Family and Youth Services Bureau Administration on Children, Youth and Families, 29318-29328 [05-10105]

Agencies

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

[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 97 (Friday, May 20, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 29318-29328]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-10105]


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families


Family and Youth Services Bureau Administration on Children, 
Youth and Families

    Funding Opportunity Title: Community-Based Abstinence Education.
    Announcement Type: Initial.
    Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ACYF-AE-0099.
    CFDA Number: 93.010.
    Due Date for Applications: June 20, 2005.
    Executive Summary: The Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB) is 
accepting applications to provide support to public and private 
entities for the development and implementation of the Community-Based 
Abstinence Education Program for adolescents, ages 12 through 18, in 
communities across the country. This funding opportunity targets the 
implementation of community-based abstinence educational programs 
designed to: (a) Reduce the proportion of adolescents who engage in 
premarital sexual activity, including but not limited to sexual 
intercourse; (b) reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies 
among adolescents; and (c) reduce the incidence of sexually transmitted 
diseases among adolescents. Priority funding will be given to those 
entities that demonstrate a strong record of providing abstinence 
education among adolescents as defined by Section 510(b)(2) of Title V 
of the Social Security Act, which promotes a strong abstinence until 
marriage message to youth.

Priority Area 1

I. Funding Opportunity Description

    The Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB) is accepting 
applications to provide support to public and private entities for the 
development and implementation of the Community-Based Abstinence 
Education Program for adolescents, ages 12 through 18, in communities 
across the country. This funding opportunity targets the implementation 
of community-based abstinence educational programs designed to: (a) 
Reduce the proportion of adolescents who engage in premarital sexual 
activity, including but not limited to sexual intercourse; (b) reduce

[[Page 29319]]

the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies among adolescents; and (c) 
reduce the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases among 
adolescents. Priority funding will be given to those entities that 
demonstrate a strong record of providing abstinence education among 
adolescents as defined by Section 510(b)(2) of Title V of the Social 
Security Act, which promotes a strong abstinence until marriage message 
to youth.

Background

    This program, in addition to the mandatory formula Title V Section 
510 Abstinence Education Program, has been reassigned from the Health 
Resources and Services Administration, Maternal and Child Health 
Bureau, to the Administration for Children and Families, Family and 
Youth Services Bureau to further fulfill the President's commitment to 
enhance and coordinate similar youth programs across the Federal 
government. In addition to supporting the President's goals of 
enhancing and coordinating similar youth programs across the Federal 
government, this reassignment closely aligns the abstinence program 
with comprehensive Positive Youth Development efforts in ACF already 
underway as well as coordinated welfare reform efforts.
    Funding for the Community-Based Abstinence Education Program was 
appropriated to the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) in 
the FY 2005 Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and 
Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (Consolidated 
Appropriation Act) of 2005.
    The Community-Based Abstinence Education Program is authorized by 
Title XI, Section 1110 of the Social Security Act (using the 
definitions contained in Title V, Section 510(b)(2) of the Act).

Background on the Administration for Children and Families (ACF)

Administration for Children and Families (ACF)
    The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), within the 
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is responsible for 
Federal programs that promote the economic and social well-being of 
families, children, individuals, and communities. ACF programs aim to:
    Empower families and individuals to increase their own economic 
independence and productivity; build strong, healthy, supportive 
communities that have a positive impact on the quality of life and the 
development of children; build partnerships with individuals, front-
line service providers, communities, American Indian tribes, Native 
communities, States, and Congress that enable solutions which transcend 
traditional agency boundaries; ensure that services are planned, 
reformed, and integrated to improve needed access; and support a strong 
commitment to working with people with developmental disabilities, 
refugees, and migrants to address their needs, strengths, and 
abilities.
Administration on Children, Youth and Families (ACYF)
    The Administration on Children, Youth and Families (ACYF) is one of 
several primary agencies within the Federal government with the 
responsibility for serving children and families. ACYF administers 
national programs for children and youth, provides information and 
other assistance to parents, works with States and local communities to 
develop services that support and strengthen family life, and seeks 
joint ventures with the private sector. The concerns of ACYF extend to 
all children from birth to adolescence, with a particular emphasis on 
children with special needs.
Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB)
    The Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB) within ACF will 
administer the Community-Based Abstinence Education grants, in addition 
to the Section 510 Abstinence Education mandatory formula grants to 
States. The mission of FYSB is to provide national leadership on youth 
issues and to assist individuals and organizations in providing 
effective, comprehensive services for youth in at-risk situations and 
their families. The goals of FYSB programs are to provide positive 
alternatives for youth, ensure their safety, and maximize their 
potential to take advantage of available opportunities. FYSB encourages 
communities to support young people through a Positive Youth 
Development approach. This approach suggests that the best way to 
prevent young people's involvement in risky behavior is to help them 
achieve their full potential. As the lead office for the promotion of 
the Positive Youth Development Strategy within HHS, FYSB administers 
programs that provide youth with healthy messages about their bodies, 
their behaviors, and their interactions; provide safe and structured 
places for youth to study, recreate, and socialize; support positive 
adult role models such as parents, mentors, coaches or community 
leaders; promote youth skill development in literacy, competence, work 
readiness and social and emotional skills; and provide youth with 
increased opportunities to serve others and build self-esteem. For 
additional information regarding FYSB programs and initiatives, please 
visit: https://www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/fysb/ or the National 
Clearinghouse on Families and Youth (NCFY) at: https://www.ncfy.com/.

Program Purpose and Scope

    The purpose of the Community-Based Abstinence Education Program is 
to provide support to public and private entities for the development 
and implementation of abstinence education programs for adolescents, 
ages 12 through 18, in communities across the country.
    The specific objectives of the Community-Based Abstinence Education 
Program are to:
     Support programmatic efforts that foster the development 
of abstinence-only education for adolescents, ages 12 through 18, in 
communities across the country.
     Develop and implement abstinence-only programs that target 
the prevention of teenage pregnancy and premarital sexual activity.
     Develop abstinence education approaches that are 
culturally sensitive and age-appropriate to meet the needs of a diverse 
audience of adolescents, ages 12 through 18.
     Implement community-based educational programs that 
promote abstinence-until-marriage decisions to adolescents, ages 12 
through 18.
    Grantees are expected to work closely with ACF to ensure that 
Community-Based Abstinence Education programs support these objectives. 
ACF encourages but does not require coordination and collaboration 
between potential and existing grantees and the State agencies 
administering a Section 510 Abstinence Education grant. Such 
coordination and collaboration is considered beneficial in promoting 
complementary efforts between State and community agencies and 
advancing positive youth development. A list of Section 510 State 
Abstinence Education Coordinators is available at https://www.ncfy.com.
    A key component of promoting Positive Youth Development is 
encouraging youth to make the healthiest choice regarding their sexual 
behavior by abstaining from sexual activity, included but not limited 
to sexual intercourse, before marriage. Since communicating abstinence 
education to various target populations

[[Page 29320]]

requires a number of different approaches, activities may include 
mentoring, counseling, and adult supervision to promote abstinence from 
sexual activity. Programs funded through the Community-Based Abstinence 
Education Program must promote abstinence education as defined by 
Section 510(b)(2) of Title V of the Social Security Act (for a copy of 
Sec. 510(b)(2), please see Appendix A). Programs that utilize this 
definition promote ``abstinence Sex education programs that promote the 
use of contraceptives are not eligible for funding under this 
announcement.
    For purposes of this program, the term ``abstinence education'' 
means an educational or motivational program which--
    (A) has as its exclusive purpose, teaching the social, 
psychological, and health gains to be realized by abstaining from 
sexual activity;
    (B) teaches abstinence from sexual activity outside marriage as the 
expected standard for all school age children;
    (C) teaches that abstinence from sexual activity is the only 
certain way to avoid out-of-wedlock pregnancy, sexually transmitted 
diseases, and other associated health problems;
    (D) teaches that a mutually faithful monogamous relationship in the 
context of marriage is the expected standard of human sexual activity;
    (E) teaches that sexual activity outside of the context of marriage 
is likely to have harmful psychological and physical effects;
    (F) teaches that bearing children out-of-wedlock is likely to have 
harmful consequences for the child, the child's parents, and society;
    (G) teaches young people how to reject sexual advances and how 
alcohol and drug use increases vulnerability to sexual advances; and
    (H) teaches the importance of attaining self-sufficiency before 
engaging in sexual activity.
    Curricula developed or selected for implementation in the 
Community-Based Abstinence Education grant program must be responsive 
to the eight elements of the Section 510 abstinence education 
definition and may not be inconsistent with any aspect of this 
definition. Curriculum must emphasize the importance of abstaining from 
sexual activity, included but not limited to sexual intercourse, before 
marriage and that the healthiest life outcomes are obtained if an 
individual abstains from sexual activity before marriage. In their 
Curriculum Summary/Summaries, the applicant must demonstrate that the 
selected curricula are consistent with each of the eight elements of 
the Section 510 abstinence education definition. Applicants are 
required to provide a Curriculum Summary for every curriculum that is 
to be used in the proposed project. Please see Section IV.2 Content and 
Form of Application Submission Section for a detailed description. ACF 
encourages but does not require consultation and collaboration between 
grantees and the State agencies throughout the life of the project.
    In order to ensure access and cultural competence, it is expected 
that projects will involve individuals from the populations to be 
served in the planning and implementation of the project. ACF's intent 
is to ensure that project interventions are responsive to the different 
needs of special populations, that services are accessible to 
consumers, and that the broadest possible representation of culturally 
distinct and historically under represented groups is supported through 
programs and projects sponsored by ACF.
    Grants under this program shall be made to entities which agree 
that, with respect to an adolescent to whom the entities provide 
abstinence education under such grant, the entities will not provide to 
that adolescent any other education regarding sexual conduct, except in 
the case of an entity expressly required by law to provide health 
information or services. Each adolescent shall not be precluded from 
seeking health information or services from the entity in a different 
setting--either in time or place--than the setting in which abstinence 
education was provided. Nothing shall preclude entities that have a 
public health mandate from discussing other forms of sexual conduct or 
providing services, as long as this is conducted in a different 
setting--either in time or place--than where and when the abstinence-
only course is being conducted. ACF strongly encourages grantees to 
sign and submit with their applications the voluntary assurance that 
speaks to this separation of Federal abstinence education services and 
private abstinence and/or sex education services. Please see Section 
IV. 2 Content and Form of Application Submission and Appendix B for a 
full description.
    In order to ensure that grantees are geographically well 
distributed, special consideration may be given to highly ranked 
applications in States (and territories) that do not have a currently 
funded Community-Based Abstinence Education grant or where the State's 
only Community-Based grantee is in its last year of funding.
    Legislative Authority: The Community-Based Abstinence Education 
Program is authorized by Title XI, Section 1110 of the Social Security 
Act (using the definitions contained in Title V, Section 510(b)(2) of 
the Act).

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Service Grants.
    Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $36,823,000.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: 60 to 70.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards per Budget Period: $800,000.
    Floor on Amount of Individual Awards per Budget Period: $200,000.
    Average Projected Award Amount Per Budget Period: $459,000.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

    State governments, County governments, City or township 
governments, Independent school districts, Hospitals and Clinics, State 
controlled institutions of higher education, Native American tribal 
governments (Federally recognized), Public Housing authorities/Indian 
housing authorities, Native American tribal organizations (other than 
Federally recognized tribal governments), Non-profits having a 
501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher 
education, Private institutions of higher education, and For-profit 
organizations other than small businesses.
Additional Information on Eligibility
    Faith-based and community organizations are eligible to apply.
    These grants must be made only to public and private entities who 
agree that, with respect to an adolescent to whom the entities provide 
abstinence education under such grant, the entities will not provide to 
that adolescent any other education regarding sexual conduct, except, 
in the case of an entity expressly required by law to provide health 
information or services. ACF strongly encourages applicants to sign and 
submit with their applications the voluntary assurance that speaks to 
this requirement. Please see Section IV.2 Content and Form of 
Application Submission and Appendix B for a detailed description.
    ACF strongly encourages and will grant preference to those 
applicants that demonstrate they have extensive previous experience 
providing Abstinence Education Services that conform to the eight 
criteria defined by

[[Page 29321]]

Section 510(b)(2) of Title V of the Social Security Act. Sex education 
programs that promote the use of contraceptives are not eligible for 
funding under this announcement; however, this eligibility criterion 
will not be used as a disqualification factor in the initial review of 
applications.

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 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 
online 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 Submission Dates and Times 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

    ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Attn: Community-Based 
Abstinence Education Program Funding, 118 Q Street NE., Washington, DC 
20002-2132. Phone: 866-796-1591.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

    Each application package should include an original and two copies. 
Do not staple the applications.
    The length of the entire application package should not exceed 80 
pages. This includes the required Federal forms/certifications (424, 
424a, 424b, Lobbying and Smoke Free Workplace certification), table of 
contents, project summary, curricula summaries, project description, 
budget/budget justification, supplemental documentation, proof of non-
profit status, third party agreement summaries and letters of support 
or agreement. All pages of the application package should be 
sequentially numbered beginning with page one. The required Federal 
forms will be counted towards the total number of pages. Each 
application will be counted to determine the total length. Cover 
letters are not required. Applicants are reminded that if a cover 
letter is submitted, it will count towards the 80 page limit.
    The project description should be typed and double-spaced on a 
single-side of 8\1/2\ x 11 plain white paper with at least 1 inch 
margins on all sides, using black print Times New Roman, with 12 pitch 
or 12 point size font. For charts, budget tables, supplemental letters 
and support documents, applicants may use a different pitch or size 
font, not less than 10 pitch or size font, or single-space. Please see 
Section V.1 Criteria, for instructions on preparing the full project 
description.
Curricula Summaries
    Curricula developed or selected for implementation in the 
Community-Based Abstinence Education grant program must be responsive 
to the eight elements of the Section 510 abstinence education 
definition and may not be inconsistent with any aspect of that 
definition. Curriculum must emphasize the importance of abstaining from 
sexual activity before marriage and that the healthiest life outcomes 
are obtained if an individual abstains from sexual activity before 
marriage. In their Curriculum Summary/Summaries, the applicant must 
demonstrate that the selected curricula are consistent with each of the 
eight elements of the Section 510 abstinence education definition. 
Applicants are required to provide a Curriculum Summary for every 
curriculum that is to be used in the proposed project.
    Direct Federal grants, sub-award funds, or contracts under this 
Community-Based Abstinence Education 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.
Appendices
    Appendices should include all supporting documentation, such as: 
Position descriptions, curricula vitae (CVs), letters of agreement and 
support, evaluation tools, protocols and tables and graphs. Job 
descriptions and CV's should not exceed two pages each. Spacing will 
vary depending on the nature of the appendix, but only one-sided pages 
are acceptable. Appendices should be brief and supplemental in nature. 
Do not include pamphlets or brochures in the application package

[[Page 29322]]

unless they were specifically created for the project. Refer to style 
and format section of this guidance for specific conventions to be 
followed in formatting appendices.
    The appendices should be brief and should be limited to the items 
listed below, in the following order:
    i. Descriptions of committees/consortia which are a part of or 
related to the basic program, including the composition, function, and 
responsibilities of each.
    ii. Copies of agreements/commitments, letters of understanding or 
similar documents defining the relationships between the proposed 
program and affiliated departments, institutions or agencies, and the 
responsibilities of each. Pro-forma letters of endorsement should not 
be included.
    iii. Position descriptions for all professional and technical 
positions for which grant support is requested, and for similar 
positions with significant roles in the program, even though supported 
from other sources.
    iv. Biographical sketches, such as resumes or CVs, for each 
incumbent in a position for which a job description is submitted.
    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.
     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 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 should 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 www.Grants.gov.
     You must search for the downloadable application package 
by the CFDA number.
    An original and two copies of the complete application are 
required. The original and each of the two copies should 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 forms. 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.

Voluntary Assurance

    ACF strongly encourages grantees to sign and submit with their 
applications the voluntary assurance that prohibits Community-Based 
Abstinence Education grantees from providing to an adolescent and/or 
adolescents any other education regarding sexual conduct--either in 
time or place--except, in the case of an entity expressly required by 
law to provide health information or services. Please see Section I. 
Funding Opportunity Description and Appendix B for a full description.
    Logic Model: A logic model is a tool that presents the conceptual 
framework for a proposed project and explains the linkages among 
program elements. While there are many versions of the logic model, 
they generally summarize the logical connections among the needs

[[Page 29323]]

that are the focus of the project, project goals and objectives, the 
target population, project inputs (resources), the proposed activities/
processes/outputs directed toward the target population, the expected 
short- and long-term outcomes the initiative is designed to achieve, 
and the evaluation plan for measuring the extent to which proposed 
processes and outcomes actually occur. Information on the development 
of logic models is available on the Internet at https://www.uwex.edu/
ces/pdande/ or https://www.extension.iastate.edu/cyfar/capbuilding/
outcome/outcome_logicmdir.html.
    ACF encourages applicant organizations to use a logic model in 
developing their applications.
    Those organizations required to provide proof of non-profit status, 
please refer to Section III.3.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. 
(Eastern Time Zone) on the date noted above. Mailed or hand carried 
applications received after 4:30 p.m. on the closing date will be 
classified as late.
    Deadline: Mailed applications shall be considered as meeting an 
announced deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time 
and date at the ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., 
ATTN: Family and Youth Services Bureau, Community-Based Abstinence 
Education Program Funding 118 Q Street NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132. 
Applicants are responsible for mailing applications well in advance, 
when using all mail services, to ensure that the applications are 
received on or before the deadline time and 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., EST, at the ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, 
Inc., ATTN: Family and Youth Services Bureau, Community-Based 
Abstinence Education Program Funding, 118 Q Street NE., Washington, DC 
20002-2132, between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays). 
This address must appear on the envelope/package containing the 
application with the note. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
    Late applications: Applications which 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 pm 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.
    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   Found in Sections IV.2  By application due date.
                                  and V.              and V.
Project Description............  See Sections IV.2   Found in Sections IV.2  By application due date.
                                  and V.              and V.
Curriculum Summaries...........  See Section I and   Found in Sections I     By application due date.
                                  IV.2.               and IV.2.
Budget Narrative/Justification.  See Sections IV.2   Found in Sections IV.2  By application due date.
                                  and V.              and V.
SF 424.........................  See Section IV.2..  See https:// By application due date.
                                                      www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
SF 424 A.......................  See Section IV.2..  See https:// By application due date.
                                                      www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
SF 424 B.......................  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.
Voluntary Assurance............  See Section I,      Found in Section I,     By application due date.
                                  III, and IV.2.      III, and IV.2.
Table of Contents..............  See Section IV.2..  Found in Section IV.2.  By application due date.
Support Letters (if applicable)  See Sections IV.2   Found in Section IV.2   By date of award.
                                  and V.1.            and V.1.
Other: 3rd Party Agreements....  See Sections IV.2   Found in Section IV.2   By date of award.
                                  and V.1.            and V.1.
Proof of Non-Profit Status.....  See Section III.3.  Found in Section III.3  By date of award.
Appendices (if applicable).....  See Section IV.2..  Found in Section IV.2.  By date of award.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         What to submit           Required content          Location                    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.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 29324]]

4. Intergovernmental Review

    This program is not subject to Executive Order 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' or 45 CFR Part 100, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services 
Programs and Activities''.

5. Funding Restrictions

    Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
    Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this 
solicitation.
    Applicants should note that grants to be awarded under this program 
announcement are subject to the availability of funds. The size of the 
actual awards will vary.
    Sex education programs that promote the use of contraceptives are 
not eligible for funding under this announcement.
    In order to ensure that grantees are geographically well 
distributed, special consideration may be given to highly ranked 
applications in States (and territories) that do not have a currently 
funded Community-Based Abstinence Education grant, or, where the 
State's only Community-Based grantee is in its last year of funding.

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 Submission Dates 
and Times for an explanation of due dates. Applications should be 
mailed to: ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Attn: 
Community-Based Abstinence Education Program Funding, 118 Q Street NE., 
Washington, DC 20002-2132.
    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: ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Attn: 
Community-Based Abstinence Education Program Funding, 118 Q Street NE., 
Washington, DC 20002-2132.
    Electronic Submission: https://www.Grants.gov. Please see Section 
IV.2 Content and Form of Application Submission for guidelines and 
requirements when submitting applications electronically.

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 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.

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.
General 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.
Introduction
    Applicants 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 your project 
description should include while the evaluation criteria identifies the 
measures that will be used to evaluate applications.
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.
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

[[Page 29325]]

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.
Geographic Location
    Describe the precise location of the project and boundaries of the 
area to be served by the proposed project. Maps or other graphic aids 
may be attached.
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.
Plan for Project Continuance Beyond Grant Support
    Provide a plan for securing resources and continuing project 
activities after Federal assistance has ended.
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 statement signed by the parent organization that the applicant 
organization is a local non-profit affiliate.
Third-Party Agreements
    Provide written and signed agreements between grantees and sub 
grantees or subcontractors or other cooperating entities. These 
agreements must detail scope of work to be performed, work schedules, 
remuneration, and other terms and conditions that structure or define 
the relationship.
Letters of Support
    Provide statements from community, public and commercial leaders 
that support the project proposed for funding. All submissions should 
be included in the application OR by application deadline.
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. The Project Director is 
required to attend an annual grantees meeting in Washington, DC for 
three days and two nights. The applicant's project budget should 
reflect this requirement.
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). 
This budget line item should only include travel outside the State and 
should not include local 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
Supplies
    Description: Costs of all tangible personal property other than 
that included under the Equipment category. Only equipment greater than 
$5,000 should be included in this section. All items under $5,000 per 
unit are not considered equipment and should be placed under line item 
supplies.
    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

[[Page 29326]]

(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 sub recipients, other than 
States that are required to use CFR 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.

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. Copies of any indirect cost 
agreements should be included with the application.
    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 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.
Total Direct Charges, Total Indirect Charges, Total Project Costs
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:
Objectives and Need for Assistance 30 Points
     The extent to which the application describes the current 
physical, economic, social, financial, governmental, and institutional 
challenges and problems that support the funding request. The extent to 
which the application describes how the project addresses the needs of 
youth in the proposed area(s). Statistical data and other information 
should be provided to support the need. The extent to which the 
application describes the proposed project objectives, goals, and 
strategies and that objectives are measurable and support the 
identified need. The extent to which the objectives, goals, and 
strategies are related to the overall FYSB goals and objectives as 
stated in Section I. Funding Opportunity Description Section.
     The extent to which the application is responsive to all 
eight elements of the legislative definition, as defined in Section 510 
of Title V of the Social Security Act, and the extent to which the 
proposed project methodology describes a community-based educational 
intervention to promote abstinence education to adolescents ages 12 
through 18. The extent to which the proposed project activities address 
the specific objectives listed in Section I. Funding Opportunity 
Description.
     The extent to which the application describes the target 
population and subsets (if applicable), as well as their relative needs 
and culture. The extent to which the proposed activities are sensitive 
to the age and cultural needs of the specified population(s).
     The extent to which the project describes adolescent and 
consumer/family participation in the planning and implementation of 
proposed program activities.
     The extent to which the application describes the agency's 
positive youth development philosophy and approach and how it 
integrates that approach into all proposed activities and services 
provided by the agency. The extent to which specific information on how 
the youth and the community will be involved in evaluating the project.
     The extent to which the application describes how this 
project will be structured and managed and defines how the project is 
being conducted in a manner consistent with FYSB goals and objectives. 
The extent to which the application describes contributions of 
organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other key 
individuals who will work on the project.
     The extent to which the application describes a project 
implementation plan and the methodology or models to be used for the 
abstinence education services. The extent to which the plan is results 
oriented and relates to the goals and objectives in Section I. Funding 
Opportunity Description The extent to which the plan indicates how the 
project will expand opportunities for skill-development and describes 
the safety precautions that will be in place to prevent incidents which 
may pose a health or safety risk.
     The extent to which the application describes how the 
project will form collaborations among private, non-profit, community, 
state, local, and Federal entities necessary to carry out the project.
     The extent to which the application provides third party 
agreement summaries or letters of agreement (as appropriate) that 
detail the scope of the work to be performed and any other terms and 
conditions that structure or define the relationship. If written 
agreements do not exist, sample or draft agreements may be submitted.
     The extent to which the application describes potential 
barriers that may affect project implementation and possible resolution 
of these difficulties.

[[Page 29327]]

Approach 25 Points
    The extent to which activities or steps proposed will accomplish 
the specified goals and objectives of the proposed project.
    The extent to which the application provides a detailed description 
of the mechanisms to be used, the specific activities to be conducted, 
and clearly indicates how these will lead to the accomplishment of the 
intended goals and objectives, as they were stated in Section I. 
Funding Opportunity Description. The extent to which the applicant 
demonstrates that proposed activities are age-appropriate and 
culturally sensitive to the age, race and culture of the target 
population.
    The extent to which the application includes a timeline that 
describes each activity and identifies responsible staff that will work 
to support these activities.
Budget and Budget Justification 15 Points
    1. The extent to which the application describes how the funds 
requested, which may include Federal and non-Federal funds, will be 
used for abstinence education services that are allowed under this 
announcement. The extent to which the budget items show how the 
expenditures will assist the applicant in achieving the project goals.
    2. The extent to which the applicant's budget describes detailed 
calculations that show how the line-item costs are derived. These costs 
should include quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative 
detail. If applicable, sub-contractor budgets for third party 
agreements are provided in the budget detail. The sub-contractor budget 
should provide the same quantitative detail as the applicant.
    3. The extent to which the application describes the fiscal 
controls and accounting procedures. The extent to which the application 
describes how the controls and procedures will be used to ensure 
prudent use, proper disbursement and accurate accounting of funds 
received as well as accounts for non-Federal resources.
Results or Benefits Expected 15 Points
    1. The extent to which the application describes specific 
measurable outcomes and how they will be achieved.
    2. The extent to which the application describes how the intended 
audience will be impacted and describes the extent to which 
improvements in youth development will occur.
Staff and Position Data 15 Points
    The extent to which the application provides information on the 
applicant agency's current mission and structure, the cope of current 
activities, and an organizational chart, and describes how these all 
contribute to the ability of the organization to conduct the Community-
Based Abstinence Education Program Grant requirements and meet program 
expectations. The extent to which the application describes the 
administrative and organizational structure within which the project 
will function. The extent to which the application includes 
organizational charts that outlining the structure. The extent to which 
the application demonstrates that project staff will be supervised and 
project contracts and activities will be monitored. The extent to which 
the application provides a biographical sketch and job description for 
each key person appointed, showing how each person has a demonstrated 
history of experience providing abstinence until marriage education. 
The extent to which job descriptions for each vacant key position are 
included in the application. The extent to which the application 
includes biographical sketches as new and/or key staff are appointed.
    The extent to which the application demonstrates organizational 
experience in working with adolescents to promote abstinence education.
Additional Bonus Points 5 Points
    The extent to which the application demonstrates that the applicant 
has extensive previous experience in providing abstinence education 
among adolescents as defined by Section 510(b)(2) of the Social 
Security Act, which promotes a strong ``abstinence'' until marriage 
youth message.

2. Review and Selection Process

    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) of specific salary rates or amounts for 
individuals specified in the application budget.
    No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of 
an incomplete application.
    All applications which are complete and conform to the requirements 
of this program announcement will be subject to a competitive review 
and evaluation based on the specific competitive evaluation criteria. 
This review will be conducted in Washington, DC by a panel of experts 
knowledgeable in the areas of abstinence education, youth development, 
and social/human services.
    ACF strongly encourages and will grant preference to those 
applicants that demonstrate they have extensive previous experience 
providing Abstinence Education Services that conform to the eight 
criteria defined by Section 510(b)(2) of Title V of the Social Security 
Act.
    Application review panels will assign a score (maximum score of 
105) to each application. The panel will identify the application's 
strengths and weaknesses based on the application's