Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Children's Bureau, 38948-38957 [05-13302]

Agencies

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

[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 128 (Wednesday, July 6, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 38948-38957]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-13302]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families


Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Children's Bureau

    Funding Opportunity Title: Developing Adoption Services and 
Supports for Youth Who Wish to Retain Contact with Family Members in 
Order to Improve Permanency Outcomes.
    Announcement Type: Initial.
    Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ACYF-CO-0051.
    CFDA Number: 93.652.
    Due Date for Applications: Application is due August 10, 2005.
    Category of Funding Activity: Social Services and Income Security.

Executive Summary

    The purposes of funding these demonstration projects are to: (1) 
Demonstrate the effective implementation of strategies for introducing 
the concept of open adoption to youth and/or sibling groups who prefer 
to maintain contact with birth families and/or siblings; (2) 
demonstrate effective implementation strategies for connecting youth to 
adults to promote a range of permanency options, particularly adoption 
and open adoption, and including guardianship and kinship care; (3) 
demonstrate the effective models of youth leadership and collaboration 
between youth, siblings and other family members, caseworkers and 
possible adoptive families in planning for youth permanency; (4) 
evaluate the processes and outcomes of these strategies and models; and 
(5) disseminate information about these strategies and models so that 
other States/locales seeking to implement effective open adoption 
programs for youth and sibling groups have a demonstrated resource for 
guidance, insight, and possible replication.

Priority Area 1

I. Funding Opportunity Description

    The purposes of funding these demonstration projects are to: (1) 
Demonstrate the effective implementation of strategies for introducing 
the concept of open adoption to youth and/or sibling groups who prefer 
to maintain contact with birth families and/or siblings; (2) 
demonstrate effective implementation strategies for connecting youth to 
adults to promote a range of permanency options, particularly adoption 
and open adoption, and including guardianship and kinship care; (3) 
demonstrate the effective models of youth leadership and collaboration 
between youth, siblings and other family members, caseworkers and 
possible adoptive families in planning for youth permanency; (4) 
evaluate the processes and outcomes of these strategies and models; and 
(5) disseminate information about these strategies and models so that 
other States/locales seeking to implement effective open adoption 
programs for youth and sibling groups have a demonstrated resource for

[[Page 38949]]

guidance, insight, and possible replication.

Background

    ACF completed the initial round of 52 CFSRs in March 2004. Among 
the most notable findings is that no State achieved substantial 
conformity on the outcome that evaluates the timely achievement of 
permanency goals for children in foster care. On the performance 
indicator that addresses the establishment of appropriate permanency 
goals (Item 7) only 5 States performed satisfactorily. The CFSRs found 
that long-term foster care or Alternative Planned Permanent Living 
Arrangement (APPLA) are being over-used as plans for youth and large 
sibling groups which contain youth due to the youth's interest in 
maintaining some level of contact with the birth family. Assumptions 
are frequently made that adoption precludes continuing contact with the 
birth family whether it be parents or siblings. In the 35 States 
reviewed in the CFSR between 2002-2004, while the goal of reunification 
was the single goal most commonly recorded for youth in FC age 13 and 
older (39 percent), the combined goals of emancipation and long-term 
foster care represented 46 percent of the permanency goals for this age 
group. This suggests that the plan for nearly half the children 
reviewed, who were aged 13 and older, was for them to remain in foster 
care. The long-term implications of adoption versus APPLA is not being 
sufficiently explored with youth so they can be involved in an 
informed, decision-making process about future plans for their life. 
Additionally, some child welfare professionals and court personnel 
think that finding an adoptive home for youth is simply too difficult. 
Therefore, these youth, and sometimes their siblings, age out of foster 
care without a family they can turn to once discharged from the foster 
care system.
    Assumptions are frequently made that impact positive permanency 
outcomes for youth. Barriers exist because caseworkers, attorneys and 
judges believe that youth don't want to be adopted, that no one is 
interested in adopting them, and that adoptive placements of teens are 
unsuccessful.
    These barriers are reflected in the data reported in AFCARS. The 
percent of children who are placed for adoption dramatically decreases 
as the child ages. At the end of FY 2000, children nine and older with 
termination of parental rights had been waiting to be adopted three 
times longer than children under the age of nine. Preliminary analyses 
show that although children nine and older constitute 50 percent of the 
children in foster care, they are only 37 percent of the waiting 
population, (includes most children with a goal of adoption with or 
without a termination of parental rights), 39 percent of the children 
with termination of parental rights, but only 24 percent of the 
adoptions. Additional barriers to permanency include inappropriate 
placements, poorly selected and improperly trained foster parents, and 
caseworkers failing to address permanency issues early and often in 
their work with youth. Placements in group home settings often limit 
contact with a broad range of caring adults with whom the youth could 
establish and maintain a permanent lifelong connection.
    There is a need to design models of open adoption to facilitate 
permanency for youth over age 12 (or State's age of consent) in foster 
care. It is not unusual for youth to have reasons to prefer a 
continuing attachment to parents even though it is not safe for them to 
live with their own family. These reasons can include other siblings 
still in the home or parents with lower level cognitive skills that the 
youth is concerned about. Open adoption can also be a model to allow 
siblings to have contact with each other after they're adopted by 
separate families. Models which support youth in processing the 
implications of adoption and open adoption versus APPLA, while helping 
youth to address their emotional/mental health issues, either through 
individual counseling, or youth group adoption counseling need to be 
demonstrated and evaluated.
    Preparation of pre-adoptive families is required to help them be 
aware of the issues implicit in open adoptions such as supporting the 
youth in relating to and understanding their birth family and managing 
contact, safety, supervision and guidelines for contact with family 
members. Projects under this funding announcement will be expected to 
identify, provide and evaluate the services that are required to help 
these families (e.g., foster families, relatives or other individuals 
who have already or have not yet developed other connections with the 
youth) successfully address these issues.
    Effective models that empower and support youth in achieving 
permanency must be multidimensional. These include recruiting and 
training appropriate foster and adoptive family resources. They also 
include connecting youth to caring adults. This can be done through a 
broad outreach. Outreach can include mentoring and building connections 
with extended family, strategies to effectively address the emotional/
mental health issues of youth including grief and loss. Strategies can 
also include community connections, family connections, and caseworker 
and supervisor support in assessing and supporting a range of 
permanency options early and often in their work with youth.
    The Children's Bureau will expect grantees to engage in a strong 
evaluation in order to demonstrate linkages between these strategies 
and improved outcomes. Grantees will also be expected to package 
information which can readily be used by T/TA grantees for work with 
states.

Legislative Authority

    The Adoption Opportunities program, section 205 of the Child Abuse 
Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978, (Pub. L. 95-
266), as amended by the Keeping Children and Families Safe Act of 2003 
(Pub. L. 108-36).
    Projects funded under this announcement will be expected to:
    1. Have the project fully functioning within 90 days following the 
notification of the grant award.
    2. Participate if the Children's Bureau chooses to do a national 
evaluation or a technical assistance contract that relates to this 
funding announcement.
    3. Submit all performance indicator data, program and financial 
reports in a timely manner, in recommended format (to be provided), and 
submit the final report on disk or electronically using a standard 
word-processing program.
    4. Submit a copy of the final report, the evaluation report, and 
any program products to the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and 
Neglect Information, 330 C Street, SW., Washington, DC 20447, within 90 
days of project end date. This is in addition to the standard 
requirement that the final program and evaluation report must also be 
submitted to the Grants Management Specialist and the Federal Project 
Officer.
    5. Allocate sufficient funds in the budget to:
    (a) Provide for the project director, the evaluator and a child 
welfare representative to attend an annual 3-day grantees' meeting in 
Washington, DC.
    (b) Provide for the project director, the evaluator and a child 
welfare representative to attend an early kickoff meeting for grantees 
funded under this priority area to be held within the first three 
months of the project (first year only) in Washington, DC; and
    (c) Provide for 10-15 percent of the proposed budget to project 
evaluation.

[[Page 38950]]

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement.

Federal Substantial Involvement with Cooperative Agreement

    A cooperative agreement is a specific method of awarding Federal 
assistance in which substantial Federal involvement is anticipated. A 
cooperative agreement clearly defines the respective responsibilities 
of the Children's Bureau and the grantee prior to the award. The 
Children's Bureau anticipates that agency involvement will produce 
programmatic benefits to the recipient otherwise unavailable to them 
for carrying out the project. The involvement and collaboration 
includes Children's Bureau review and approval of planning stages of 
the activities before implementation phases may begin; Children's 
Bureau involvement in the establishment of policies and procedures that 
maximize open competition, and rigorous and impartial development, 
review and funding of grant or sub-grant activities, if applicable; and 
Children's Bureau and recipient joint collaboration in the performance 
of key programmatic activities (i.e., strategic planning, 
implementation, information technology enhancements, training and 
technical assistance, publications or products, and evaluation). It 
also includes close monitoring by the Children's Bureau of the 
requirements stated in this announcement that limit the grantee's 
discretion with respect to scope of services offered, organizational 
structure and management processes, coupled with close Children's 
Bureau monitoring during performance, which may, in order to ensure 
compliance with the intent of this funding, exceed those Federal 
stewardship responsibilities customary for grant activities.
    Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $1,800,000.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: 0 to 6.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards Per Budget Period: $300,000.
    Average Projected Award Amount: $300,000.
    Length of Project Periods: 60-month project with five 12-month 
budget periods.
    Other.
    Explanation of Other: In the first budget period, the maximum 
Federal share of each project is not to exceed $300,000. The projects 
awarded will be for a project period of 60 months. The initial grant 
award will be for a 12-month budget period. The award of continuation 
beyond each 12-month budget period will be subject to the availability 
of funds, satisfactory progress on the part of the grantee, and a 
determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of 
the government.
    Floor on amount of individual awards: None.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

    State governments.
    County governments.
    City or township governments.
    Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized).
    Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education.
    Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other 
than institutions of higher education.
Additional Information on Eligibility
    Faith-based and community organizations that meet all other 
eligibility requirements are eligible to apply.
    Applicants should demonstrate a strong partnership between the 
child welfare agency, the courts, and youth development organizations.
    Collaborative efforts are encouraged, but applications should 
identify a primary applicant responsible for administering the grant.

2. Cost Sharing/Matching

    Cost Sharing/Matching: Yes.
Matching/Cost-Sharing
    Grantees must provide at least 10 percent of the total approved 
cost of the project. The total approved cost of the project is the sum 
of the ACF share and the non-Federal share. The non-Federal share may 
be met by cash or in-kind contributions, although applicants are 
encouraged to meet their match requirements through cash contributions. 
Therefore, a project requesting $ 300,000 in Federal funds (based on an 
award of $300,000 per budget period) must provide a match of at least 
$33,333 (10 percent of the total approved project costs). Grantees will 
be held accountable for commitments of non-Federal resources even if 
over the amount of the required match. Failure to provide the amount 
will result in disallowance of Federal funds. Lack of supporting 
documentation at the time of application will not impact the 
responsiveness of the application for competitive review.

3. Other Eligibility Information

    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 all Federal grant applicants to provide 
a Dun and 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.
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 post-marked after 4:30 p.m. eastern time zone on 
the deadline date will not be considered for competition.

[[Page 38951]]

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

    ACYF Operations, The Dixon Group ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q 
St., NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, Phone: 866-796-1591, URL: https://
www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/open/HHS-2005-ACF-ACYF-CA- 0001. html.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

    Each application must contain the following items in the order 
listed:
    Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424). Follow the 
instructions below and those that accompany the form.
    In Item 5 of Form 424, put DUNS number in ``Organizational DUNS:'' 
box.
    In Item 5 of Form 424, include name, phone number, and, if 
available, email and fax numbers of the contact person.
    In Item 8 of Form 424, check `New.'
    In Item 10 of Form 424, clearly identify the Catalog of Federal 
Domestic Assistance (CFDA) program title and number for the program for 
which funds are being requested as stated in this funding opportunity 
announcement.
    In Item 11 of Form 424, identify the single funding opportunity the 
application addresses.
    In Item 12 of Form 424, identify the specific geographic area to be 
served.
    In Item 14 of Form 424, identify Congressional districts of both 
the applicant and project.
    Budget Information Non-Construction Programs (Form 424A) and Budget 
Justification. Follow the instructions provided here and those in 
Section V. Application Review Information.
    Description--Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on 
preparing the project summary/abstract and the full project 
description.
    Proof of non-profit status (if applicable). Please see Section 
III.3 Other Eligibility for ways to demonstrate non-profit status.
    Indirect cost rate agreement. If claiming indirect costs, provide 
documentation that applicant currently has an indirect cost rate 
approved by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or 
another cognizant Federal agency.
    Letters of agreement and memoranda of understanding. If applicable, 
include a letter of commitment or Memorandum of Understanding from each 
partner and/or sub-contractor describing their role, detailing specific 
tasks to be performed, and expressing commitment to participate if the 
proposed project is funded.
    Match. Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount 
of the non-Federal share of project costs (see Section III.2).
    General Content and Form information: The application limit is 75 
pages total including all forms and attachments. Pages over this page 
limit will be removed from the application and will not be reviewed.
    The application must be typed, double spaced, printed on only one 
side, with at least \1/2\ inch margins on each side and 1 inch at the 
top and bottom, using standard 12 Point fonts (such as Times New Roman 
or Courier). Pages must be numbered.
    All copies of an application must be submitted in a single package, 
and a separate package must be submitted for each funding opportunity. 
The package must be clearly labeled for the specific funding 
opportunity it is addressing.
    Because each application will be duplicated, do not use or include 
separate covers, binders, clips, tabs, plastic inserts, maps, 
brochures, or any other items that cannot be processed easily on a 
photocopy machine with an automatic feed. Do not bind, clip, staple, or 
fasten in any way separate subsections of the application, including 
supporting documentation; however, each complete copy must be stapled 
securely in the upper left corner. Applicants are advised that the 
copies of the application submitted, not the original, will be 
reproduced by the Federal government for review.
    Tips for Preparing a Competitive Application. It is essential that 
applicants read the entire announcement package carefully before 
preparing an application and include all of the required application 
forms and attachments. The application must reflect a thorough 
understanding of the purpose and objectives of the applicable 
legislation. Reviewers expect applicants to understand the goals of the 
legislation and the Children's Bureau's interest in each topic. A 
``responsive application'' is one that addresses all of the evaluation 
criteria in ways that demonstrate this understanding. Applications that 
are considered to be ``unresponsive'' generally receive very low scores 
and are rarely funded.
    The Children's Bureau's Web site (https://www.acf.dhhs.gov/
programs/ cb) provides a wide range of information and links to other 
relevant web sites. Before you begin preparing an application, we 
suggest that you learn more about the mission and programs of the 
Children's Bureau by exploring the Web site.
    Organizing Your Application. The specific evaluation criteria in 
Section V of this funding announcement will be used to review and 
evaluate each application. The applicant should address each of these 
specific evaluation criteria in the project description. Applicants 
should organize their project description in this sequence: (1) 
Objectives and Need for Assistance; (2) Approach; (3) Organizational 
Profiles; (4) Budget and Budget Justification; and should use the same 
headings as these criteria, so that reviewers can readily find 
information that directly addresses each of the specific review 
criteria.
    Project Evaluation Plan. Project evaluations are very important. If 
you do not have the in-house capacity to conduct an objective, 
comprehensive evaluation of the project, then the Children's Bureau 
advises that you propose contracting with a third-party evaluator 
specializing in social science or evaluation, or a university or 
college, to conduct the evaluation. A skilled evaluator can assist you 
in designing a data collection strategy that is appropriate for the 
evaluation of your proposed project. Additional assistance may be found 
in a document titled ``Program Manager's Guide to Evaluation.'' A copy 
of this document can be accessed at https://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/opre/other_resrch/pm_guide_eval/reports/pmguide/
pmguide_toc. html.
    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 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.
    Project Use of Human Subjects. If your evaluation plan includes 
gathering data from or about clients, there are specific procedures 
which must be followed in order to protect their privacy and ensure the 
confidentiality of the information about them. Applicants planning to 
gather such data are asked to describe their plans regarding an 
Institutional Review Board

[[Page 38952]]

(IRB) review. If applicable, applicants must include a completed Form 
310, Protection of Human Subjects. For more information about use of 
human subjects and IRB's you can visit these web sites: https://www.
hhs.gov/ohrp/irb/irb_chapter2.htm#d2, and https://www.hhs.gov/
ohrp/humansubjects/guidance/ictips.htm.
    You may submit your application to us in either electronic or paper 
format. To submit an application electronically, please use the 
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. You may 
not e-mail an electronic copy of a grant application to us.
    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.
     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 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 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
    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 Pub. L. 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.
    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

Explanation of Due Dates
    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: Children's Bureau, 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 handcarried 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: Children's Bureau, 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 p.m. 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

[[Page 38953]]

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:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            What to submit                           Required content                Required form or format                When to submit
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Project Abstract......................  See Section IV and V......................  Format described in       By application due date.
                                                                                     Section IV and V.
Project Narrative.....................  See Section IV and V......................  Format described in       By application due date.
                                                                                     Section IV and V.
SF424.................................  See Section IV............................  Format described in       By application due date.
                                                                                     Section IV.
SF424A................................  See Section IV............................  Format described in       By application due date.
                                                                                     Section IV.
SF424B................................  See Section IV............................  Format described in       By application due date.
                                                                                     Section IV.
Assurances and Certifications.........  See Section IV............................  Format described in       By Time of Award.
                                                                                     Section IV.
Proof of Non-profit status, if          See Section III and IV....................  Format described in       By Time of Award.
 applicable.                                                                         Section III.
Indirect Cost rate Agreement, if        See Section IV............................  Format described in IV..  By Time of Award.
 applicable.
Letters of commitment from partner      See Section IV............................  Format described in IV..  By Time of Award.
 organizations, if applicable.
Non-Federal match commitment            See Section III.2.........................  Format described in       By Time of Award.
 documentation.                                                                      III.2.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            What to submit                           Required content                Required form or format                When to submit
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant    Per required form.........................  May be found on www.acf.  With application.
 Applicants.                                                                         hhs.gov/ programs/ ofs/
                                                                                     forms.htm.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
    The Adoption Opportunities program is NOT 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.''

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.

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: ACYF 
Operations Center, The Dixon Group, 118 Q St. NE., Washington DC 20002-
2132, Attention: Children's Bureau.
    Hand Delivery: 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 delivered to: ACYF Operations Center, The Dixon 
Group, 118 Q St. NE., Washington DC 20002-2132, Attention: Children's 
Bureau.
    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.
    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).
1. Criteria
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.

[[Page 38954]]

Objectives and Need for Assistance
    Clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial, 
institutional, and/or other problem(s) requiring a solution. The need 
for assistance must be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate 
objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting 
documentation, such as letters of support and testimonials from 
concerned interests other than the applicant, may be included. Any 
relevant data based on planning studies should be included or referred 
to in the endnotes/footnotes. Incorporate demographic data and 
participant/beneficiary information, as needed. In developing the 
project description, the applicant may volunteer or be requested to 
provide information on the total range of projects currently being 
conducted and supported (or to be initiated), some of which may be 
outside the scope of the program announcement.
Approach
    Outline a plan of action that describes the scope and detail of how 
the proposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions or 
activities identified in the application. Cite factors that might 
accelerate or decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the 
proposed approach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of 
the project such as design or technological innovations, reductions in 
cost or time, or extraordinary social and community involvement. 
Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the 
accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such 
terms as the number of people to be served and the number of activities 
accomplished.
    When accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function, 
list them in chronological order to show the schedule of 
accomplishments and their target dates. If any data is to be collected, 
maintained, and/or disseminated, clearance may be required from the 
U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This clearance pertains to 
any ``collection of information that is conducted or sponsored by 
ACF.'' List organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other 
key individuals who will work on the project along with a short 
description of the nature of their effort or contribution.
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.
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

[[Page 38955]]

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 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.

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 
(e.g., 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--50 Points
    In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be 
considered: (50 points)
    (1) The extent to which there is a sound timeline for effectively 
implementing the proposed project, including major milestones and 
target dates. The extent to which the proposed project would complete 
its activities in a timely manner and conduct a thorough evaluation of 
its effectiveness within the project time frame.
    (2) The extent to which the proposed project would enhance capacity 
to meet the needs of the target population. The extent to which 
specific measurable outcomes will occur as a result of the proposed 
project activities. The extent to which there will be a strong 
relationship between the proposed project activities and improved 
outcomes for youth in foster care.
    (3) The extent to which there will be an effective administrative 
and organizational interface between the applicant and the appropriate 
partner organizations. The extent to which there are appropriate 
letters of commitment from these partner organizations.
    (4) The extent to which the application demonstrates a thorough 
understanding of the challenges of implementing the proposed project. 
The extent to which the applicant provides a sound plan explaining how 
the project would successfully overcome these challenges.
    (5) The extent to which the proposed project will provide 
culturally competent services to the target population.
    (6) The extent to which the design of the proposed project reflects 
up-to-date knowledge from research and literature. The extent to which 
the proposed project is innovative and involves strategies that build 
on, or are an alternative to, existing strategies.
    (7) The extent to which the project's evaluation plan would measure 
achievement of project objectives, customer satisfaction, acquisition 
of competencies, effectiveness of program services and project 
strategies, the efficiency of the implementation process, and the 
impact of the project. The extent to which the methods of evaluation 
would provide performance feedback, support periodic assessment of 
program progress and provide a sound basis for program adjustments. The 
extent to which the proposed evaluation plan would be likely to yield 
useful findings or results about effective strategies, and contribute 
to and promote evaluation research and evidence-based practices that 
could be used to guide replication or testing in other settings. The 
extent to which applicants that do not have the in-house capacity to 
conduct an objective, comprehensive evaluation of the project present a 
sound plan for contracting with a third-party evaluator specializing

[[Page 38956]]

in social science or evaluation, or a university or college to conduct 
the evaluation.
    (8) The extent to which there is a sound plan for documenting 
project activities and results, including the development of a data 
collection infrastructure that is sufficient to support a 
methodologically sound and rigorous evaluation. The extent to which 
relevant data would be collected. The extent to which there is a sound 
plan for collecting these data, securing informed consent and 
implementing an Institutional Review Board (IRB) review, if applicable.
    (9) The extent to which there is a sound plan for developing useful 
products during the proposed project and a reasonable schedule for 
developing these products. The extent to which the intended audience 
(e.g., researchers, policymakers, and practitioners) for product 
dissemination is comprehensive and appropriate. The extent to which the 
dissemination plan includes appropriate mechanisms and forums that 
would effectively convey the information and support successful 
replication by other interested agencies.
    (10) The extent to which there is a sound plan for continuing this 
project beyond the period of Federal funding.
Organizational Profiles--20 Points
    In reviewing the organizational profiles, the following factors 
will be considered: (20 points)
    (1) The extent to which the application evidences sufficient 
experience and expertise in youth adoption, in collaboration with 
partner organizations; in culturally competent service delivery; and in 
administration, development, implementation, management, and evaluation 
of similar projects. The extent to which each participating 
organization (including partners and/or subcontractors) possesses the 
organizational capability to fulfill their assigned roles and functions 
effectively (if the application involves partnering and/or 
subcontracting with other agencies/organizations) in serving the target 
populations.
    (2) The extent to which the proposed project director and key 
project staff possess sufficient relevant knowledge, experience and 
capabilities to implement and manage a project of this size, scope and 
complexity effectively (e.g., resume). The extent to which the role, 
responsibilities and time commitments of each proposed project staff 
position, including consultants, subcontractors and/or partners, are 
clearly defined and appropriate to the successful implementation of the 
proposed project with respect to the target population.
    (3) The extent to which there is a sound management plan for 
achieving the objectives of the proposed project on time and within 
budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, for accomplishing 
project tasks and ensuring quality. The extent to which the plan 
clearly describes the effective management and coordination of 
activities carried out by any partners, subcontractors and consultants 
(if appropriate). The extent to which there would be a mutually 
beneficial relationship between the proposed project and other work 
planned, anticipated or underway with Federal assistance by the 
applicant.
Objectives and Need for Assistance--20 Points
    In reviewing the objectives and need for assistance, the following 
factors will be considered: (20 points)
    (1) The extent to which the application demonstrates an 
understanding of the requirements of the Adoption Opportunities 
legislation and the Child and Family Services Reviews, and the extent 
to which the proposed project will contribute to meeting those 
requirements. The extent to which the application demonstrates a clear 
understanding of youth adoption issues.
    (2) The extent to which the application demonstrates a thorough 
understanding of the need for knowledge about what works in youth 
adoption.
    (3) The extent to which the application presents a thorough review 
of the relevant literature that reflects a clear understanding of the 
research on best practices and promising approaches as it relates to 
the proposed project. The extent to which the review of the literature 
sets a sound context and rationale for the project. The extent to which 
it provides evidence that the proposed project is innovative and, if 
successfully implemented and evaluated, likely to contribute to the 
knowledge base on youth adoption.
    (4) The extent to which the application presents a clear vision for 
the proposed project to be developed and implemented. The extent to 
which the applicant makes a clear statement of the goals (end products 
of an effective project) and objectives (measurable steps for reaching 
these goals) of the proposed project. The extent to which these goals 
and objectives closely relate to the purposes of this funding 
announcement.
    (5) The extent to which the lessons learned through the proposed 
project would benefit policy, practice and theory development in 
addressing the needs of the target populations as described in this 
funding announcement.
    (6) The extent to which the proposed project would develop strong 
partnerships to meet the goals described in this funding announcement.
Budget and Budget Justification--10 Points
    In reviewing the budget and budget justification, the following 
factors will be considered: (10 points)
    (1) The extent to which the costs of the proposed project are 
reasonable and appropriate, in view of the activities to be conducted 
and expected results and benefits.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's fiscal controls and 
accounting procedures would ensure prudent use, proper and timely 
disbursement and accurate accounting of funds received under this 
program announcement.
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.
    A panel of at least three reviewers (primarily experts from outside 
the Federal government) will use the evaluation criteria described in 
this announcement to evaluate each application. The reviewers will 
determine the strengths and weaknesses of each application, provide 
comments about the strengths and weaknesses and give each application a 
numerical score.
    The results of the competitive review are a primary factor in 
making funding decisions. In addition, Federal staff conducts 
administrative reviews of the applications and, in light of the results 
of the competitive review, will recommend applications for funding to 
the ACYF Commissioner. ACYF reserves the option of discussing 
applications with other funding sources when this is in the best 
interest of the Federal government. ACYF may also solicit and consider 
comments from ACF Regional Office staff in making funding decisions. 
ACYF may take into consideration the involvement (financial and/or 
programmatic) of the private sector, national, or State or community 
foundations; a favorable balance between Federal and non-

[[Page 38957]]

Federal funds for the proposed project; or the potential for high 
benefit from low Federal investment. ACYF may elect not to fund any 
applicants having known management, fiscal, reporting, programmatic, or 
other problems which make it unlikely that they would be able to 
provide effective services or effectively complete the proposed 
activity.
    With the results of the peer review and the information from 
Federal staff, the Commissioner of ACYF makes the final funding 
decisions. The Commissioner may give special consideration to 
applications proposing services of special interest to the Government 
and to achieve geographic distributions of grant awards. Applications 
of special interest may include, but are not limited to, applications 
focusing on unserved or inadequately served clients or service areas 
and programs addressing diverse ethnic populations.

Approved but Unfunded Applications

    Applications that are approved but unfunded may be held over for 
funding in the next funding cycle, pending the availability of funds, 
for a period not to exceed one year.
3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates
    Applications will be reviewed in the summer of 2005. Grant awards 
will have a start date no later than September 30, 2005.

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, 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

    Direct Federal grants, sub-award funds, or contracts under this 
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.
    45 CFR Part 74; 92. Grantees are subject to the requirements in 45 
CFR part 74 (non-governmental) or 45 CFR part 92 (governmental) 
organizations.

3. Reporting Requirements

    Program Progress Reports: Semi-Annually.
    Financial R