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Executive Summary: The Office of Community Services (OCS) within the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) announces that competing applications will be accepted for a new cooperative agreement to create an enhanced nationwide training and technical assistance strategy for strengthening and expanding the capacity and ability of CSBG-eligible entities to deal with legal issues, especially those dealing with the financial management and governance of their agencies funded under the CSBG program. This one year cooperative agreement will support a national technical assistance strategy to help CSBG-eligible entities address legal issues in three major focus areas: 1) Organizational Stabilization and Support for CSBG-eligible entities experiencing significant fiscal or organizational challenges; 2) Capacity Development to address changing legal and regulatory issues affecting CSBG-eligible entities in the Community Action Network, and 3) Promotion of Exemplary Legal Practices and Policies related to legal services that help promote innovation, accountability, and responsiveness to specific community needs related to the reduction of poverty, the revitalization of low-income communities, and the empowerment of low-income families and individuals in rural and urban areas to become fully self-sufficient. Resources provided through this cooperative agreement may support direct technical assistance projects for Community Action Agencies as well as creation of an enhanced infrastructure to help OCS prepare to address long-term technical assistance needs of the Community Action Network. I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION Statutory Authority The legislative authority for this cooperative agreement is Sections 678(a)(1)(A) of the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Act of 1981, (Public Law (P.L.) 97-35) as amended by the Community Opportunities Accountability, and Training and Educational Services (COATES) Human Services Reauthorization Act of 1998, (P.L. 105-285). Description This program announcement is intended to support a one-year effort in the Community Services Block Grant program to create an enhanced nationwide training and technical assistance strategy for strengthening and expanding the capacity and ability of CSBG-eligible entities to deal with legal issues, especially those dealing with the financial management and governance of their agencies funded under the CSBG program. Definitions of Terms The following definitions apply throughout this announcement: Community Action Agency (CAA) - Local-level organizations that are CSBG-eligible entities (Section 673(1)(A) of the CSBG Act). They provide a number of types of assistance with the goals of reducing poverty and enabling low-income families to become economically self-sufficient. Special Note: Under the CSBG Act, CAAs are CSBG-eligible entities; however, not all CSBG-eligible entities are CAAs. Throughout this announcement, the reference is to organizations defined in Section 673(1)(A) of the CSBG Act whenever CAAs are mentioned. Community Action Network - The various organizations involved in planning and implementing programs funded through CSBG. The network includes local CAAs and other CSBG-eligible entities; State CSBG Lead Agency and their national association; CAA State, regional and national associations; and related organizations that collaborate and participate with CAAs and other CSBG- eligible entities in their efforts on behalf of low-income people. Cooperative Agreement - An award instrument of financial assistance used when substantial involvement is anticipated between the awarding office (the Federal Government) and the recipient during performance of the contemplated project. Substantial involvement may include collaboration or participation by OCS staff in activities specified in the award and, as appropriate, decision-making at specified milestones related to performance. The involvement may range from joint conduct of a project to OCS approval prior to the recipient's undertaking the next phase in a project. Eligible Entities - (Section 673(1)(A)) - An eligible entity as described in Section 673(1)(A) of the CSBG Act (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the COATES Human Services Reauthorization Act of 1998) as of the day before such date of enactment or as designated by the process described in Section 676A (including an organization serving migrant or seasonal farmworkers that is so described or designated); and that has a tripartite board or other mechanism described in the subsection (a) or (b), as appropriate, of Section 676B. Nationwide - The scope of the technical assistance, training, data collection, or other capacity-building projects to be undertaken with grant funds. Nationwide projects must provide for the implementation of technical assistance, training, or data collection for all, or a significant number of States, CSBG-eligible entities and other local service providers that administer CSBG funds. Non-profit Organization - An organization, including faith-based or community-based, that meets the requirement for proof of non-profit status in the "Additional Information on Eligibility" section of this announcement and has demonstrated experience in providing training to individuals and organizations on methods that effectively address the needs of low-income families and communities. State - Each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Except where specifically noted, for purposes of this program announcement, it also includes Territories as defined below. Technical Assistance - An activity, generally utilizing the services of an expert (often a peer), aimed at enhancing capacity, improving programs and systems, or solving specific problems. Such services may be provided proactively to improve systems or as an intervention to solve specific problems. Territories - Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Training - An educational activity or event that is designed to impart knowledge and understanding or increase the development of skills. Such training activities may be in the form of assembled events such as workshops, seminars, conferences or programs of self-instructional activities. Program Purpose, Scope, and Focus The role of OCS is to provide assistance to States and local communities working through a network of CSBG-eligible entities for the reduction of poverty, the revitalization of low-income communities, and the empowerment of low-income families and individuals to become self-sufficient. The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) provides States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, U.S. Territories, and Federal and State-recognized Indian Tribes and tribal organizations, Community Action Agencies, migrant and seasonal farmworkers or other organizations designated by the States, funds to alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty in communities. The funds provide a range of services and activities to assist the needs of low-income individuals including the homeless, migrants and the elderly. Grant amounts are determined by a formula based on each State's and Indian Tribe's poverty population. Grantees receiving funds under the CSBG program are required to provide services and activities addressing employment, education, better use of available income, housing, nutrition, emergency services and/or health. The successful grantee under this announcement will work in partnership with OCS and with leading national organizations associated with the CSBG program to develop a coordinated technical assistance strategy focused on legal issues and needs for the Community Action Network in the three major areas outlined below: 1) Organizational Stabilization and Support for CSBG-eligible entities experiencing significant fiscal or organizational, and legal challenges that may threaten the ability of the organization to continue operations; 2) Capacity Development to ensure ongoing legally sound program management among CSBG- eligible entities that require assistance in responding to new Federal or State laws and regulations, or in addressing specific legal needs in areas such as employment law, legal issues associated with financial management, non-profit governance, and oversight by tripartite governing boards. 3) Promotion of Exemplary Legal Practices and Policies at State and CSBG-eligible entities levels by developing and disseminating toolkits, model policies, and self-assessment tools to assure organizational practices and policies that promote legal accountability and innovative approaches to addressing community needs related to the reduction of poverty, the revitalization of low-income communities, and the empowerment of low-income families and individuals in rural and urban areas to become fully self-sufficient. Resources provided through this cooperative agreement may support direct technical assistance projects for Community Action Agencies as well as creation of an enhanced infrastructure to help OCS prepare to address long-term technical assistance needs of Community Action Agencies. Activities allowed under this grant include, but are not limited to the following:
Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to provide nationwide training and technical assistance to the Community Action Network, and must demonstrate a clear understanding of the legal issues and needs of State CSBG Lead Agencies and Community Action Agencies. While the primary focus of technical assistance efforts supported through this cooperative agreement is on addressing legal needs at local community levels, an enhanced national strategy will include strong coordination with State CSBG Lead Agencies and Statewide CAA Associations. As a block grant to States, the CSBG statute speaks to OCS' role with States and States' role with CAAs. The States' role of oversight and accountability is key to the administration and success of this program. In addition, many States utilize discretionary resources available to States through CSBG to support extensive technical assistance efforts. A key focus for the successful grantee under this announcement will be to recommend Strategies for enhanced coordination of technical assistance supported at Federal, State, and community levels to assure coordination of organizational stabilization and support, capacity development, and exemplary legal practices and policies across the Community Action Network. II. AWARD INFORMATION
Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds. Description of Anticipated Substantial Involvement under the Cooperative Agreement: In order to ensure that OCS meets its compliance and technical assistance responsibilities for the CSBG program and continues its partnership with the Community Action Network, grants awarded under this priority area will be funded in the form of Cooperative Agreements. Federal involvement may include the following:
Please see Section IV.5 for any restrictions on the use of funds for awards made under this announcement. III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants Eligible applicants are Community Services Block Grant eligible entities, statewide or local organizations or associations, and non-profit organizations with demonstrated expertise in providing training to individuals and organizations on methods of effectively addressing the needs of low-income families and communities, and knowledge of and experience with the Community Action Network. Please see Section IV for required documentation supporting eligibility or funding restrictions if any are applicable. Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement. Faith-based and community organizations are eligible to apply under this announcement. Please see "Eligibility Certification" found in Section IV.2 for any required documentation supporting eligibility. 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: Seth Hassett For hearing or speech impaired callers, contact the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339 (TTY (Text Telephone) / ASCII (American Standard Code For Information Interchange)). 2. Content and Form of Application Submission: This section provides information on the required form and content of application submissions. Applicants are required to submit one original and two copies of all application materials if applying in hard-copy. The original signature of the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) is required only on the original. Information on the required format, Standard Forms (SFs) and other forms, D-U-N-S Requirement, Project Description, Certifications, Assurances, Electronic Submission of applications, and Hard Copy submission of applications is available in this section. A Checklist of required application elements is available for applicants' use in Section VIII of this announcement. The application limit is 65 pages total including all forms and attachments. Pages over this page limit will be removed from the application and will not be reviewed. Pages should be numbered and a table of contents should be included for easy reference. To be considered for funding, each application must be submitted with the Standard Federal Forms or through the electronic links provided at the end of this announcement and following the guidance provided. The application must be signed by an individual authorized to act for the applicant agency and to assume responsibility for the obligations imposed by the terms and conditions of the grant award. The application must be typed, double-spaced, printed on only one side, with at least 1 inch margins on each side and 1 inch at the top and bottom, using standard 12-point fonts (such as Times New Roman or Courier). Pages must be numbered. All copies of an application must be submitted in a single package, and a separate package must be submitted for each funding opportunity. The package must be clearly labeled for the specific funding opportunity it is addressing. Because each application will be duplicated, do not use or include separate covers, binders, clips, tabs, plastic inserts, maps, brochures, or any other items that cannot be processed easily on a photocopy machine with an automatic feed. Do not bind, clip, staple, or fasten in any way separate subsections of the application, including supporting documentation; however, each complete copy must be stapled securely in the upper left corner. Applicants are advised that the copies of the application submitted, not the original, will be reproduced by the Federal Government for review. Tips for Preparing a Competitive Application. It is essential that applicants read the entire announcement package carefully before preparing an application and include all of the required application forms and attachments. The application must reflect a thorough understanding of the purpose and objectives of the applicable legislation. Reviewers expect applicants to understand the goals of the legislation and OCS interest in each topic. A "responsive application" is one that addresses all of the evaluation criteria in ways that demonstrate this understanding. Applications that are considered to be "unresponsive" generally receive very low scores and are rarely funded. The OCS website http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/ provides a wide range of information and links to other relevant websites. Before preparing an application, OCS suggests the applicant learn more about the mission and programs of OCS by exploring the website. Non-Federal Reviewers Since 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. Forms 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. All required Standard Forms are available at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Non-profit private organizations (not including private universities) are encouraged to submit the "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants" with their applications. Applicants using a hard copy application, place the completed survey in an envelope labeled "Applicant Survey." Seal the envelope and include it along with your application package. Applicants applying electronically, please submit this survey along with your application. The Survey may be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. D-U-N-S Requirement All applicants must have a D&B Data Universal Numbering System (D-U-N-S) number. A D-U-N-S number is required whether an applicant is submitting a paper application or using the government-wide electronic portal, Grants.gov. A D-U-N-S number is 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. A D-U-N-S number may be acquired 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 online at http://www.dnb.com. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 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, describe in detail how the proposed project will meet technical assistance needs on a nationwide basis. Describe how proposed activities will help address immediate technical assistance needs as well as the ways in which creation of an enhanced infrastructure will help OCS address long-term technical assistance needs related to legal issues in the Community Action Network.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. Describe the proposed approach to work with OCS and with leading national organizations associated with the CSBG program in developing a coordinated strategy focused on 1) Organizational Stabilization and Support for CSBG-eligible entities experiencing significant fiscal, organizational, and legal challenges that may threaten the ability of the organization to continue operations; 2) Capacity Development to ensure ongoing high quality program management among CSBG-eligible entities that require assistance in adapting to changing community needs, responding to new Federal or State requirements, and addressing specific organizational needs, and 3) Promotion of Exemplary Legal Practices and Policies that help promote innovation, accountability, and responsiveness to specific community needs related to the reduction of poverty, the revitalization of low-income communities, and the empowerment of low-income families and individuals in rural and urban areas to become fully self-sufficient. Describe the proposed approach to developing and disseminating toolkits, model policies, and self-assessment tools. 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.
(As required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, P.L. 104-13, the public reporting burden for the Project Description 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 information collection 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.) CertificationsApplicants must furnish, prior to award, an executed copy of the Certification Regarding Lobbying. Applicants must sign and return the certification with their application. 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 Certification Regarding Lobbying may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. 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. AssurancesBy signing and submitting the application, applicants are making the appropriate certification of their compliance with all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. 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. Electronic SubmissionApplicants to ACF may submit their applications in either electronic or paper (hard copy) format. To submit an application electronically, applicants must use the http://www.Grants.gov site. ACF will not accept applications via facsimile or email. IMPORTANT NOTE: Before submitting an application electronically, applicants must complete the organization registration process as well as obtain and register "electronic signature credentials" for the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Applicants also must be registered in the Central Contractor Registry (CCR). CCR registration must be updated annually. Applicants will not be able to upload an application to Grants.gov without current CCR registration and electronic signature credentials for the AOR. This process may take more than five business days, so it is important to start this process early, well in advance of the application deadline. Be sure to complete all Grants.gov registration processes listed on the Organization Registration Checklist at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/registration_checklist.html. 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 Grants.gov site. If planning to submit an application electronically via http://www.Grants.gov:
After the application is submitted electronically, the applicant will receive two emails from Grants.gov:
ACF will retrieve the electronically submitted application from Grants.gov. Applicants will receive an email notification from ACF acknowledging that ACF has received the application. ACF may request that the applicant provide original signatures on forms at a later date. The Grants.gov website complies with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Grants.gov webpages are designed to work with assistive technologies such as screen readers. If an applicant uses assistive technology and is unable to access any material on the site, contact the Grants.gov Contact Center at support@grants.gov for assistance. Hard Copy Submission of ApplicationsApplicants that are submitting their application in paper format should submit one original and two copies of the complete application with all attachments, unless directed otherwise. The original and each of the two copies must include all required forms, certifications, assurances, and appendices, be signed by the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR), and be unbound. The original copy of the application must have original signature(s). See Section IV.6 of this announcement for address information for application submissions. Please refer to Section VIII for a checklist of application requirements, their location and due dates that applicants may use in developing and organizing application materials. Please refer to Section IV.3 for details concerning acknowledgement of received applications. 3. Submission Dates and Times: Due Date for Applications: 06/26/2009 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. Acknowledgement of Received Application
ACF will not provide acknowledgement of receipt of hard copy application packages submitted via
mail, courier services, or by hand delivery. Applicants who submit their
application packages electronically via
http://www.Grants.gov will receive two email acknowledgements from that website:
4. Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs: State Single Point of Contact (SPOC) This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 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 Executive Order, States may design their own processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance under covered programs. Applicants should go to the following URL for the official list of the jurisdictions that have elected to participate in E.O. 12372 http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants_spoc/. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should contact their SPOC, as soon as possible, to alert them of their prospective applications and to receive instructions on their jurisdiction's procedures. Applicants must submit all required application materials to the SPOC and indicate the date of submission on the Standard Form (SF) 424 at item 19. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application due date to comment on proposed new awards. SPOC comments may be submitted directly to ACF to: 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 East, Washington, DC 20447. Entities that meet the eligibility requirements of this announcement are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, Territory or Commonwealth, etc., does not have a SPOC or has chosen not to participate in the process. Applicants from non-participating jurisdictions need take no action with regard to E.O. 12372. Applications from Federally-recognized Indian Tribal governments are not subject to E.O. 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 under this grant award. Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs. Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this grant award. Cooperative agreement funds may not be used to cover costs incurred in connection with any criminal, civil or administrative proceeding commenced by the Federal Government or a State or local government if the proceeding relates to a violation of, or failure to comply with, a Federal, State or local statute or regulation by the organization and results in the imposition of a monetary penalty or a final decision to debar or suspend the organization, rescind or void an award, or to terminate an award (OMB Circular A-122, Att. B, paragraph 10.2, 2 CFR Part 230, App. B, paragraph 10.b.). Moreover, costs of legal, accounting, and consultant services, and related costs, incurred "in connection with defense against Federal Government claims or appeals . . .or the prosecution of claims or appeals against the Federal Government, are unallowable" (OMB Circular A-122, Att. B, paragraph 10.7, 2 CFR Part 230, App. B, paragraph 10.g.). Sub-Contracting or Delegating Projects OCS will not fund any project where the role of the applicant is primarily to serve as a conduit for funds to organizations other than the applicant. The applicant must have a substantive role in the implementation of the project for which funding is requested. This prohibition does not bar the making of sub-grants or sub-contracting for specific services or activities that are needed to conduct the project. 6. Other Submission Requirements: Submit applications to one of the following addresses: Submission by Mail U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesAdministration for Children and Families Office of Community Services Operations Center 1515 Wilson Boulevard Suite 100 Arlington, VA 22209 Hand Delivery U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesAdministration for Children and Families Office of Community Services Operations Center 1515 Wilson Boulevard Suite 100 Arlington, VA 22209 Electronic Submission See Section IV.2 for application requirements and for guidance when submitting applications electronically via http://www.Grants.gov. For all submissions, see Section IV.3 for information on due dates. V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION 1. CRITERIA: Competing applications for financial assistance will be reviewed and evaluated against the criteria described in this section. The corresponding score values indicate the relative importance that ACF places on each review criterion. Applicants should address these criteria in the process of developing their application, as they are the basis upon which their applications will be judged. 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).
(1) The extent to which the applicant demonstrates that it has experience and a successful record of accomplishment relevant to the specific activities it proposes to accomplish. (2) For proposed technical assistance, the extent to which the applicant details the organization's ability to provide those services on a nationwide basis. If applicable, information provided by the applicant may also address the related achievements and competence of each cooperating or sponsoring organization. (3) The extent to which the applicant describes, for example in a resume, the experience and skills of the proposed project director and primary staff members and demonstrates specific qualifications and professional experiences that are relevant to the successful implementation of the proposed project. (4) If sub-contractors are proposed, the extent to which the applicant documents the willingness and capacity of the subcontracting organization(s) to participate as described.
(1) The extent to which the applicant describes a work program that is results-oriented, related to the legislative mandate for CSBG and specifically related to the priority area under which funds are being requested. (2) The extent to which the applicant addresses specific outcomes to be achieved; performance targets that the project is committed to achieving, including a discussion of how the project will verify the achievement of these targets. (3) The extent to which the applicant describes specific national, State, and local organizations that will be involved in the development of strategic plans and proposed infrastructure. (4) The extent to which the applicant describes a clear one-year plan of work in developing infrastructure for ongoing legal technical assistance focused on organizational stabilization and support for CSBG-eligible entities experiencing significant fiscal or organizational challenges that may threaten the ability of the organization to continue operations. (5) The extent to which the applicant describes a clear one-year plan of work to develop infrastructure for ongoing legal technical assistance focused on capacity development to ensure legally sound program management among CSBG-eligible entities that require assistance in responding to new Federal or State laws and regulations, or in addressing specific legal needs in areas such as employment law, legal issues associated with financial management, non-profit governance, and oversight by tripartite governing boards. (6) The extent to which the applicant describes a clear one-year plan of work to develop infrastructure for ongoing legal technical assistance focused on promotion of exemplary legal practices and policies at State and CAA levels including plans for toolkits, model policies, and self-assessment tools to assure organizational practices and policies that promote legal accountability and innovative approaches to addressing community needs.
(1) The extent to which the resources requested are reasonable and adequate to accomplish the project. (2) The extent to which the total costs of the project are reasonable and consistent with anticipated results.
(1) The extent to which the applicant describes how the project will assure long-term program and management improvements for CSBG-eligible entities, State CSBG Lead Agency, State and/or regional CAA Associations, State CAA Associations and/or other local providers of CSBG services and activities. (2) The extent to which the applicant indicates the number of organizations and/or staff members that will benefit from technical assistance services. (3) If the applicant proposes to develop workshops or training events, the application will be evaluated on the extent to which it identifies the number and types of beneficiaries. (4) The extent to which the applicant describes methods of securing participant feedback and evaluations of activities.
(1) The extent to which the application documents that the proposed project addresses vital needs related to the program purposes and provides statistics and other data and information in support of its contention. (2) The extent to which the application provides current supporting documentation or other testimonies regarding needs from State CSBG Directors, State CAA Associations and local service providers and/or State and Regional organizations of State CAA Associations and other local service providers. 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. OCS Evaluation of Applications An objective review panel composed of non-federal reviewers will review and rate applications that pass the initial OCS screening based on the program elements and evaluation criteria presented in relevant sections of this program announcement. The evaluation criteria enable the review panel to assess the quality of a proposed project and determine the likelihood of its success. The criteria are closely related to each other and the panel considers them as a whole in judging the overall quality of an application. The review panel awards points only to applications that are responsive to the program elements and relevant evaluation criteria within the context of this program announcement. The OCS Director and the program staff members use the reviewer scores when considering competing applications. Reviewer scores will weigh heavily in funding decisions, but will not be the only factors considered. OCS will generally consider applications in order of the average scores assigned by the review panel. Because OCS takes other important factors into consideration, highly ranked applications are not guaranteed funding. These other considerations include, for example, the timely and proper completion by the applicant of projects funded with OCS funds granted in the last five years; comments of reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation and input; amount and duration of the cooperative agreement requested and the proposed project's consistency and harmony with OCS goals and policy; geographic distribution of applications; previous program performance of applicants; compliance with cooperative agreement terms under previous HHS cooperative agreement, audit reports; investigative reports; and an applicant's progress in resolving any final audit disallowances on previous OCS or other Federal agency grants. Please refer to Section IV.2 of this announcement 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 Applicable.VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION 1. Award Notices: 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 administrative requirements in 45 CFR Part 74 (for non-governmental entities) or 45 CFR Part 92 (for governmental entities). 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. Additional information on "Understanding the Regulations Related to the Faith-Based and Community Initiative" can be found at: http://www.hhs.gov/fbci/regulations/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 performance progress and financial reports periodically throughout the project period. Frequency of reporting is listed later in this section. Beginning with FY 2009 awards, most ACF grantees will begin using the a Standard Form (SF) for required performance progress reporting (PPR). The SF-PPR is a standard government-wide performance progress reporting format consisting of a series of forms implemented by Federal agencies to collect performance information from award recipients. Most ACF grantees will begin using the standard format implemented through ACF's Office of Grants Management (OGM), entitled the "ACF-OGM-SF-PPR." Use of the ACF-OGM-SF-PPR will begin for new awards and continuation awards made by ACF in FY 2009. At a minimum, grantees will be required to submit the ACF-OGM-SF-PPR, which consists of the ACF-OGM-SF-PPR Coversheet and the ACF-OGM-SF-PPR Appendix B Program Indicators. ACF Programs that utilize other SF-PPR reporting formats, or other reporting forms or formats that differ from the new ACF-OGM-SF-PPR, have listed those forms or formats below. Grant award documents will inform grantees of the appropriate performance progress report form or format to use beginning in FY 2009. Grantees will continue to use the Financial Status Report (FSR) SF-269 (long form) for required financial reporting. The SF-269 (long form) and the ACF-OGM-SF-PPR may be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Grantees should consult their award documents to determine the appropriate performance progress report format required under their award. Performance progress and financial reports are due 30 days after the end of the reporting period. Final program performance 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: Semi-AnnuallyFinancial Reports: Semi-Annually All reports are to be submitted in writing to the designated Project Manager. VII. AGENCY CONTACTS Program Office Contact: Seth Hassett
For hearing or speech impaired callers, contact the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339
(TTY (Text Telephone) / ASCII (American Standard Code For Information Interchange)).
Grants Management Office Contact: Katrina Morgan
For hearing or speech impaired callers, contact the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339
(TTY (Text Telephone) / ASCII (American Standard Code For Information Interchange)).
VIII. OTHER INFORMATION Additional information about this program and its purpose can be located on the following website: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs. Checklist You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your application package.
Posted on May 12, 2009 |
