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Executive Summary The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) invites the submission of applications for funding, on a competitive basis, to connect newcomer refugees and their communities with community resources. The objective of this program is to strengthen organized ethnic communities comprised and representative of refugee populations to ensure ongoing support and services to refugees after initial resettlement. This announcement replaces the Priority Area Three - Ethnic Community Self-Help program included in the Standing Announcement for Services for Recently Arrived Refugees published in the Federal Register on April 23, 2004. ORR is interested in applications from national, regional (multi-state) or local refugee community organizations that address community building, facilitate cultural adjustment and integration of refugees, and deliver mutually supportive functions such as information exchange, civic participation, resource enhancement, orientation and support to newly arriving refugees (and other refugees that maybe in need of such assistance regardless of their resettlement date) and public education to the larger community on the background, needs and potential of refugees. The Director will observe March 24, 2008, as the first closing date for applications. Thereafter, the Director will observe February 24, 2009 and February 24, 2010 as the closing dates for applications. Background Community and civic organizations, including faith-base organizations, have played a significant role in refugee resettlement for years. Many refugees who arrived in this country during the past century participated in self-help groups in order to assist their own members, to foster long-term community growth, to assist community members in securing employment and housing, acquiring English language skills, and accessing health, mental health and social services. ORR recognizes that one key factor in strengthening communities is the development of strong community-based organizations (CBOs). A strong ethnic organization can tap into the community's interest in self-help, improving services, supporting community leaders, attracting resources by exploring various opportunities and collaborating with mainstream agencies and groups, and at the same time, remain accountable to the refugee community. These community-based ethnic organizations may be faith-based. Strong CBOs can also facilitate positive interaction between refugees and established residents in mainstream communities. The ability to organize and to voice their concerns collectively gives refugees a better sense of identity and hope for their own and their community's future. Refugee self-help groups can be important building blocks for effective resettlement and can function as bridges between the refugee community and local resources by paving the way for smooth integration and positive and productive community relations. ORR has found that effective refugee self-help groups result in refugees' self-sufficiency, independence and active participation in their communities. In recognition of the special vulnerability of newly arrived populations, ORR intends to provide support to refugee ethnic communities who have significant populations in the United States that have been slow to fully integrate into American society and have not yet attained citizenship. Awards will be based on the applicant's documentation and justification of such factors as community service needs, and sound organizational and service delivery systems and available resources or a plan for such, aimed at mutual assistance in the community. I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION Legislative Authority This program is authorized by section 412(c)(1)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) (8 U.S.C. §1522(c)(1)(A)), as amended, which authorizes the Director ''to make grants to, and enter into contracts with, public or private nonprofit agencies for projects specifically designed-- (i) to assist refugees in obtaining the skills that are necessary for economic self-sufficiency, including projects for job training, employment services, day care, professional refresher training, and other recertification services; (ii) to provide training in English where necessary (regardless of whether the refugees are employed or receiving cash or other assistance); and (iii) to provide where specific needs have been shown and recognized by the Director, health (including mental health) services, social services, educational and other services.'' Funding Opportunity Description Purpose and Objectives The objective of this program is to provide assistance to organized ethnic communities comprised and representative of refugee populations. ORR's intended purpose is to build bridges among refugee communities and community resources in order to enhance services to refugees. ORR is interested in applications from national, regional (multi-state), or local refugee community organizations that address community building, facilitate cultural adjustment and integration of refugees, and deliver mutually supportive functions such as information exchange, civic participation, resource enhancement, orientation and support to newly arriving refugees and public education to the larger community on the background, needs and potential of refugees. Respondents to this announcement will be of two general types: (1) National or Multi-site ethnic organizations that propose to develop or strengthen local ethnic groups and/or a national network of ethnic entities for purposes of linking refugees to community resources and promoting and strengthening community participation; or (2) Emerging local ethnic communities that seek to function as bridges between newly arrived refugees and mainstream local resources and organizations. Allowable Activities 1. National organization applicants to this notice may propose activities that may include, but are not limited to, the following: organizing newly arriving refugees for self-help and mutual assistance, organizational and leadership development, civic participation; inspiring self-determination; linking technical assistance and resources for local ethnic communities; orientation on the background and potential of refugees to the larger community, including establishing and strengthening links with institutions such as schools, crime prevention and law enforcement entities, promoting mediation and constructive conflict resolution, promoting health and mental health services and augmenting agency linkages via internet connections; facilitating information dissemination on ethnic-specific issues; or convening of national or regional meetings and/or conference calls. Organizations proposing technical assistance to emerging organizations should indicate links between their proposed capacity building efforts and the quality of services to be provided to refugees by the entities receiving technical assistance. 2. Local ethnic self-help applicants to this notice may propose any of the following activities: direct or referral services to address unmet needs of refugees in the areas of English language training, employment, housing, health and mental health services or self-help organizing efforts and orientation designed to inform the refugee community about issues essential to functioning effectively in the new society; focused orientation and assistance to parents in connecting with school systems; dissemination of information on access to community health and mental health services, including health care for the uninsured, health insurance, health maintenance organizations, the importance of preventive health, required immunizations, and available universal coverage; pairing refugee individuals or families with community volunteers; enhancing and facilitating refugee rural resettlement efforts; information and training on the roles of men and women in the U.S. culture, such as, information on healthy marriage education programs and partnerships with healthy marriage community and faith-based programs; information on laws regarding child welfare, child abuse and neglect; information on sexual harassment and coercion, and domestic violence; bilingual staff assistance for women's shelters, and techniques for self-protection and safety; activities designed to improve relations between refugees and law enforcement entities; community training for such activities as civic organizing, resource strategies, and non-profit management and accountability. The above are examples of services. Applicants may propose other relevant services and may request funds to cover core or general operating expenses. In all instances, however, activities must be designed to supplement, rather than to supplant or duplicate, the existing array of refugee services available in the community. Planning and coalition-building should be guided by the overarching goal of improving the economic condition of refugee families and of giving them the information needed to achieve economic self-sufficiency and social and civic integration into their new country and their new communities. The focus of the ethnic-provided services should be to ensure support and ongoing services after the initial resettlement. National and local organizations may use funds from these grants to access training in the areas of organizational development and services provision. The training plan in the application should identify areas for training (e.g, staff development, financial management, board governance, case management, capacity building, technology). The links between the training and gains projected to be achieved by the grantee in terms of improved skills, degree of capacity development and the improved use of technology should be adequately described in terms of their links to the variety, quality and effectiveness of services to the refugees to be served. Relevant aspects of the proposed training should be incorporated into the profile, needs assessment, approach, results and budget narrative sections of the proposal. Grantees may use up to ten percent of the grant amount or $10,000, whichever is less. The Director may implement additional closing dates, if necessary, to respond to the needs of an imminently arriving refugee population. The announcement of additional closing dates will be made through a published modification to this announcement that will be posted to the ACF Grant Opportunities webpage at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/index.html and at www.grants.gov. II. AWARD INFORMATION
Subject to the availability of funding and the best interests of the government, the Director reserves the right to award more or less than the funds described under "Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding;" however, if more funding becomes available, the stated ceiling and floor amounts will remain the same. In the absence of worthy applications, the Director may decide not to make an award if deemed to be in the best interest of the government. Funding for future years, under this announcement, is at the Director's discretion and depends on the availability of appropriated funds. Applicants may be required to reduce the scope of selected projects based on the amount of the approved grant award. Ethnic Community Self-Help applications are for project periods of up to three years (36 months). Awards, on a competitive basis, will be for twelve (12)-month budget periods although project periods may be up to thirty-six (36) months. Applications for continuation grants funded under these awards, beyond the twelve (12)-month budget period but within the thirty-six (36) month project period, will be entertained in subsequent years on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the grantee and determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the government. Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds. III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants:
Public or private nonprofit agencies are eligible applicants. Faith-based and community organizations that meet the statutory eligibility requirements are eligible to apply under this announcement. Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement. 2. Cost Sharing or Matching: None 3. Other: ORR Refugee Eligibility Individuals with the following immigration statuses are eligible for refugee social services: (1) refugees; (2) asylees; (3) Cuban and Haitian entrants; (4) certain Amerasians from Vietnam; and (5) victims of a severe form of trafficking who receive certification or eligibility letters from ORR, and certain other specified family members of trafficking victims." For details about these statuses, see 45 CFR 400.43, ORR State Letter #00-17 and ORR State Letter #0-13, as modified by State Letter #02-01, and ORR State Letter #04-12, at www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/orr. For convenience, the term "refugee" is used in this notice to encompass all such eligible persons. Disqualification Factors Applications with requests that exceed the ceiling on the amount of individual awards referenced in Section II. Award Information will be deemed 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., Submission Dates and Times, will be deemed non-responsive and will not be considered for funding under this announcement. IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION 1. Address to Request Application Package: Thomas GiossiProgram Manager, Division of Community Resettlement Administration for Children and Families Office of Refugee Resettlement 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW, 8th Floor West Washington, DC 20447 Phone: 202-401-5720 Fax: 202-401-5772 Email: Thomas.Giossi@acf.hhs.gov URL: www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/orr 2. Content and Form of Application Submission: The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) is particularly interested in specific factual information and statements of measurable goals in quantitative terms. Project descriptions are evaluated on the basis of substance, 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 activities should be placed in an appendix. A table of contents and a Project Summary/Abstract should be included. The application narrative should be a 12-point font with a twenty (20) page double-spaced narrative limit and up to an additional twenty-five (25) pages of attachments are allowable, not including letters of support, table of contents, Project Summary/Abstract, standard forms, certifications, budget and budget justification. This limitation of 20 pages should be considered a maximum, and not necessarily a goal. Reviewers may disregard any narrative over the page limit. Each page should be numbered sequentially including the attachments and appendices. The application should not be stapled or in any way bound other than with a rubber band or clip. Books or videotapes should not be included as they are not easily reproduced and are inaccessible to reviewers. An original and two copies of the complete application are required. The original and the two copies must include all required forms, certifications, assurances and appendices, be signed by an authorized representative and have original signatures. Applicants are encouraged to include sufficient travel funds to cover the cost of a two day grantee workshop in the Washington, DC area. D-U-N-S Requirement All applicants must have a D&B Data Universal Numbering System (D-U-N-S) number. On June 27, 2003, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) published in the Federal Register a new Federal policy applicable to all Federal grant applicants. The policy requires Federal grant applicants to provide a D-U-N-S number when applying for Federal grants or cooperative agreements on or after October 1, 2003. The D-U-N-S number will be required whether an applicant is submitting a paper application or using the government-wide electronic portal, Grants.gov. A D-U-N-S 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 D-U-N-S number. You may acquire a D-U-N-S number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free D-U-N-S number request line at 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number on-line at http://www.dnb.com. Proof of Non-Profit Status 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:
When applying electronically, we strongly suggest that 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 titled "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants" found under the "Survey" heading at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Forms, Assurances, and Certifications The project description should include all the information requirements described in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in this program announcement under Section V. Application Review Information. In addition to the project description, the applicant needs to complete all of the Standard Forms required as part of the application process for awards under this announcement. Applicants seeking financial assistance under this announcement must file the appropriate Standard Forms (SFs) as described in this section. All applicants must submit an SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance. For non-construction programs, applicants must also submit an SF-424A, Budget Information and an SF-424B, Assurances. For construction programs, applicants must also submit SF-424C, Budget Information and SF-424D, Assurances. When required for programs that involve human subjects, the Protection of Human Subjects Assurance Identification/IRB Certification/Declaration of Exemption form must be submitted. All forms may be reproduced for use in submitting applications. Applicants must sign and return the appropriate standard forms with their application. The Protection of Human Subjects Assurance Identification/IRB Certification/Declaration of Exemption (Common Rule) form may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Applicants must furnish, prior to award, an executed copy of the Certification Regarding Lobbying. Applicants must sign and return the certification with their application. The Certification Regarding Lobbying may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. (If any funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this commitment providing for the United States to insure or guarantee a loan, the applicant shall complete and submit Standard Form (SF)-LLL, "Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with its instructions.) The Pro-Children Act of 1994, 20 U.S.C. 7183, imposes restrictions on smoking in facilities where federally funded children's services are provided. HHS grants are subject to these requirements only if they meet the Act's specified coverage. The Act specifies that smoking is prohibited in any indoor facility (owned, leased, or contracted for) used for the routine or regular provision of kindergarten, elementary, or secondary education or library services to children under the age of 18. In addition, smoking is prohibited in any indoor facility or portion of a facility (owned, leased, or contracted for) used for the routine or regular provision of federally funded health care, day care, or early childhood development, including Head Start services to children under the age of 18. The statutory prohibition also applies if such facilities are constructed, operated, or maintained with Federal funds. The statute does not apply to children's services provided in private residences, facilities funded solely by Medicare or Medicaid funds, portions of facilities used for inpatient drug or alcohol treatment, or facilities where WIC coupons are redeemed. Failure to comply with the provisions of the law may result in the imposition of a civil monetary penalty of up to $1,000 per violation and/or the imposition of an administrative compliance order on the responsible entity. Additional information may be found in the HHS Grants Policy Statement at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Information on the Certification Regarding Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act (PFCRA) may be found in the HHS Grants Policy Statement at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their compliance with all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By signing and submitting the application, applicants are providing the necessary certification. Where return of a form is required, complete the standard forms and the associated certifications and assurances based on the instructions found on the forms. The forms and certifications may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Information on the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a) and the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C 552) or FOIA may be found in the HHS Grants Policy Statement at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with their applications the survey titled "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants" found under the "Survey" heading at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Please see Section V.1 for instructions on preparing the full project description. Please reference Section IV.3 for details about acknowledgement of received applications. Electronic SubmissionApplicants to ACF may submit their applications in either electronic or paper format. To submit an application electronically, please use the http://www.Grants.gov site. When using www.Grants.gov, applicants will be able to download a copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and then upload and submit the application via the www.Grants.gov site. ACF will not accept grant applications via facsimile or email. Acceptable electronic formats for the application attachments (narratives, charts, etc.) must use the following standard technologies, i.e., Microsoft (Word and Excel), Word Perfect, Adobe PDF, Jpeg, and Gif. IMPORTANT NOTE: Before submitting an electronic application, applicants must complete the organization registration process as well as obtain and register "electronic signature credentials" for the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Since this process may take more than five business days, it is important to start this process early, well in advance of the application deadline. Be sure to complete all www.Grants.gov registration processes listed on the Organization Registration Checklist, which can be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/registration_checklist.html. Please note the following if planning to submit an application electronically via www.Grants.gov:
Applicants that are submitting their application in paper format should submit one 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, and be unbound. The original copy of the application must have original signature(s). Non-Federal ReviewersSince ACF will be using non-Federal reviewers in the review 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 as well as Social Security Numbers, if otherwise required for individuals. The copies may include summary salary information. If applicants are submitting their application electronically, ACF will omit the same specific salary rate information from copies made for use during the review and selection process. 3. Submission Dates and Times: Due Date for Applications: March 24, 2008 February 24, 2009 February 24, 2010 Explanation of Due Dates The due date for receipt of applications is referenced above. Applications received after 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date will be classified as late and will not be considered in the current competition. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that applications are mailed or hand-delivered or submitted electronically well in advance of the application due date and time. Applications that are submitted by mail must be received no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referenced above at the address listed in Section IV.6. Hand Delivery Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers must be received on or before the due date referenced above, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., eastern time, at the address referenced in Section IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays). Electronic Submission Applications submitted electronically via Grants.gov must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referenced above. ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by facsimile or email. Late Applications Applications that do not meet the requirements 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 DUE DATE WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR COMPETITION. Extension of Deadlines ACF may extend application deadlines when circumstances such as acts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur; 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.
Additional Forms Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with their applications the survey titled "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants" found under the "Survey" heading at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.
4. Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs: State Single Point of Contact (SPOC) This program is covered under Executive Order (Exec. 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 Exec. Order, States may design their own processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance under covered programs. The official list of the jurisdictions that have elected to participate in Exec. Order 12372, including addresses and contact persons, may be found on the following URL: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html. 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 to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form (SF) 424, item 19. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application due date 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 official State process recommendations, which may trigger the "accommodate or explain" rule. Comments submitted directly to ACF 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., 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20447. Although some jurisdictions have chosen not to participate in this process, entities that meet the eligibility requirements of the Program Announcement are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, Territory, or 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 Exec. Order 12372. 5. Funding Restrictions: Costs of organized fund raising, including financial campaigns, endowment drives, solicitation of gifts and bequests, and similar expenses incurred solely to raise capital or obtain contributions, are unallowable. Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs. Construction and purchase of real property are not allowable activities or expenditures under this grant award. Other Non-Allowable Activities Funds will not be awarded to applicants for the purpose of engaging in activities of a distinctly political nature, activities designed exclusively to promote the preservation of a specific cultural heritage, or activities with an international objective (i.e., activities related to events in the refugees' country of origin). 6. Other Submission Requirements: Please see Sections IV.2 and IV.3 for deadline information and other application requirements. Submit applications to one of the following addresses: Submission by Mail Ben L. SharpGrants Management Officer, Division of Discretionary Grants Administration for Children and Families Office of Grants Management 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW, 6th Floor East Washington, DC 20447 Hand Delivery Ben L. SharpGrants Management Officer, Division of Discretionary Grants Administration for Children and Families Office of Grants Management 901 D Street, SW ACF Mailroom, Second Floor (near loading dock) 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 (P.L. 104-13) Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 40 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 4/30/2010. 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: Part I THE PROJECT DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW PURPOSE The project description provides the majority of information by which an application is evaluated and ranked in competition with other applications for available assistance. The project description should be concise and complete. It 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 the project description, information that is 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 EXPECTATIONS AND 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. Part II GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING A FULL PROJECT DESCRIPTION INTRODUCTION Applicants that are 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 the project description should include while the evaluation criteria identify the measures that will be used to evaluate applications. PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Provide a summary of the project description (one 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, program results and benefits are likely to be reached through community organizing and the projected program activities.APPROACH Outline a plan of action that describes the scope and detail of how the proposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions or activities identified in the application. Cite factors that might accelerate or decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the proposed approach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of the project such as design or technological innovations, reductions in cost or time, or extraordinary social and community involvement. Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such terms as the number of people to be served and the number of activities accomplished. When accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function, list them in chronological order to show the schedule of accomplishments and their target dates. If any data is to be collected, maintained, and/or disseminated, clearance may be required from OMB. This clearance pertains to any "collection of information that is conducted or sponsored by ACF." Provide a list of organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other key individuals who will work on the project along with a short description of the nature of their effort or contribution. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION The following are requests for additional information that must be included in the application:
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 (SF-424A or SF-424C). Detailed calculations must include estimation methods, quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative detail sufficient for the calculation to be duplicated. If matching is a requirement, 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 allocation of the proposed costs.
TOTAL DIRECT CHARGES, TOTAL INDIRECT CHARGES, TOTAL PROJECT COSTS EVALUATION CRITERIA: 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: ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 25 points Individual organization staff, including volunteers, proposed partners and consultants, if any, are well qualified. The administrative and management features of the project, including a plan for fiscal and programmatic management of each activity, is described in detail with proposed start-up times, ongoing timelines, major milestones or benchmarks, a component/project organization chart and a staffing chart. If appropriate, written agreements between grantees and sub-grantees or other cooperating entities, detailing work to be performed, remuneration, and other terms and conditions that structure or define the relationship to this project, are provided. Instances of managing grants of the same size as the applicant is requesting are discussed here. OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE - 15 points The applicant clearly describes the need for ethnic organizing in the community proposed and documents an understanding of the distinguishing characteristics of the relevant ethnic group. If the applicant proposes to independently provide direct services, an explanation should be provided to show why the need for such service(s) would not best be met through existing service providers or through a bridge relationship with those providers. The applicant's objectives identify who will be served, what will be achieved and in what location activities will take place. Listed objectives are "SMART":
Supporting documentation, such as letters of support from concerned interests are included. The applicant describes in detail how the targeted refugee community has been involved in the project planning, how project participants are identified, and provides evidence of their support for the plan of action and involvement as the project becomes operational. Planning studies incorporating demographic data and participant information are referenced or included as needed. APPROACH - 25 points The strategy and plan are likely to achieve the proposed results; the proposed activities, timeframes and benchmarks are meaningful, reasonable and feasible. The reason for taking the proposed approach to community organizing and support activities is adequately described. Proposed activities are likely to lead to desired outcomes, and the project is likely to lead to increased ethnic community self-help and participation in the community. Present your plan for project continuance beyond the grant support period as part of your description of the approach. RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED - 20 points The applicant describes outcomes that are likely to be reached through community organizing and the projected program activity. Two or more key indicators, preferably numerical, associated with ethnic community self-help are provided as measures of the impact of the proposed project. Proposed outcomes are measurable and achievable within the grant project period, and the proposed monitoring, information collection and documentation activities are adequately planned. BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 15 points The budget and narrative justification are reasonable, clearly presented and cost-effective in relation to the proposed activities and anticipated results. 2. Review and Selection Process: No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of an incomplete application. Initial ACF Screening: Each application will be screened to determine whether it was received by the closing date and time and whether the requested amount exceeds the stated ceiling. Late applications or those exceeding the funding limit will be returned to the applicants with a notation that they were unacceptable and will not be reviewed. The ORR Director and program staff use review panel scores when considering competing applications. Review panel scores will weigh heavily in funding decisions, but will not be the only factors considered. Applications generally will be considered in order of the average scores assigned by the review panel. Because other important factors are taken into consideration, highly ranked applications are not guaranteed funding. These other considerations include the timely and proper completion by the applicant of projects funded with ORR funds granted in the last five years; comments of reviewers and government officials; ORR staff evaluation and input; amount and duration of the grant requested and the proposed project's consistency and harmony with ORR goals and policy; administrative costs associated with any sub-grantees; geographic distribution of applications; previous program performance of applicants; compliance with grant terms under previous U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) grants; audit reports; investigative reports; and applicant's progress in resolving any final audit disallowance on previous ORR or other Federal agency grants. Please reference Section IV.2 for information on non-Federal reviewers in the review process. 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. 3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates: Not applicable VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION 1. Award Notices: The successful applicants will be notified through the issuance of a Notice of Award (NoA) document that 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 NoA will be signed by the Grants Officer and transmitted via postal mail. Following the finalization of funding decisions, organizations whose applications will not be funded will be notified by letter, signed by the Program Office head. 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 ACF 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 the HHS web site at: http://www.hhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf. A faith-based organization receiving HHS funds retains its independence from Federal, State, and local governments, and may continue to carry out its mission, including the definition, practice, and expression of its religious beliefs. For example, a faith-based organization may use space in its facilities to provide secular programs or services funded with Federal funds without removing religious art, icons, scriptures, or other religious symbols. In addition, a faith-based organization that receives Federal funds retains its authority over its internal governance, and it may retain religious terms in its organization's name, select its board members on a religious basis, and include religious references in its organization's mission statements and other governing documents in accordance with all program requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirements governing the conduct of HHS funded activities. Faith-based and community organizations may reference the "Guidance to Faith-Based and Community Organizations on Partnering with the Federal Government" at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/government/fbci/guidance/index.html. HHS Grants Policy Statement The HHS Grants Policy Statement (GPS) is the Department of Health and Human Services new single policy guide for discretionary grants and cooperative agreements. Unlike previous HHS policy documents, the GPS is intended to be shared with and used by grantees. It became effective October 1, 2006 and is applicable to all Operating Divisions (OPDIVS), such as the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), except the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The GPS covers basic grants processes, standard terms and conditions and points of contact as well as important OPDIV-specific requirements. Appendices include a glossary of terms and a list of standard abbreviations for ease of reference. The GPS may be accessed at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. 3. Reporting Requirements: Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financial reports (SF-269 found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html) 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. Final reports may be submitted in hard copy to the Grants Management Office Contact listed in Section VII of this announcement. Program Progress Reports: Semi-AnnuallyFinancial Reports: Semi-Annually VII. AGENCY CONTACTS Program Office Contact: Thomas Giossi Grants Management Office Contact: Ben L. Sharp VIII. OTHER INFORMATION
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