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Executive Summary: The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) in the Administration for Children and Families ( ACF), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), announces the availability of Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 funds for the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) Training and Technical Assistance (T/TA) for Protection and Advocacy Systems (P & As). The purpose of funds awarded under this announcement is to provide T/TA to P & As in their promotion of full participation in the electoral process for individuals with disabilities, including registering to vote, casting a vote, and accessing polling places; developing proficiency in the use of voting systems and technologies as they affect individuals with disabilities; demonstrating and evaluating the use of such systems and technologies by individuals with disabilities (including blindness) in order to assess the availability and use of such systems and technologies for such individuals; and providing T/TA for non-visual access. (At least one recipient must provide T/TA in this area.) I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION Legislative Authority The Help
Funding Opportunity Description The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) in the Administration for Children and Families (
Background HAVA, signed into law by President George W. Bush on
Background on ADD and ADD Programs ADD is the lead agency responsible for planning and administering programs to promote the self-sufficiency and protect the rights of persons with developmental disabilities. ADD administers the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (the DD Act). The DD Act provides for funding to States to provide advocacy, promote consumer oriented systems change and capacity building activities, and facilitate network collaboration. The four programs funded under the DD Act are: (1) State Councils on Developmental Disabilities that engage in advocacy, capacity building, and systemic change activities; (2) Protection and Advocacy Systems (P & As) that protect the legal and human rights of individuals with developmental disabilities; (3) The National Network of University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, (UCEDD) that engages in training, community outreach, research, and dissemination activities; and (4) Projects of National Significance (PNS), that award grants and contracts that promote and increase the independence, productivity, inclusion and integration into the community of persons with developmental disabilities. These projects focus on the most pressing issues for people with developmental disabilities across the country. These projects may involve research, technical assistance, projects that improve supportive living and quality of life opportunities, projects to educate policymakers, and efforts to create interagency Federal collaboration. In addition to responsibilities under the DD Act, ADD has been given the responsibility by the Secretary of HHS for three grant programs authorized under HAVA, P.L. 107-252. This announcement is for HAVA T/TA for P & As so they can assist individuals with disabilities in the voting process from registration to actual voting. The purpose of funds awarded under this announcement is to provide T/TA for P & As to establish or improve voting access for individuals with disabilities, including registering to vote, casting a vote and accessing polling places. The T/TA grantee(s) may use their award to support training in the use of voting systems and technologies, and to demonstrate and evaluate the use of such systems and technologies, by individuals with disabilities (including blindness) in order to assess the availability and use of such systems and technologies for such individuals. At least one grantee shall use the award to provide T/TA for non-visual access.Priority Area 1: HAVA T/TA for P & As to establish or improve voting access for individuals with disabilities
Description The purpose of funds awarded under this announcement is to provide T/TA to P & As in their promotion of full participation in the electoral process for individuals with disabilities, including registering to vote, casting a vote, and accessing polling places; developing proficiency in the use of voting systems and technologies as they affect individuals with disabilities; and demonstrating and evaluating the use of such systems and technologies by individuals with disabilities (including blindness) in order to assess the availability and use of such systems and technologies for such individuals. At least one recipient of these funds must provide T/TA for non-visual access. II. AWARD INFORMATION
Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds. III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants:
As stated in the HAVA of 2002, P.L. 107-252, Title II, Subtitle D, Part 5, Section 291(c)(3), in order for an entity to establish eligibility, the entity must show that it: (A) is a public or private non-profit entity with demonstrated experience in voting issues for individuals with disabilities; (B) is governed by a board with respect to which the majority of its members are individuals with disabilities or family members of such individuals or individuals who are blind; and (C) submits to the Secretary an application as required under this announcement. 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.
Please see Section IV for required documentation supporting eligibility or funding restrictions if any are applicable. 2. Cost Sharing or Matching: None 3. Other: Disqualification Factors Applications with requests that exceed the ceiling on the amount of individual awards referenced in Section II. Award Information will be deemed non-responsive and will not be considered for funding under this announcement. Any application that fails to satisfy the deadline requirements referenced in Section IV.3., Submission Dates and Times, will be deemed non-responsive and will not be considered for funding under this announcement. IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION 1. Address to Request Application Package: Melvenia WrightU.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Administration on Developmental Disabilities 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW Mail Stop HHH 405-D Washington, DC 20447 Phone: 202-690-5557 Fax: 202-205-8037 Email: melvenia.wright@acf.hhs.gov 2. Content and Form of Application Submission: Letter of Intent Applicants are strongly encouraged to notify Melvenia Wright at 202-690-5557 or by email at melvenia.wright@acf.hhs.gov 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. The letter of intent should include the following information: the number and title of this announcement (required); the name and address of your organization; and your contact person's name, phone number, fax number, and email address. Letter of intent information will be used to determine the number of expert reviewers needed to evaluate applications. Failure to submit a letter of intent will not impact eligibility to submit an application and will not disqualify an application from competitive review. The Application Each application package must include the original and two copies of the complete application. Each copy should be stapled securely (front and back if necessary) in the upper left-hand corner. All pages of the narrative (including charts, tables, maps, exhibits, etc.) must be sequentially numbered, beginning with page one. In order to facilitate handling, please do not use covers, binders, or tabs. Do not include extraneous materials as attachments, such as agency promotion brochures, slides, tapes, film clips, minutes of meetings, survey instruments, or articles of incorporation. Application Requirements Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form (SF) 424); 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: 05/02/2008 Due Date for Applications: 06/02/2008 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
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 is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this program. 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 Daphne WeedenU.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families Office of Grants Management 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW. Washington, DC 20447 Hand Delivery Daphne WeedenU.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families Office of Grants Management 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW. Washington, DC 20447 Electronic Submission Please see Section IV.2 for guidelines and requirements when submitting applications electronically via http://www.Grants.gov. V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-13) Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 40 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and reviewing the collection information. The project description is approved under OMB control number 0970-0139, which expires 4/30/2010. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. 1. Criteria: Part I THE PROJECT DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW PURPOSE The project description provides the majority of information by which an application is evaluated and ranked in competition with other applications for available assistance. The project description should be concise and complete. It should address the activity for which Federal funds are being requested. Supporting documents should be included where they can present information clearly and succinctly. In preparing the project description, information that is responsive to each of the requested evaluation criteria must be provided. Awarding offices use this and other information in making their funding recommendations. It is important, therefore, that this information be included in the application in a manner that is clear and complete. GENERAL EXPECTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS ACF is particularly interested in specific project descriptions that focus on outcomes and convey strategies for achieving intended performance. Project descriptions are evaluated on the basis of substance and measurable outcomes, not length. Extensive exhibits are not required. Cross-referencing should be used rather than repetition. Supporting information concerning activities that will not be directly funded by the grant or information that does not directly pertain to an integral part of the grant-funded activity should be placed in an appendix. Part II GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING A FULL PROJECT DESCRIPTION INTRODUCTION Applicants that are required to submit a full project description shall prepare the project description statement in accordance with the following instructions while being aware of the specified evaluation criteria. The text options give a broad overview of what the project description should include while the evaluation criteria identify the measures that will be used to evaluate applications. PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Provide a summary of the project description (one page or less) with reference to the funding request. OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE Clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial, institutional, and/or other problem(s) requiring a solution. The need for assistance must be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting documentation, such as letters of support and testimonials from concerned interests other than the applicant, may be included. Any relevant data based on planning studies should be included or referred to in the endnotes/footnotes. Incorporate demographic data and participant/beneficiary information, as needed. In developing the project description, the applicant may volunteer or be requested to provide information on the total range of projects currently being conducted and supported (or to be initiated), some of which may be outside the scope of the program announcement. RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED Identify the results and benefits to be derived. For example, For example, applicants should describe how the activities their organization undertakes will promote full participation in the electoral process, including registering to vote, casting a vote, and accessing polling places, for individuals with the full range of disabilities.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. 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.
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: BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 5 points Applicants must present a budget with reasonable project costs, appropriately allocated across component areas and sufficient to accomplish the objectives, such as the inclusion of a justification for, and documentation of, the dollar amount requested. Applicants must also include a narrative budget justification that describes how the categorical costs are derived and a discussion of the reasonableness and appropriateness of the proposed costs. Line-item allocations and justifications are required for Federal funds. Applicants will be evaluated based on the extent to which they:
Note: Applicants have the option of omitting the Social Security Numbers and specific salary rates of the proposed project personnel from the two copies submitted with the original applications to ACF. For purposes of the outside review process, applicants may elect to summarize salary information on the copies of their application. All necessary salary information must, however, appear on the signed original application for ACF. ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 15 points Applicants must identify how their organization (or the unit within the organization that will have responsibility for the project) is structured, the types and quantity of services, and the research and management capabilities it possesses. Applicants must also demonstrate a capacity to implement the proposed project, including: (1) experience with similar projects; (2) experience with the target population; (3) qualifications and experience of the project leadership; (4) commitment to developing and sustaining work among key stakeholders; (5) experience and commitment of any proposed consultants and subcontractors; and (6) appropriateness of the organizational structure, including its management information system, to carry out the project. Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which the applicant:
RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED - 20 points Applications must identify the results and benefits to be derived and the anticipated contribution to policy, practice, theory, and research. Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they:
OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE - 25 points Applications must describe the context of this project, including the geographic location, environment, magnitude and severity of the problem(s) to be solved, and the needs to be addressed. Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they:
APPROACH - 35 points Applicants must present a plan that: (1) clearly reflects an understanding of the characteristics, needs and services currently available to the targeted population; (2) provides appropriate services that directly address the needs of the targeted population; (3) is evidence-based and grounded in theory and practice; (4) is appropriate and feasible; and (5) can be reliably evaluated. Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they:
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. Each application submitted under this program announcement will undergo a pre-review to determine that (1) the application was received by the closing date (see Section IV.3) and (2) that the amount requested does not exceed the stated ceiling (see Section II). It is necessary that applicants state specifically for which funding announcement they are applying. Applications will be evaluated and rated by an independent review panel on the basis of specific evaluation criteria. The results of these reviews will assist the ADD Commissioner and program staff in considering competing applications. Reviewers' scores will weigh heavily in funding decisions but will not be the only factors considered. Applications generally will be considered in order of the average scores assigned by reviewers. The evaluation criteria were designed to assess the quality of a proposed project and to determine the likelihood of its success. The evaluation criteria are closely related and are considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of an application. Points are awarded only to applications that are responsive to the evaluation criteria within the context of this program announcement. Non-Federal reviewers will be used for the review process. 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. Financial Reports: Quarterly VII. AGENCY CONTACTS Program Office Contact: Melvenia Wright Grants Management Office Contact: Daphne Weeden VIII. OTHER INFORMATION Additional information about this program and its purpose can be located on the following website: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/add.
Posted on April 2, 2008 |
