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Executive Summary: The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Administration on Children, Youth and Families (ACYF), Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB) is accepting applications for a five-year Demonstration project targeted to young people ages 16-21, in rural areas (including Tribal lands and other rural Native communities) who are approaching independence and young adulthood, but have few or no connections to a supportive, family structure or community. For purposes of this announcement, "rural" is defined as any geographical area that: (a) has a population under 20,000; and (b) is located outside a Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area. This collaborative Demonstration project, funding States to work with local community-based organizations, is intended to influence policies, programs and practices that affect the design and delivery of services to runaway and homeless youth in Transitional Living Programs (TLP), as well as to homeless youth aging out of State child welfare systems and into Independent Living Programs (ILP). I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION Legislative Authority Justification for this State and Local Collaboration Demonstration is supported by the legislation that authorizes intervention activities for Runaway and Homeless Youth as follows:
(a) The Secretary may make grants to States, localities, and private entities (and combinations of such entities) to carry out research, evaluation, demonstration, and service projects regarding activities under this title designed to increase knowledge concerning, and to improve services for, runaway youth and homeless youth. (b) In selecting among applications for grants under subsection (a), the Secretary shall give special consideration to proposed projects relating to - (1) Youth who repeatedly leave and remain away from their homes; (2) Transportation of runaway youth and homeless youth in connection with services authorized to be provided under this title; (3) The special needs of runaway youth and homeless youth programs in rural areas; (4) The special needs of programs that place runaway youth and homeless youth in host family homes; (5) staff training in - (A) the behavioral and emotional effects of sexual abuse and assault; (B) responding to youth who are showing effects of sexual abuse and assault; and (C) agency-wide strategies for working with runaway and homeless youth who have been sexually victimized; (6) innovative methods of developing resources that enhance the establishment or operation of runaway and homeless youth centers; (7) training for runaway youth and homeless youth, and staff training, related to preventing and obtaining treatment for infection by the human immunodeficiency virus; (8) increasing access to health care (including mental health care) for runaway youth and homeless youth; and (9) increasing access to education for runaway and homeless youth. In selecting among applicants for grants under subsection (a), the Secretary shall give priority to applicants who have experience working with runaway youth or homeless youth. (42 U.S.C. 5714-23) Funding Opportunity Description Purpose This Demonstration is targeted to a group of young people in rural areas, ages 16 - 21, who are at high risk and approaching independence and young adulthood, but have few or no connections to a supportive family structure or community. The target population consists of runaway and homeless youth (RHY) in Transitional Living Programs (TLP) and homeless youth who are aging out of State child welfare systems into Independent Living Programs (ILP). For the purposes of this Demonstration, "rural" is defined as any geographical area that: (a) has a population under 20,000; and (b) is located outside a Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area. Section 302 (5) of the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act references a Congressional finding that "improved coordination and collaboration between the Federal Programs that serve runaway and homeless youth are necessary for the development of a long-term strategy for responding to the needs of this population". This Demonstration will focus on improved coordination of services and creation of additional supports for rural youth, especially in three vital areas of positive youth development: (1) Survival Support Services (e.g., housing, healthcare, substance abuse, and/or mental health); (2) Community (e.g., community service, youth and adult partnerships, mentoring, and/or peer support groups), and (3) Education/Employment: (e.g., high school/General Equivalency Diploma (GED) completion, post secondary education, employment, training, and/or jobs). Design and Scope of Services 1. Demonstration Design Features: The Demonstration is designed around the following elements fundamental to the project: State/Local Collaboration: The Demonstration requires collaboration between States that receive grant awards under this announcement, each State's Local Collaborating Partner in a selected rural community and any additional agencies or organizations that may be necessary in supporting the goals of the Demonstration. For the purposes of this demonstration, Local Collaborating Partners must be FYSB-funded organizations that are providing services to rural youth in Transitional Living (TLP) and Independent Living Programs (ILP). One-Year Planning Period: In the first year of the Demonstration, grants will be awarded to the selected States to support a one-year planning effort. In that planning year, each State grantee will work with FYSB/RHY providers (e.g. community and faith-based organizations; Tribal or other Native American organizations) in rural areas that are interested in becoming the Local Collaborating Partner for the Demonstration. Together they will design an approach to the project that will be implemented over the remaining four years of the Demonstration (years two through five). Each State grantee will select its Local Collaborating Partner by the end of the planning period (year one). Support to the Local Collaborating Partner: For years two through five of the Demonstration, each State grantee will support the efforts of its Local Collaborating Partner to provide PYD-oriented services to RHY youth in TLP and ILP programs. Services will be delivered in a single, targeted rural community where the project will be carried out in accordance with the approach identified during the planning period. Connectivity Goals: The programmatic objective for each State/local project in the Demonstration will be to create/enhance connections for homeless youth in ways that will improve their chances for successful transitions toward independence and for achieving social, civic and economic success as older youth and young adults. The three connectivity goals are discussed in more detail in the section entitled "The Demonstration" (see below). Youth Leadership: The project will emphasize youth participation and leadership development in the planning, organizing, and implementation of strategies and activities appropriate to achieving the project's connectivity goals and increasing opportunities for these young people. Extracting Lessons about Effective Practices: Each local project serves as a "learning laboratory" from which the grantee States and communities can extract lessons about capacity-building and effective practices in the coordination and delivery of services to TLP and ILP young people in rural areas. It is the intent of this Demonstration that such lessons will inform future policies and programs at the local, State and national levels. Evaluation: During the planning year (year one), FYSB will work with State grantees, Local Collaborating Partners and other key agencies and organizations to design an evaluation process that will enable grantees to periodically assess progress throughout the Demonstration, culminating with a comprehensive, final evaluation to be completed in Year 5. The Demonstration The Demonstration will be conducted in two phases:
1. The Planning Phase: Year One (months 1 - 9): Each State grantee will be required to conduct a planning process in which it will identify, convene and consult with local agencies interested in becoming the Local Collaborating Partner for the Demonstration's Implementation Phase. Draft the Plan: The State grantees will work with the candidate local agencies to draft a plan to implement the goals and objectives of this Demonstration. In preparing the plan States should: (1) design an overall approach to how the connectivity goals (detailed below) of the Demonstration are to be pursued; and, within those parameters, (2) assist each candidate local partner in adapting these "global" program parameters to their local community circumstances. Three Connectivity Goals: The plan submitted to FYSB and the Children's Bureau (CB) should outline specific approaches, strategies and activities to be employed in pursuing the goals of increasing youth connections in three dimensions - Survival Support Services, the Community, and Education/Employment. These connections are highlighted below, with examples of particular service areas of concern:
Federal Plan Review: (months 10 - 12): After the nine-month planning period, the State grantee will submit the draft plan for review by FYSB in consultation with the CB. The plan will: (1) present the State's approach to working with a Local Collaborating Partner in a targeted rural community in pursuing the three connectivity goals; (2) provide a summary of how the State's proposed Local Collaborating Partner plans to adapt the State's approach; and (3) provide a preliminary budget for the first implementation year (Demonstration year 2) outlining the resources it plans to provide from the FYSB grant, and other sources to help support the Local Collaborating Partner's implementation of the plan. FYSB and the CB reserve the right to question and/or negotiate any and all elements of the plan for their adherence to the intent of the Demonstration. Selection of the Local Collaborating Partner: During the planning year, each State grantee will convene and consult with candidate local agencies/organizations, i.e. agencies/organizations interested in being selected as the Local Collaborating Partner for this rural Demonstration. Candidate local agencies must be: (1) FYSB-funded organizations (e.g. community-based, faith-based, or Tribal) providing services to youth in TLP and ILP programs in rural communities; and (2) agencies that have participated with the State in the planning conducted during the first year of the Demonstration. Each State will choose one local organization/agency as the Local Collaborating Partner for the Demonstration. Selection of the Local Collaborating Partner should be made in sufficient time to allow preparation for implementation of years two through five of the project. The Local Collaborating Partner will provide support, activities and services directly to TLP and ILP youth in their rural community(ies) outlined in the FYSB-approved implementation plan. In selecting the Local Collaborating Partner, FYSB suggests the following guidelines: 2. The Implementation Phase: Years Two through Five. Approved State plans will allow each grantee to implement their Demonstration project in partnership with the newly selected Local Collaborating Partner. This Local Collaborating Partner serves as the primary agency for implementing the FYSB-approved plan for the Demonstration. FYSB plans to fund four years of State/local operation under the approved plan. Continuation of funding will be based on availability of funds and satisfactory progress made during each year of operation. Annual Meetings: The Family and Youth Services Bureau expects Demonstration grantees and their principal partners to participate in Annual Meetings in order to convene, share and confer on matters of importance to the ongoing success and sustainability of the Demonstration efforts. Annual Site Visits: FYSB anticipates that each site will receive a minimum of one annual site visit from a FYSB-designated contractor/consultant to observe and monitor the Demonstration project, and also advise FYSB and/or the States on matters important to the Demonstration. Program Requirements Research or Evaluation - Applicant must agree to cooperate with any research or evaluation efforts sponsored by the Administration for Children and Families. The Family and Youth Services Bureau plans to consult with the CB, the States and their Local Collaborating Partners to design an evaluation process that allows for periodic assessment throughout the Demonstration, with a comprehensive, final evaluation to be conducted in Year Five. Performance/Financial Reports - Quarterly narrative progress reports and semi-annual financial reports are required of all grantees. 1. Positive Youth Development (PYD) FYSB has worked to promote a positive youth development framework for all its funded grant programs and activities. In pursuing these programmatic objectives, grantees under this Demonstration will be expected to promote and adhere to five key elements generally regarded as fundamental "core" components of positive youth development. FYSB expects that the following elements will figure prominently in the planning efforts that address the Demonstration's three programmatic objectives, and will look for evidence of these elements in the resulting program designs for the operational phase of the Demonstration. These core elements include providing youth with:
2. Data collection and maintenance Grantee agrees to collect and retain adequate statistical records for the TLP-ILP youth and their families served under this grant. Much, if not all, of the record-keeping/data collection conducted at the local level can be done through the Runaway and Homeless Youth Management Information Systems (RHYMIS), the program used by FYSB grantees to track data in all RHY programs. Additional data collection requirements will be determined during the Year One - Planning Phase. 3. Technical Assistance Grantee agrees to receive and participate in technical assistance efforts as recommended by FYSB Federal staff (in collaboration with CB) and contractor(s). 4. Measuring Program success Outcome measures will be developed and established during the Year One - Planning Phase. Program progress and accomplishments will be evaluated throughout the Implementation Phase (years two through five), resulting in a final Evaluation Report produced by FYSB at the end of the Demonstration. II. AWARD INFORMATION
Continuation of Project An initial grant award will be for a 12-month budget period. The award of continuation grants beyond the initial 12-month period will be subject to the availability of funds, satisfactory progress on the part of the grantee, and a determination that the continued funding would be in the best interest of the Federal Government. Grant Period: Successful States will receive up to 60 months of funding, separated into five 12-month budget periods. The first year grant will support the planning effort; years two through five will fund the implementation of the State's plans Funding Intent: It is anticipated that each State project will operate at a level of $200,000 per year ($1,000,000 over five years for each State grantee) according to the following schedule: Year One Planning Phase: FYSB anticipates funds will be made available in the amount of $200,000 per grant to support the 12-month Planning Phase. Years Two through Five Implementation Phase: Each year, over the subsequent four years of the grant, it is anticipated that funds will be made available in the amount of $200,000 per grant to support the programs and activities proposed in their FYSB-approved plans. (Over the four-year Implementation Phase, funds will be made available in the amount of $800,000 per State grantee). Federal Share of Project Costs: Applicants may apply for FYSB funding for a total of $1,000,000 over the five-year Demonstration period ($200,000 in year one for planning, and $800,000 in years two through five for the implementation and operations of the FYSB-approved plan). Grantee Share of Project Costs: Applicant States are required to commit 10% of the total approved cost of the project. (Please refer to "Cost Sharing or Matching" in Section III.2.) Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds. III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants:
Entities eligible to apply for the Demonstration grants will be the Departments and/or agencies that administer independent living programs for youth aging out of foster care (e.g., Human Services and Child Welfare Agencies) in the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The applicant Departments and/or Agencies must commit to supporting and enhancing the goals, directions and outcomes of this Demonstration (including supporting the Local Collaborating Partner in carrying out project goals and activities). Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement. 2. Cost Sharing or Matching: Yes Grantees are required to meet a non-Federal share of the project costs, in accordance with Section 383 of the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act. Grantees must provide at least 10 percent of the approved total 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 project cost of $222,222, requesting $200,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal share of at least $22,222 (10 percent of total approved project cost of $222,222). Grantees will be held accountable for commitments of non-Federal resources, even if they exceed the amount of the required match. Failure to provide the required amount will result in the disallowance of Federal funds. A lack of supporting documentation at the time of application will not exclude the application from competitive review. Contributions that are voluntarily proposed by an applicant will be accepted by ACF and included in the approved project budget as shown in the Notice of Award (NoA). Grantees will be held accountable for any voluntary contributions that are accepted as part of the approved project budget. 3. Other: 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: ACYF Operations Centerc/o The Dixon Group, Inc. Attn: FYSB/CB Rural Demonstration Project 118 Q Street, NE. Washington, DC 20002-2132 Phone: 866-796-1591 Email: fysb@dixongroup.com URL: www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/fysb 2. Content and Form of Application Submission: Each application package must include the original and two copies. Do not staple the application or any section of the application. The length of the entire application package must not exceed 90 pages. This includes the required Federal Standard Forms (SF)/certifications (SF-424A, SF-424B and Certification Regarding Lobbying), table of contents, project summary, project description, budget/budget justification, supplemental documentation, proof of non-profit status, summaries of sub-grants and contracts, and letters of agreement. All pages of the application package must be sequentially numbered starting with page one. The required Federal forms will be counted towards the total number of pages. All pages of each application will be counted to determine the total length. All pages exceeding the 90-page limit will be removed and will not be considered in the reviewing process. A cover letter is not required. Applicants are reminded that if a cover letter is submitted, it will count towards the 90-page limit. The project description must be typed and double-spaced on a single-side of 8 1/2 x 11 inch plain white paper with at least 1/2 inch margins on all sides, using black print with 12-point size Times New Roman font. For charts, budget tables, supplemental letters, and support documents, applicants may use a different point size and font, but no less than 10-point size and single-spaced. The application package should include the following and be in the following order: a. The Required Federal Forms/Certifications - see below for description b. Table of Contents - This section should reference the order of the application sections and provide page numbers. c. One-Page Project Abstract - This section should contain the following information: State office/division name, city, State; proposed service area (State, county, city, etc); Local Agency name; amount of Federal funding requested for 12-month period; point of contact, name, phone, and email. d. Project Description - This section is a comprehensive description of the proposed project, what it will accomplish and how it will be implemented. The Project Description should address each of the categories in Section V.1., and be structured in a manner that addresses each of the evaluation criteria in a logical format in the following order: Objectives and Need for Assistance; Results and Benefits; Approach; Staff and Position Data; Organizational Profiles; and Budget and Budget Justification. Applicants must title each section accordingly. e. Budget and Budget Justification - The budget is a line-item format and must be in a worksheet, table or spreadsheet that illustrates how calculations were derived. The budget should reflect a 12-month budget period. Each category heading within the line-item budget should correspond with the budget categories listed in Section B of the SF-424A (e.g. Personnel, Fringe Benefits, Travel, Equipment, Supplies, Contractual, Other, Indirect Charges). The budget justification is a narrative that provides a rationale for the items requested and how these items relate to the overall success of the project. f. Third-Party Agreements - A summary of monetary sub-grant(s) and/or Contract(s) must be provided as part of the application package. The summary must include a description of the project services that will be completed through the sub-grant or contract using Federal funds or a non-Federal match, and in the process by which the primary applicant will maintain a substantive role with the sub-grant and/or contract assuring compliance with the grant requirements and project performance. g. Letters of Agreement - Letters of Agreement (LOA) are required is proposing to provide services through a different agency or entity based on a non-monetary arrangement. The LOA must enumerate the project services that will be completed under the agreement. h. Non-Federal Resources Commitment Letters - Letters from organizations, entities, or individuals agreeing to provide non-Federal resources to the project. 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. 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_related.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_related.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. 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: 08/25/2008 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 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
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. Applicants are advised that section 389 of the RHY Act provides that no grant funds may be used for any program of distributing sterile needles or syringes for the hypodermic injection of any illegal drug. 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 ACYF Operations Centerc/o The Dixon Group, Inc. Attn: FYSB Rural Demonstration Project 118 Q Street, NE. Washington, DC 20002-2132 Hand Delivery ACYF Operations Centerc/o The Dixon Group, Inc. Attn: FYSB Rural Demonstration Project 118 Q Street, NE. Washington, DC 20002-2132 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. TABLE OF CONTENTS List the contents of the application including corresponding page numbers. 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, the project may describe a potential measurable outcome such as the number of youth exiting with a General Equivalency Diploma (GED), High School diploma, or vocational education as a result of support or services provided under this Demonstration Project.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. GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION Describe the precise location of the project and boundaries of the area to be served by the proposed project. Maps or other graphic aids may be attached. 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: OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE - 20 points 1. The extent to which the applicant describes the need for capacity building and better coordination of services in rural areas for runaway and homeless youth in TLP and ILP. 2. The extent to which the applicant describes the goals to be achieved during the Planning Phase and how they relate to the design and intent of the Demonstration as detailed in Section I (2) of this announcement. 3. The extent to which the applicant discusses any State and local policies, programs and activities, currently in place, that relate to the connectivity goals (see Section I, "Demonstration") for the Demonstration population. 4. The extent to which the applicant discusses the level of coordination on youth issues between the State and Local governments (and where applicable, Tribal governments or agencies) as well as with TLP, ILP and other local youth service providers. Applicant will be evaluated on the extent to which they address the need for additional collaboration among these sectors. 5. The extent to which the applicant describes its ability to leverage strong commitment and support for this project at the executive levels of State government. RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED - 20 points 1. The extent to which the applicant describes results and benefits expected of the Planning Phase of this project, especially in regard to increasing the level of local support for homeless and foster youth and for generating local interest in, and enthusiasm for, establishing a collaborative effort with State agencies around the three programmatic objectives (connections: (1) to Survival Support Services; (2) to the Community; and (3) to Education and/or Employment). 2. The extent to which the applicant identifies expected changes in the policies, processes, programs and initiatives that should result from the planning process and how these changes will be implemented to promote an effective State/local collaboration to achieve programmatic objectives. 3. The extent to which the applicant describes the expected results of efforts to strengthen and/or establish effective communication and collaboration: (1) among the State, the local community partner and FYSB; (2) among the State, the local community partner, FYSB grantees and other community and faith-based, Tribal, and other youth-serving agencies; and, (3) with other appropriate programs for the purpose of supporting the programmatic objectives set forth in the Demonstration. 4. The extent to which the applicant discusses how the collaboration between the State and local partners is expected to enhance outcomes for the targeted youth population; providing concrete examples of desired changes that will be sought in State and local policies, practices and programs that will enhance the connections (to survival support services; the community; education and/or employment) for these youth. APPROACH - 35 points (breakdown of points: Selecting Local Collaborating Partner 15pts; Drafting the Implementation Plan 15 pts; Finalizing Implementation Plan 5 pts) Approach to Selecting the Local Collaborating Partner (months 1-3) (15 points) 1. The extent to which the applicant defines a set of criteria that will be used to identify the rural communities that will be considered as candidates to be the local partner in this Demonstration. Such criteria may include: (1) evidence of need (however defined by the applicant) that is documented by selected local data; (2) evidence that the candidate community has organizations capable of sustaining the community's involvement in a collaborative, community change effort; (3) the presence of a single organization/entity, with broad community reach, that is capable of playing a lead local partner role and meets the FYSB-provider requirements; (4) evidence of an interest and willingness of key community entities to engage in the Demonstration. 2. The extent to which the applicant describes a process for outreach to and negotiations with the jurisdictions/communities under consideration as candidates for the local partner role in this Demonstration. The extent to which the applicant also suggests: a) any key constituencies that need to be involved in discussing the community's possible participation in the Demonstration and b) strategies for reaching them during the first three months of the planning period. 3. The extent to which the applicant: a) cites factors that may facilitate or impede the planning process, and describes proposed reasons for taking a particular approach; b) includes a description of any unusual features of the planning phase, including new organizational arrangements that may be put into place to enhance the prospects of a viable and sustainable State/local collaboration. Approach to Drafting the Implementation Plan (months 4 - 9) (15 points) 4. The extent to which the applicant outlines how it expects to proceed with the actual deliberations that will result in a draft implementation plan for pursuing the three programmatic objectives targeted in this demonstration, e.g., information about the types of State agencies, local agencies, and constituencies (particularly local non-profit institutions, advocates, service providers and community residents - especially youth) who may be approached and recruited to participate in these discussions. 5. The extent to which the applicant describes mechanisms it will use to generate an ongoing community awareness of, support for, and participation in the State/local collaborative planning effort for the three strategies stressed in this announcement. 6. The extent to which the applicant discusses any legislative, administrative and/or judicial factors that may hamper efforts to increase State and local collaboration in order to establish and support the set of a connectivity goals as stressed in this announcement. The extent to which the applicant includes plans to address and overcome such barriers. 7. The extent to which the applicant clearly identifies a) a State Youth Development Coordinator or Project Director who will be responsible for the planning activities under this grant; b) where the project will be located organizationally; and c) the rationale for the location of the project as it relates to the project's visibility, access to decision-making levels, State and local resources and partnership opportunities. Approach to Finalizing the 4-Year Plan (months 10 - 12) (5 points) 8. The extent to which the applicant describes how it will include representatives from each of its State, local, and other collaborative partners in the negotiations with FYSB that will finalize the scope, directions, and budget of the proposed implementation plan. STAFF AND POSITION DATA - 10 points 1. The extent to which the applicant demonstrates sufficient personnel resources and staff competence to assure that planning phase activities can be successfully carried out, e.g., the inclusion of resumes and position descriptions for the State Youth Development Coordinator or Project Director as well as other proposed staff; biographical sketches or resumes indicating what position the individual will fill; and descriptions of the jobs as they relate to the proposed planning phase of the project. . 2. The extent to which the applicant lists any consultants, or key individuals who will work on the project, along with a brief description of the nature of their contribution and knowledge of and experience with youth development, youth and family services, transitional and independent living for runaway and homeless youth and youth aging out of foster care (e.g. the challenges facing these youth, such as access to health/mental health care; educational opportunities; and transportation) ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 10 points 1. The extent to which the applicant describes the organizational structure and experience (particularly as it relates to working with runaway or homeless youth issues) of the State agency/department that will principally undertake this project, providing a short description of the applicant agency's organization, the services it provides or functions it performs. If the agency is a recipient of funds from other program entities of the Administration for Children and Families (e.g. Child Care Bureau, CB, Office of Community Services, Administration for Native Americans, Office of Child Support Enforcement, Office of Family Assistance) explain the extent to which those programs are expected to be collaborative partners in this initiative. Organizational charts may be provided. 2. The extent to which the applicant describes how it will structure its direct working relationship with the Local Collaborating Partner, once it is selected. BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 5 points 1. The extent to which a detailed, line-item budget for the Federal and non-Federal share of project costs is included for the first budget year and demonstrates how cost estimates were derived. 2. The extent to which the narrative budget justification explains why the costs in the line item budget are necessary to implement the proposed Demonstration project. 3. The extent to which the applicant includes, in the proposed budgets, approximate travel and per diem expenses for both the State and the local partnering Youth Development Coordinators or Project Directors to attend a 3-day annual meeting (estimates based on Washington, DC travel/meeting costs). 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. Applications that pass the initial ACF screening will be evaluated and rated by an independent review panel made up of non-Federal reviewers who are experts in the field. The review panel will use the evaluation criteria listed in Section V.1 to review and score the applications. The panels will assign a score (maximum 100) to each application and identify the application's strengths and weaknesses. The evaluation criteria were designed to assess the quality of a proposed project, and to determine the likelihood of its success. The evaluation criteria are closely related and are considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of an application. Points are awarded only to an application that is responsive to the evaluation criteria within the context of this program announcement. FYSB has the authority to pass over ranking order based on geographic area (location) and capacity needs. As required by the authorizing statute, priority will be given to applicants who have experience working with runaway youth or homeless youth. 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: It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed during Summer 2008. Grant awards will have a start date of no later than September 30, 2008. 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_related.html. Grantees are subject to the requirements of 45 CFR Part 1351, Runaway and Homeless Youth Program Administration Requirements:Confidentiality Section 312 of the RHY Act requires grantees to keep adequate statistical records profiling the youth and family members whom it serves (including youth who are not referred to out-of-home shelter services), except that records maintained on individual runaway and homeless youth shall not be disclosed without the consent of the individual youth and parent or legal guardian to anyone other than another agency compiling statistical records or a government agency involved in the disposition of criminal charges against an individual runaway and homeless youth, and reports or other documents based on such statistical records shall not disclose the identity of individual runaway and homeless youth. Moreover, section 384 of the RHY Act requires that records containing the identity of individual youth pursuant to this Act under no circumstances be disclosed or transferred to any individual or to any public or private agency. Definitions Applicants are advised to observe the definitions as set forth in section 387 of the RHY Act. Separate Accounting Section 389 of the RHY Act requires any individual or entity who receives any funds awarded under the RHY Act and who carries out any program described in subsection (a) of the Act to account for all funds used for such program separately from any funds contained in this title. Sterile Needles Applicants are advised that section 389 of the RHY Act provides that no grant funds may be used for any program of distributing sterile needles or syringes for the hypodermic injection of any illegal drug. (See Section IV.5 Funding Restrictions.) 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: QuarterlyFinancial Reports: Semi-Annually VII. AGENCY CONTACTS Program Office Contact: Deborah Yatsko Grants Management Office Contact: Lisa Dammar VIII. OTHER INFORMATION The following resources are available to all applicants: The Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB) website: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/fysb The National Clearinghouse on Families and Youth (NCFY): http://www.ncfy.com Phone: 301-608-8098 The Runaway and Homeless Youth Training and Technical Assistance Center (RHYTTAC): http://www.rhyttac.ou.edu Phone: 800-806-2711
Posted on July 10, 2008 |
