 
Executive Summary: The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) within 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 to make five-year grants to up to 17 entities designated as University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCEDD) to carry out four core functions: (1) interdisciplinary pre-service preparation and continuing education of students and fellows; (2) community services, including training, technical assistance, and/or demonstration and model activities; (3) research; and (4) dissemination of information. UCEDDs are interdisciplinary education, research and public service units of universities, or public or not-for-profit entities associated with universities that implement the four core functions addressing, directly or indirectly, one or more of the areas of emphasis (e.g., quality assurance, education and early intervention, child care, health, employment, housing, transportation, recreation and other services available or offered to individuals in a community, including formal and informal community supports, that affect their quality of life). Funds made available under this funding opportunity are used to pay for the Federal share of the cost of the administration and operation of programs designated as UCEDDs. This program announcement contains instructions for existing UCEDDs that must submit in FY 2008 grant applications for core funding to receive continued funding and designation as a UCEDD. 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. Funding Opportunity Description ADD 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. The UCEDDs are a means by which ADD promotes the achievement of this vision. 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 are manifested before the individual attains age 22 and are 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 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:
According to Section 153 of the DD Act of 2000, UCEDDs are funded to provide leadership in, to advise Federal, State, and community policymakers about, and to promote opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to exercise self-determination, be independent, be productive, and be integrated and included in all facets of community life. UCEDDs are defined as interdisciplinary education, research, and public service units of universities or public or non-profit entities associated with universities that engage in four core functions, addressing, directly or indirectly, one or more of the areas of emphasis. The following is a description of the four core functions:
According to Section 152 of the DD Act of 2000, grants must be made to each UCEDD that existed in the preceding Fiscal Year. Funds are used to pay for the Federal share of the cost of the administration and operation of the UCEDD. The DD Act defines a State as the 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam. Currently, there are 67 grants that fund UCEDDs in every State and Territory. Funding for 17 of the 67 grants expires June 30, 2008. The 17 UCEDD grantees must submit and receive approval of a five-year application to receive continued funding and designation as a UCEDD. Priority Area 1: National Network of University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service Description The National Network of UCEDDs comprise 67 grants that establish Centers that are interdisciplinary education, research, and public service units of universities or public or not-for-profit entities associated with universities that engage in four core functions: interdisciplinary pre-service preparation and continuing education; community services (including training and/or technical assistance and/or services, supports and assistance); research; and dissemination of information and address, directly or indirectly, one or more areas of emphasis (e.g., quality assurance, education and early intervention, child care, health, employment, housing, transportation, recreation, and other services available or offered to individuals in a community, including formal and informal community supports, that affect their quality of life). As liaisons to service delivery systems, UCEDDs serve to positively affect the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, and work toward increasing their independence, productivity, inclusion and integration into communities. The National Network has evolved considerably during its history. Established in 1963, the development of the National Network is marked by growth in three phases (Fifield & Fifield, 1995). The first phase, 1963-1974, involved the construction of institutions closely associated with universities and the development of centralized expertise, training programs, clinical, diagnostic and treatment services for persons with intellectual disabilities. The second phase, 1975-1986, promoted community-based services, developmental concepts and the provision of services through a person's full life span. This period also saw the creation of the three major components of the present-day developmental disabilities system: State Developmental Disabilities Councils, Protection and Advocacy Systems and University Centers. The third period, 1987 - present, has emphasized a focus on the role of individuals with developmental disabilities, as exemplified by the completion of an extensive national consumer satisfaction evaluation study, which brought to the forefront the issues of empowerment, independence and inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities. UCEDD accomplishments include:
Funds made available under this program announcement will renew funding for up to 17 ADD grantees currently designated as UCEDDs. This program announcement contains instructions for the submission of the FY 2008 grant applications for core funding. Applicants should note that the instructions for responding to this announcement follow requirements set forth in the DD Act of 2000 with regard to the UCEDD program.
Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds. III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants:
Section 151(a) of the DD Act of 2000 states that appropriations authorized under section 156(a)(1) of the DD Act shall be used to make five-year grants to entities in each State designated as UCEDDs to carry out the four core functions of interdisciplinary pre-service preparation and continuing education, community services, research and information dissemination. Entities eligible to apply for funds under this program announcement are the 17 current ADD grantees that are designated UCEDDs whose five-year funding will end on June 30, 2008. See the list below for eligible UCEDDs.
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: Yes Grantees are required to meet a non-Federal share of the project costs, in accordance with Section 154(d) of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights 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 $666,667 , requesting $500,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal share of at least $166,667 (25 percent of total approved project cost of $666,667.) 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.
TWO-TIER ELIGIBILITY SYSTEM FOR REDUCED MATCH To meet the requirements in the DD Act, ADD has developed a system that UCEDDs can use to request a reduced match on the core grant. Such a request is optional and not a requirement for UCEDDs. ADD will use a two-tiered system for determining eligibility for the reduced match:
SUGGESTED FORMAT FOR SUBMITTING INFORMATION TO ADD To streamline the process, below is a suggested format for submitting the information to ADD.
Below is a list of the States that fall into Tiers 1 and 2.
The non-Federal match will be evaluated according to the "Non-Federal Resources" evaluation criterion found in Section V of this announcement. 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. 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 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: Jennifer G. Johnson, Ed.D.Office of Operations and Discretionary Grants Administration on Developmental Disabilities Administration for Children and Families Mail Stop: HHH 405-D 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW. Washington, DC 20447 Phone: 202-690-5982 Fax: 202-205-8037 Email: jennifer.johnson@acf.hhs.gov URL: http://www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/add/index.html 2. Content and Form of Application Submission: The original and three 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: STANDARD FORMS, ASSURANCES, AND CERTIFICATIONS Information on required forms, assurances and certifications may be found later in this section. 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. The budget narrative should clearly outline how funds awarded under this grant will support the administration or operation of the UCEDD. The narrative should provide evidence that funds made available through the grant will be used to supplement, and not supplant, the funds that would otherwise be made available for activities related to the interdisciplinary pre-service preparation and continuing education, community services, research and information dissemination core functions. 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. Budget funds may also be used to support the travel of data coordinators to attend an annual training on the National Information Reporting System (NIRS). All other travel costs must be related to the implementation of the four core functions and the operation or administration of the Center. The budget narrative should also include information about how core grant funds are being used to support activities of the Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC), such as reimbursement for travel, monetary compensation and staff positions. 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. TABLE OF CONTENTS ONE-PAGE PROJECT ABSTRACT PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project description must not exceed 50 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 50-page limit requirement will have the additional pages removed from the application prior to the review. Below is the information that should be included in the submission of FY 2008 grant applications for core funding to support the operation and administration of up to 17 programs currently designated as UCEDDs. A. Five-Year Plan The application for core funding must describe a five-year plan for meeting the purpose of the DD Act. The plan must outline a projected measurable goal for one or more area(s) of emphasis (e.g., quality assurance, education and early intervention, child care, health, employment, housing, transportation, recreation, and other services available or offered to individuals in a community, including formal and informal community supports, that affect their quality of life) for each core function. The five-year plan must describe how the goals and the goal-related activities:
The five-year plan should include a description of how the infrastructure and resources obtained through core funding will be utilized to leverage additional public and private funds to successfully achieve the projected goals developed in the five-year plan. The five-year plan must describe how the applicant will carry out each of the following four UCEDD core functions:
B. Organizational Structure and Experience As stated in Section 151(a) of the DD Act, the Secretary makes awards to entities designated as UCEDDs to carry out the activities described in Section 153. A UCEDD is an interdisciplinary education, research and public service unit of a university or a public or non-profit entity associated with a university that engages in four core functions [Section 153(a)(1)]. In order to receive funds under this program announcement, an applicant must provide evidence that the entity is an interdisciplinary education, research and public service unit of a university or public or non-profit entities associated with a university that engage in four core functions. Such evidence may be provided by including the following in the application for core funding:
The application should describe the qualifications of the faculty and staff assigned to the UCEDD grant. The UCEDD staff shall include a director with:
The application should explain how the UCEDD will:
C. Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC) The applicant must describe how the UCEDD will maintain a CAC that reflects the racial and ethnic diversity of the State. The description should include how the majority of members are individuals with developmental disabilities and family members of such individuals. The applicant should also describe other members of the CAC, including representatives of: The State Protection and Advocacy System; the State Council on Developmental Disabilities; other UCEDDs in the State; a self-advocacy organization described in Section 124(c)(4)(A)(ii)(I) of the DD Act of 2000; and organizations that may include Parent Training and Information Centers assisted under Sections 671 and 672 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004, entities carrying out activities in assistive technology authorized under Sections 4 or 5 of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, relevant State agencies, and other community groups concerned with the welfare of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. The applicant should include a meeting schedule showing that the CAC will meet, at a minimum, twice during each grant year. D. Coordinated Activities with the State Developmental Disabilities Network The State Developmental Disabilities Network (DD Network) is comprised of the three ADD grant programs funded in each State and Territory: (1) State Developmental Disabilities Councils; (2) Protection and Advocacy System; and (3) UCEDD(s). It is expected that the members of the DD Network work together in a strategic manner to positively impact individuals with disabilities and their families. The respondents to this announcement should provide a narrative and related supporting documentation of how the UCEDD will undertake coordinated activities with the State Developmental Disabilities Councils, the Protection and Advocacy System in the State, and the other UCEDD(s) in the State. E. Program Accountability Respondents to this program announcement must describe how they will comply with the accountability requirements outlined in the DD Act of 2000. Please see Section VI.3 for more information. 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 three 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.) Applicants must also understand that they will be held accountable for the smoking prohibition included within Public Law (P.L.) 103-227, Title XII Environmental Tobacco Smoke (also known as the PRO-KIDS Act of 1994). A copy of the Federal Register notice that implements the smoking prohibition is included with this form. By signing and submitting the application, applicants are providing the necessary certification and are not required to return it. Information on the Certification Regarding Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act (PFCRA) may be found in the HHS Grants Policy Statement at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their compliance with all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By signing and submitting the application, applicants are providing the necessary certification. Where return of a form is required, complete the standard forms and the associated certifications and assurances based on the instructions found on the forms. The forms and certifications may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Information on the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a) and the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C 552) or FOIA may be found in the HHS Grants Policy Statement at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. DD Act Assurances The application for core funding must contain assurances that the applicant will work towards achievement of the purpose of the DD Act of 2000 through implementation of the UCEDD program requirements in the Act:
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with their applications the survey titled "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants" found under the "Survey" heading at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Please see Section V.1 for instructions on preparing the full project description. Please reference Section IV.3 for details about acknowledgement of received applications. Electronic SubmissionApplicants to ACF may submit their applications in either electronic or paper format. To submit an application electronically, please use the http://www.Grants.gov site. When using www.Grants.gov, applicants will be able to download a copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and then upload and submit the application via the www.Grants.gov site. ACF will not accept grant applications via facsimile or email. Acceptable electronic formats for the application attachments (narratives, charts, etc.) must use the following standard technologies, i.e., Microsoft (Word and Excel), Word Perfect, Adobe PDF, Jpeg, and Gif. IMPORTANT NOTE: Before submitting an electronic application, applicants must complete the organization registration process as well as obtain and register "electronic signature credentials" for the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Since this process may take more than five business days, it is important to start this process early, well in advance of the application deadline. Be sure to complete all www.Grants.gov registration processes listed on the Organization Registration Checklist, which can be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/registration_checklist.html. Please note the following if planning to submit an application electronically via www.Grants.gov:
Applicants that are submitting their application in paper format should submit one original and two copies of the complete application. The original and each of the two copies must include all required forms, certifications, assurances, and appendices, be signed by an authorized representative, and be unbound. The original copy of the application must have original signature(s). Non-Federal ReviewersSince ACF will be using non-Federal reviewers in the review process, applicants have the option of omitting from the application copies (not the original) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified in the application budget as well as Social Security Numbers, if otherwise required for individuals. The copies may include summary salary information. If applicants are submitting their application electronically, ACF will omit the same specific salary rate information from copies made for use during the review and selection process. 3. Submission Dates and Times: Due Date for Applications: 01/07/2008 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, include 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. 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 Jennifer G. Johnson, Ed.D.Administration for 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 Jennifer G. Johnson, Ed.D.Administration for 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. 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. 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 - 15 points Applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which the applicant demonstrates a thorough understanding and analysis of the problem(s) being addressed in the project; documents the need for assistance, and the importance of addressing these problems in the area(s) to be addressed by the proposed project; outlines key goals and objectives of the project directly related to the four core functions (interdisciplinary pre-service preparation and continuing education, community services, research and information dissemination) in one or more selected areas of emphasis (quality assurance, education and early intervention, child care, health, employment, housing, transportation, recreation and other services available or offered to individuals in a community, including formal and informal community supports, that affect their quality of life); provides evidence that consumer members provided input into the development of the application for core funding; and provides any supporting documentation and relevant data based on research or planning studies, and maps and other graphical aids. Using the following values for each required item in this criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the application for core funding:
APPROACH - 45 points The applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which the applicant outlines a sound, workable and detailed plan of action pertaining to the measurable goals and objectives of the proposed project and the proposed approach; identifies activities in chronological order, with target dates for accomplishment, and clearly identifies the plan of action and delineates the roles and involvement of each of the proposed project's partners and collaborators. Using the following values for each required item in this criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the application for core funding describes a five-year plan for meeting the purpose of the DD Act that includes the following:
EVALUATION - 15 points The applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which the applicant provides a narrative outlining how project results will be evaluated; states methods for measuring the extent to which project goals have been achieved; discusses the criteria to be used to evaluate results; explains 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, defines the procedures to be employed to determine whether the project is being conducted in a manner consistent with the work plan presented; and discusses the impact of the project's various activities on the project's effectiveness. Using the following values for each required item in this criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the application for core funding:
ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 10 points The applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which the applicant provides information on the applicant's organization and cooperating partners, such as: organizational overview and charts; financial statements; audit reports or statements from Certified Public Accountants/Licensed Public Accountants; Employer Identification Number(s); documentation of professional accreditation; information on compliance with Federal/State/local government standards; documentation of experience in the program area; and, other pertinent information. Using the following values for each required item in this criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the application for core funding:
STAFF AND POSITION DATA - 5 points The applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which the applicant provides a biographical sketch and job description for each key person appointed; job descriptions for each vacant key position; and methods for recruiting and maintaining key staff. Using the following values for each required item in this criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the application for core funding:
BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 10 points The applications will be evaluated according to the extent to which the applicant provides a budget with line-item detail and detailed calculations for each budget object class identified on the Budget Information form; detailed calculations that include estimation methods, quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative detail sufficient for the calculation to be duplicated; a breakout by the funding sources identified in Block 15 of the SF-424; a narrative budget justification that describes how the categorical costs are derived; and discusses the necessity, reasonableness, and allocability of the proposed costs. Using the following values for each required item in this criterion, points will be awarded according to the extent to which the application for core funding:
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. Successful applicants will be judged on their ability to demonstrate the capacity or the development of the capacity to meet the purpose of the DD Act through full implementation of the UCEDD core functions. Please reference Section IV.2 for information on non-Federal reviewers in the review process. Please reference Section IV.2 for information on non-Federal reviewers in 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_resources.html. 3. Reporting Requirements: Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financial reports (SF-269 found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html) throughout the project period. Program progress and financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. Final programmatic and financial reports are due 90 days after the close of the project period. Final reports may be submitted in hard copy to the Grants Management Office Contact listed in Section VII of this announcement. Program Progress Reports: AnnuallyFinancial Reports: Semi-Annually Entities designated as UCEDDs must submit an Annual Report that provides information for the ADD system of program accountability. This system is designed to:
The ADD system of program accountability is comprised of three parts: (1) the UCEDD reporting requirements, (2) Indicators of Progress for the National Network of UCEDDs, and (3) Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) measures. Part 1 of the UCEDD Annual Report template requires that grantees submit information on progress made in the previous year towards achieving the projected goals for the UCEDD, including:
The UCEDD should provide a report on the manner in which funds paid to the UCEDD for a fiscal year were expended; information on proposed revisions to the goals; and a description of successful efforts to leverage funds, other than funds made available to support the operation and administration of the UCEDD, to pursue goals consistent with the UCEDD program. Part 2 of the report requires grantees to provide information on Indicators of Progress for the national network of UCEDDs. Indicators of Progress describe and measure the:
The measures serve as indicators describing progress achieved through advocacy, capacity building and systemic change activities undertaken by the national network of UCEDDs. Progress achieved through the advocacy, capacity building and systemic change activities must be reported by core functions and the areas of emphasis (e.g., quality assurance, education and early intervention, child care, health, employment, housing, transportation, recreation, and other services available or offered to individuals in a community, including formal and informal community supports, that affect their quality of life). When collecting consumer satisfaction data, UCEDDs must ensure the protection of the informant's confidentiality to the extent permitted by law. Information gathering techniques for the collection of consumer satisfaction data are to be conducted without inclusion of names or other identifying information of the respondents. Respondents are to be assured that the information they provide is confidential and will be used for the stated purpose for which they were collected. In addition, respondents are to be assured that their participation evaluating satisfaction is voluntary. In keeping with ADD practices with respect to cultural competence and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), alternative formats must be made available. In conducting the evaluative activities, the UCEDDs will ensure the respondents' confidentiality in a variety of formats, including oral and written statements. If UCEDDs use written survey techniques, a standard written statement about confidentiality must be included. All statements about confidentiality will explain that responses are voluntary, confidential information will not be shared with others, and that answers will be used for the purpose for which they were collected. In keeping with agency practices with respect to cultural competence issues, literacy, and visual or auditory ability, alternative formats will be made available. Part 3 of the report requires grantees to provide data for the Government Performance Results Act (GPRA) measures. These are two measures that report on activities related to the interdisciplinary pre-service preparation and continuing education core function. ADD uses the UCEDD Annual Report Template approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB Control Number 0970-0289, expiration date August 8, 2008) to capture the information outlined above. The applicant must describe how they will use the UCEDD Annual Report Template to evaluate program outcomes and impacts. This should include a description of a logic model for evaluating program results and the methodology for evaluating results. A copy of the UCEDD Annual Report Template may be accessed through the National Information Reporting System (NIRS) at https://www.aucd.org/nirs/db/index.cfm or by contacting: Jennifer G. Johnson. Ed.D. VII. AGENCY CONTACTS Program Office Contact: Jennifer G. Johnson, Ed.D. Grants Management Office Contact: Tim Chappelle, Grants Officer VIII. OTHER INFORMATION Visit http://www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/add/ to learn more about ADD and the UCEDD program.
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