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Department of Health & Human Services
Administration for Children and Families



EXPIRED

Program Office:

Office of Community Services

Funding Opportunity Title:

Community Services Block Grant Program - Evaluation of Community Economic Development (CED) and Rural Community Facilities (RF) Programs

Announcement Type:

Initial

Funding Opportunity Number:

HHS-2007-ACF-OCS-EC-0046

CFDA Number:

93.570

Due Date for Applications:

08/02/2007

Executive Summary:

Pursuant to this announcement and, contingent upon available funding, the Office of Community Services (OCS) will award discretionary grant funds through a cooperative agreement to conduct ongoing evaluations of two programs administered by the agency:  Community Economic Development (CED) and Rural Community Facilities (RF).  Program effectiveness will be assessed by examining: (1) program purpose and design; (2) strategic planning; (3) program management; and (4) program results and accountability.




I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

Legislative Authority

Section 680(b) of the Community Opportunities, Accountability, Training and Educational Services (COATES) Human Services Reauthorization Act of 1998 ( P.L. 105-285) requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to require that all activities receiving assistance under Section 680 be evaluated for effectiveness, and states that "funding for such evaluations shall be provided ... through a separate grant awarded by the Secretary specifically for the purpose of evaluation of a particular activity or group of activities." 

Purpose

The purpose of the cooperative agreement is to continue the development and implementation of coordinated program evaluations of two OCS discretionary grant programs.  The program priority areas and the estimated level of funding available under each area are: Community Economic Development (CED) for $200,000 and Rural Community Facilities (RF) for $75,000. 

Project Goals:

Evaluation activities to be conducted by the grantee will accomplish the following project goals:

  • Development of a data system that facilitates timely collection, analysis, and reporting of evaluation information and performance data from CED program grantees, and RF regional technical assistance grantees and local communities.  The system will utilize survey and data collection instruments developed by OCS under contract and approved by the Executive Office of the President, Office of Management and Budget (OMB);

  • Assistance in the design, clearance, and administration of additional evaluation instruments that may be required to collect, analyze, and report information on program grantee performance and outcomes;

  • Training and technical assistance to program grantees to enhance their capacity to measure, collect, and report process and performance outcome information;

  • Identification, documentation, and dissemination of "best practices" emanating from program evaluations;

  • Development and submission of annual performance and evaluation reports to OCS in formats required by the Secretary of HHS and the Executive Office of the President, OMB; and

  • Based on program evaluations, timely and effective counsel to OCS on program design, administration, and training and technical assistance to improve program operations and outcomes.

Project Scope

Evaluation of the two OCS discretionary programs is intended to be national in scope and involve current and future program grantees and, in the case of the RF program, program grantees and intermediary organizations.  The evaluations will assess both process and performance outcomes.  Information and data will be collected, analyzed, and reported by the grantee at least annually and in formats prescribed by OCS that comport with the Executive Office of the President, OMB's performance reporting requirements and statutorily mandated reports to Congress.




II. AWARD INFORMATION

Funding Instrument Type:

Cooperative Agreement

Substantial Involvement with Cooperative Agreement:

Assignment of Responsibilities - OCS and the Grantee

As a cooperative agreement between OCS and the grantee, this project will require assignment of responsibilities between the two entities as follows:

OCS Responsibilities:

  • Assist the cooperative agreement grantee in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with CED and RF program grantees to facilitate self-assessments among program grantees and participation in national evaluations of the programs;

  • Review and approve work plans and product delivery schedules of the grantee;

  • Provide timely review, feedback, and approval for grantee draft data collection instruments, evaluations, performance reports, and reports to Congress;  

  • Provide timely notification to the grantee of changes in program and/or evaluation requirements due to revised Executive Branch policies and procedures, statutory or program budget modifications;

  • Clearly communicate and present evaluation and performance measurement requirements within the Executive Branch (OCS, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), HHS, and OMB);

  • Clearly communicate and present statutory reporting requirements by the HHS Secretary to the Congress; and

  • Coordinate review and clearance of evaluation data collection instruments among participating entities (OCS, ACF, HHS, OMB, and the evaluation grantee).

Grantee Responsibilities:

  • Identify evaluation needs for each OCS (CED and RF) program;

  • Develop and submit in a timely fashion work plans and product delivery schedules to meet those needs;

  • Develop appropriate evaluation survey and other data collection instruments for OCS, ACF, HHS, and OMB review and approval;

  • Provide timely and effective training and technical assistance to program grantees on self-assessment and participation in national program evaluation activities;

  • Provide guidance and counsel to OCS on potential program improvements resulting from program evaluations, including the identification and dissemination of "best practices;" and

  • Assist OCS in achieving clearance of survey and other data collection instruments within HHS and with OMB through participation in meetings, conference calls, and other forms of review and clearance activity.

Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding:

$275,000

Anticipated Number of Awards:

1

Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards:

$275,000  per budget period

Floor on Amount of Individual Awards:

None

Average Projected Award Amount:

$275,000 per budget period

Length of Project Periods:

60-month project with five 12-month budget periods

The total amount of the cooperative agreement for each 12-month budget period will be split between the evaluation of Community Economic Development (CED) programs at $200,000 and Rural Community Facilities (RF) programs at $75,000 for a total of $275,000 per 12-month budget period.

Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds.




III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants:

  • Unrestricted (i.e., open to any type of entity subject to exceptions specified below.)

Eligibility is open to all types of domestic applicants other than individuals.

Faith-based and community organizations that meet the statutory eligibility requirements are eligible to apply under this announcement.

Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement.

Please see Section IV for required documentation supporting eligibility or funding restrictions if any are applicable.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching: None

3. Other:

Disqualification Factors

    Applications with requests that exceed the ceiling amount (for research projects) or the upper range value (for all other projects) will be deemed non-responsive and will not be considered for funding under this announcement. See Section II., Award Information.
    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:

Rafael J. Elizalde
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Community Services Operations Center
CSBG Evaluation of CED Programs
1515 Wilson Blvd., Suite 100
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone:  1-800-281-9519
Email: OCSGRANTS@acf.hhs.gov

2. Content and Form of Application Submission:

Application Content

Each application must include the following components:

(1) Table of Contents

(2) Project Summary/Abstract--One or two paragraphs, not to exceed 350 words, that describe the nature of the evaluation to be conducted, the anticipated outcomes or products resulting from the evaluation, and a timeframe for completing each component of the proposed evaluation strategy.

(3) Number of Copies--Each application should include one signed original and two additional copies.

(4) Page Limitation--The application package must include sections for the Table of Contents, Project Abstract, Project and Budget Narratives and must not exceed 60 pages.  The page limitation does not include the following attachments and appendices:  Standard Forms (SF) or Assurances, Certifications, Disclosures and Appendices.  The page limitation also does not apply to any supplemental documents as required in this announcement.  The Project Abstract, Project and Budget Narratives and must not exceed 60 pages.  Pages submitted beyond the first 60 pages in the Project Abstract and Budget Narrative section will be removed prior to panel review.

(5) Completed SF-424--The SF-424 must be signed by an official of the organization applying for the grant who has legal authority to obligate the organization.  Under Box 11, indicate Operational Projects as the Priority Area for which the application is written.

(6) SF-424A Budget Information --Non-Construction Programs--Applies to non-construction programs only.

(7) SF-424B Assurances --Non-Construction Programs--Applies to non-construction programs only.

(8) Budget Narrative Justification--Use to justify each object class category required under Section B, SF-424A.  Applicants are encouraged to use job titles and not specific names in developing the application budget; however, the specific salary rates or amounts for staff positions identified must be included in the application budget. See Section V for additional information for preparing the budget.

(9) Project Description--A narrative that addresses issues described in the Section V. Application Review Information.

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:

  • A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the IRS's most recent list of tax-exempt organizations described in the IRS Code.
  • A copy of a currently valid IRS tax-exemption certificate.
  • A statement from a State taxing body, State attorney general, or other appropriate State official certifying that the applicant organization has non-profit status and that none of the net earnings accrue to any private shareholders or individuals.
  • A certified copy of the organization's certificate of incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes non-profit status.
  • Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately above for a State or national parent organization and a statement signed by the parent organization that the applicant organization is a local non-profit affiliate.

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.  For research 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 standard forms with their application.

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 Children 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.

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 and are not required to return it.  Complete the standard forms and the associated certifications and assurances based on the instructions on the forms.  The forms and certifications may be found 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 Submission

Applicants 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:

  • Electronic submission is voluntary, but strongly encouraged.
  • Applicants may access the electronic application for this program at http://www.Grants.gov. There applicants can search for the downloadable application package by utilizing the www.Grants.gov FIND function.
  • It is strongly recommended that applicants do not wait until the application deadline date to begin the application process through www.Grants.gov.  Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the closing date and time so that if difficulties are encountered there will still be sufficient time to submit a hard copy via express mail.  It is to an applicant's advantage to submit 24 hours ahead of the closing date and time in order to address any difficulties that may be encountered.
  • To use www.Grants.gov, you, the applicant must have a D-U-N-S number and register in the Central Contractor Registry (CCR).  Applicants should allow a minimum of five days to complete the CCR registration.  REMINDER:   CCR registration expires each year and thus must be updated annually. Applicants cannot upload an application to www.Grants.gov without having a current CCR registration AND electronic signature credentials for the AOR.
  • The electronic application is submitted by the AOR.  To submit electronically, the AOR must obtain and register electronic signature credentials approved by the organization's E-Business Point of Contact who maintains the organization's CCR registration.
  • Applicants may submit all documents electronically, including all information typically included on the SF-424 and all necessary assurances and certifications.
  • Though applying electronically, the application must still comply with any page limitation requirements described in this program announcement.
  • After the application is submitted electronically, the applicant will receive an automatic acknowledgement from www.Grants.gov that contains a www.Grants.gov tracking number.  ACF will retrieve the electronically submitted application from www.Grants.gov.
  • ACF may request that the applicant provide original signatures on forms at a later date.
  • Applicants will not receive additional point value for submitting a grant application in electronic format, nor will ACF penalize an applicant if they submit an application in hard copy.
  • If any difficulties are encountered in using www.Grants.gov, please contact the Grants.gov Contact Center at: 1-800-518-4726, or by email at support@grants.gov to report the problem and obtain assistance.
  • Checklists and registration brochures are maintained to assist applicants in the registration process and may be found at: http://www.grants.gov/applicants/get_registered.jsp.
  • When submitting electronically via www.Grants.gov, applicants must comply with all due dates AND times referenced in Section IV.3. Submission Dates and Times.
  • For applicants that must demonstrate proof of non-profit status before the award date, ACF strongly suggests that proof of non-profit status be attached to the electronic application. Proof of non-profit status and any other required documentation may be scanned and attached as an "Other Attachment." Acceptable types of proof of non-profit status are stated earlier in this section.
  • 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, email the www.Grants.gov contact center at support@grants.gov for assistance.

Hard Copy Submission

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 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.

3. Submission Dates and Times:

Due Date for Applications: 08/02/2007

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.

Mail

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.

What to SubmitRequired ContentRequired Form or FormatWhen to Submit

Table of Contents

See Sections IV.2 and V

Found in Sections IV.2 and V

By application due date.

Budget and Budget Justification

See Sections IV.2 and V

Found in Sections IV.2 and V

By application due date.

Proof of Non-Profit Status

See Sections IV.2 and V

Found in Sections IV.2 and V

By date of award.

Certification Regarding Environmental Tobacco Smoke

See Section IV.2

See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html

By date of award.

Project Summary/Abstract

See Sections IV.2 and V

Found in Sections IV.2 and V

By application due date.

SF-424A

See Section IV.2

See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html

By application due date.

Assurances

See Section IV.2

Found in Section IV.2

By date of award.

SF-424B

See Section IV.2

See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html

By application due date.

SF-424

See Section IV.2

See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html

By application due date.

Project Description

See Sections IV.2 and V

Found in Sections IV.2 and V

By application due date.

Certification Regarding Lobbying

See Section IV.2

See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html

By date of award.

SF-LLL Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying, if necessary

See Section IV.2

See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html

By application due date.

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.

What to SubmitRequired ContentRequired Form or FormatWhen to Submit

Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants

See form.

See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html

By application due date.


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.

As of August 1, 2006, the following jurisdictions have elected to participate in the Exec. Order process: Arkansas, California, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands.  As these jurisdictions have elected to participate in the Executive Order process, they have established SPOCs.   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, if any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item 16a.

Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application deadline 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 those 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 the remaining 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.

The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions that have elected to participate in Exec. Order 12372 can be found on the following URL: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

5. Funding Restrictions:

Fundraising is not an allowable cost under this program.

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

Barbara Ziegler-Johnson
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Community Services Operations Center
CSBG Evaluation of CED Programs
1515 Wilson Blvd., Suite 100
Arlington, VA 22209

Hand Delivery

Barbara Ziegler-Johnson
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Community Services Operations Center
CSBG Evaluation of CED Programs
1515 Wilson Blvd., Suite 100
Arlington, VA 22209

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 4/30/2007.

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.  (This information collection is currently under OMB review for extension of the expiration date.  According to OMB policy, the approval will not expire while the collection is under its review.).

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.

Pages should be numbered and a table of contents should be included for easy reference.

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 the 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.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The following are requests for additional information that must be included in the application:

STAFF AND POSITION DATA
Provide a biographical sketch and job description for each key person appointed. Job descriptions for each vacant key position should be included as well. As new key staff is appointed, biographical sketches will also be required.
ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES

Provide information on the applicant organization(s) and cooperating partners, such as: organizational charts; financial statements; audit reports or statements from Certified Public Accountants/Licensed Public Accountants; Employer Identification Number(s); contact persons and telephone numbers; names of bond carriers; child care licenses and other documentation of professional accreditation; information on compliance with Federal/State/local government standards; documentation of experience in the program area; and, other pertinent information.

If the applicant is a non-profit organization, it should submit proof of its non-profit status in its application.   The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing any one of the following: a) a reference to the applicant organization's listing in the IRS's most recent list of tax-exempt organizations described in the IRS Code; b) a copy of a currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate; c) a statement from a State taxing body, State attorney general, or other appropriate State official certifying that the applicant organization has a non-profit status and that none of the net earnings accrues to any private shareholders or individuals; d) a certified copy of the organization's certificate of incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes non-profit status; or e) any of the items immediately above for a State or national parent organization and a statement signed by the parent organization that the applicant organization is a local non-profit affiliate.

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.

GENERAL

Use the following guidelines for preparing the budget and budget justification.  Both Federal and non-Federal resources (when required) shall be detailed and justified in the budget and budget narrative justification.   "Federal resources" refers only to the ACF grant funds for which you are applying.  "Non-Federal resources" are all other non-ACF Federal and non-Federal resources.  It is suggested that budget amounts and computations be presented in a columnar format:  first column, object class categories; second column, Federal budget; next column(s), non-Federal budget(s); and last column, total budget.  The budget justification should be in a narrative form.

PERSONNEL

Description:  Costs of employee salaries and wages.

Justification:  Identify the project director or principal investigator, if known at the time of application.   For each staff person, provide:  the title; time commitment to the project in months; time commitment to the project as a percentage or full-time equivalent; annual salary; grant salary; wage rates; etc.  Do not include the costs of consultants, personnel costs of delegate agencies, or of specific project(s) and/or businesses to be financed by the applicant.

FRINGE BENEFITS

Description: Costs of employee fringe benefits unless treated as part of an approved indirect cost rate.

Justification: Provide a breakdown of the amounts and percentages that comprise fringe benefit costs such as health insurance, FICA, retirement insurance, taxes, etc.

TRAVEL

Description: Costs of project-related travel by employees of the applicant organization.  (This item does not include costs of consultant travel).

Justification:  For each trip show:  the total number of traveler(s); travel destination; duration of trip; per diem; mileage allowances, if privately owned vehicles will be used; and other transportation costs and subsistence allowances.  Travel costs for key staff to attend ACF-sponsored workshops should be detailed in the budget.

EQUIPMENT

Description:  "Equipment" means an article of nonexpendable, tangible personal property having a useful life of more than one year and an acquisition cost that equals or exceeds the lesser of:  (a) the capitalization level established by the organization for the financial statement purposes, or (b) $5,000.  (Note:   Acquisition cost means the net invoice unit price of an item of equipment, including the cost of any modifications, attachments, accessories, or auxiliary apparatus necessary to make it usable for the purpose for which it is acquired.   Ancillary charges, such as taxes, duty, protective in-transit insurance, freight, and installation, shall be included in or excluded from acquisition cost in accordance with the organization's regular written accounting practices.)

Justification:  For each type of equipment requested provide:  a description of the equipment; the cost per unit; the number of units; the total cost; and a plan for use on the project; as well as use and/or disposal of the equipment after the project ends.  An applicant organization that uses its own definition for equipment should provide a copy of its policy, or section of its policy, that includes the equipment definition.

SUPPLIES

Description:  Costs of all tangible personal property other than that included under the Equipment category.

Justification:  Specify general categories of supplies and their costs.  Show computations and provide other information that supports the amount requested.

OTHER

Enter the total of all other costs.  Such costs, where applicable and appropriate, may include but are not limited to:  insurance; food; medical and dental costs (noncontractual); professional services costs; space and equipment rentals; printing and publication; computer use; training costs, such as tuition and stipends; staff development costs; and administrative costs.

Justification:  Provide computations, a narrative description and a justification for each cost under this category.

INDIRECT CHARGES

Description:  Total amount of indirect costs.  This category should be used only when the applicant currently has an indirect cost rate approved by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or another cognizant Federal agency.

Justification:  An applicant that will charge indirect costs to the grant must enclose a copy of the current rate agreement.  If the applicant organization is in the process of initially developing or renegotiating a rate, upon notification that an award will be made, it should immediately develop a tentative indirect cost rate proposal based on its most recently completed fiscal year, in accordance with the cognizant agency's guidelines for establishing indirect cost rates, and submit it to the cognizant agency.  Applicants awaiting approval of their indirect cost proposals may also request indirect costs.  When an indirect cost rate is requested, those costs included in the indirect cost pool should not be charged as direct costs to the grant.  Also, if the applicant is requesting a rate that is less than what is allowed under the program, the authorized representative of the applicant organization must submit a signed acknowledgement that the applicant is accepting a lower rate than allowed.

PROGRAM INCOME

Description:  The estimated amount of income, if any, expected to be generated from this project.

Justification:  Describe the nature, source and anticipated use of program income in the budget or refer to the pages in the application that contain this information.

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 - 10 points

The application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant documents and addresses evaluation needs of the CED and the RF programs.  The applicant will be evaluated on their ability to describe:

  • The current status of measuring and reporting process and performance objectives and/or outcomes; and

  • Gaps or needs in data collection, analysis, and reporting that are not now being addressed and the need for enhanced program assessments to strengthen OCS and grantee program planning, administration and evaluation.

APPROACH - 60 points

Applicants will be evaluated on how well their proposed evaluation project design and implementation plans are likely to accomplish the following:

  • Development of a data system(s) that facilitates timely collection, analysis, and reporting of evaluation information and performance data from CED program grantees and RF program intermediaries and grantees.  Indicate how the system will utilize survey and data collection instruments developed by OCS under contract and approved by the Executive Office of the President, OMB;

  • Identification of additional evaluation instruments that may be required to collect, analyze, and report information on program grantee performance and outcomes;

  • Providing OCS assistance in the design, clearance, and administration of those additional survey instruments;

  • Providing training and technical assistance to program grantees to enhance their self-assessment capacity and ability to collect and report national process and performance outcome information;

  • Identifying, documenting, and disseminating "best practice" information emanating from program evaluations of  the CED and RF programs;

  • Developing and submitting annual performance and evaluation reports to OCS in formats required by the HHS Secretary and the Executive Office of the President, OMB; and

  • Based on program evaluations, providing timely counsel to OCS on program design, administration, and training and technical assistance to improve program operations and outcomes.

ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 10 points

Applicant organizations will be evaluated based on:

  • Demonstrated experience and success in developing and implementing process and performance evaluation strategies for public sector programs that focus on helping low-income individuals, families, or communities achieve defined developmental outcomes;

  • Demonstrated experience in helping Federal executive branch agencies meet program performance measurement and reporting requirements of the Executive Office of the President, OMB (e.g., Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) and/or Program Assessment Rating Tool (PART)), including the preparation of relevant statistical and narrative reports for agency submission to OMB;

  • Demonstrated experience in drafting statistical and narrative program evaluations and reports for transmittal to Congress; and

  • Demonstrated experience in working effectively with program grantees to assure that program goals and outcomes are accurately reflected and measured by evaluations, and that grantees receive necessary training and technical assistance to facilitate both self-assessment and national program evaluations.

STAFF AND POSITION DATA - 15 points

Applicant staffing and position information will be evaluated based on the extent to which the applicant identifies the individuals who will have the key responsibilities for managing the project, coordinating survey development and administration, training and technical assistance to program grantees, analysis and evaluation report preparation.  The focus will be on qualifications, experience, capacity, and commitment to the program. The person identified as project director should have supervisory experience, experience in human services evaluation design, implementation, and reporting.

BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 5 points

1) The application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant indicates that the resources requested are reasonable and adequate to accomplish the project.

2) The application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant indicates that the total costs of the project are reasonable and consistent with anticipated results; and that the specific program components are clearly delineated.

2. Review and Selection Process:

No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of an incomplete application.

Each application will be screened to determine whether it was received by the closing date and time (Section IV.3.) and whether the requested amount exceeds the ceiling or upper range value, whichever is appropriate (Section II.)

Initial Screening: Each application submitted will be screened for completeness and conformity with the requirements listed in this announcement.  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.

Evaluation of Applications: Applications that pass the initial screening will be reviewed and rated by a panel based on the program elements and review criteria presented in the relevant sections of this program announcement.

The evaluation criteria are designed to 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 are considered 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 review criteria within the context of this program announcement.

The OCS Director and the program staff use the reviewer scores when considering competing applications. Reviewer scores will weigh heavily in funding decisions, but may not be the only factors considered.

Applications generally will be considered in order of the average scores assigned by the review panel. Because other important factors are taken 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 grant 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 grant terms under previous HHS grants, including the actual dedication of the applicant to acquire additional funding and other committed resources as set forth in project applications; audit reports; investigative reports; and applicant's progress in resolving any final audit disallowance on previous OCS or other Federal agency grants.

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:

The successful applicants will be notified through the issuance of a Financial Assistance Award document, which 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 Financial Assistance Award 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: Semi-Annually
Financial Reports: Semi-Annually




VII. AGENCY CONTACTS

Program Office Contact:

Rafael J. Elizalde
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Community Services Operations Center
CSBG Evaluation of CED Programs
1515 Wilson Blvd., Suite 100
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone:  1-800-281-9519
Email: OCSGRANTS@acf.hhs.gov

Grants Management Office Contact:

Barbara Ziegler-Johnson
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Community Services Operations Center
CSBG Evaluation of CED Programs
1515 Wilson Blvd., Suite 100
Arlington, VA 22209
Email: OCSGRANTS@acf.hhs.gov




VIII. OTHER INFORMATION

Applicants may locate the full text of this and all ACF grant announcements on the ACF Grant Opportunities webpage at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/index.html.

The Fiscal Year 2008 President's Budget does not include or propose funding for the Economic Development Discretionary Grant Programs.  Future funding is based on the availability of funds.

Additional information about this program and its purpose may be located on the following website: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs.







Date:  06/21/2007Josephine Robinson
Director
Office of Community Services




EXPIRED