 
Executive Summary: The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) in the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announces the availability of fiscal year 2008 funds to award supplemental grants to University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCEDD) to pay for the Federal share of the cost of national training initiatives on critical and emerging needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. After consulting with relevant, informed sources, including individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, ADD identified two priority areas to be addressed through the national training initiatives grant program: (1) scaling up self-determination; and (2) enhancing post-secondary education opportunities for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities. The purpose of the first priority area is to fund a consortium of UCEDDs that will work towards scaling up self-determination through the various stages of life by providing individuals with the skills to practice self-determination in multiple settings and situations. The purpose of the second priority area is to fund a consortium of UCEDDs that will impact on the emerging practices supporting the participation of youth and young adults with developmental disabilities in post-secondary education programs. Under each priority area, one large-scale cooperative agreement will be awarded to a consortium of UCEDDs with one UCEDD serving as the lead applicant for the consortium. Each project will be conducted in three phases and must develop and implement a sustainability plan. This program announcement contains instructions for the submission of the fiscal year 2008 grant applications for the two priority areas. I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION Legislative Authority ADD is the lead agency in ACF, HHS for administering the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act of 2000) (42 U.S.C. 15001, et seq.). The purpose of the DD Act of 2000 is to assure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families participate in the design of and have access to needed community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination, independence, productivity, integration and inclusion in all facets of community life, through culturally competent programs [Section 101(b)]. To achieve this purpose, the DD Act authorizes the following programs: (1) State Councils on Developmental Disabilities (Subtitle B); (2) Protection and Advocacy Systems (Subtitle C); (3) University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCEDDs) (Subtitle D); and (4) Projects of National Significance (Subtitle E). Each of these programs engages in systemic change, capacity building, and advocacy activities both as a collaborative network and as independent entities to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families and enhance participation in community life in the State. Section 151(b) of the DD Act of 2000 authorizes grants for National Training Initiatives on Critical and Emerging Needs to UCEDDs. Funding Opportunity Description The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) in the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) shares common goals with other ACF programs that promote the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. ACF and ADD envision:
The vision, listed above, will enable more individuals, including people with developmental disabilities, to live productive and independent lives integrated into their communities. ADD is the lead agency in ACF, DHHS for administering the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act of 2000) (42 U.S.C. 15001, et seq.). The DD Act of 2000 authorizes support and assistance to States, public agencies, and private non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community organizations, to assure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families participate in the design of, and have access to, culturally competent services, supports, and other assistance and opportunities that promote independence, productivity, integration, and inclusion into the community. As defined in the DD Act of 2000, the term "developmental disabilities" means a severe, chronic disability of an individual that is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of mental and physical impairments that is manifested before the individual attains age 22 and is likely to continue indefinitely. Developmental disabilities result in substantial limitations in three or more of the following functional areas: self-care, receptive and expressive language, learning, mobility, self-direction, capacity for independent living, and capacity for economic self-sufficiency. The DD Act of 2000 identifies a number of significant findings, including:
The DD Act of 2000 also promotes the best practices and policies presented below:
Toward these ends, ADD seeks to support and accomplish the following:
There are four programs funded under the DD Act of 2000:
Under the University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCEDD) program, Section 152(c) authorizes ADD to award available funds to UCEDDs for national training initiatives. National Training Initiatives Section 153(b)(1) of the DD Act states that "after consultation with relevant, informed sources, including individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, the Secretary shall award, under section 151(b), supplemental grants to Centers to pay for the Federal share of the cost of training initiatives related to the unmet needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families". These grants must be made on a competitive basis and for periods of not more than 5 years. ADD convened a group on February 6, 2008 that included individuals with developmental disabilities and family members to consult and help identify the unmet needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Two major themes emerged from this meeting that forms the priority areas for the current funding opportunity: (1) scaling up self-determination and (2) enhancing post-secondary education opportunities for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities. ADD will fund two cooperative agreements -- one in each priority -- to a consortium of UCEDDs with one UCEDD serving as the lead applicant for the cooperative agreement. The lead UCEDD applicant will coordinate all aspects of the project and bear overall responsibility for the grant. Each consortium will be required to partner with national organizations to carry out the project activities. Sustainability through partnerships will be a key feature of both cooperative agreements. Priority Area 1: Consortium to Scale-up Self-Determination Description The DD Act of 2000, along with other Federal laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004, has long promoted the rights of individuals with developmental and other disabilities to be full participants in all aspects of community life. Other Federal programs, such as Medicaid, have created opportunities for individuals with developmental and other disabilities to have more choice and control over their services and benefits to support community living. These national trends have coincided with and, in many ways, been a result of individuals with developmental and other disabilities advocating for more choices and control over decisions to live their lives in the community. Today, more than ever, individuals with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to have more control over decisions that affect their lives. To make these decisions, individuals with developmental disabilities need advanced self-determination skills. Self-determination refers to the right of people with developmental disabilities to freely determine how they live their lives, including the kinds of services and formal and informal supports they would receive to live independent, productive, and integrated lives. Self-determination skills can be applied in multiple ways and in multiple settings. Moreover, learning about and exercising self-determination skills is not a one-time training experience or limited to individuals with developmental disabilities. Developing self-determination skills is vital across the lifespan for individuals with developmental disabilities and their family members. What particular skill may be needed in a particular situation or age may vary, but in every case these skills empower individuals and their families to make the best decisions for them. Training individuals and families in self-determination skills may lessen their reliance on external support systems. These systems are at best inadequately funded and, in some cases, limited in quality. With the increasing opportunities to exercise more control, individuals with developmental disabilities and their families need training to acquire or strengthen self-determination skills. There are pockets of excellence and examples of where self-determination programs are working; however, barriers still exist to fully empowering individuals and their families. Some contributing factors include: * More and more individuals with developmental disabilities have opportunities to practice self-determination; however, they need systematic training in order to develop and practice self-determination in all aspects of their lives; * New families and individuals continually enter the system and need to learn the self-determination tools to navigate services; * There continue to be individuals and family members who are disconnected and disengaged, thereby compromising their access to services and supports and ability to be self-determined; * The changing population demographics present cultural values that may or may not resonate with self-determination as an American cultural value; * Family dynamics change as individuals with developmental disabilities age and siblings, who may be unfamiliar with the service system and concept of self-determination, assume the parents' role as primary caregiver; * Service systems and service providers may not fully understand the concept of self-determination, limiting an individual's opportunities to have more choice and control over his/her life; and * Self-determination may be practiced in limited ways and in limited settings. These myriad of challenges highlight the need for training in self-determination skills for multiple target groups -- individuals with developmental disabilities, parents, siblings, guardians, grandparents, service providers, among others. This consortium will have a three-part focus: (1) Scaling up the self-determination movement by building basic to advanced self-determination skills that can be used across the life span; (2) Creating tools for adapting self-determination skills to multiple settings and situations; and (3) Understanding how the concept of self-determination applies in various cultural contexts. The consortium must include the following three key features in the project: (1) Primary partnerships. Throughout the project, the consortium must have primary partnerships with organizations representing individuals with developmental disabilities, parents and guardians, siblings, and culturally and linguistically diverse populations. As partners, these organizations will be meaningfully engaged in the project through active involvement with planning for and implementation of all aspects of the project. These partners will assist the consortium to further understand and address the issue. To facilitate the collaborative process, the consortium should define roles and responsibilities for the primary partners on the project. (2) Project integration. To promote coordination and reduce duplication and fragmentation of efforts, the consortium will integrate this training project with other national initiatives, as appropriate. In doing so, the consortium will identify other entities implementing projects related to self-determination and reach out to them to determine the extent to which the various efforts are complementary. The consortium will collaborate with the identified entities to coordinate efforts and deepen impact overall. (3) Sustainability. An expected outcome of this project will be the sustainability of efforts related to self-determination past the five-year grant period. This will be a dynamic process that will build on the project's accomplishments to ensure continued use of the training resources, updates and modifications to the materials, and continued access to the materials by members of the public. During the five-year project period, the consortium will develop and implement a sustainability plan that will work towards the goal of maintaining the project beyond the five-year funding period. During the five-year period, the project will be conducted in the following three phases: * Phase I: Research and Planning. This phase will involve gathering and analyzing information from current literature and on State and Federal initiatives to identify: (1) promising models and practices, including methods for reaching out and engaging those who are disengaged or disconnected from the system; (2) gaps and variance in information and national initiatives related to self-determination; (3) the cultural contexts of self-determination that must be considered in a training program; and (4) potential areas for cross-collaboration with other national initiatives. The consortium may conduct surveys and national and/or regional meetings as part of the information gathering process. This phase will also include planning for sustainability of the project past its funding cycle. An expected outcome of this project will be the sustainability of efforts related to self-determination past the five-year grant period. To achieve this goal, the consortium will seek traditional and non-traditional methods for marketing and maintaining the project over time and may involve collaboration with national organizations and entities, including the ADD Technical Assistance Centers (e.g., UCEDD Resource Center at the Association of University Centers on Disabilities; Training and Advocacy Services Center at the National Disability Rights Network; and the Information and Technical Assistance Center for Councils on Developmental Disabilities at the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities). The sustainability plan must outline a dynamic process for maintaining the project and its resources past the five-year funding period. By the end of Phase I, the consortium must produce a document that is accessible to the public and provides a summary of findings from the information gathered and a final plan for Phases II and III, including the strategies that will be used to sustain the project and a plan for integrating the project with other national initiatives. * Phase II: Develop and Test a National Training Program. Phase II will focus on using the information gathered during Phase I to develop and test a national training program that works towards scaling up the self-determination skills and knowledge of a variety of people, including individuals with developmental disabilities and family members. The National Training Program must: o Be developed with input from individuals with developmental disabilities, including youth, young adults, and adults; and family members, including parents, siblings, guardians, and other relatives. o Use multiple traditional and non-traditional modalities to maximize accessibility and outreach, particularly those who are hard to reach. o Be culturally competent in all aspects, including the modalities used. o Promote the process of developing basic to advanced self-determination skills across the life-span. o Promote adaptability of self-determination skills to multiple settings and situations. During Phase II, the consortium will develop and test a National Training Program, making adjustments during the project based on lessons learned. The consortium will also implement strategies in the sustainability plan. By the end of Phase II, the consortium will produce the following resources: o The National Training Program that was developed, including the resources and tools developed related to self-determination skills. o Lessons learned from the project, which shall include strategies for adapting the National Training Program to various contexts. These resources must be made available in multiple formats and must follow principles of universal design to maximize accessibility. * Phase III: National Implementation and Transition to Sustainability. Phase III will involve partnering with the ADD Technical Assistance Centers and other national organizations for large scale, nationwide implementation of the National Training Program. This phase of the project must utilize traditional and non-traditional marketing strategies to maximize outreach. Phase III will also involve implementation of the Sustainability Plan to facilitate transition to maintenance of the project overtime.
II. AWARD INFORMATION
Substantial Involvement with Cooperative Agreement: As a cooperative agreement, substantial involvement is anticipated between the agency and the recipient during performance of the project, which may include the following: 1. Federal Government review and approval of one stage before work can begin on a subsequent stage during the period covered by the assistance instrument. 2. Federal Government and recipient collaboration or joint participation in the performance of the assisted activities. 3. Federal Government monitoring to permit specified kinds of direction or redirection of the work. 4. Federal Government requirements prior to award limiting the recipient's discretion with respect to scope of services offered, organizational structure, staffing, mode of operation, and other management processes, coupled with close Federal Government monitoring or operational involvement during performance over and above the normal exercise of Federal stewardship responsibilities to ensure compliance with these requirements.
Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds. III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants:
Eligible applicants are those designated as University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs). The DD Act of 2000 specifies which entities are eligible under this funding opportunity. Subtitle D of the DD Act of 2000, Sections 151(b) and 153(b) authorizes grants to pay for the Federal share of the costs of National Training Initiatives on Critical and Emerging Needs to entities designated as UCEDDs. Language in these provisions of Subtitle D of the DD Act of 2000 identifies to ADD the type of applicant eligible under this grant program, thereby limiting the competition specifically to entities designated as UCEDDs. Currently, there are 67 entities designated as UCEDDs. This notice applies to these 67 UCEDDs that are designated as UCEDDs in their respective State and existed during the preceding fiscal year. See Section III.3 for a list of eligible applicants. 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 Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 Section 154(d)(1). Grantees must provide at least 25 percent of the total approved cost of the project. The total approved cost of the project is the sum of the ACF share and the non-Federal share. The non-Federal share may be met by cash or in-kind contributions, although applicants are encouraged to meet their match requirements through cash contributions. For example, in order to meet the match requirements, a project with a total approved project cost of $1,066,666, requesting $800,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal share of at least $266,666 (25 percent of total approved project cost of $1,066,666). 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. Reduced Match Section 154 (d)(2) of the DD Act states: In the case of a project whose activities or products target individuals with developmental disabilities who live in an urban or rural poverty area, as determined by the Secretary, the Federal share of the cost of the project may not be more than 90 percent of the necessary costs of the project. DEFINITIONS Poverty area: Census tracts or block numbering areas (BNAs) where at least 20 percent of residents are below the poverty level. Urban Area: Collective term referring to all areas that are urban. For Census 2000, there are two types of urban areas: urban clusters and urbanized areas. * Urban Cluster (UC): A densely settled territory that has at least 2,500 people but fewer than 50,000. * Urbanized Area (UA): An area consisting of a central place(s) and adjacent territory with a general population density of at least 1,000 people per square mile of land area that together have a minimum residential population of at least 50,000 people. The U.S. Census Bureau uses published criteria to determine the qualification and boundaries of UAs. * Rural: Territory, population and housing units not classified as urban. Rural classification cuts across other hierarchies and can be in metropolitan or non-metropolitan areas. Rural can include frontier, which are places having a population density of six or fewer people per square mile. ELIGIBILITY FOR REDUCED MATCH The lead applicant may request a reduced match for the project. Such a request is optional and not a requirement for the project. The lead applicant may submit to ADD the information below to determine eligibility for the reduced match. Documentation that the project will target individuals with developmental disabilities in States where the poverty rate is equal to or greater than the official national poverty rate. For 2006, the rate was 12.5 percent. Below is a list of the States with a poverty rate greater than the national poverty rate.
If the project will target individuals with developmental disabilities in States with a poverty rate less than the national poverty rate, the lead applicant must provide other documentation that the project will target individuals with developmental disabilities in urban or rural poverty areas using any of the Urban and Rural Poverty Indicators listed in the announcement or is targeted for individuals with developmental disabilities in an urban and rural poverty area through some other means. The lead applicant may also provide other documentation that the project will target individuals with developmental disabilities in urban or rural poverty areas using any of the Urban and Rural Poverty Indicators listed in the announcement or is targeted for individuals with developmental disabilities in an urban and rural poverty area through some other means. The lead applicant seeking to establish eligibility for a reduced match through means other than showing an activity is associated with one or more of the Urban and Rural Poverty Indicators must include in its application other information that establishes that its activities are targeted to benefit individuals with developmental disabilities in an urban or rural poverty area. Because there are not Federal poverty rates for Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands, these jurisdictions can qualify for the reduced match by establishing that the UCEDD activity is associated with any of the Urban and Rural Poverty Indicators listed in the announcement or is targeted for individuals with developmental disabilities in an urban or rural poverty area through some other means. The table below shows the Urban or Rural Poverty Indicators that will be used to determine eligibility for the reduced match. Urban and Rural Poverty Indicator Description Empowerment Zones and Enterprise Communities (EZ/EC) Areas designated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as communities with high rates of poverty. The UCEDD project would have to be implemented in an EZ/EC. Food Stamps The Food Stamp Program helps low-income people and families buy the food they need for good health. The UCEDD project would have to target individuals with DD and their families who receive food stamps. The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is a federally assisted meal program operating to provide low-cost or free lunches to children. The UCEDD project would have to be implemented in a school that qualifies for the NSLP. Head Start The Head Start program provides grants to local public and private non-profit and for-profit agencies to provide comprehensive child development services to economically disadvantaged children and families. The UCEDD project would have to work with a Head Start program. Housing Assistance The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has a variety of housing assistance programs, such as Section 8 housing assistance programs. The UCEDD project would have to target individuals with DD and their families who are receiving federal housing assistance. Medicaid Title XIX of the Social Security Act is a Federal/State entitlement program that pays for medical assistance for certain individuals and families with low incomes and resources. The UCEDD project would have to target individuals with DD and their families who are Medicaid-eligible. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) SSI is designed to help aged, blind and disabled people, who have little or no income. It provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing and shelter. The UCEDD project would have to target individuals with DD who are SSI recipients. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) TANF is a Federal poverty program that provides assistance and work opportunities to needy families through grants to States. The UCEDD project would have to target individuals with DD, children with DD, and their families who are TANF recipients. Other The UCEDD may provide other indicators of poverty not included in this list. The UCEDD would have to provide adequate information to justify use of the 'other' category. In doing so, the UCEDD will have to demonstrate the project is targeting individuals with developmental disabilities in rural and urban poverty areas. ADD will determine the adequacy of the justification for eligibility for a reduced match. A UCEDD would have to provide adequate information to justify use of the 'other' category. In doing so, the UCEDD will have to demonstrate the project is targeting individuals with developmental disabilities in rural or urban poverty areas. ADD will determine the adequacy of the justification for eligibility for a reduced match. ADD will review all the information submitted by the lead UCEDD applicant to determine eligibility for the reduced match. The total approved cost of the project is the sum of the ACF share and the reduced non-Federal share. The reduced 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 $888,889 requesting $800,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal share of at least $88,889 (10 percent of total approved project cost of $888,889). 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. The non-Federal match will be evaluated according to the "Non-Federal Resources" evaluation criterion found in Section V of this announcement. 3. Other: Below is a list of those entities designated as UCEDDs that are eligible to submit an application under this funding opportunity: 1. 2. Children's Hospital 3. Children's 4. 5. 6. 7. Marcus Institute 8. 9. Munroe-Meyer Institute for Genetics and Rehabilitation - 10. Northern 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. The Kennedy Krieger Institute 16. The 17. The University of 18. The University of 19. The University of 20. The University of 21. The University of 22. The University of 23. The 24. 25. 26. UMKC Institute for Human Development 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. University of 32. 33. University of 34. University of 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. Research and Graduate Studies 43. University of 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. University of 53. 54. 55. 56. 58. 59. 60. 61. 62. 63. 64. 65. 66. 67. Westchester Institute for Human Development 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. Applications submitted by entities not designated as a UCEDD will not be considered for review. IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION 1. Address to Request Application Package: Shadetra RobinsonAdministration on Developmental Disabilities Administration for Children and Families U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Mail Stop: HHH 405-D 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW. Washington, DC 20447 Phone: 202-690-7898 Fax: 202-205-8037 Email: shadetra.robinson@acf.hhs.gov URL: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/add/index.html 2. Content and Form of Application Submission: The original and four copies of the application package shall be submitted. Applications may also be submitted through www.grants.gov. The application package must include in the following order: FULL BUDGET AND BUDGET NARRATIVE Applicants must include a completed Standard Form (SF) 424A, "Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs," a detailed budget breakdown by object class categories listed in the SF- 424A, Section B, and a narrative budget justification, for a twelve-month budget period. The budget justification should describe how the costs are reasonable and necessary for the proper and efficient administration of the proposed project. Applicants should include in their budget funds to pay for travel expenses to attend at least one ADD-sponsored Project Director's two-day meeting in Washington, D.C. The applicant must include the twelve-month Federal budget under Column (1), the twelve-month non-Federal budget under Column (2), and the total twelve-month budget under Column (5) of the SF-424A. The applicant shall use the three-column approach when preparing the detailed budget breakdown. For the remaining four years of the requested project period, the applicant must complete SF-424A, Section E, indicating the total forecasted budget for each year. The applicant must also provide a lump sum figure for non-Federal contributions for the second through fifth years of the project on SF-424A, Section C. If the procurement policy of an applicant's institution includes an equipment definition other than the current Federal definition, a copy of the institution's current definition should be included in the application. STANDARD FORMS, ASSURANCES, AND CERTIFICATIONS Information on required forms, assurances and certifications may be found later in this section. TABLE OF CONTENTS ONE-PAGE PROJECT ABSTRACT PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project description must not exceed 60 double-spaced, typed pages. The type must not be smaller than 12 point. The margins must not be less than one inch. The program description pages should be numbered. Any application that exceeds the 60-page limit requirement will have the additional pages removed from the application prior to the review. Tables may be single spaced, however, tables must be used to supplement and clarify content in the project description. Tables may not be used for the majority of the project description. The project description must outline a clear and reasonable plan that addresses the priority area requirements. APPENDIX The Appendix must not exceed 40 pages. The Appendix pages should be numbered. Supplementary material, intended to provide examples of activities, may be included in the Appendix for reviewers but shall adhere to the page limit requirement. The Appendix must be included with the original and the four copies of the application. 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_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. 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 Letter of Intent: 05/16/2008 Due Date for Applications: 06/30/2008 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 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. This grant program meets the ACF definition for training grants. Therefore, applicants must limit the indirect cost rate to eight percent of total direct costs, exclusive of equipment, tuition and stipends, rental of space, major contracts or subgrants and renovation and alteration, under this program announcement. Applicants should include in their budget funds to pay for travel expenses to attend at least one ADD-sponsored Project Director's two-day meeting in Washington, D.C. 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 Attention: Tim ChappelleAdministration for Children and Families Office of Grants Management Division of Discretionary Grants 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW. Aerospace Building, 6th Floor-East Washington, DC 20447 Hand Delivery Attention: Tim ChappelleAdministration for Children and Families Office of Grants Management Aerospace Building, ACF Mail Room, Second Floor, Loading Dock 901 D Street, SW. Washington , DC 20024 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. LETTER OF INTENT Applicants are strongly encouraged to notify ACF of their intention to submit an application under this announcement. Please submit the letter of intent by the deadline date listed in Section IV.3 Submission Dates and Times. The letter of intent should include the following information: number and title of this announcement; the name and address of the applicant organization; and/or Fiscal Agent (if known); and the name, phone number, fax number and email address of a contact person. Letter of intent information will be used to determine the number of expert reviewers needed to evaluate applications. The letter of intent is optional. Failure to submit a letter of intent will not impact eligibility to submit an application and will not disqualify an application from competitive review. 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, results from this project may be an increase in an individual's ability to utilize self determination skills in multiple contexts and/or an increase in an individuals' knowledge of self-determination skills.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. EVALUATION Provide a narrative addressing how the conduct of the project and the results of the project will be evaluated. In addressing the evaluation of results, state how you will determine the extent to which the project has achieved its stated objectives and the extent to which the accomplishment of objectives can be attributed to the project. Discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate results, and explain the methodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified and discussed are being met and if the project results and benefits are being achieved. With respect to the conduct of the project, define the procedures to be employed to determine whether the project is being conducted in a manner consistent with the work plan presented and discuss the impact of the project's various activities that address the project's effectiveness. 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 10 Points 5 Points 5 Points APPROACH - 40 points 5 Points Provides evidence of a well developed 5-year work plan that will be carried out in three phases using a list of measurable and attainable goals with quantitative projections of the accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such terms as the number of people to be trained and the number of activities to be accomplished. Provides chronological order of approach with target dates. 4 Points Describes how activities will be accomplished in Phase I, including methods for gathering and analyzing information from current literature and on State and Federal initiatives to identify: (1) promising models and practices, including methods for reaching out and engaging those who are disengaged or disconnected from the system; (2) gaps and variance in information and national initiatives related to self-determination; (3) the cultural contexts of self-determination that must be considered in a training program; and (4) potential areas for cross-collaboration with other national initiatives. 3 Points Describes how the consortium will, by the end of Phase I, produce a document that is accessible to the public and provides a summary of findings from the information gathered and a final plan for Phases II and III, including the strategies that will be used to sustain the project and a plan for integrating the project with other national initiatives. 5 Points Describes how in Phase II the consortium will develop and test a national training program that works towards scaling up the self-determination skills and knowledge of a variety of people, including individuals with developmental disabilities and family members Describes how the National Training Program will:
3 Points Describes how, by the end of Phase II, the consortium will produce and make available in multiple formats following principles of universal design to maximize accessibility the following resources:
3 Points Describes how in Phase III the consortium will partner with the ADD Technical Assistance Centers and other national organizations for large scale, nation-wide implementation of the National Training Program using traditional and non-traditional marketing strategies to maximize outreach. 3 Points Describes how the consortium will have primary partnerships with organizations representing individuals with developmental disabilities, parents and guardians, siblings, and culturally and linguistically diverse populations. 3 Points Describes how the primary partners will be meaningfully engaged in the project through active involvement with planning for and implementation of all aspects of the project and will assist the consortium to further understand and address the issue. 3 Points Defines roles and responsibilities for the primary partners on the project. 3 Points Describes how the consortium will integrate this training project with other national initiatives, as appropriate, by identifying other entities implementing projects related to self-determination and reaching out to them to determine the extent to which the various efforts are complementary. 5 Points Describes innovative design and methods for scaling up self-determination. PLAN FOR PROJECT CONTINUANCE BEYOND GRANT SUPPORT - 10 points Describes how the consortium will use a dynamic process to sustain efforts related to self-determination past the 5-year grant period to ensure continued use of the training resources, updates and modifications to the materials, and continued access to the materials by members of the public using traditional and non-traditional methods for marketing and maintaining the project over time and how they will collaborate with national organizations and entities, including the ADD Technical Assistance Centers (e.g., UCEDD Resource Center at the Association of University Centers on Disabilities; Training and Advocacy Services Center at the National Disability Rights Network; and the Information and Technical Assistance Center for Councils on Developmental Disabilities at the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities). EVALUATION - 15 points 5 Points Provides a detailed narrative outlining the methodology for evaluating project results, including the measures that will be used to determine the extent to which project goals have been achieved. 5 Points Describes the criteria to be used to evaluate results including measures for assessing the project's results and benefits. 5 Points ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 12 points 3 Points Describes the major roles and responsibilities for the lead UCEDD and the consortium members 3 Points Describes how the consortium will be organized to carry out the project. 3 Points Provides information about each consortium member, including the lead applicant, and their experience and expertise related to the self-determination. 3 Points Provides an overall management plan for the consortium, including methods for communicating across the consortium. STAFF AND POSITION DATA - 3 points 3 Points 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 grant applications that pass the initial screening will undergo a rigorous review process that follows the requirements of Section 154(c) of the DD Act. This shall include the following: (1) Peer Review. All applications submitted shall undergo a technical and qualitative review by peer review groups. Each peer review group will be comprised of approximately three people and shall include individuals with disabilities and parents, guardians, or advocates of or for individuals with developmental disabilities. (2) Supplemental Review. Should the peer review group determine that further review is necessary to make a decision to recommend an application for funding, it will advise ADD of its determination. The peer review group may conduct site visits as part of the supplemental review before recommending an application for funding. (3) Recommendation for Funding. The peer review group will make a recommendation for funding an application. The recommendations for funding will be the following: a. Recommended for funding b. Not recommended for funding c. Need additional information before making a recommendation for funding ADD may approve an application only if the application has been recommended by the peer review group, unless the requirement for such review and recommendation has been waived by the Secretary [see Section 154(c)]. ADD may consider other factors or elements, other than the evaluation criteria, such as the UCEDD's past performance, ability of the applicant to meet the purpose of the DD Act, and geographical dispersion and diversity, in reviewing and selecting applications. 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 ApplicableVI. 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. 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: Shadetra Robinson Grants Management Office Contact: Tim Chappelle, Grants Officer VIII. OTHER INFORMATION Priority Area 2: Consortium to Enhance Post-secondary Education Opportunities for Youth and Young Adults with Developmental Disabilities Description One of the most important and exciting turning points in the lives of all young people is the transition from high school to life as a young adult. This is a time when youth make key decisions about their future, including whether to pursue additional schooling. For youth with developmental disabilities, this is often a time of great uncertainty. When youth with developmental disabilities age out of public school, some times at the age 21 or 22, they leave a relatively organized special education and related services system and enter into a rather fragmented adult services system with options often limited to segregated life skills or community-based transition programs. This has led to poor outcomes for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities, especially in terms of employment and independent living. To mitigate such outcomes, self-advocates, parents, and disability advocates have been calling for increased diversity in and access to post-secondary options for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities, which may include community colleges, four-year colleges and institutes of higher education, vocational-technical colleges, and other various forms of adult education. This national trend is fueled by long been held beliefs that post-secondary educational experiences generally lead to better outcomes such as increased employment opportunities and higher wages. It is argued that, to break the cycle of disparity and discrimination, individuals with developmental disabilities must have equal access to post-secondary education programs. Moreover, post-secondary education is viewed as a more age-appropriate option for youth and young adults ages 18 - 22 receiving special education and related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004. This shifting expectation has led to an increasing number of youth and young adults with developmental disabilities who are participating in post-secondary education opportunities across the country with many experiencing better outcomes, such as higher rates of employment and greater independence. However, the type and availability of post-secondary education programs and services to support individuals with developmental disabilities vary widely, from segregated programs, in which students with disabilities attend separate classes, to fully inclusive models that provide students individualized services and supports to participate in classes. As an emerging national trend, it is critical to impact this promising area to ensure that youth and young adults have the opportunity to participate in post-secondary education opportunities in the most inclusive manner. The National Network of UCEDDs is uniquely positioned to influence the future of post-secondary education opportunities for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities. This can be accomplished through a variety of activities, including the development and delivery of training and other resources for:
It is essential that UCEDDs have an organized effort to affect the existing and emerging post-secondary education models. This priority area will fund a consortium of UCEDDs that will focus on enhancing post-secondary education options for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities through the development and implementation of a national training initiative project that will be conducted over a 5-year period. The consortium must include the following three key features in the project: (1) Primary partnerships. Throughout the project, the consortium must have primary partnerships with organizations representing individuals with developmental disabilities, parents and guardians, siblings, and culturally and linguistically diverse populations. As partners, these organizations will be meaningfully engaged in the project through active involvement with planning for and implementation of all aspects of the project. These partners will assist the consortium to further understand and address the issue. To facilitate the collaborative process, the consortium should define roles and responsibilities for the primary partners on the project. (2) Project integration. To promote coordination and reduce duplication and fragmentation of efforts, the consortium will integrate this training project with other national initiatives, as appropriate. In doing so, the consortium will identify other entities implementing projects related to post-secondary education and reach out to them to determine the extent to which the various efforts are complementary. The consortium will collaborate with the identified entities to coordinate efforts and deepen impact overall. (3) Sustainability. An expected outcome of this project will be the sustainability of efforts related to post-secondary education past the 5-year grant period. This will be a dynamic process that will build on the project's accomplishments to ensure continued use of the training resources, updates and modifications to the materials, and continued access to the materials by members of the public. During the 5-year project period, the consortium will develop and implement a sustainability plan that will work towards the goal of maintaining the project beyond the 5-year funding period. During the 5-year period, the project will be conducted in the following three phases:
This phase will also include planning for sustainability of the project past its funding cycle. An expected outcome of this project will be the sustainability of efforts related to post-secondary education past the 5-year grant period. To achieve this goal, the consortium will seek traditional and non-traditional methods for marketing and maintaining the project over time and may involve collaboration with national organizations and entities, including the ADD Technical Assistance Centers (e.g., UCEDD Resource Center at the Association of University Centers on Disabilities; Training and Advocacy Services Center at the National Disability Rights Network; and the Information and Technical Assistance Center for Councils on Developmental Disabilities at the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities). The sustainability plan must outline a dynamic process for maintaining the project and its resources past the 5-year funding period. By the end of Phase I, the consortium must produce a document that is accessible to the public and provides a summary of findings from the information gathered and a final plan for Phases II and III, including the strategies that will be used to sustain the project and the plan for integrating the project with other national initiatives.
During Phase II, the consortium will develop and test a National Training Program, making adjustments during the project based on lessons learned. The consortium will also implement strategies in the sustainability plan. By the end of Phase II, the consortium will produce the following resources: o The National Training Program that was developed, including the resources and tools developed related to post-secondary education. o Lessons learned from the project, which shall include strategies for adapting the National Training Program to various contexts. These resources must be made available in multiple formats and must follow principles of universal design to maximize accessibility.
II. AWARD INFORMATION
Substantial Involvement with Cooperative Agreement: As a cooperative agreement, substantial involvement is anticipated between the agency and the recipient during performance of the project, which may include the following:
Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds. III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants:
Eligible applicants are those designated as University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs). The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act of 2000) specifies which entities are eligible under this funding opportunity. Subtitle D of the DD Act of 2000, Sections 151(b) and 153(b) authorizes grants to pay for the Federal share of the costs of National Training Initiatives on Critical and Emerging Needs to entities designated as UCEDDsS. Language in these provisions of Subtitle D of the DD Act of 2000 identifies to ADD the type of applicant eligible under this grant program, thereby limiting the competition specifically to entities designated as UCEDDs. Currently, there are 67 entities designated as UCEDDs. This notice applies to these 67 UCEDDs that are designated as UCEDDs in their respective State and existed during the preceding fiscal year. For a list of eligible entities, please see Section III.3. 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: Yes Grantees are required to meet a non-Federal share of the project costs, in accordance with the DD Act of 2000. Grantees must provide at least 25 percent of the total approved cost of the project. The total approved cost of the project is the sum of the ACF share and the non-Federal share. The non-Federal share may be met by cash or in-kind contributions, although applicants are encouraged to meet their match requirements through cash contributions. For example, in order to meet the match requirements, a project with a total approved project cost of $1,066,666, requesting $800,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal share of at least $266,666 (25 percent of total approved project cost of $1,066,666.) 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. Reduced Match Section 154 (d)(2) of the DD Act states: In the case of a project whose activities or products target individuals with developmental disabilities who live in an urban or rural poverty area, as determined by the Secretary, the Federal share of the cost of the project may not be more than 90 percent of the necessary costs of the project. DEFINITIONS Poverty area: census tracts or block numbering areas (BNAs) where at least 20 percent of residents are below the poverty level. Urban Area: Collective term referring to all areas that are urban. For Census 2000, there are two types of urban areas: urban clusters and urbanized areas.
ELIGIBILITY FOR REDUCED MATCH The lead applicant may request a reduced match for the project. Such a request is optional and not a requirement for the project. The lead applicant may submit to ADD the information below to determine eligibility for the reduced match. Documentation that the project will target individuals with developmental disabilities in States where the poverty rate is equal to or greater than the official national poverty rate. For 2006, the rate was 12.5 percent. Below is a list of the States with a poverty rate greater than the national poverty rate.
If the project will target individuals with developmental disabilities in States with a poverty rate less than the national poverty rate, the lead applicant must provide other documentation that the project will target individuals with developmental disabilities in urban or rural poverty areas using any of the Urban and Rural Poverty Indicators listed in the announcement or is targeted for individuals with developmental disabilities in an urban and rural poverty area through some other means. The lead applicant seeking to establish eligibility for a reduced match through means other than showing an activity is associated with one or more of the Urban and Rural Poverty Indicators must include in its application other information that establishes that its activities are targeted to benefit individuals with developmental disabilities in an urban or rural poverty area. Because there are not Federal poverty rates for Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands, these jurisdictions can qualify for the reduced match by establishing that the UCEDD activity is associated with any of the Urban and Rural Poverty Indicators listed in the announcement or is targeted for individuals with developmental disabilities in an urban or rural poverty area through some other means. The table below shows the Urban or Rural Poverty Indicators that will be used to determine eligibility for the reduced match.
A UCEDD would have to provide adequate information to justify use of the 'other' category. In doing so, the UCEDD will have to demonstrate the project is targeting individuals with developmental disabilities in rural and urban poverty areas. ADD will determine the adequacy of the justification for eligibility for a reduced match. ADD will review all the information submitted by the lead UCEDD applicant to determine eligibility for the reduced match. The total approved cost of the project is the sum of the ACF share and the reduced non-Federal share. The reduced 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 $888,889 requesting $800,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal share of at least $88,889 (10 percent of total approved project cost of $888,889). Grantees will be held countable 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. The non-Federal match will be evaluated according to the "Non-Federal Resources" evaluation criterion found in Section V of this announcement. 3. Other: The following UCEDDs are eligible to apply under this funding opportunity:
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. Applications received from entities not designated as a UCEDD will not be considered for funding under this announcement and will not be returned. List of Eligible UCEDDs See Section III.3 for a list of those entities designated as UCEDDs that are eligible to submit a five-year application for funding. IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION 1. Address to Request Application Package: Valerie StewartAdministration on Developmental Disabilities Administration for Children and Families U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Mail Stop: HHH 405-D 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW. Washington, DC 20447 Phone: 202-690-5805 Fax: 202-205-8037 URL: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/add/index.html 2. Content and Form of Application Submission: FULL BUDGET AND BUDGET NARRATIVE Applicants must include a completed Standard Form (SF) 424A, "Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs," a detailed budget breakdown by object class categories listed in the SF- 424A, Section B, and a narrative budget justification, for a twelve-month budget period. The budget justification should describe how the costs are reasonable and necessary for the proper and efficient administration of the proposed project. Applicants should include in their budget funds to pay for travel expenses to attend at least one ADD-sponsored Project Director's two-day meeting in Washington, D.C. The applicant must include the twelve-month Federal budget under Column (1), the twelve-month non-Federal budget under Column (2), and the total twelve-month budget under Column (5) of the SF-424A. The applicant shall use the three-column approach when preparing the detailed budget breakdown. For the remaining four years of the requested project period, the applicant must complete SF-424A, Section E, indicating the total forecasted budget for each year. The applicant must also provide a lump sum figure for non-Federal contributions for the second through fifth years of the project on SF-424A, Section C. If the procurement policy of an applicant's institution includes an equipment definition other than the current Federal definition, a copy of the institution's current definition should be included in the application. STANDARD FORMS, ASSURANCES, AND CERTIFICATIONS Information on required forms, assurances and certifications may be found later in this section. TABLE OF CONTENTS ONE-PAGE PROJECT ABSTRACT PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project description must not exceed 60 double-spaced, typed pages. The type must not be smaller than 12 point. The margins must not be less than one inch. The program description pages should be numbered. Any application that exceeds the 60-page limit requirement will have the additional pages removed from the application prior to the review. Tables may be single spaced, however, table must be used to supplement and clarify content in the project description. Tables may not be used for the majority of the project description. The project description must outline a clear and reasonable plan that addresses the priority area requirements. APPENDIX The Appendix must not exceed 40 pages. The Appendix pages should be numbered. Supplementary material, intended to provide examples of activities, may be included in the Appendix for reviewers but shall adhere to the page limit requirement. The Appendix must be included with the original and the four copies of the application. 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_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. 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 Letter of Intent: 05/16/2008 Due Date for Applications: 06/30/2008 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 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. This grant program meets the ACF definition for training grants. Therefore, applicants must limit the indirect cost rate to eight percent of total direct costs, exclusive of equipment, tuition and stipends, rental of space, major contracts or subgrants and renovation and alteration, under this program announcement. Applicants should include in their budget funds to pay for travel expenses to attend at least one ADD-sponsored Project Director's two-day meeting in
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 Attention: Valerie StewartAdministration on Developmental Disabilities Administration for Children and Families U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW. Mail Stop HHH-405D Washington, DC 20447 Hand Delivery Attention: Valerie StewartAdministration on Developmental Disabilities Administration for Children and Families U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Ave, SW. Room 405-D Washington, DC 20201 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. LETTER OF INTENT Applicants are strongly encouraged to notify ACF of their intention to submit an application under this announcement. Please submit the letter of intent by the deadline date listed in Section IV.3 Submission Dates and Times. The letter of intent should include the following information: number and title of this announcement; the name and address of the applicant organization; and/or Fiscal Agent (if known); and the name, phone number, fax number and email address of a contact person. Letter of intent information will be used to determine the number of expert reviewers needed to evaluate applications. The letter of intent is optional. Failure to submit a letter of intent will not impact eligibility to submit an application and will not disqualify an application from competitive review. 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, results from this project may be an increase in the number of youth and young adults attending inclusive post-secondary education programs or an increase in faculty knowledge and practice regarding the inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities in courses.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. EVALUATION Provide a narrative addressing how the conduct of the project and the results of the project will be evaluated. In addressing the evaluation of results, state how you will determine the extent to which the project has achieved its stated objectives and the extent to which the accomplishment of objectives can be attributed to the project. Discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate results, and explain the methodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified and discussed are being met and if the project results and benefits are being achieved. With respect to the conduct of the project, define the procedures to be employed to determine whether the project is being conducted in a manner consistent with the work plan presented and discuss the impact of the project's various activities that address the project's effectiveness. 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 10 Points 5 Points 5 Points APPROACH - 40 points 5 Points Provides evidence of a well developed 5-year work plan that will be carried out in three phases using a list of measurable and attainable goals with quantitative projections of the accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such terms as the number of people to be trained and the number of activities to be accomplished. Provides chronological order of approach with target dates. 4 Points Describes how activities will be accomplished in Phase I, including methods for gathering and analyzing information from current literature and on State and Federal initiatives to identify: (1) promising models and practices; (2) gaps and variance in information related to post-secondary education opportunities for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities; and (3) potential areas for cross collaboration with other national initiatives. 3 Points Describes how the consortium will, by the end of Phase I, produce a document that is accessible to the public and provides a summary of findings from the information gathered and a final plan for Phases II and III, including the strategies that will be used to sustain the project and a plan for integrating the project with other national initiatives. 5 Points Describes how in Phase II the consortium will develop and test a national training program that works towards enhancing the post-secondary education opportunities for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities which:
3 Points Describes how, by the end of Phase II, the consortium will produce and make available in multiple formats following principles of universal design to maximize accessibility the following resources. o The National Training Program that was developed, including the resources and tools developed related to post-secondary education. o Lessons learned from the project, which shall include strategies for adapting the National Training Program to various contexts. 3 Points Describes how in Phase III the consortium will partner with the ADD Technical Assistance Centers and other national organizations for large scale, nation-wide implementation of the National Training Program using traditional and non-traditional marketing strategies to maximize outreach. 3 Points Describes how the consortium will have primary partnerships with organizations representing individuals with developmental disabilities, parents and guardians, siblings, and culturally and linguistically diverse populations. 3 Points Describes how the primary partners will be meaningfully engaged in the project through active involvement with planning for and implementation of all aspects of the project and will assist the consortium to further understand and address the issue. 3 Points Defines roles and responsibilities for the primary partners on the project. 3 Points Describes how the consortium will integrate this training project with other national initiatives, as appropriate, by identifying other entities implementing projects related to post-secondary education and reaching out to them to determine the extent to which the various efforts are complementary. 5 Points Describes innovative design and methods for enhancing post-secondary education opportunities for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities. PLAN FOR PROJECT CONTINUANCE BEYOND GRANT SUPPORT - 10 points Describes how the consortium will use a dynamic process to sustain efforts related to post-secondary education past the 5-year grant period to ensure continued use of the training resources, updates and modifications to the materials, and continued access to the materials by members of the public using traditional and non-traditional methods for marketing and maintaining the project over time and how they will collaborate with national organizations and entities, including the ADD Technical Assistance Centers (e.g., UCEDD Resource Center at the Association of University Centers on Disabilities; Training and Advocacy Services Center at the National Disability Rights Network; and the Information and Technical Assistance Center for Councils on Developmental Disabilities at the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities). EVALUATION - 15 points 5 Points 5 Points Describes the criteria to be used to evaluate results including measures for assessing the project's results and benefits. 5 Points ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 12 points 3 Points Describes the major roles and responsibilities for the lead UCEDD and the consortium members 3 Points Describes how the consortium will be organized to carry out the project. 3 Points Provides information about each consortium member, including the lead applicant, and their experience and expertise related to the self-determination. 3 Points Provides an overall management plan for the consortium, including methods for communicating across the consortium. STAFF AND POSITION DATA - 3 points 3 Points 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 grant applications that pass the initial screening will undergo a rigorous review process that follows the requirements of Section 154(c) of the DD Act. This shall include the following: (1) Peer Review. All applications submitted shall undergo a technical and qualitative review by peer review groups. Each peer review group will be comprised of approximately three people and shall include individuals with disabilities and parents, guardians, or advocates of or for individuals with developmental disabilities. (2) Supplemental Review. Should the peer review group determine that further review is necessary to make a decision to recommend an application for funding, it will advise ADD of its determination. The peer review group may conduct site visits as part of the supplemental review before recommending an application for funding. (3) Recommendation for Funding. The peer review group will make a recommendation for funding an application. The recommendations for funding will be the following: a. Recommended for funding b. Not recommended for funding c. Need additional information before making a recommendation for funding ADD may approve an application only if the application has been recommended by the peer review group, unless the requirement for such review and recommendation has been waived by the Secretary [see Section 154(c)]. ADD may consider other factors or elements, other than the evaluation criteria, such as the UCEDD's past performance, ability of the applicant to meet the purpose of the DD Act, and geographical dispersion and diversity, in reviewing and selecting applications. 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 ApplicableVI. 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. 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: QuarterlyVII. AGENCY CONTACTS Program Office Contact: Shadetra Robinson Grants Management Office Contact: Tim Chappelle, Grants Officer VIII. OTHER INFORMATION
Posted on May 1, 2008 |
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