Administration on Developmental Disabilities; Help America Vote Act Training and Technical Assistance To Assist Protection and Advocacy Systems To Establish or Improve Voting Access for Individuals with Disabilities, 24428-24437 [05-9224]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
• Administration for Children and Families
• Children and Families Administration

[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 88 (Monday, May 9, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 24428-24437]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-9224]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families


Administration on Developmental Disabilities; Help America Vote 
Act Training and Technical Assistance To Assist Protection and Advocacy 
Systems To Establish or Improve Voting Access for Individuals with 
Disabilities

    Announcement Type: Grant--Initial.
    Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ADD-DH-0034.
    CFDA Number: 93.618.
    Dates: Due Date For Letter of Intent or Preapplications: June 8, 
2005.
    Due Date for Applications: June 23, 2005.
    Executive Summary: The Administration on Developmental Disabilities 
(ADD) in the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), U.S. 
Department of Health and Human Services announces the availability of 
fiscal year (FY) 2005 funds for grants authorized under title II, 
subtitle D, part 2, section 291 (42 U.S.C. 15461) of the Help America 
Vote Act of 2002. Under this subtitle, funds will be awarded to provide 
training and technical assistance to Protection and Advocacy Systems 
(P&A's) in:
     Promoting full participation in the electoral process for 
individuals with disabilities, including registering to vote, casting a 
vote, and accessing polling places;
     Developing proficiency in the use of voting systems and 
technologies as they affect individuals with disabilities;
     Demonstrating and evaluating the use of such systems and 
technologies by individuals with disabilities (including blindness) in 
order to assess the availability and use of such systems and 
technologies for such individuals; and,
     Providing training and technical assistance for non-visual 
access. (At least one grant recipient will be expected to provide 
training and technical assistance in this area.)
    Objectives: This announcement pertains to discretionary funds 
available for the purpose of providing training and technical 
assistance to the Protection and Advocacy (P & A) Systems in their 
promotion of self-sufficiency and protection of the rights of 
individuals with disabilities as this affects the establishment or 
improvement of access to full participation in the voting process.

Background

    The Help America Vote Act (HAVA), signed into law by President 
George W. Bush on October 29, 2002, contains three grant programs that 
will enable a grantee to establish, expand, and improve access to and 
participation in the election process by individuals with the full 
range of disabilities (e.g., visual impairments including blindness, 
hearing impairments including deafness, the full range of mobility 
impairments including gross motor and fine motor impairments, emotional 
impairments, and intellectual impairments). These programs are: Voting 
Access for Individuals With Disabilities (VOTE), which provides funding 
to the states; Protection and Advocacy Systems: Help America to Vote, 
which provides funds to the Protection and Advocacy Systems throughout 
the United States; and Training and Technical Assistance to Assist 
Protection and Advocacy Systems to Establish or Improve Voting Access 
for Individuals with Disabilities, which this announcement addresses.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

    The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) in the 
Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services, announces the availability of fiscal year 
(FY) 2005 funds authorized under the Help America Vote Act of 2002, 
Public Law (P.L.) 107-252, title II subtitle D, part 2, section 291 (42 
U.S.C. 15461). Provisions under this section provide for the award of 
grants for Training and

[[Page 24429]]

Technical Assistance to assist P & A Systems in:
     Promoting full participation in the electoral process for 
individuals with disabilities, including registering to vote, casting a 
vote, and accessing polling places;
     Developing proficiency in the use of voting systems and 
technologies as they affect individuals with disabilities;
     Demonstrating and evaluating the use of such systems and 
technologies by individuals with disabilities (including blindness) in 
order to assess the availability and use of such systems and 
technologies for such individuals; and,
     Providing training and technical assistance for non-visual 
access. (At least one recipient must provide training and technical 
assistance in this area.)
    Objectives: This announcement pertains to discretionary funds 
available for the purpose of providing training and technical 
assistance to the Protection and Advocacy Systems in their promotion of 
self-sufficiency and protection of the rights of individuals with 
disabilities as this affects the establishment or improvement of access 
to full participation in the voting process.

Background

    The Help America Vote Act (HAVA), signed into law by President 
George W. Bush on October 29, 2002, contains three grant programs that 
will enable a grantee to establish, expand, and improve access to and 
participation in the election process by individuals with the full 
range of disabilities (e.g., visual impairments including blindness, 
hearing impairments including deafness, the full range of mobility 
impairments including gross motor and fine motor impairments, emotional 
impairments, and intellectual impairments). These programs are: Voting 
Access for Individuals with Disabilities (VOTE), which provides funding 
to the states and territories; Protection and Advocacy Systems: Help 
America to Vote, which provides funding to Protection and Advocacy 
Systems throughout the United States; and Training and Technical 
Assistance to Assist Protection and Advocacy Systems to Establish or 
Improve Voting Access for Individuals with Disabilities, which this 
announcement addresses.

Background on ADD and ADD Programs

    The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is located 
within the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Department 
of Health and Human Services (DHHS). ADD shares goals with other ACF 
programs that promote the economic and social well-being of families, 
children, individuals, and communities.
    ADD is the lead agency within ACF and HHS responsible for planning 
and administering programs to promote the self-sufficiency and protect 
the rights of persons with developmental disabilities. ADD administers 
the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 
2000 (the DD Act). The DD Act provides for funding to States to provide 
advocacy, promote consumer oriented systems change and capacity 
building activities, and facilitate network formations.
    The four programs funded under the DD Act are:
    (1) State Councils on Developmental Disabilities that engage in 
advocacy, capacity building, and systemic change activities.
    (2) Protection and Advocacy Systems (P&A's) that protect the legal 
and human rights of individuals with developmental disabilities.
    (3) The National Network of University Centers for Excellence in 
Developmental Disabilities, (UCEDD) that engages in training, outreach, 
research, and dissemination activities.
    (4) Projects of National Significance (PNS), including Family 
Support Grants, that support the development of family-centered and 
directed systems for families of children with developmental 
disabilities.
    In addition to responsibilities under the DD Act, ADD has been 
given the responsibility by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services for three grant programs authorized under the 
Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA), Public Law 107-252. This 
announcement is for the HAVA Training and Technical Assistance to 
Assist Protection and Advocacy Systems to Establish or Improve Voting 
Access for Individuals with Disabilities program.

Priority Area

    Help America Vote Act Training and Technical Assistance to Assist 
Protection and Advocacy Systems to Establish or Improve Voting Access 
for Individuals with Disabilities
    1. Description: The purpose of funds awarded under this 
announcement is to provide training and technical assistance to 
Protection and Advocacy Systems (P & A's) in their promotion of full 
participation in the electoral process for individuals with 
disabilities, including registering to vote, casting a vote, and 
accessing polling places; developing proficiency in the use of voting 
systems and technologies as they affect individuals with disabilities; 
and demonstrating and evaluating the use of such systems and 
technologies by individuals with disabilities (including blindness) in 
order to assess the availability and use of such systems and 
technologies for such individuals. At least one recipient of these 
funds must provide training and technical assistance for non-visual 
access.

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Grant.
    Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $347,177.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: 1 to 4.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: $347,177 per budget period.
    Floor on Amount of Individual Awards: $86,984 per budget period.
    Average Projected Award Amount: $86,794 per budget period.
    Length of Project Periods: 12 month project and budget period.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

     County governments.
     City or township governments.
     Special district governments.
     State controlled institutions of higher education.
     Native American tribal governments (federally recognized).
     Non-profits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other 
than institutions of higher education.
     Non-profits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the 
IRS, other than institutions of higher education.
     Private institutions of higher education.
Additional Information on Eligibility
    In order for an entity to establish eligibility, the entity must 
show that it: (A) is a public or private non-profit entity with 
demonstrated experience in voting issues for individuals with 
disabilities; (B) is governed by a board with respect to which the 
majority of its members are individuals with disabilities or family 
members of such individuals or individuals who are blind; and (C) 
submits to the Secretary an application as required under this 
announcement.
    Faith-based and community organizations are eligible under this 
announcement.

2. Cost Sharing/Matching

    None.

3. Other

    All applicants must have a Dun & Bradstreet number. On June 27, 
2003 the Office of Management and Budget

[[Page 24430]]

published in the Federal Register a new Federal policy applicable to 
all Federal grant applicants. The policy requires Federal grant 
applicants to provide a Dun & Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering 
System (DUNS) number when applying for Federal grants or cooperative 
agreements on or after October 1, 2003. The DUNS number will be 
required whether an applicant is submitting a paper application or 
using the government-wide electronic portal (https://www.Grants.gov). A 
DUNS 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 DUNS number. You may 
acquire a DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free 
DUNS number request line on 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number 
on-line at https://www.dnb.com.
    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 
Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) 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 a non-profit status and that none of the net 
earning 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 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 located under ``Grant Related Documents 
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,'' 
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at: 
https://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Disqualification Factors
    Applications that exceed the ceiling amount will be considered 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 will be considered non-responsive and will 
not be considered for funding under this announcement.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to Request Application Package

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration 
on Developmental Disabilities, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Mail Stop 
HHH 405-D, Washington, DC 20447. Phone: 202-690-5962. E-mail: 
mschaefer@acf.hhs.gov.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission:

Letter of Intent
    Applicants should submit a letter of intent stating the name of the 
applicant organization and/or lead organization that will apply for 
this grant.
    Letter of Intent information will be used to determine the number 
of reviewers necessary to complete the panel review process. Failure to 
submit a Letter of Intent will not impact eligibility to submit an 
application and will not disqualify an application from competitive 
review based on non-responsiveness.
The Application
    Each application package must include an original and two copies of 
the complete application. Each copy should be stapled securely (front 
and back if necessary) in the upper left-hand corner. All pages of the 
narrative (including charts, tables, maps, exhibits, etc.) must be 
sequentially numbered, beginning with page one. In order to facilitate 
handling, please do not use covers, binders, or tabs. Do not include 
extraneous materials as attachments, such as agency promotion 
brochures, slides, tapes, film clips, minutes of meetings, survey 
instruments, or articles of incorporation.
Application Requirements
    A complete application consists of the following items in this 
order:

--Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424);
--Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs (SF 424A);
--Budget justification for Section B--Budget Categories;
--Proof of designation as a lead agency;
--Table of Contents;
--Proof on Non-Profit Status, if applicable, (see Section III.3.);
--Copy of the applicant's approved indirect cost rate agreement, if 
applicable;
--Project Summary/Abstract;
--Project Narrative;
--Any appendices/attachments (e.g., support letters);
--Assurances--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 424B);
--Certification Regarding Lobbying (SF-LLL);
--Certification of the Pro-Children Act of 1994 (Environmental Tobacco 
Smoke), signature on the application represents certification.

Application Format
    Length: Applications, including all forms and attachments, must not 
exceed 50 pages.
    You may submit your application to us in either electronic or paper 
format. To submit an application electronically, please use the https://
www.Grants.gov/Apply site. If you use Grants.gov, you 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. ACF 
will not accept grant applications via email or facsimile transmission.
    Please note the following if you plan to submit your application 
electronically via Grants.gov:
     Electronic submission is voluntary, but strongly 
encouraged.
     When you enter the Grants.gov site, you will find 
information about submitting an application electronically through the 
site, as well as the hours of operation. We strongly recommend that you 
do not wait until the application deadline date to begin the 
application process through Grants.gov.
     We recommend you visit Grants.gov at least 30 days prior 
to filing your application to fully understand the process and 
requirements. We encourage applicants who submit electronically to 
submit well before the closing date and time so that if difficulties 
are encountered an applicant can still send in a hard copy overnight. 
If you encounter difficulties, please contact the Grants.gov Help Desk 
at 1-800-518-4276 to report the problem and obtain assistance with the 
system.
     To use Grants.gov, you, as the applicant, must have a DUNS 
Number and register in the Central Contractor Registry (CCR). You 
should allow a minimum of five days to complete the CCR registration.
     You will not receive additional point value because you 
submit a grant

[[Page 24431]]

application in electronic format, nor will we penalize you if you 
submit an application in paper format.
     You may submit all documents electronically, including all 
information typically included on the SF 424 and all necessary 
assurances and certifications.
     Your application must comply with any page limitation 
requirements described in this program announcement.
     After you electronically submit your application, you will 
receive an automatic acknowledgement from Grants.gov that contains a 
Grants.gov tracking number. The Administration for Children and 
Families will retrieve your application from Grants.gov.
     We may request that you provide original signatures on 
forms at a later date.
     You may access the electronic application for this program 
on https://www.Grants.gov
     You must search for the downloadable application package 
by the CFDA number.
    Applicants that are submitting their application in paper format 
should submit an 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, have original signatures, and be submitted 
unbound.
    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents 
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,'' 
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at: 
https://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
    Standard Forms and Certifications: The project description should 
include all the information requirements described in the specific 
evaluation criteria outlined in the program announcement under Section 
V Application Review Information. In addition to the project 
description, the applicant needs to complete all the standard forms 
required for making applications for awards under this announcement.
    Applicants seeking financial assistance under this announcement 
must file the Standard Form (SF) 424, Application for Federal 
Assistance; SF-424A, Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs; SF-
424B, Assurances--Non-Construction Programs. The 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 
Standard Form LLL, Certification Regarding Lobbying, when applying for 
an award in excess of $100,000. Applicants who have used non-Federal 
funds for lobbying activities in connection with receiving assistance 
under this announcement shall complete a disclosure form, if 
applicable, with their applications (approved by the Office of 
Management and Budget under control number 0348-0046). Applicants must 
sign and return the certification with their application.
    Applicants must also understand they will be held accountable for 
the smoking prohibition included within Public Law 103-227, Title XII 
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (also known as the PRO-KIDS Act of 1994). A 
copy of the Federal Register notice which implements the smoking 
prohibition is included with this form. By signing and submitting the 
application, applicants are providing the certification and need not 
mail back the certification with the application.
    Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their 
compliance with all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By 
signing and submitting the applications, applicants are providing the 
certification and need not mail back the certification form. 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: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
    Those organizations required to provide proof of non-profit status, 
please refer to Section III.3.
    Please see Section V.1 for instructions on preparing the full 
project description.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    Due Date For Letter of Intent or Preapplications: June 8, 2005.
    Due Date for Applications: June 23, 2005.

Explanation of Due Dates

    The closing time and date for receipt of applications is referenced 
above. Applications received after 4:30 p.m. eastern time on the 
closing date will be classified as late.
    Deadline: Applications shall be considered as meeting an announced 
deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time and date 
referenced in Section IV.6. Applicants are responsible for ensuring 
applications are mailed or submitted electronically well in advance of 
the application due date.
    Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other 
representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers 
shall be considered as meeting an announced deadline if they are 
received on or before the deadline date, between the hours of 8 a.m. 
and 4:30 p.m., eastern time, at the address referenced in Section 
IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays).
    ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by facsimile. 
Therefore, applications transmitted to ACF by fax will not be accepted 
regardless of date or time of submission and time of receipt.
    Late Applications: Applications that do not meet the criteria 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 
deadline date will not be considered for competition.
    Applicants using express/overnight mail services should allow two 
working days prior to the deadline date for receipt of applications. 
Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail services do not 
always deliver as agreed.
    Extension of deadlines: ACF may extend application deadlines when 
circumstances such as acts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur, or 
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 https://
www.Grants.gov.
    Checklist: You may use the checklist below as a guide when 
preparing your application package.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Required form or
        What to submit             Required content             format                   When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Project Abstract..............  See Sections IV.2 and   Found in Sections IV.2  By application due date.
                                 V.                      and V.
Project Description...........  See Sections IV.2 and   Found in Sections IV.2  By application due date.
                                 V.                      and V.

[[Page 24432]]

 
Budget Narrative/Justification  See Sections IV.2 and   Found in Sections IV.2  By application due date.
                                 V.                      and V.
SF424.........................  See Section IV.2......  See https:// By application due date.
                                                         www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
SF-LLL Certification Regarding  See Section IV.2......  See https:// By date of award.
 Lobbying.                                               www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Certification Regarding         See Section IV.2......  See https:// By date of award.
 Environmental Tobacco Smoke.                            www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Assurances....................  See Section IV.2......  https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By date of award.
                                                         programs/ofs/
                                                         forms.htm.
Letter of Intent..............  See Section IV.2......  Found in Section IV.2.  June 8, 2005.
Table of Contents.............  See Section IV.2......  Found in Section IV.2.  By application due date.
SF424A........................  See Section IV.2......  See https:// By application due date.
                                                         www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Support Letters...............  See Section V.........  See Section V.........  By application due date.
SF424B........................  See Section IV.2......  See https:// By application due date.
                                                         www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Proof of Non-Profit Status....  See Section III.3.....  Found in Section III.3  By date of award.
Proof of Designation as Lead    See Section IV.2......  See Section IV.2......  By application due date.
 Agency (if appropriate).
Copy of Approved Indirect Cost  See Section V.........  See Section V.........  By date of award.
 Rate Agreement.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Additional Forms: Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged 
to submit with their applications the survey located under ``Grant 
Related Documents and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant 
Applicants,'' titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for 
Applicants,'' at: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Required form or
        What to submit             Required content             format                   When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Survey for Private, Non-Profit  See form..............  Found in https:// By application due date.
 Grant Applicants.                                       www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
    This program is covered under Executive 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 Order, States may design their own 
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance 
under covered programs.
    As of October 1, 2004, the following jurisdictions have elected to 
participate in the Executive Order process: Arkansas, California, 
Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, 
Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New 
Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South 
Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, American Samoa, Guam, 
North Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and 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.
    When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they 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., 4th 
floor, Washington, DC 20447.
    Although the remaining jurisdictions have chosen not to participate 
in the process, entities that meet the eligibility requirements of the 
program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, 
Territory, 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 
E.O. 12372.
    The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions that 
have elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following 
URL: https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

5. Funding Restrictions

    Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
    Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this 
program.

6. Other Submission Requirements

Submission by Mail
    An applicant must provide an original application with all 
attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two copies. 
Please see Section IV.3 for an explanation of due dates. Applications 
should be mailed to: Tim Chappelle, U.S. Department of Health and Human 
Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families, Office of 
Grants Management, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., 8th Floor West, 
Washington, DC 20447.

[[Page 24433]]

Hand Delivery
    An applicant must provide an original application with all 
attachments signed by an authorized representative and two copies. The 
application must be received at the address below by 4:30 p.m. eastern 
time on or before the closing date. Applications that are hand 
delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
eastern time, Monday through Friday. Applications should be delivered 
to: Tim Chappelle, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), 
Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants Management, 
370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., 8th Floor West, Washington, DC 20447.
    Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV.2 for guidelines and 
requirements when submitting applications electronically via https://
www.Grants.gov.

V. Application Review Information

The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13)

    Public reporting burden for this collection of information is 
estimated to average 50 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.

1. Criteria

    The following are instructions and guidelines on how to prepare the 
``project summary/abstract'' and ``full project description'' sections 
of the application. Under the evaluation criteria section, note that 
each criterion is preceded by the generic evaluation requirement under 
the ACF Uniform Project Description (UPD).

Part I The Project Description Overview

Purpose
    The project description provides a major means by which an 
application is evaluated and ranked to compete with other applications 
for available assistance. The project description should be concise and 
complete and 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 your project 
description, information 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.
Project Summary/Abstract
    Provide a summary of the project description (a 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 how the activities that your organization 
undertakes will promote the full participation in the electoral process 
for individuals with the full range of disabilities, including 
registering to vote, casting a vote, and accessing polling places.
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.
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 on the project's 
effectiveness.
Organizational Profiles
    Provide information on the applicant organization(s) and 
cooperating partners, such as organizational charts, financial 
statements, audit reports or statements from CPAs/Licensed Public 
Accountants, Employer Identification Numbers, names of bond carriers, 
contact persons and telephone numbers, 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, submit proof of non-profit 
status in its application.
    The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing: (a) A 
reference to the applicant organization's listing in the Internal 
Revenue Service's (IRS) 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 accrue 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; (e) any of 
the items immediately above for a State or national parent organization 
and a

[[Page 24434]]

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. 
Detailed calculations must include estimation methods, quantities, unit 
costs, and other similar quantitative detail sufficient for the 
calculation to be duplicated. Also 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 allocability of the proposed costs.
General
    Use the following guidelines for preparing the budget and budget 
justification. Both Federal and non-Federal resources shall be detailed 
and justified in the budget and narrative justification. ``Federal 
resources'' refers only to the ACF grant for which you are applying. 
``Non Federal resources'' are all other 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 a 
narrative.
Personnel
    Description: Costs of employee salaries and wages.
    Justification: Identify the project director or principal 
investigator, if known. 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 or personnel 
costs of delegate agencies or of specific project(s) 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 (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 which 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 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 which 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 which supports 
the amount requested.
Contractual
    Description: Costs of all contracts for services and goods except 
for those that belong under other categories such as equipment, 
supplies, construction, etc. Include third party evaluation contracts 
(if applicable) and contracts with secondary recipient organizations, 
including delegate agencies and specific project(s) or businesses to be 
financed by the applicant.
    Justification: Demonstrate that all procurement transactions will 
be conducted in a manner to provide, to the maximum extent practical, 
open and free competition. Recipients and subrecipients, other than 
States that are required to use Part 92 procedures, must justify any 
anticipated procurement action that is expected to be awarded without 
competition and exceed the simplified acquisition threshold fixed at 41 
U.S.C. 403(11) (currently set at $100,000).
    Recipients might be required to make available to ACF pre-award 
review and procurement documents, such as request for proposals or 
invitations for bids, independent cost estimates, etc.

    Note: Whenever the applicant intends to delegate part of the 
project to another agency, the applicant must provide a detailed 
budget and budget narrative for each delegate agency, by agency 
title, along with the required supporting information referred to in 
these instructions.

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

[[Page 24435]]

should not also be charged as direct costs to the grant. Also, if the 
applicant is requesting a rate which 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 
which contain this information.
Evaluation Criteria
    The following evaluation criteria appear in weighted descending 
order. 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:
Approach--35 Points
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate the results, explain the 
methodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified and 
discussed are being met, and the results and benefits identified are 
being achieved. Applicants will be evaluated based on the extent to 
which they present a plan that (1) clearly reflects an understanding of 
the characteristics, needs and services currently available to the 
targeted population; (2) provides appropriate services that directly 
address the needs of the target population; (3) is evidence-based and 
grounded in theory and practice; (4) is appropriate and feasible; and 
(5) can be reliably evaluated.
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
outline a plan of action pertaining to the scope and detail on how the 
proposed work will be accomplished for each project, and include a 
definition of the goals and specific measurable objectives for the 
project. (8 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
identify the kinds of data to be collected and maintained and discuss 
the criteria to be used to evaluate the results and success of the 
project. For example, the applicant may provide a description of how 
the proposed project will be evaluated to determine the extent to which 
it has achieved its stated goals and objectives; the applicant may also 
provide a description of methods of evaluation that include the use of 
performance measures that are clearly related to the intended outcome 
of the project. (8 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
describe any unusual features of the project, such as design or 
technological innovation, reductions in cost or time, or extraordinary 
social and community involvement. (5 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
provide for each project, when possible, a quantitative description of 
the accomplishments to be achieved and, when quantification is not 
possible, a list of activities, in chronological order, to show the 
schedule of accomplishments and their target date. (4 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
describe the products to be developed during the implementation of the 
proposed project, such as questionnaires, interview guides, data 
collection instruments, software, internet applications, reports, 
article outcomes, evaluation results, and a dissemination plan for 
conveying the information. (4 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
cite factors which might accelerate or decelerate the work and provide 
reasons for taking this approach as opposed to others. (3 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
list each organization, operator, consultant, or other key individual 
who will work on the project along with a short description of the 
nature of their effort of contribution. (3 points)
Objectives and Need for Assistance--25 Points
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which the 
applicant describes the context of the proposed demonstration project, 
including the geographic location, environment, magnitude and severity 
of the problem(s) to be solved and the needs to be addressed.
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
demonstrate the need for assistance and describe the principal and 
subordinate objectives for the project. (10 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
specifically mention any relevant physical, economic, social, 
financial, institutional, or other problems requiring a solution. (5 
points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
provide supporting documentation or other testimonies from concerned 
interests other than the applicant. (5 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
provide relevant data based on planning studies. (4 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
provide relevant maps and other graphic aids. (1 point)
Results or Benefits Expected--20 Points
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
identify the results and benefits to be derived and the anticipated 
contribution to policy, practice, theory, and research.
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
clearly describe the project benefits and results as they relate to the 
objectives of the project. (10 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
provide information regarding how the project will build on current 
theory, research, evaluation and best practices to contribute to 
increased knowledge and understanding of the problems, issues, or 
effective strategies and practices in training and technical 
assistance. (10 points)
Organizational Profiles--15 Points
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
identify how the applicant organization (or the unit within the 
organization that will have responsibility for the project) is 
structured, the types and quantity of services, and the research and 
management capabilities it possesses. Applications will be evaluated 
based on the extent to which the applicant demonstrates a capacity to 
implement the proposed project including (1) experience with similar 
projects; (2) experience with the target population; (3) qualifications 
and experience of the project leadership; (4) commitment to developing 
and sustaining work among key stakeholders; (5) experience and 
commitment of any proposed consultants and subcontractors; and (6) 
appropriateness of the organizational

[[Page 24436]]

structure, including its management information system, to carry out 
the project.
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
identify the background of the project director/principal investigator 
and key project staff (such as the inclusion of name, address, 
training, educational background, and other qualifying experience) and 
the extent to which they demonstrate that the experience of the 
organization is such that the applicant may effectively and efficiently 
administer this project, for example, this can include providing brief 
resumes of key project staff. (4 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
provide a brief background description of how the applicant 
organization is organized, the types and quantity of services it 
provides, and the research and management capabilities it possesses. (4 
points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
describe the competence of the project team and its demonstrated 
ability to produce a final product that is readily comprehensible and 
usable. (4 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
demonstrate the direct relationship of the project to the applicant 
organization such as an organizational chart that illustrates the 
relationship of the project to the current organization. (3 points)
Budget and Budget Justification--5 Points
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which the 
applicant presents a budget with reasonable project costs, 
appropriately allocated across component areas and sufficient to 
accomplish the objectives, such as the inclusion of a justification for 
and documentation of the dollar amount requested.
    Applications will be evaluated based upon the extent to which they 
include a narrative budget justification that describes how the 
categorical costs are derived and a discussion of the reasonableness 
and appropriateness of the proposed costs. Line item allocations and 
justifications are required for Federal funds.
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
discuss and justify the costs of the proposed project as being 
reasonable and programmatically justified in view of the activities to 
be conducted and the anticipated results and benefits. (3 points)
    Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which they 
describe the fiscal controls and accounting procedures that will be 
used to ensure prudent use, proper disbursement, and accurate 
accounting of funds received under this program announcement. (2 
points)

    Note: Applicants have the option of omitting the Social Security 
Numbers and specific salary rates of the proposed project personnel 
from the two copies submitted with the original applications to ACF. 
For purposes of the outside review process, applicants may elect to 
summarize salary information on the copies of their application. All 
necessary salary information must, however, appear on the signed 
original application for ACF.

    2. Review and Selection Process: No grant award will be made under 
this announcement on the basis of an incomplete application.
    Each application submitted under this program announcement will 
undergo a pre-review to determine that (1) the application was received 
by the closing date (see Section IV.3.) and (2) that the amount 
requested does not exceed the stated ceiling (see Section II.). It is 
necessary that applicants state specifically which funding announcement 
they are applying for.
    Applications will be evaluated and rated by an independent review 
panel on the basis of specific evaluation criteria. The results of 
these reviews will assist the Commissioner and ADD program staff in 
considering competing applications. Reviewers' scores will weigh 
heavily in funding decisions but will not be the only factors 
considered. Applications generally will be considered in order of the 
average scores assigned by reviewers. The evaluation criteria were 
designed to assess the quality of a proposed project, and to determine 
the likelihood of its success. The evaluation criteria are closely 
related and are considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of 
an application. Points are awarded only to applications which are 
responsive to the evaluation criteria within the context of this 
program announcement. Non-Federal reviewers will be used for the review 
process.
    Since ACF will be using non-Federal reviewers in the 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 and Social Security Numbers, if 
otherwise required for individuals. The copies may include summary 
salary information.

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.

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.
    Organizations whose applications will not be funded will be 
notified in writing.

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 
Family Support Initiative 2005 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 either 45 CFR 87.1 or the HHS Web site at: https://
www.os.dhhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf.

3. Reporting Requirements

    Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financial 
reports (SF-269 found at https://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm) 
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.
    Program Progress Reports: Semi-Annually.
    Financial Reports: Semi-Annually.
    Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financial 
reports (SF-269) throughout the project period. Program progress and 
financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. In 
addition, final programmatic

[[Page 24437]]

and financial reports are due 90 days after the close of the project 
period.

VII. Agency Contacts

    Program Office Contact: Margaret Schaefer, Administration for 
Children and Families, Administration on Developmental Disabilities, 
370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Mail Stop HHH 405-D, Washington, DC 20447. 
Phone: 202-690-5962. Fax: 202-205-8037. E-mail: mschaefer@acf.hhs.gov.
    Grants Management Office Contact: Tim Chappelle, Administration for 
Children and Families, Office of Grants Management, 370 L'Enfant 
Promenade, SW., 8th Floor West, Washington, DC 20447. Phone: 202-401-
4855. E-mail: tichappelle@acf.hhs.gov.

VIII. Other Information

    Additional information about this program and its purpose can be 
located on the following Web sites: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/add 
and https://www.nass.org.
    Notice: Beginning with FY 2006, the Administration for Children and 
Families (ACF) will no longer publish grant announcements in the 
Federal Register. Beginning October 1, 2005, applicants will be able to 
find a synopsis of all ACF grant opportunities and apply electronically 
for opportunities via: https://www.Grants.gov. Applicants will also be 
able to find the complete text of all ACF grant announcements on the 
ACF Web site located at: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/.
    Please reference Section IV.3 for details about acknowledgement of 
received applications.

    Dated: May 4, 2005.
Debbie Powell,
Director, Office of Operations and Discretionary Grant Programs, 
Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
[FR Doc. 05-9224 Filed 5-6-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P