Developmental disabilities result in

[[Page 24438]]

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.
The DD Act of 2000 identifies a number of significant findings,
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.
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 of 2000 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.
Individuals with developmental disabilities and their
families are the primary decision makers regarding the services and
support 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;
Ensure the protection of the legal and human rights of
individuals with developmental disabilities;
Ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities
from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and their
families enjoy increased and meaningful opportunities to access and use
community services, individualized supports, and other forms of
assistance available to other individuals with developmental
disabilities and their families; and
Promote recruitment efforts that increase the number of
individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who
work with individuals with developmental disabilities and their
families in disciplines related to pre-service training, community
training, practice, administration, and policymaking.
There are four programs funded under the DD Act of 2000:
State Developmental Disabilities Councils;
State Protection and Advocacy Systems for Individuals with
Developmental Disabilities' Rights;
National Network of University Centers for Excellence in
Developmental Disabilities, Education, Research, and Service; and
Projects of National Significance.
This program announcement provides information about funding that
will expand the National Network of University Centers for Excellence
in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service.

National Network of University Centers for Excellence in Developmental
Disabilities Education, Research, and Service

The purpose of this notice is to announce the availability of FY
2005 grant award funds for the expansion of the National Network of
University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities
Education, Research, and Service (UCEDDs). In accordance with
requirements in Section 152(d) (42 U.S.C. 15062) of the DD Act of 2000,
the grant awards will be made for populations that are unserved or
underserved by UCEDDs due to factors such as elevated State residency
rates, a high concentration of rural or urban areas, or increased rate
of unserved or underserved populations. Applicants should have
expertise in addressing the health disparities and education issues of
ethnic and racial minority groups.
UCEDDs are interdisciplinary education, research, and public
service units of universities or public or not-for-profit entities
associated with universities that engage in core functions (e.g.,
interdisciplinary training, community services (including training and/
or technical assistance), research, and dissemination of information)
and address, directly or indirectly, one or more of the areas of
emphasis (e.g., quality assurance, education and early intervention,
child care, health, employment, housing, transportation, recreation,
and other services available or offered to individuals in a community,
including formal and informal community supports, that affect their
quality of life).
As liaisons to service delivery systems, UCEDDs serve to positively
affect the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and
their families, and work towards increasing their independence,
productivity, and integration into communities. The National Network
has evolved considerably during its history. Established in 1963, the
development of the National Network is marked by growth in three phases
(Fifield & Fifield, 1995). The first phase, 1963-1974, involved the
construction of institutions closely associated with universities and
the development of centralized expertise, training programs, clinical,
diagnostic, and treatment services for persons with intellectual
disabilities. The second phase, 1975-1986, promoted community-based
services, developmental concepts, and the provision of services through
a person's full life span. This period also saw the creation of the
three major components of the present-day developmental disabilities
system: State Developmental Disabilities Planning Councils, Protection
and Advocacy Agencies, and University Centers. The third period, from
1987 to the present, has emphasized a consumer focus, as exemplified by
the completion of an extensive national consumer satisfaction
evaluation study, which brought to the forefront the issues of consumer
empowerment, independence, and inclusion.
Currently, UCEDDs engage in four broad tasks called core functions:
(1) Interdisciplinary preservice preparation and continuing education,
(2) exemplary community service programs and technical assistance at
all levels from local service delivery to community and state
governments, (3) research, and (4) information dissemination.
UCEDD accomplishments include:
Directing exemplary interdisciplinary training programs.
The provision of training is offered in an interdisciplinary format
where faculty

[[Page 24439]]

and trainees represent a variety of disciplines, such as pediatrics,
education, psychology, and nursing, thereby expanding opportunities for
students to learn about the differing perspectives of various
professionals who are providing services to individuals with
developmental disabilities and their families.
Providing community services and technical assistance.
Staff offer expertise through training and technical assistance
activities to families, support service organizations, individuals with
developmental disabilities and their family members, professionals,
paraprofessionals, students, systems, and volunteers.
Contributing to the development of new knowledge through
research and information dissemination. UCEDDs develop and field test
models of service delivery and evaluate existing innovative practices,
which are then disseminated to the field to translate research into
practice.
The DD Act of 2000 requires that grants be made to entities
designated as a UCEDD in each State. The DD Act defines a State as the
fifty states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin
Islands, and Guam. Currently, there are 61 UCEDDs in every State and
Territory. Public Law 108-447, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of
2005, supports the expansion of the national network of UCEDDs. Funds
made available under this program announcement will support the
administration and operation of up to three newly designated UCEDDs.
This program announcement contains instructions for the submission of
the fiscal year 2005 grant applications for core funding. Applicants
should note that the instructions for responding to this announcement
follow requirements set forth in the DD Act of 2000 with regard to the
UCEDD program.

Priority Area

University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities
Education, Research, and Service.
1. Description
Below are instructions for the submission of fiscal year 2005 grant
applications for core funding to support the operation and
administration of newly established UCEDD programs. This funding
opportunity expands the national network of UCEDDs for States or
populations that are unserved or underserved by UCEDDs due to such
factors as the number of individuals in the State; a high concentration
of rural or urban areas; or a high concentration of unserved or
underserved populations. Applicants should have expertise in addressing
the health disparities and education issues of ethnic and racial
minority groups.
Five-Year Plan
The application for core funding must describe a five-year plan
that outlines a projected measurable goal for one or more area(s) of
emphasis (e.g., quality assurance, education and early intervention,
child care, health, employment, housing, transportation, recreation,
and other services available or offered to individuals in a community,
including formal and informal community supports, that affect their
quality of life) for each core function. The UCEDD core functions are
the following:
Interdisciplinary pre-service preparation and continuing education
includes the preparation and continuing education of students and
fellows representing leadership, direct service, clinical, or other
personnel to strengthen and increase the capacity of States and
communities. UCEDDs should promote recruitment efforts that increase
the number of individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse
backgrounds working with people with developmental disabilities and
their families in disciplines related to pre-service training,
community training, practice, administration, and policymaking. The
nature of the UCEDD interdisciplinary training program should be
reflected in the faculty and students. To this end, faculty and
students should represent a variety of disciplines, which may include:
[ctrcir] Audiology.
[ctrcir] Dentistry.
[ctrcir] Early Intervention.
[ctrcir] Early Childhood Education.
[ctrcir] Early Childhood Special Education.
[ctrcir] Educational Administration.
[ctrcir] General Education.
[ctrcir] Health Administration.
[ctrcir] Medicine.
[ctrcir] Nursing.
[ctrcir] Nutrition.
[ctrcir] Pediatrics.
[ctrcir] Physical Therapy.
[ctrcir] Psychiatry.
[ctrcir] Psychology.
[ctrcir] Public Health.
[ctrcir] Public Policy.
[ctrcir] Occupational Therapy.
[ctrcir] Pediatric Dentistry.
[ctrcir] Social Work.
[ctrcir] Special Education.
[ctrcir] Speech-Language Pathology.
Community services include the provision of training and
technical assistance for individuals with developmental disabilities,
their families, professionals, paraprofessionals, policy-makers,
students, and other members of the community. It also may include the
provision of services, supports, and assistance for the persons with
developmental disabilities and their families through demonstration and
model activities. Community services promote the delivery of programs,
projects, activities, and services in community-based settings rather
than academic or traditional clinical settings. In addition, the
provision of community services should ensure that individuals with
developmental disabilities from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds
and their families enjoy increased and meaningful opportunities to
access and use community services, individualized supports, and other
forms of assistance available to other individuals with developmental
disabilities and their families.
Research includes basic or applied research, evaluation,
and the analysis of public policy in areas that affect or could affect,
either positively or negatively, individuals with developmental
disabilities and their families. To the extent possible, UCEDDs should
seek to include people with developmental disabilities and their
families, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse
groups, as active participants in the research process thereby ensuring
that these individuals and their families participate in the
development, design, and implementation of research activities.
Information dissemination includes the distribution of
knowledge that demonstrates the UCEDD network as a national and
international resource with substantive areas of expertise that may be
accessed and applied in diverse settings and circumstances. UCEDDs
should strive to translate research into practice in the dissemination
of information. Information should be disseminated in multiple
accessible formats and in a culturally competent manner.
Organizational Experience
The application for core funding should describe how the applicant
has expertise in addressing the health disparities and education issues
of ethnic and racial minority groups. In addition, the applicant should
provide a description of how that experience will be applied in working
to further improve the health and education services of persons with
developmental disabilities, including those from racial and ethnic
minority groups.

[[Page 24440]]

Assurances
The application for core funding must contain assurances that the
applicant will implement requirements in the DD Act of 2000 with regard
to the UCEDD program:
The entity designated as the UCEDD will meet statutory and
regulatory requirements that apply to Centers.
The entity designated as the UCEDD will address the
projected goals and carry out goal-related activities in a manner
consistent with the objectives of the DD Act of 2000.
The goal-related activities must be:
[ctrcir] Based on data-driven strategic planning;
[ctrcir] Developed in collaboration with the Consumer Advisory
Committee (CAC);
[ctrcir] Consistent with, and to the extent feasible, complement
and further the State Developmental Disabilities Council goals
contained in the State plan and the goals of the State Protection and
Advocacy System; and
[ctrcir] Reviewed and revised annually, as necessary, to address
emerging trends and needs.
[ctrcir] Funds made available through the grant will be used to
supplement, and not supplant, the funds that would otherwise be made
available for activities related to interdisciplinary pre-service
preparation, and continuing education, community services, research,
and information dissemination.
[ctrcir] The entity designated as the UCEDD will protect the legal
and human rights of all individuals with developmental disabilities
(especially those individuals under State guardianship) who are
involved in activities carried out under programs assisted by the DD
Act of 2000.
[ctrcir] The entity designated as the UCEDD will establish and
maintain a Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC).
[ctrcir] The majority of the members of the Consumer Advisory
Committee shall be individuals with developmental disabilities and
family members of such individuals.
The CAC must also include representatives of:
[ctrcir] The State Protection and Advocacy System;
[ctrcir] The State Council on Developmental Disabilities;
[ctrcir] A self-advocacy organization described in Section
124(c)(4)(A)(ii)(I) of the DD Act of 2000; and
[ctrcir] Organizations that may include Parent Training and
Information Centers assisted under Sections 671 and 672 of the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004,
entities carrying out activities in assistive technology authorized
under section 101 or 102 of the Assistive Technology Act of 2004,
relevant State agencies, and other community groups concerned with the
welfare of individuals with developmental disabilities and their
families.
The CAC must reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of
the State.
The CAC should: be consulted regarding the development of
the five-year plan, participate in an annual review, comment on
progress in meeting projected goals, and meet as often as necessary,
but at a minimum of twice during each grant year.
[ctrcir] To the extent possible, the infrastructure and resources
obtained through funds made available under the grant will be utilized
to leverage additional public and private funds to successfully achieve
the projected goals developed in the five-year plan.
[ctrcir] The director of the UCEDD will hold appropriate academic
credentials, demonstrate leadership, have expertise regarding
developmental disabilities, have significant experience in managing
grants and contracts, and have the ability to leverage public and
private funds; and will allocate adequate staff time to carry out
activities related to each of the core functions.
[ctrcir] The entity designated as the UCEDD will educate and
disseminate information related to the purpose of the DD Act of 2000 to
the legislature of the State in which the Center is located and to
Members of Congress from the State.
Coordinated Activities
The respondents to this announcement should provide a narrative and
related supporting documentation of how, if funded, the UCEDD will
undertake coordinated activities with the State Developmental
Disabilities Councils and the Protection and Advocacy System in the
State to:
Enhance the ability of individuals with developmental
disabilities and their families to participate in the design of and
have access to needed community services, individualized supports, and
other forms of assistance that promote self-determination,
independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion in all facets
of community life;
Bring about advocacy, capacity building, and systemic
change activities (including policy reform), and other actions on
behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities and their
families, including individuals who are traditionally unserved or
underserved, particularly individuals who are members of ethnic and
racial minority groups and individuals from underserved geographic
areas; and
Bring about advocacy, capacity building, and systemic
change activities that affect individuals with disabilities other than
individuals with developmental disabilities;
Program Accountability
Respondents to this program announcement must describe how they
will comply with the accountability requirements outlined in the DD Act
of 2000. The accountability requirements are comprised of two
components: (1) the UCEDD's Annual Report, and (2) ADD's system of
program accountability.
Entities designated as UCEDDs must submit an Annual Report that
provides information on progress made in achieving the UCEDD's
projected goals for the previous year, including:
The extent to which the goals were achieved;
A description of the strategies that contributed to
achieving the goals; and
To the extent to which the goals were not achieved, a
description of factors that impeded the achievement.
The Annual Report should also include an accounting of the manner
in which funds paid to the UCEDD for a fiscal year were expended;
information on proposed revisions to the goals; and a description of
successful efforts to leverage funds, other than funds made available
to support the operation and administration of the UCEDD, to pursue
goals consistent with the UCEDD program.
The ADD system of program accountability is designed to:
Monitor entities that received funds under the DD Act of
2000 to carry out its activities;
Determine the extent to which the entities have been
responsive to the purpose of the DD Act of 2000; and
Determine the extent to which the entities have taken
actions consistent with the policy described in section 101(c) of the
DD Act of 2000.
The accountability system must include a process for identifying
and reporting on progress achieved through advocacy, capacity building,
and systemic change activities, undertaken by the UCEDDs that resulted
in individuals with developmental disabilities and their families
participating in the design of and having access to needed community
services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that
promote self-determination, independence, productivity, and integration
and inclusion in all facets of community life. Progress achieved
through the advocacy,

[[Page 24441]]

capacity building, and systemic change activities must be reported by
the areas of emphasis (e.g., quality assurance, education and early
intervention, child care, health, employment, housing, transportation,
recreation, and other services available or offered to individuals in a
community, including formal and informal community supports, that
affect their quality of life).
In identifying progress made in the areas of emphasis, the UCEDD
will report using indicators of progress that describe and measure the:
[ctrcir] Satisfaction of individuals with developmental
disabilities with the advocacy, capacity building, and systemic change
activities provided by the UCEDD;
[ctrcir] Extent to which the advocacy, capacity building, and
systemic change activities provided through the UCEDD result in
improvements in the ability of individuals with developmental
disabilities to:
[ctrcir] Make choices and exert control over the type, intensity,
and timing of services, supports, and assistance that the individuals
have used;
[ctrcir] Participate in the full range of community life with
persons of the individuals' choice; and
[ctrcir] Access services, supports, and assistance in a manner that
ensures that such an individual is free from abuse, neglect, sexual and
financial exploitation, violation of legal and human rights, and the
inappropriate use of restraints and seclusion; and
[ctrcir] Extent to which the State Council on Developmental
Disabilities, the Protection and Advocacy Agency, and UCEDD collaborate
with each other to achieve the purpose of this title and the policy
described in section 101(c).
In responding to this announcement, applicants should provide
assurances that they will, if funded, follow the reporting
requirements, including the proposed ADD format, for the UCEDD program.
A copy of the proposed ADD format may be obtained by contacting
Jennifer Johnson at (202) 690-5982 or jjohnson1@acf.hhs.gov.

II. Award Information

Funding Instrument Type: Grant.
Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $600,000.
Anticipated Number of Awards: 1 to 3.
Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: $200,000 per budget period.
Floor on Amount of Individual Awards: $200,000 per budget period.
Average Projected Award Amount: $200,000 per budget period.
Length of Project Periods: 60 month project with five 12 month
budget periods.
Entities awarded grants under this funding opportunity will apply
each fiscal year for continued funding. In awarding and distributing
grant funds for a fiscal year, ADD shall award and distribute grant
funds in equal amounts to each UCEDD that existed during the preceding
fiscal year, subject to the availability of appropriations. Therefore,
the funding amounts for the first fiscal year of the project period may
be different from subsequent years.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants:
State controlled institutions of higher education.
Non-profits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other
than institutions of higher education.
Private institutions of higher education.
Additional Information on Eligibility:
Faith-based and community organizations are eligible entities under
this announcement.
Please see Section IV for required documentation supporting
eligibility or funding restrictions if any are applicable.
2. Cost Sharing/Matching: Yes.
Grantees are required to meet a non-Federal share of the project
costs, in accordance with Developmental Disabilities Assistance and
Bill of Rights Act of 2000, 42 U.S.C. 15064(d)(1). Grantees must
provide at least 25% 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
contributions, although applicants are encouraged to meet their match
requirements through cash contributions. For example, in order to meet
the match requirements, a project with a total approved cost of
$133,000, requesting $100,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal
share of at least $33,250 (25% of total approved project cost of
$133,000). 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. Lack of supporting documentation at the time of application will
not impact the responsiveness of the application for competitive
review.
3. Other:
All applicants must have a Dun & 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
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.

[[Page 24442]]

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:

Jennifer Johnson Ed.D., Program Specialist, Office of Operations and
Discretionary Grants, Administration on Developmental Disabilities,
Administration for Children and Families, Mail Stop: HHH 405-D, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447. Phone: (202) 690-5982.
Fax: (202) 205-8037. E-mail: jjohnson1@acf.hhs.gov.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission:
The required application package will include the following using
the format described:

Letter of Intent

In submitting a letter of intent, applicants are asked to remit a
post card or letter with a statement indicating that they intend to
apply and the following information:

Funding opportunity number;
Organizational name;
Point of contact;
Organizational address;
Phone number;
Fax number;
E-mail address.

Letters of intent can be sent to:

Jennifer Johnson, Ed.D., Program Specialist, Office of Operations and
Discretionary Grants, Administration on Developmental Disabilities,
Administration for Children and Families, Mail Stop: HHH 405-D, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447. Phone: (202) 690-5982.
Fax: (202) 205-8037. E-mail: jjohnson1@acf.hhs.gov.

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.

Format

The application must not exceed 50 double-spaced, numbered, typed
pages excluding an abstract and a table of contents. Any application
that exceeds the page limit requirement will have the additional pages
removed from the application prior to the review. The type must not be
smaller than 12 pitch or a point size of 12. The margins must not be
less than one inch.

Appendix

The Appendix must not exceed 40 pages. Supplementary material,
intended to provide examples of activities, may be included in the
Appendix for reviewers but shall adhere to the page limit requirement.
The Appendix must be included with the original and the two copies of
the application.

Budget

The applicant shall develop a full budget, including a completed SF
424A, ``Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs,'' a detailed
budget breakdown by object class categories listed in the SF 424A,
Section B, and a narrative budget justification, for a twelve-month
budget period. The budget justification should describe how the costs
are reasonable and necessary for the proper and efficient
administration of the proposed project. Applicants should include in
their budget funds to pay for travel expenses to attend at least one
ADD-sponsored Project Director's meeting in Washington, DC. The
applicant must include the twelve-month Federal budget under Column
(1), the twelve-month non-Federal budget under Column (2), and the
total twelve-month budget under Column (5) of the SF 424A. The
applicant shall use the three-column approach when preparing the
detailed budget breakdown. For the remaining four years of the
requested project period, the applicant must complete SF 424A, Section
E, indicating the total forecasted budget for each year. The applicant
must also provide a lump sum figure for non-Federal contributions for
the second through fifth years of the project on SF 424A, Section C.
If the procurement policy of an applicant's institution includes an
equipment definition other than the current Federal definition, a copy
of the institution's current definition should be included in the
application.

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.
----Application length does not exceed 50 pages.
----Appendix length does not exceed 40 pages.

A complete application has the following items in the order listed:

----Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424).
----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).
----Assurances Regarding Non-Construction Programs (SF 424B).
----Budget justification for Section B Budget Categories with a
description of how the costs are reasonable and necessary.
----Table of Contents.
----Proof of Non-Profit Status, if applicable, (see Section III.3.).
----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).
----Project Description.
----Letter(s) of commitment verifying non-Federal cost share.
----Any appendices/attachments.
----Assurances Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 424B).
----Certification Regarding Lobbying (SF LLL).
----Certification of Protection of Human Subjects, if necessary.
----Certification of the Pro Children Act of 1994 (Environmental
Tobacco Smoke), signature on the application represents certification.
----``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' for
private, non-profit applicants.
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.

[[Page 24443]]

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 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

[[Page 24444]]

applications that are submitted via http://www.Grants.gov.

Checklist:
You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your
application package.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Required form or format When to submit
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Project Abstract..................... See Sections IV.2 and V. Found in Sections IV.2 and V........... By application due date.
Project Description.................. See Sections IV.2 and V. Found in Sections IV.2 and V........... By application due date.
Budget Narrative/Justification....... See Sections IV.2 and V. Found in Sections IV.2 and V........... By application due date.
SF424................................ See Section IV.2........ See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/ By application due date.

forms.htm.
SF-LLL Certification Regarding See Section IV.2........ See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/ By date of award.

Lobbying. forms.htm.
Certification Regarding Environmental See Section IV.2........ See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/ By date of award.

Tobacco Smoke. forms.htm.
Assurances........................... See Section IV.2........ See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/ By date of award.

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://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/ By application due date.

forms.htm.
Support Letters...................... See Section V........... Found in Section V..................... By application due date.
Non-Federal Commitment Letters....... See Section V........... Found in Section V..................... By application due date.
SF424B............................... See Section IV.2........ See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/ By application due date.

forms.htm.
Proof of Non-Profit Status........... See Section III.3....... Found in Section III.3................. By date of award.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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.

Applicants. 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
announcement.

[[Page 24445]]

Applicants should include in their budget funds to pay for travel
expenses to attend at least one ADD-sponsored Project Director's
meeting in Washington.
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, Office of Grants Management, Administration for Children
and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., 8th Floor, Washington, DC 20447.
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 Chapelle, Office of Grants Management, Administration for Children
and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., 8th Floor, 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 80 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.
General Instructions
ACF is particularly interested in specific project descriptions
that focus on outcomes and convey strategies for achieving intended
performance. Project descriptions are evaluated on the basis of
substance and measurable outcomes, not length. Extensive exhibits are
not required. Cross-referencing should be used rather than repetition.
Supporting information concerning activities that will not be directly
funded by the grant or information that does not directly pertain to an
integral part of the grant funded activity should be placed in an
appendix.
Pages should be numbered and a table of contents should be included
for easy reference.
Introduction
Applicants required to submit a full project description shall
prepare the project description statement in accordance with the
following instructions while being aware of the specified evaluation
criteria. The text options give a broad overview of what your project
description should include while the evaluation criteria identifies the
measures that will be used to evaluate applications.
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.
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,

[[Page 24446]]

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.
Additional Information
Following are requests for additional information that need to be
included in the application:
Staff and Position Data
Provide a biographical sketch and job description for each key
person appointed. Job descriptions for each vacant key position should
be included as well. As new key staff is appointed, biographical
sketches will also be required.
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 statement signed by the parent organization that the applicant
organization is a local non-profit affiliate.
Letters of Support
Provide statements from community, public and commercial leaders
that support the project proposed for funding. All submissions should
be included in the application OR by application deadline.
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.
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.
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 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.
Total Direct Charges, Total Indirect Charges, Total Project Costs
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--40 points
The applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which
the applicant outlines a sound, workable, and detailed plan of action
pertaining to the measurable goals and objectives of the proposed
project and the proposed approach; identifies activities in
chronological order, with target dates for accomplishment and the key
personnel responsible for completing the activity; and clearly
identifies the plan of action and delineates the roles and involvement
of each of the proposed project's partners, collaborators, and/or sub-
grantees.
Using the following values for each required item in this
criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the
application:

15 Points

Provides evidence of a well developed five-year work plan that
includes a clear description of the scope and detail of the proposed
work. Includes reference to a list of measurable and attainable goals
and provides quantitative projections of the accomplishments to be
achieved for each function or activity

[[Page 24447]]

in such terms as the number of people to be served and the number of
activities to be accomplished. Provides chronological order of approach
with target dates.

5 Points

Identifies innovative design and methods, including the provision
of services in community-based rather than academic settings and
strategies for reaching out to culturally and linguistically diverse
populations.

5 Points

Includes the provision of interdisciplinary training and continuing
education, community services (training, services, and technical
assistance), research, and dissemination of information in a culturally
competent manner and provides for the meaningful participation of
individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds in the purpose
and scope of activities.

5 Points

Describes prior experience in addressing health disparities and
education issues and how it will use that experience to further improve
the health and education services to persons with developmental
disabilities, including those from racial and ethnic minority groups.

5 Points

Identifies and delineates the roles and involvement of DD Network
partners and other collaborators, and/or sub-grantees.

3 Points

Cites factors that might accelerate or decelerate the work.

2 Points

Describes how the entity designated as a UCEDD will participate in
the national network of UCEDDs as a national and international
resource.
Objectives and Need for Assistance--25 points
Applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which the
applicant demonstrates a thorough understanding and analysis of the
problem(s) being addressed in the project; documents the need for
assistance, and the importance of addressing these problems in the
area(s) to be addressed by the proposed project; outlines key goals and
objectives of the project directly related to the four core functions
(interdisciplinary training and continuing education, community
services (training and technical assistance, research, and
dissemination) in one or more selected areas of emphasis (quality
assurance, education and early intervention, child care, health,
employment, housing, transportation, and recreation and other services
available or offered to individuals in a community, including formal
and informal community supports, that affect their quality of life);
provides evidence that consumer members provided input into the
development of the application for core funding; and provides any
supporting documentation and relevant data based on research or
planning studies, and maps and other graphical aids.
Using the following values for each required item in this
criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the
application:

15 Points

Clearly identifies the need for assistance, describes the
significant features and components of the program, clearly states the
goals and subordinates objectives of the project, and provides a
rationale for project goals directly related to the four core functions
(interdisciplinary training and continuing education, community
services (training and technical assistance, research, and
disseminations) in one or more selected areas of emphasis (quality
assurance, education and early intervention, child care, health,
employment, housing, transportation, and recreation and other services
available or offered to individuals in a community, including formal
and informal community supports, that affect their quality of life).

5 Points

Provides evidence of input from consumers

5 Points

Provides relevant data based on research and/or planning studies.
Evaluation--15 points
The application will be evaluated according to the extent to which
the applicant provides a narrative outlining how project results will
be evaluated; states methods for measuring the extent to which project
goals have been achieved; discusses the criteria to be used to evaluate
results; explains 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, defines the procedures to be employed to determine whether the
project is being conducted in a manner consistent with the work plan
presented; and discusses the impact of the project's various activities
on the project's effectiveness.
Using the following values for each required item in this
criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the
application:

5 Points

Provides a detailed narrative outlining how project results will be
evaluated, states methods for measuring the extent to which project
goals have been achieved, and discusses the criteria to be used to
evaluate results.

5 Points

Explains 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.

5 Points

With respect to the conduct of the project, defines the procedures
to be employed to determine whether the project is being conducted in a
manner consistent with the work plan presented and discusses the impact
of the project's various activities on the project's effectiveness.
Staff and Position Data--10 points
The applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which
the applicant provides a biographical sketch and job description for
each key person appointed; job descriptions for each vacant key
position; methods for recruiting and maintaining key staff.
Using the following values for each required item in this
criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the
application:

4 Points

Provides biographical sketches of key staff

4 Points

Provides job descriptions for each key person appointed or to be
appointed.

2 Points

Details methods for the recruitment and retention of key staff.
Budget and Budget Justification--5 points
The applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which
the applicant provides a budget with line item detail and detailed
calculations for each budget object class identified on the Budget
Information form; detailed calculations that include estimation
methods, quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative detail
sufficient for the calculation to be duplicated; a breakout by the
funding sources identified in Block 15 of the SF 424; a narrative
budget justification that describes how the categorical costs are
derived; and discusses the necessity,

[[Page 24448]]

reasonableness, and allocability of the proposed costs.
Using the following values for each required item in this
criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the
application:

3 Points

Provides a narrative budget justification that describes how the
categorical costs are derived and discusses the necessity,
reasonableness, and allocability of the proposed costs.

2 Points

Provides a budget with line item detail and detailed calculations
for each budget object class identified on the Budget Information form;
detailed calculations that include estimation methods, quantities, unit
costs, and other similar quantitative detail sufficient for the
calculation to be duplicated; a breakout by the funding sources
identified in Block 15 of the SF 424.
Organizational Profiles--5 points
The applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which
the applicant identifies the project director/principal investigator
and key project staff; includes qualifications of project staff that
will be carrying out project activities. Applications should include a
description of the experience of the organization that demonstrates the
applicant's ability to effectively and efficiently administer this
project. The application must describe the relationship between this
project and other work that is planned, anticipated, or currently under
way by the applicant. An organizational chart should be included.
Using the following values for each required item in this
criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the
application:

2 Points

Identifies the background and experience of key staff members.

2 Points

Assures compliance with the required affirmative action to employ
and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

1 Point

Includes an organizational chart.
2. Review and Selection Process:
No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of
an incomplete application. ADD may consider other factors or elements,
other than the evaluation criteria, such as geographical dispersion and
diversity, in reviewing and selecting applications.
The applications will be reviewed by a panel of approximately three
individuals who are all non-Federal reviewers. The reviewers will have
knowledge of issues pertaining to people with developmental
disabilities, University systems, and/or the provision of
interdisciplinary preservice preparation and continuing education,
community services, research, and/or information dissemination.
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: Annually.
Financial Reports: Semi-Annually.
Entities funded under this program announcement must respond to the
ADD system of program accountability. The national network of UCEDDs
will follow a template for reporting progress on an annual basis. To
receive a copy of the proposed UCEDD Annual Report template, contact
Jennifer Johnson at jjohnson1@acf.hhs.gov or 202-690-5982.

VII. Agency Contacts

Program Office Contact:
Jennifer Johnson, Ed.D., Program Specialist, Office of Operations and
Discretionary Grants, Administration on Developmental Disabilities,
Administration for Children and Families, Mail Stop: HHH 405-D, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447. Phone: (202) 690-5982.
Fax: (202) 205-8037. E-mail: jjohnsonl@acf.hhs.gov.
Grants Management Office Contact:
Tim Chappelle, Grants Officer, Office of Grants Management,
Administration for Children and Families, 370 L' Enfant Promenade, SW.,
Mail Stop: 8th Floor West, Washington, DC 20447. Phone: (202) 404-2344.
Fax: (202) 205-8436. E-mail: tichappelle@acf.hhs.gov.

VIII. Other Information

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.

[[Page 24449]]

Dated: May 4, 2005.
Debbie Powell,
Director, Office of Operations and Discretionary Grant Programs,
Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
[FR Doc. 05-9225 Filed 5-6-05; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4184-01-P