[Federal Register Volume 64, Number 51 (Wednesday, March 17, 1999)]
[Notices]
[Pages 13212-13222]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 99-6456]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration for Children and Families
[Program Announcement No. 93631-99-01]
Developmental Disabilities: Final Notice of Availability of
Financial Assistance and Request for Applications To Support Family
Support Model Demonstration Projects Under the Projects of National
Significance Program
AGENCY: Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD), ACF, DHHS.
ACTION: Invitation to apply for financial assistance.
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SUMMARY: The Administration on Developmental Disabilities,
Administration for Children and Families (ACF), announces that
applications are being accepted for funding of Fiscal Year 1999 under
family support.
This program announcement consists of five parts. Part I, the
Introduction, discusses the goals and objectives of ACF and ADD. Part
II provides the necessary background information on ADD for applicants.
Part III describes the review process. Part IV describes the priority
under which ADD requests applications for Fiscal Year 1999 funding of
projects. Part V describes in detail how to prepare and submit an
application.
Grants will be awarded under this program announcement subject to
the availability of funds for support of these activities.
DATES: The closing date for submittal of applications under this
announcement May 17, 1999. Mailed or handcarried 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 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, ACF/
Administration on Developmental Disabilities, 370 L'Enfant Promenade
SW, Mail Stop 6C-462, Washington, DC 20447, Attention: Lois Hodge.''?
Applicants must ensure that a legibly dated U.S. Postal Service
postmark or a legibly dated, machine produced postmark of a commercial
mail service is affixed to the envelope/package containing the
application(s). To be acceptable as proof of timely mailing, a postmark
from a commercial mail service must include the logo/emblem of the
commercial mail service company and must reflect the date the package
was received by the commercial mail service company from the applicant.
Private Metered postmarks shall not be acceptable as proof of timely
mailing.
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 8:00 a.m.
and 4:30 p.m., EST, at the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, ACF/Administration on Developmental Disabilities, 370
L'Enfant Promenade SW, ACF Mail Center, 2nd Floor (near loading dock),
Aerospace Center, 901 D Street, SW, Washington, DC 20024, between
Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays). This address must
appear on the envelope/package containing the application with the note
``Attention: Lois Hodge. Applicants using express/overnight 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.) Any applications received
after 4:30 p.m. on the deadline date will not be considered for
competition.
ADD cannot accommodate transmission of applications by fax or
through other electronic media. Therefore, applications transmitted to
ADD electronically will not be accepted regardless of date or time of
submission and time of receipt.
LATE APPLICATIONS: Applications that do not meet the criteria above are
considered late applications. ADD shall notify each late applicant that
its application will not be considered in the current competition.
EXTENSION OF DEADLINES: ADD may extend the deadline for all applicants
because of acts of God such as floods and hurricanes, or when there is
widespread disruption of the mails. However, if ADD does not extend the
deadline for all applicants, it may not waive or extend the deadline
for any applicants.
ADDRESSES: Application materials are available from Pat Laird, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20447, 202/690-7447; http://
www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/add; or add@acf.dhhs.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Administration for Children and
Families (ACF), Pat Laird, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., Washington,
D.C., 20447, 202/690-7447; or add@acf.dhhs.gov.
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SUBMIT APPLICATION: If you intend to submit an
application, please send a post card with the number and title of this
announcement, your organization's name and address, and your contact
person's name, phone and fax numbers, and e-mail address to:
Administration on Developmental Disabilities, 370 L'Enfant Promenade
SW, Washington, DC, 20447, Attn: Family Support.
This information will be used to determine the number of expert
reviewers needed and to update the mailing list to whom program
announcements are sent.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Part I. General Information
A. Goals of the Administration on Developmental Disabilities
The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is located
within the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Department
of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Although different from the other
ACF program administrations in the specific populations it serves, ADD
shares a common set of goals that promote the economic and social well
being of families, children, individuals and communities. Through
national leadership, ACF and ADD envision:
Families and individuals empowered to increase their own
economic independence and productivity;
Strong, healthy, supportive communities having a positive
impact on the quality of life and the development of children;
Partnerships with individuals, front-line service
providers, communities, States and Congress that enable solutions which
transcend traditional agency boundaries;
Services planned and integrated to improve client access;
A strong commitment to working with Native Americans,
persons with developmental disabilities, refugees and migrants to
address their needs, strengths and abilities; and
A community-based approach that recognizes and expands on
the resources and benefits of diversity.
Emphasis on these goals and progress toward them will help more
[[Page 13213]]
individuals, including people with developmental disabilities, to live
productive and independent lives integrated into their communities.
B. Purpose of the Administration on Developmental Disabilities
The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is the lead
agency within ACF and DHHS responsible for planning and administering
programs that promote the self-sufficiency and protect the rights of
persons with developmental disabilities.
The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act
(42 U.S.C. 6000, et seq.) (the Act) supports and provides assistance to
States and public and private nonprofit agencies and organizations to
assure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their
families participate in the design of and have access to culturally
competent services, supports, and other assistance and opportunities
that promote independence, productivity, integration and inclusion into
the community.
In the Act, Congress expressly found that:
Disability is a natural part of the human experience that
does not diminish the right of individuals with developmental
disabilities to enjoy the opportunity for independence, productivity,
integration and inclusion into the community;
Individuals whose disabilities occur during their
developmental period frequently have severe disabilities that are
likely to continue indefinitely;
Individuals with developmental disabilities often require
lifelong specialized services and assistance, provided in a coordinated
and culturally competent manner by many agencies, professionals,
advocates, community representatives, and others to eliminate barriers
and to meet the needs of such individuals and their families;
The Act further established as the policy of the United States:
Individuals with developmental disabilities, including
those with the most severe developmental disabilities, are capable of
achieving independence, productivity, integration and inclusion into
the community, and often require the provision of services, supports
and other assistance to achieve such;
Individuals with developmental disabilities have
competencies, capabilities and personal goals that should be
recognized, supported, and encouraged, and any assistance to such
individuals should be provided in an individualized manner, consistent
with the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities,
and capabilities of the individual;
Individuals with developmental disabilities and their
families are the primary decision makers regarding the services and
supports such individuals and their families receive; and play decision
making roles in policies and programs that affect the lives of such
individuals and their families; and
It is in the nation's interest for people with
developmental disabilities to be employed, and to live conventional and
independent lives as a part of families and communities.
Toward these ends, ADD seeks: to enhance the capabilities of
families in assisting people with developmental disabilities to achieve
their maximum potential; to support the increasing ability of people
with developmental disabilities to exercise greater choice and self-
determination; to engage in leadership activities in their communities;
as well as to ensure the protection of their legal and human rights.
The four programs funded under the Act are:
Federal assistance to State developmental disabilities
councils;
State system for the protection and advocacy of
individuals rights;
Grants to University Affiliated Programs for
interdisciplinary training, exemplary services, technical assistance,
and information dissemination; and
Grants for Projects of National Significance.
C. Statutory Authorities Covered Under This Announcement
The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of
1996, 42 U.S.C. 6000, et.seq. The Projects of National Significance is
Part E of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights
Act of 1996, 42 U.S.C. 6081, et.seq. The Omnibus Appropriations Bill,
FY `99, P.L. 105-277, 31 U.S.C. 1553(b).
Part II. Background Information For Applicants
A. Description of Family Support Program
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et.
seq.) was amended in 1994 by adding at the end the ``Families of
Children With Disabilities Support Act of 1994''. The purpose of this
new family support program was for states to create or expand statewide
systems change. Although authorization levels were provided, funds were
never appropriated. The administrative authority for implementing the
family support program was given to the U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services and within that Department it was delegated to the
Administration on Developmental Disabilities. The authority for this
program was to expire at the end of fiscal year 1998 or September 30,
1998.
In the fiscal year 1999 appropriations bill funds were provided for
this program for one year. It allows for the award of competitive,
statewide systems change grants to conduct training and technical
assistance and other national activities designed to address the
problems which impede the self-sufficiency of families of children with
disabilities.
Part III. The Review Process
A. Eligible Applicants
Before applications under this Announcement are reviewed, each will
be screened to determine that the applicant is eligible for funding as
specified under the selected priority area. Applications from
organizations that do not meet the eligibility requirements for the
priority area will not be considered or reviewed in the competition,
and the applicant will be so informed.
Only public or non-profit private entities, not individuals, are
eligible to apply under any of the priority areas. All applications
developed jointly by more than one agency or organization must identify
only one organization as the lead organization and official applicant.
The other participating agencies and organizations can be included as
co-participants, subgrantees or subcontractors.
Nonprofit organizations must submit proof of nonprofit status in
their applications at the time of submission. One means of
accomplishing this is by providing a copy of the applicant's listing in
the Internal Revenue Service's most recent list of tax-exempt
organizations described in section 501 (c) (3) of the IRS code or by
providing a copy of the currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate,
or by providing a copy of the articles of incorporation bearing the
seal of the State in which the corporation or association is domiciled.
ADD cannot fund a nonprofit applicant without acceptable proof of
its nonprofit status.
Under this priority area proof of designation as lead agency by the
governor/CEO must be provided.
[[Page 13214]]
B. Review Process and Funding Decisions
Timely applications under this Announcement from eligible
applicants received by the deadline date will be reviewed and scored
competitively. Experts in the field, generally persons from outside of
the Federal government, will use the appropriate evaluation criteria
listed later in this Part to review and score the applications. The
results of this review are a primary factor in making funding
decisions.
ADD reserves the option of discussing applications with, or
referring them to, other Federal or non-Federal funding sources when
this is determined to be in the best interest of the Federal government
or the applicant. It may also solicit comments from ADD Regional Office
staff, other Federal agencies, interested foundations, national
organizations, specialists, experts, States and the general public. ADD
will consider these comments, along with those of the expert reviewers,
in making funding decisions.
In making decisions on awards, ADD will consider whether
applications focus on or feature: services to culturally diverse or
ethnic populations among others; a substantially innovative strategy
with the potential to improve theory or practice in the field of human
services; a model practice or set of procedures that holds the
potential for replication by organizations administering or delivering
of human services; substantial involvement of volunteers; substantial
involvement (either financial or programmatic) of the private sector; a
favorable balance between Federal and non-Federal funds available for
the proposed project; the potential for high benefit for low Federal
investment; a programmatic focus on those most in need; and/or
substantial involvement in the proposed project by national or
community foundations.
This year, 5 points will be awarded in scoring for any project that
includes partnership and collaboration with the 112 Empowerment Zones/
Enterprise Communities.
To the greatest extent possible, efforts will be made to ensure
that funding decisions reflect an equitable distribution of assistance
among the States and geographical regions of the country, rural and
urban areas, and ethnic populations. In making these decisions, ADD may
also take into account the need to avoid unnecessary duplication of
effort.
C. Evaluation Process
Using the evaluation criteria below, a panel of at least three
reviewers (primarily experts from outside the Federal government) will
review the applications. To facilitate this review, applicants should
ensure that they address each minimum requirement in the priority area
description under the appropriate section of the Program Narrative
Statement.
Reviewers will determine the strengths and weaknesses of each
application in terms of the evaluation criteria listed below, provide
comments, and assign numerical scores. The point value following each
criterion heading indicates the maximum numerical weight that each
section may be given in the review process.
D. Structure of Priority Area Descriptions
The priority area description is composed of the following
sections:
Eligible Applicants: This section specifies the type of
organization that is eligible to apply under the particular priority
area. Specific restrictions are also noted, where applicable.
Purpose: This section presents the basic focus and/or
broad goal(s) of the priority area.
Background Information: This section briefly discusses the
legislative background as well as the current state-of-the-art and/or
current state-of-practice that supports the need for the particular
priority area activity. Relevant information on projects previously
funded by ACF and/or other State models are noted, where applicable.
Evaluation Criteria: This section presents the basic set
of issues that must be addressed in the application. Typically, they
relate to need for assistance, results expected, project design, and
organizational and staff capabilities. Inclusion and discussion of
these items is important since the information provided will be used by
the reviewers in evaluating the application against the evaluation
criteria.
Minimum Requirements for Project Design: This section
presents the basic set of issues that must be addressed in the
application. Typically, they relate to project design, evaluation, and
community involvement. This section also asks for specific information
on the proposed project. Inclusion and discussion of these items is
important since they will be used by the reviewers to evaluate the
applications against the evaluation criteria. Project products,
continuation of the project after Federal support ceases, and
dissemination/utilization activities, if appropriate, are also
addressed.
Project Duration: This section specifies the maximum
allowable length of the project period; it refers to the amount of time
for which Federal funding is available.
Federal Share of Project Costs: This section specifies the
maximum amount of Federal support for the project.
Matching Requirement: This section specifies the minimum
non-Federal contribution, either cash or in-kind match, required.
Anticipated Number of Projects To Be Funded: This section
specifies the number of projects ADD anticipates funding under the
priority area.
CFDA: This section identifies the Catalog of Federal
Domestic Assistance (CFDA) number and title of the program under which
applications in this priority area will be funded. This information is
needed to complete item 10 on the SF 424.
Please note that applications under this Announcement that do not
comply with the specific priority area requirements in the section on
``Eligible Applicants'' will not be reviewed. Applicants under this
Announcement must clearly identify the specific priority area under
which they wish to have their applications considered, and tailor their
applications accordingly. Experience has shown that an application
which is broader and more general in concept than outlined in the
priority area description is less likely to score as well as an
application more clearly focused on, and directly responsive to, the
concerns of that specific priority area.
E. Available Funds
ADD intends to award new grants resulting from this announcement
during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 1999, subject to the
availability of funding. The size of the awards will vary. Each
priority area description includes information on the maximum Federal
share of the project costs and the anticipated number of projects to be
funded.
The term ``budget period'' refers to the interval of time (usually
12 months) into which a multi-year period of assistance (project
period) is divided for budgetary and funding purposes. The term
``project period'' refers to the total time a project is approved for
support, including any extensions.
Where appropriate, applicants may propose shorter project periods
than the maximums specified in the various priority areas. Non-Federal
share contributions may exceed the minimums specified in the various
priority areas.
[[Page 13215]]
For multi-year projects, continued Federal funding beyond the first
budget period, but within the approved project period, is subject to
the availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the grantee and a
determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of
the Government.
F. Grantee Share of Project Costs
Grantees must match $1 for every $3 requested in Federal funding to
reach 25% 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. Cash or in-kind contributions may meet the non-Federal share,
although applicants are encouraged to meet their match requirements
through cash contributions. Therefore, a project requesting $100,000 in
Federal funds (based on an award of $100,000 per budget period) must
include a match of at least $33,333 (total project cost is $133,333, of
which $33,333 is 25%).
An exception to the grantee cost-sharing requirement relates to
applications originating from American Samoa, Guam, the Virgin Islands,
and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Applications from
these areas are covered under Section 501(d) of P. L. 95-134, which
requires that the Department waive ``any requirement for local matching
funds for grants under $200,000.''
The applicant contribution must generally be secured from non-
Federal sources. Except as provided by Federal statute, a cost sharing
or matching requirement may not be met by costs borne by another
Federal grant. However, funds from some Federal programs benefiting
Tribes and Native American organizations have been used to provide
valid sources of matching funds. If this is the case for a Tribe or
Native American organization submitting an application to ADD, that
organization should identify the programs which will be providing the
funds for the match in its application. If the application successfully
competes for PNS grant funds, ADD will determine whether there is
statutory authority for this use of the funds. The Administration for
Native Americans and the DHHS Office of General Counsel will assist ADD
in making this determination.
G. General Instructions for the Uniform Project Description
The following ACF Uniform Project Description (UPD) has been
approved under OMB Control Number 0970-0139.
1. Introduction: Applicants required to submit a full project
description shall prepare the project description statement in
accordance with the following instructions.
2. Project summary/abstract: Provide a summary of the project
description (a page or less) with reference to the funding request.
3. 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.
4. Results or benefits expected: Identify the results and benefits
to be derived. For example, when applying for a grant to establish a
neighborhood child care center, describe who will occupy the facility,
who will use the facility, how the facility will be used, and how the
facility will benefit the community which it will serve.
5. Approach: Outline a plan of action which 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
which 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. When
accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function, list them
in chronological order to show the schedule of accomplishments and
their target dates.
Identify the kinds of data to be collected, maintained, and/or
disseminated. Note that clearance from the U.S. Office of Management
and Budget might be needed prior to a ``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.
6. Organization Profile: 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.
Any non-profit organization submitting an application must submit
proof of its non-profit status in its application at the time of
submission. The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing a
copy of the applicant's listing in the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS)
most recent list of tax-exempt organizations described in Section
501(c)(3) of the IRS code, or by providing a copy of the currently
valid IRS tax exemption certificate, or by providing a copy of the
articles of incorporation bearing the seal of the State in which the
corporation or association is domiciled.
H. Cooperation in Evaluation Efforts
Grantees funded by ADD may be requested to cooperate in evaluation
efforts funded by ADD. The purpose of these evaluation activities is to
learn from the combined experience of multiple projects funded under a
particular priority area.
I. Closed Captioning for Audiovisual Efforts
Applicants should include ``closed captioning'' in the development
of any audiovisual products.
Part IV. Fiscal Year 1999 Families of Children With Disabilities
Support Projects--Description and Requirements
The following section presents the final announcement for the area
of family support for Fiscal Year 1999 and solicits the appropriate
applications.
Eligible Applicants: A State entity or office designated
by the chief executive officer of the state as the lead agency for this
project.
Purpose: Project funds are to be utilized to support
systems change
[[Page 13216]]
activities designed to assist each State to develop and implement, or
expand and enhance, a family-centered and family-directed, culturally
competent, community-centered, comprehensive, statewide system of
family support for families of children with disabilities designed to--
(1) Ensure the full participation, choice and control of families
of children with disabilities in decisions related to the provision of
such family support for their family;
(2) Ensure the active involvement of families of children with
disabilities in the planning, development, implementation, and
evaluation of such a statewide system;
(3) Increase the availability of, funding for, access to, and
provision of family support for families of children with disabilities;
(4) Promote training activities that are family-centered and
family-directed and that enhance the ability of family members of
children with disabilities to increase participation, choice, and
control in the provision of family support for families of children
with disabilities;
(5) Increase and promote interagency coordination among State
agencies, and between State agencies and private entities that are
involved in these projects; and
(6) Increase the awareness of laws, regulations, policies,
practices, procedures, and organizational structures, which facilitate
or impede the availability or provision of family support for families
of children with disabilities.
Background Information: The concept of family support for
families with a child with a disability is a relatively new phenomenon
in disability policy. Historically, the only means of receiving
publicly funded services for a child with a severe disability was by
placing the child in a state institution. With a shift in thinking in
the early 1980s to a more family-centered approach to service provision
many states initiated family support legislation. This legislation was
often the result of initiatives developed by the state developmental
disabilities councils. Currently, all the states plus the District of
Columbia offer some type of family support program; this has consisted
of any community-based service administered or financed by the state
MR/DD agency providing for vouchers, direct cash payments to families,
reimbursement, or direct payments to service providers which the state
agency itself identified as family support. A review of these programs
reveals the range of services that fall within ``family support''--cash
subsidy payments, respite care, family counseling, architectural
adaptation of the home, in-home counseling, sibling support programs,
education and behavior management services and the purchase of
specialized equipment. Family support is a growing expenditure in state
budgets; in 1996 it constituted 2.3% of total MR/DD resources, compared
to 1.6% in 1992. The number of families supported is also growing, from
174,441 in 1992 to 280,535 in 1996.
The Federal government's involvement in family support began in
1982 with what is known as the ``Katie Beckett Waiver'', an option
under Medicaid which allows a state to waive the deeming of parental
income and resources for any child eighteen years of age and under who
is eligible for placement in a Medicaid certified long term care
institution or hospital, ICF/MR or nursing home. This waiver allows
parents access to an array of family, home and community supports. A
majority of states have not exercised this option.
Federal disability policy in the 1980s increasingly began to
reflect the principles of family-centered, community-based, coordinated
care as Federal programs were established or reauthorized. The
Temporary Respite Care and Crisis Nurseries Act of 1986 funded a
variety of in-home and out-of-home respite programs; a new Part H for
infants, toddlers, and their families was added in 1986 to the then
Education of the Handicapped Act; the reauthorization of the Maternal
and Child Health Care Block grant in 1989 emphasized these principles
in it's Children with Special Health Care Needs program; and in the
Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act a
definition of family support services was added in 1990.
Minimum Requirements for Project Design: ADD is interested
in awarding grant funds that will maximize opportunities for systems
change through the collaboration with and strengthening of generic
community action service organizations in order to ensure the provision
of family support to families of children with disabilities. Activities
should contain the following key components:
Establish a state policy council of families of children
with disabilities or utilize an existing council which will advise and
assist the lead entity in the performance of activities of this
application and be composed of a majority of members who are family
members of children with disabilities and who are youth with
disabilities (ages 18-21);
Training and technical assistance for family members,
service providers, community members, professionals, members of the
Policy Council, state agency staff, students and others;
Interagency coordination of Federal and State policies,
resources, and services; interagency workgroups to enhance public
funding options and coordination; and other interagency activities that
promote coordination;
Outreach to locate families who are eligible for family
support and to identify groups who are underserved or unserved;
Policy studies that relate to the development and
implementation, or expansion and enhancement, of a statewide system of
family support for families of children with disabilities;
Hearings and forums to solicit input from families of
children with disabilities regarding family support programs, policies,
and plans for such families;
Public awareness and education to families of children
with disabilities, parent groups and organizations, public and private
agencies, students, policymakers, and the general public;
Needs assessment;
Data collection and analysis related to the statewide
system of family support for families of children with disabilities;
Implementation plans to utilize generic community service
organizations in innovative partnerships to include families of
children with disabilities;
Pilot demonstration projects to demonstrate new approaches
to the provision of family support for families of children with
disabilities;
Evaluation system using measurable outcomes based on
family satisfaction indicators such as the extent to which a service or
support meets a need, solves a problem, or adds value for a family, as
determined by the individual family.
ADD is particularly interested in applications that incorporate
into these activities one or more of the following populations relevant
to their state: (1) Unserved and underserved populations which includes
populations such as individuals from racial and ethnic minority
backgrounds, economically disadvantaged individuals, individuals with
limited-English proficiency, and individuals from underserved
geographic areas (rural or urban); (2) aging families of adult children
with disabilities who are over age 21 with a focus on assisting those
families and their adult child to be included as self-determining
members of their
[[Page 13217]]
communities; (3) foster/adoptive families of children with
disabilities; (4) families participating in the state's Temporary
Assistance to Needy Families Program (TANF) , welfare-to-work, and/or
SSI program; (5) veterans with families having a child with a
disability; (6) parents with disabilities, especially with cognitive
disabilities, having children with or without disabilities; and (7)
families of children with behavioral/emotional issues
As a general guide, ADD will expect to fund only those proposals
for projects that incorporate the following elements:
Consumer/self-advocate orientation and participation.
Key project personnel with direct life experience with
living with a disability.
Strong advisory components that consist of a majority of
individuals with disabilities and a structure where individuals with
disabilities make real decisions that determine the outcome of the
grant.
Research reflects the principles of participatory action.
Cultural competency.
A description of how individuals with disabilities and
their families will be involved in all aspects of the design,
implementation, and evaluation of the project.
Attention to unserved and inadequately served individuals,
having a range of disabilities from mild to severe, from multicultural
backgrounds, rural and inner-city areas, migrant, homeless, and refugee
families, with severe disabilities.
Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended by the
Rehabilitation Act amendments of 1998 (P.L. 105-220).
Collaboration through partnerships and coalitions.
Development of the capacity to communicate and disseminate
information and technical assistance through e-mail and other
effective, affordable, and accessible forms of electronic
communication.
Applications should also include provisions for the travel of a key
staff person during the first and last years of the project to
Washington, DC for a one-day meeting with ADD staff.
Evaluation Criteria: The four criteria that follow will be
used to review and evaluate each application under this announcement.
Each of these criterion should be addressed in the project description
section of the application. The point values indicate the maximum
numerical weight each criterion will be accorded in the review process.
The specific information to be included under each of these headings is
described in Section G of Part III, General Instructions for the
Uniform Project Description. Additional information that should be
included is described below.
Criterion 1: Objectives and Need for Assistance (20 points)
The application must identify the precise location of the project
and area to be served by the proposed project. Maps and other graphic
aids should be attached
Criterion 2: Results or Benefits Expected (20 points) The extent to
which they are consistent with the objectives of the application, and
the extent to which the application indicates the anticipated
contributions to policy, practice, theory and/or research. The extent
to which the proposed project costs is reasonable in view of the
expected results.
Criterion 3: Approach (35 points)
Discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate the results, and
explain the methodology that will be used to determine if the needs
identified and discussed are being met and if the results and benefits
identified are being achieved.
Criterion 4: Organization Profile (25 points)
The application identifies the background of the project director/
principal investigator and key project staff (including name, address,
training, educational background and other qualifying experience) and
the experience of the organization to demonstrate the applicant's
ability to effectively and efficiently administer this project. The
application describes the relationship between this project and other
work planned, anticipated or under way by the applicant which is being
supported by Federal assistance.
This section should consist of a brief (two to three pages)
background description of how the applicant organization (or the unit
within the organization that will have responsibility for the project)
is organized, the types and quantity of services it provides, and/or
the research and management capabilities it possesses. It may include
descriptions of any current or previous relevant experience, or
describe the competence of the project team and its demonstrated
ability to produce a final product that is readily comprehensible and
usable. An organization chart showing the relationship of the project
to the current organization should be included.
Project Duration: This announcement is soliciting
applications for a project period up to seventeen (17) months under
this area with the possibility of additional project periods. Awards,
on a competitive basis, can be up to a seventeen-month budget period
although project periods may be for a longer period. Applications for
continuation grants funded under this announcement beyond the budget
period, but within a project period, will be entertained in subsequent
years on a non-competitive basis, subject to the availability of funds,
satisfactory progress of the grantee, and a determination that
continued funding would be in the best interest of the Government.
Federal Share of Project Costs: The maximum Federal share
is not to exceed $200,000 for a state and not to exceed $100,000 for a
territory for the first budget period or a minimum of $600,000 for a
state and $300,000 for a territory for the entire project period. There
is a possibility of increased funding in year two and three contingent
on additional funds.
Matching Requirement: Grantees must match $1 for every $3
requested in Federal funding to reach 25% 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. Cash or in-kind contributions may
meet the non-Federal share, although applicants are encouraged to meet
their match requirements through cash contributions. Therefore, a
project requesting $200,000 in Federal funds (based on an award of
$200,000 per budget period) must include a match of at least $66,666
(the total project cost is $266,666, of which $66,666 is 25%).
Anticipated Number of Projects to be Funded: It is
anticipated that up to seventeen (17) projects will be funded. Subject
to availability of additional resources in FY 2000 and the number of
acceptable applications received as a result of this program
announcement, the ADD Commissioner may elect to select recipients for
the FY 2000 cohort of programs out of the pool of applications
submitted for FY 1999 funds.
CFDA: ADD's CFDA (Code of Federal Domestic Assistance)
number is 93.631--Developmental Disabilities--Projects of National
Significance. This information is needed to complete item 10 on the SF
424.
Part V. Instructions for the Development and Submission of
Applications
This Part contains information and instructions for submitting
applications in response to this announcement. Application forms and
package along with a checklist and other materials can
[[Page 13218]]
be obtained by any of the following methods: Pat Laird, ADD, 370
L'Enfant Promenade SW, Washington, DC, 20447, 202/690-7447; http://
www.acf.dhhs. gov/programs/add; oradd@acf.dhhs.gov. Please copy and
use these forms in submitting an application.
Potential applicants should read this section carefully in
conjunction with the information contained within the specific priority
area under which the application is to be submitted. The priority area
description is in Part IV.
A. Required Notification of the State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
All applications under the ADD priority areas are required to
follow the Executive Order (E.O.) 12372 process, ``Intergovernmental
Review of Federal Programs,'' and 45 CFR Part 100, ``Intergovernmental
Review of Department of Health and Human Services Program and
Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own processes
for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance under
covered programs.
Note: State/territory participation in the intergovernmental
review process does not signify applicant eligibility for financial
assistance under a program. A potential applicant must meet the
eligibility requirements of the program for which it is applying
prior to submitting an application to its SPOC, if applicable, or to
ACF.
As of November 20, 1998, all States and territories, except
Alabama, Alaska, American Samoa, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho,
Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New
Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Palau, Pennsylvania, South Dakota,
Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington, have elected to
participate in the Executive Order process and have established a State
Single Point of Contact (SPOC). Applicants from these jurisdictions or
for projects administered by Federally recognized Indian Tribes need
take no action regarding E.O. 12372. Otherwise, applicants should
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the
prospective applications and receive any necessary instructions.
Applicants must submit all required materials to the SPOC as soon
as possible so that the program office can obtain and review SPOC
comments as part of the award process. It is imperative that the
applicant submit all required materials and indicate the date of this
submittal (or date SPOC was contacted, if no submittal is required) on
the SF 424, item 16a.
Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application
due date to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
However, there is insufficient time to allow for a complete SPOC
comment period. Therefore, we have reduced the comment period to 30
days from the closing date for applications. These comments are
reviewed as part of the award process. Failure to notify the SPOC can
result in delays in awarding grants.
SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are
requested to clearly differentiate between mere advisory comments and
those Official State process recommendations that may trigger the
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants and Audit
Resolution, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW, Mail Stop 6C-462, Washington,
DC 20447, Attn: 93.631 ADD--Projects of National Significance.
Contact information for each State's SPOC is found in the
application package.
B. Notification of State Developmental Disabilities Planning Councils
A copy of the application must also be submitted for review and
comment to the State Developmental Disabilities Council in each State
in which the applicant's project will be conducted. A list of the State
Developmental Disabilities Councils is included in the application
package.
C. Deadline for Submittal of Applications
One signed original and two copies of the application must be
submitted on or before May 17, 1999 to: U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Administration for Children and Families,
Administration on Developmental Disabilities, 370 L'Enfant Promenade,
SW, Mail Stop 6C-462, Washington, DC 20447, Attn: Lois Hodge.
Applications may be mailed or hand-delivered. Hand-delivered
applications are accepted during the normal working hours of 8:00 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applications shall be considered
as meeting an announced deadline if received by the deadline date at
the ACF Grants Office (Close of Business: 4:30 p.m., local prevailing
time).
Late applications: Applications that do not meet the criterion
stated above are considered late applications. ACF/ADD shall notify
each late applicant that its application will not be considered in the
current competition.
Extension of deadlines: ACF may extend the deadline for all
applicants due to acts of God, such as floods, hurricanes, or
earthquakes; or when there is a widespread disruption of the mails.
However, if the granting agency does not extend the deadline for all
applicants, it may not waive or extend the deadline for any applicants.
D. Instructions for Preparing the Application and Completing
Application Forms
The SF 424, SF 424A, SF 424A-Page 2 and Certifications/ Assurances
are contained in the application package that can be accessed as
mentioned earlier in this announcement. Please prepare your application
in accordance with the following instructions:
1. SF 424 Page 1, Application Cover Sheet
Please read the following instructions before completing the
application cover sheet. An explanation of each item is included.
Complete only the items specified.
Top of Page. Enter the single priority area number under which the
application is being submitted. An application should be submitted
under only one priority area.
Item 1. ``Type of Submission''--Preprinted on the form.
Item 2. ``Date Submitted'' and ``Applicant Identifier''--Date
application is submitted to ACF and applicant's own internal control
number, if applicable.
Item 3. ``Date Received By State''--State use only (if applicable).
Item 4. ``Date Received by Federal Agency''--Leave blank.
Item 5. ``Applicant Information''.
``Legal Name''--Enter the legal name of applicant organization. For
applications developed jointly, enter the name of the lead organization
only. There must be a single applicant for each application.
``Organizational Unit''--Enter the name of the primary unit within
the applicant organization which will actually carry out the project
activity. Do not use the name of an individual as the applicant. If
this is the same as the applicant organization, leave the
organizational unit blank.
``Address''--Enter the complete address that the organization
actually uses to receive mail, since this is the address to which all
correspondence will be sent. Do not include both street
[[Page 13219]]
address and P.O. box number unless both must be used in mailing.
``Name and telephone number of the person to be contacted on
matters involving this application (give area code)''--Enter the full
name (including academic degree, if applicable) and telephone number of
a person who can respond to questions about the application. This
person should be accessible at the address given here and will receive
all correspondence regarding the application.
Item 6. ``Employer Identification Number (EIN)''--Enter the
employer identification number of the applicant organization, as
assigned by the Internal Revenue Service, including, if known, the
Central Registry System suffix.
Item 7. ``Type of Applicant''--Self-explanatory.
Item 8. ``Type of Application''--Preprinted on the form.
Item 9. ``Name of Federal Agency''--Preprinted on the form.
Item 10. ``Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number and
Title''--Enter the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) number
assigned to the program under which assistance is requested and its
title. For all of ADD's priority areas, the following should be
entered, ``93.631--Developmental Disabilities: Projects of National
Significance.''
Item 11. ``Descriptive Title of Applicant's Project''--Enter the
project title. The title is generally short and is descriptive of the
project, not the priority area title.
Item 12. ``Areas Affected by Project''--Enter the governmental unit
where significant and meaningful impact could be observed. List only
the largest unit or units affected, such as State, county, or city. If
an entire unit is affected, list it rather than subunits.
Item 13. ``Proposed Project''--Enter the desired start date for the
project and projected completion date.
Item 14. ``Congressional District of Applicant/Project''--Enter the
number of the Congressional district where the applicant's principal
office is located and the number of the Congressional district(s) where
the project will be located. If Statewide, a multi-State effort, or
nationwide, enter ``00.''
Items 15. Estimated Funding Levels
In completing 15a through 15f, the dollar amounts entered should
reflect, for a 17-month or less project period, the total amount
requested. If the proposed project period exceeds 17 months, enter only
those dollar amounts needed for the first 12 months of the proposed
project.
Item 15a. Enter the amount of Federal funds requested in accordance
with the preceding paragraph. This amount should be no greater than the
maximum amount specified in the priority area description.
Items 15b-e. Enter the amount(s) of funds from non-Federal sources
that will be contributed to the proposed project. Items b-e are
considered cost sharing or ``matching funds.'' The value of third party
in-kind contributions should be included on appropriate lines as
applicable. For more information regarding funding as well as
exceptions to these rules, see Part III, Sections E and F, and the
specific priority area description.
Item 15f. Enter the estimated amount of program income, if any,
expected to be generated from the proposed project. Do not add or
subtract this amount from the total project amount entered under item
15g. Describe the nature, source and anticipated use of this program
income in the Project Narrative Statement.
Item 15g. Enter the sum of items 15a-15e.
Item 16a. ``Is Application Subject to Review By State Executive
Order 12372 Process? Yes.''--Enter the date the applicant contacted the
SPOC regarding this application. Select the appropriate SPOC from the
listing provided at the end of Part IV. The review of the application
is at the discretion of the SPOC. The SPOC will verify the date noted
on the application.
Item 16b. ``Is Application Subject to Review By State Executive
Order 12372 Process? No.''--Check the appropriate box if the
application is not covered by E.O. 12372 or if the program has not been
selected by the State for review.
Item 17. ``Is the Applicant Delinquent on any Federal Debt?''--
Check the appropriate box. This question applies to the applicant
organization, not the person who signs as the authorized
representative. Categories of debt include audit disallowances, loans
and taxes.
Item 18. ``To the best of my knowledge and belief, all data in this
application/preapplication are true and correct. The document has been
duly authorized by the governing body of the applicant and the
applicant will comply with the attached assurances if the assistance is
awarded.''--To be signed by the authorized representative of the
applicant. A copy of the governing body's authorization for signature
of this application by this individual as the official representative
must be on file in the applicant's office, and may be requested from
the applicant.
Item 18a-c. ``Typed Name of Authorized Representative, Title,
Telephone Number''--Enter the name, title and telephone number of the
authorized representative of the applicant organization.
Item 18d. ``Signature of Authorized Representative'' --Signature of
the authorized representative named in Item 18a. At least one copy of
the application must have an original signature. Use colored ink (not
black) so that the original signature is easily identified.
Item 18e. ``Date Signed''--Enter the date the application was
signed by the authorized representative.
2. SF 424A--Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs
This is a form used by many Federal agencies. For this application,
Sections A, B, C, E and F are to be completed. Section D does not need
to be completed.
Sections A and B should include the Federal as well as the non-
Federal funding for the proposed project covering (1) the total project
period of 17 months or less or (2) the first year budget period, if the
proposed project period exceeds 15 months.
Section A--Budget Summary. This section includes a summary of the
budget. On line 5, enter total Federal costs in column (e) and total
non-Federal costs, including third party in-kind contributions, but not
program income, in column (f). Enter the total of (e) and (f) in column
(g).
Section B--Budget Categories. This budget, which includes the
Federal as well as non-Federal funding for the proposed project, covers
(1) the total project period of 17 months or less or (2) the first-year
budget period if the proposed project period exceeds 17 months. It
should relate to item 15g, total funding, on the SF 424. Under column
(5), enter the total requirements for funds (Federal and non-Federal)
by object class category.
A separate budget justification should be included to explain fully
and justify major items, as indicated below. The types of information
to be included in the justification are indicated under each category.
For multiple year projects, it is desirable to provide this information
for each year of the project. The budget justification should
immediately follow the second page of the SF 424A.
Personnel--Line 6a. Enter the total costs of salaries and wages of
applicant/grantee staff. Do not include the costs of consultants, which
should be included on line 6h, ``Other.''
Justification: Identify the principal investigator or project
director, if
[[Page 13220]]
known. Specify by title or name the percentage of time allocated to the
project, the individual annual salaries, and the cost to the project
(both Federal and non-Federal) of the organization's staff who will be
working on the project.
Fringe Benefits--Line 6b. Enter the total costs of fringe benefits,
unless treated as part of an approved indirect cost rate.
Justification: Provide a break-down of amounts and percentages that
comprise fringe benefit costs, such as health insurance, FICA,
retirement insurance, etc.
Travel--6c. Enter total costs of out-of-town travel (travel
requiring per diem) for staff of the project. Do not enter costs for
consultant's travel or local transportation, which should be included
on Line 6h, ``Other.''
Justification: Include the name(s) of traveler(s), total number of
trips, destinations, length of stay, transportation costs and
subsistence allowances.
Equipment--Line 6d. Enter the total costs of all equipment to be
acquired by the project. For State and local governments, including
Federally recognized Indian Tribes, ``equipment'' is tangible, non-
expendable personal property having a useful life of more than one year
and acquisition cost of $5,000 or more per unit.
Justification: Equipment to be purchased with Federal funds must be
justified. The equipment must be required to conduct the project, and
the applicant organization or its subgrantees must not have the
equipment or a reasonable facsimile available to the project. The
justification also must contain plans for future use or disposal of the
equipment after the project ends.
Supplies--Line 6e. Enter the total costs of all tangible expendable
personal property (supplies) other than those included on Line 6d.
Justification: Specify general categories of supplies and their
costs.
Contractual--Line 6f. Enter the total costs of all contracts,
including (1) procurement contracts (except those which belong on other
lines such as equipment, supplies, etc.) and (2) contracts with
secondary recipient organizations, including delegate agencies. Also
include any contracts with organizations for the provision of technical
assistance. Do not include payments to individuals on this line. If the
name of the contractor, scope of work, and estimated total costs are
not available or have not been negotiated, include on Line 6h,
``Other.''
Justification: Attach a list of contractors, indicating the names
of the organizations, the purposes of the contracts, and the estimated
dollar amounts of the awards as part of the budget justification.
Whenever the applicant/grantee intends to delegate part or the entire
program to another agency, the applicant/grantee must complete this
section (Section B, Budget Categories) for each delegate agency by
agency title, along with the supporting information. The total cost of
all such agencies will be part of the amount shown on Line 6f. Provide
backup documentation identifying the name of contractor, purpose of
contract, and major cost elements.
Construction--Line 6g. Not applicable. New construction is not
allowable.
Other--Line 6h. Enter the total of all other costs. Where
applicable, such costs may include, but are not limited to: insurance;
medical and dental costs; noncontractual fees and travel paid directly
to individual consultants; local transportation (all travel which does
not require per diem is considered local travel); space and equipment
rentals; printing and publication; computer use; training costs,
including tuition and stipends; training service costs, including wage
payments to individuals and supportive service payments; and staff
development costs. Note that costs identified as ``miscellaneous'' and
``honoraria'' are not allowable.
Justification: Specify the costs included.
Total Direct Charges--Line 6i. Enter the total of Lines 6a through
6h.
Indirect Charges--6j. Enter the total amount of indirect charges
(costs). If no indirect costs are requested, enter ``none.'' Generally,
this line should be used when the applicant (except local governments)
has a current indirect cost rate agreement approved by the Department
of Health and Human Services or another Federal agency.
Local and State governments should enter the amount of indirect
costs determined in accordance with HHS requirements. When an indirect
cost rate is requested, these costs are included in the indirect cost
pool and should not be charged again as direct costs to the grant.
In the case of training grants to other than State or local
governments (as defined in title 45, Code of Federal Regulations, part
74), the Federal reimbursement of indirect costs will be limited to the
lesser of the negotiated (or actual) indirect cost rate or 8 percent of
the amount allowed for direct costs, exclusive of any equipment
charges, rental of space, tuition and fees, post-doctoral training
allowances, contractual items, and alterations and renovations.
For training grant applications, the entry under line 6j should be
the total indirect costs being charged to the project. The Federal
share of indirect costs is calculated as shown above. The applicant's
share is calculated as follows:
(a) Calculate total project indirect costs (a*) by applying the
applicant's approved indirect cost rate to the total project (Federal
and non-Federal) direct costs.
(b) Calculate the Federal share of indirect costs (b*) at 8 percent
of the amount allowed for total project (Federal and non-Federal)
direct costs exclusive of any equipment charges, rental of space,
tuition and fees, post-doctoral training allowances, contractual items,
and alterations and renovations.
(c) Subtract (b*) from (a*). The remainder is what the applicant
can claim as part of its matching cost contribution.
Justification: Enclose a copy of the indirect cost rate agreement.
Applicants subject to the limitation on the Federal reimbursement of
indirect costs for training grants should specify this.
Total--Line 6k. Enter the total amounts of lines 6i and 6j.
Program Income--Line 7. Enter the estimated amount of income, if
any, expected to be generated from this project. Do not add or subtract
this amount from the total project amount.
Justification: Describe the nature, source, and anticipated use of
program income in the Program Narrative Statement.
Section C--Non-Federal Resources. This section summarizes the
amounts of non-Federal resources that will be applied to the grant.
Enter this information on line 12 entitled ``Totals.'' In-kind
contributions are defined in title 45 of the Code of Federal
Regulations, Parts 74.51 and 92.24, as ``property or services which
benefit a grant-supported project or program and which are contributed
by non-Federal third parties without charge to the grantee, the
subgrantee, or a cost-type contractor under the grant or subgrant.''
Justification: Describe third party in-kind contributions, if
included.
Section D--Forecasted Cash Needs. Not applicable.
Section E--Budget Estimate of Federal Funds Needed For Balance of
the Project. This section should only be completed if the total project
period exceeds 17 months.
Totals--Line 20. For projects that will have more than one budget
period, enter the estimated required Federal funds for the second
budget period (months 13 through 24) under column ``(b) First.'' If
[[Page 13221]]
a third budget period will be necessary, enter the Federal funds needed
for months 25 through 36 under ``(c) Second.'' Columns (d) and (e) are
not applicable in most instances, since ACF funding is almost always
limited to a three-year maximum project period. They should remain
blank.
Section F--Other Budget Information.
Direct Charges--Line 21. Not applicable.
Indirect Charges--Line 22. Enter the type of indirect rate
(provisional, predetermined, final or fixed) that will be in effect
during the funding period, the estimated amount of the base to which
the rate is applied, and the total indirect expense.
Remarks--Line 23. If the total project period exceeds 17 months,
you must enter your proposed non-Federal share of the project budget
for each of the remaining years of the project.
3. Project Summary/Abstract
Clearly mark this separate page with the applicant name as shown in
item 5 of the SF 424, the priority area number as shown at the top of
the SF 424, and the title of the project as shown in item 11 of the SF
424. The summary description should not exceed 300 words. These 300
words become part of the computer database on each project.
Care should be taken to produce a summary description that
accurately and concisely reflects the proposal. It should describe the
objectives of the project, the approaches to be used and the outcomes
expected. The description should also include a list of major products
that will result from the proposed project, such as software packages,
materials, management procedures, data collection instruments, training
packages, or videos (please note that audiovisuals should be closed
captioned). The project summary description, together with the
information on the SF 424, will constitute the project ``abstract.'' It
is the major source of information about the proposed project and is
usually the first part of the application that the reviewers read in
evaluating the application.
4. Project Description
The Project Description is a very important part of an application.
It should be clear, concise, and address the specific requirements
mentioned under the priority area description in Part IV. The narrative
should also provide information concerning how the application meets
the evaluation criteria, using the following headings:
(a) Objectives and Need for Assistance;
(b) Results and Benefits Expected;
(c) Approach; and
(d) Organization Profile.
The specific information to be included under each of these
headings is described in Section G of Part III, General Instructions
for the Uniform Project Description.
The narrative should be typed double-spaced on a single-side of an
8 1/2'' x 11'' plain white paper, with 1'' margins on all sides, using
black print no smaller than 12 pitch or 12 point size. All pages of the
narrative (including charts, references/footnotes, tables, maps,
exhibits, etc.) must be sequentially numbered, beginning with
``Objectives and Need for Assistance'' as page number one. Applicants
should not submit reproductions of larger size paper, reduced to meet
the size requirement.
The length of the application, including the application forms and
all attachments, should not exceed 60 pages. This will be strictly
enforced. A page is a single side of an 8 1/2 x 11'' sheet of paper.
Applicants are requested not to send pamphlets, brochures or other
printed material along with their application as these pose copying
difficulties. These materials, if submitted, will not be included in
the review process if they exceed the 60-page limit. Each page of the
application will be counted to determine the total length.
5. Part V--Assurances/Certifications
Applicants are required to file a SF 424B, Assurances--Non-
Construction Programs and the Certification Regarding Lobbying. Both
must be signed and returned with the application. Applicants must also
provide certifications regarding: (1) Drug-Free Workplace Requirements;
and (2) Debarment and Other Responsibilities. These two certifications
are self-explanatory. Copies of these assurances/certifications are
reprinted at the end of this announcement and should be reproduced, as
necessary. A duly authorized representative of the applicant
organization must certify that the applicant is in compliance with
these assurances/certifications. A signature on the SF 424 indicates
compliance with the Drug Free Workplace Requirements, and Debarment and
Other Responsibilities certifications, and need not be mailed back with
the application.
In addition, applicants are required under Section 162(c)(3) of the
Act to provide assurances that the human rights of all individuals with
developmental disabilities (especially those individuals without
familial protection) who will receive services under projects assisted
under Part E will be protected consistent with section 110 (relating to
the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities). Each
application must include a statement providing this assurance.
For research projects in which human subjects may be at risk, a
Protection of Human Subjects Assurance may be required. If there is a
question regarding the applicability of this assurance, contact the
Office for Research Risks of the National Institutes of Health at (301)
496-7041.
E. Checklist for a Complete Application
The checklist below is for your use to ensure that your application
package has been properly prepared.
--One original, signed and dated application, plus two copies.
Applications for different priority areas are packaged separately;
--Application is from an organization that is eligible under the
eligibility requirements defined in the priority area description
(screening requirement);
--Application length does not exceed 60 pages, unless otherwise
specified in the priority area description.
A complete application consists of the following items in this
order:
--Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424, REV 4-88);
--A completed SPOC certification with the date of SPOC contact entered
in line 16, page 1 of the SF 424 if applicable.
--Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs (SF 424A, REV 4-88);
--Budget justification for Section B--Budget Categories;
--Table of Contents;
--Letter from the Internal Revenue Service, etc. to prove non-profit
status, if necessary;
--Copy of the applicant's approved indirect cost rate agreement, if
appropriate;
--Project Description (See Part III, Section C);
--Any appendices/attachments;
--Assurances--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 424B, REV 4-88);
--Certification Regarding Lobbying; and Certification of Protection of
Human Subjects, if necessary.
--Certification of the Pro-Children Act of 1994; signature on the
application represents certification.
F. The Application Package
Each application package must include an original and two copies of
[[Page 13222]]
the complete application. Each copy should be stapled securely (front
and back if necessary) in the upper left-hand corner. All pages of the
narrative (including charts, tables, maps, exhibits, etc.) must be
sequentially numbered, beginning with page one. In order to facilitate
handling, please do not use covers, binders or tabs. Do not include
extraneous materials as attachments, such as agency promotion
brochures, slides, tapes, film clips, minutes of meetings, survey
instruments or articles of incorporation.
G. Paper Reduction Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-13)
The Uniform Project Description information collection within this
announcement is approved under the Uniform Project Description (0970-
0139), Expiration Date 10/31/2000.
Public reporting burden for this collection of information is
estimated to average 10 hours per response, including the time for
reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and
reviewing the collection of information.
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.
(Federal Catalog of Domestic Assistance Number 93.631 Developmental
Disabilities--Projects of National Significance)
Dated: March 11, 1999.
Sue Swenson,
Commissioner, Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
[FR Doc. 99-6456 Filed 3-16-99; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P
