Frequently Asked Questions

1. I am already a current grant application reviewer for ACYF; or, at least, I know I am in the system. I followed the old system and submitted a resume and writing sample via email.

How do I login to the Grant Application Reviewer Management Database (GARMD) as a preexisting reviewer?

Current grant application reviewers (including those who have not been to an actual on-site grant review) received an email with instructions on how to login to the GARMD.

If you did not receive an email with instructions, please email reviewer@dixongroup.com. Include your full name, email address and phone number. We will contact you to help you login and find your information.

2. I've never been a grant application reviewer for ACYF, nor have I ever submitted a resume and writing sample.

How do I login to the Grant Application Reviewer Management Database (GARMD) as a new user?

Visit http://grd.xtria.com/ and click on New Reviewer Registration.

3. What is an ACYF grant application reviewer? 

Grant review is an important step in the funding process. Grant reviews are designed to choose the best programs for funding out of a competitive group. Grant application reviewers are selected for their expertise and their ability to objectively evaluate the quality of an application. They are expected to use their expertise to assess the applications according to the evaluation criteria published. Grant application reviewers accept the responsibilities of thoroughly reading all applications, fully contributing to panel discussions, and producing accurate evaluations.

Interested individuals from any organization, university, program center, or occupation dealing with children and/or family services are encouraged to submit their resume and writing sample.

Training will be available on-site for first time ACYF grant application reviewers as well as more experienced reviewers.

4. Where do grant reviews take place?

Many grant reviews take place May through September in Washington D.C.; travel will be arranged. Grant reviews may also take place electronically via a secure website.

5. Why should I become a grant application reviewer?

Reviewing grant applications will help you gain experience about preparing quality grant applications and provide you with an overview of the award process. You will have opportunities to network with professional peers and Federal officials. The knowledge you attain can add to your own professional development and goals.

6. How do I know if grant application reviewing is right for me?

Visit Read the Expectations of Grant Application Reviewers.

7. Are grant application reviewers compensated for reviews? 

All grant reviewers (local or out-of-town) for on-site reviews receive $150 per day of review participation. Panel chairpersons (local or out-of-town) receive $200 per day. Field review compensation varies. Generally, payment is made on the last day of the review. This payment is subject to Federal income tax.

Transportation will be provided for out-of-town reviewers and panel chairpersons (you must live 50 miles outside of Washington D.C.). Airfare is paid for directly by the ACYF contractor. Out-of-town reviewers and chairpersons who wish to travel to and from the review by a personally owned vehicle must secure ACYF approval before travel begins. If approved, this traveler will be reimbursed at the federally established rate per mile traveled ($0.585, effective 8/1/08). Ground transportation expenses during the review are limited to $75.00 total. Rental car expenses will not be reimbursed. Receipts for expenses must be submitted. Local reviewers will be reimbursed for ground transportation expenses. A logistics coordinator will assist reviewers and chairpersons with their travel arrangements.

Out-of-town reviewers are provided with a combination of meals and per diem during the onsite review period. Per Diem is usually received at the end of the review week. All grant reviewers who live 50 miles or more from the review site must stay in the selected hotel for the entire review due to the intense review schedule (including early mornings and late evenings). The cost of lodging is paid for directly by the ACYF contractor.

8. Will I have time to sight see, shop, or call my office during reviews? Can I bring my family, friends and pets?

In general, free time is minimal. Reviewers must be able to commit their time, efforts, and focus to the goals of the grant review. The panel chairpersons will create a schedule of activities at the beginning of a review week, and typical days are usually filled with readings and panel meetings. Due to the intense schedule of the reviews, guests and pets are not allowed at grant reviews.

9. Can I become a grant application reviewer if my organization is applying for a grant? 

You may apply, but if you or your organization/university is an applicant in the particular area you are applying for, you would not be eligible to review. Strict adherence to confidentiality is required as is the avoidance of any conflict of interest. These procedures ensure fair and equitable reviews for all applicants.

10. What do you do with my identifiable information?

While the offices of ACYF will have access to your information, we do not provide, sell, or trade any information to persons not affiliated with grant reviewer recruitment or with outside agencies. For more information on the ACF privacy policy you may wish to visit: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/acf_privacy_policy.html.

11. How can I be removed from the Grant Application Reviewer Management Database.

Send your full name and email address to reviewer@dixongroup.com. Please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line.

12. I need assistance entering information in the GARMD.

Email reviewer@dixongroup.com or call 1-(866) 796-1613, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (EST) Monday - Friday.