[Federal Register Volume 64, Number 119 (Tuesday, June 22, 1999)]
[Notices]
[Pages 33293-33305]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 99-15372]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
[Program Announcement 99091]
Community-Based HIV Prevention Services and Capacity-Building
Assistance to Organizations Serving Gay Men of Color at Risk for HIV
Infection; Notice of Availability of Funds
A. Purpose
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announces the
availability of Fiscal Year (FY) 1999 funds for cooperative agreement
programs with non-governmental minority organizations to support: (1)
Community-based organizations (CBOs) to develop and implement effective
community-based HIV prevention programs for gay men of color (Category
A); and (2) non-governmental minority organizations to provide
regionally structured and focused capacity-building assistance to CBOs
that serve the HIV prevention needs of gay men of color at risk for HIV
infection (Category B).
This program addresses the ``Healthy People 2000'' priority areas
of Educational and Community-Based Programs, Human Immuno-deficiency
Virus (HIV) Infection, and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).
The goals for program Category A--Community-Based HIV Prevention
Services are to:
1. Provide financial and technical assistance to CBOs so they can
provide HIV prevention services to populations of gay men of color for
which gaps in services are demonstrated;
2. Support HIV prevention programs that are consistent with the HIV
prevention priorities outlined in the jurisdiction's comprehensive HIV
prevention plan or adequately justify addressing other priorities; and
3. Promote collaboration and coordination of HIV prevention efforts
among CBOs; HIV prevention community planning groups; and other local,
State, Federal and privately funded programs.
The goals for program Category B--Capacity-Building Assistance
Program are to:
1. Improve the capacity of CBOs serving gay men of color to
mobilize their communities to increase their awareness, leadership,
participation and support for HIV prevention; and
2. Enhance the capacity of CBOs serving gay men of color to
effectively participate in, and improve the responsiveness of the HIV
prevention community planning process to the HIV prevention needs of
gay men of color.
Refer to Section M, ``Where to Obtain Additional Information'', for
dates and times of audio-conferences.
B. Eligible Applicants
Note: Applicants that meet the eligibility requirements for both
Categories A and B may apply for both under separate applications.
For Category B, applicants may only apply to provide capacity-
building assistance to a single racial or ethnic group (that is,
African American, Latino, Asian/Pacific Islander, or American
Indian/Alaskan Native). For example, if an organization applies to
provide capacity-building assistance for African American gay men,
that organization may not also apply to provide assistance for
Latino gay men.
1. Category A--Community-Based HIV Prevention Services
Eligible applicants for Category A are African American, Latino,
Asian/Pacific Islander, and American Indian/Alaskan Native CBOs that
provide services to gay men, and that meet the following criteria (also
see Proof of Eligibility section):
a. Have been granted tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3), as
evidenced by an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) determination letter.
b. Have a board or governing body composed of greater than 50
percent of the racial/ethnic minority population to be served.
[[Page 33294]]
c. Members of the racial/ethnic minority population to be served
must serve in greater than 50 percent of key positions in the
organization, including management, supervisory, administrative, and
service provision positions (for example, executive director, program
director, fiscal director, outreach worker, prevention case manager,
counselor, group facilitator, or trainer).
d. Documentation of an established record of services to the target
population is required. An established record is defined as a minimum
of two years serving the target population.
e. Two or more racial/ethnic minority CBOs may apply as a
collaborative partnership. In a collaborative contractual partnership,
one CBO must be the legal applicant and will function as the lead
organization in the collaboration. The lead organization must meet
criteria a-d specified above and the collaborating CBO(s) must meet
criteria b and c specified above.
f. Racial/ethnic minority CBOs currently funded under program
announcement 704 that meet criteria
a-e above are eligible to apply for funding under this program
announcement only as a part of a collaboration with other racial/ethnic
minority CBOs.
Note: A CBO can only submit one application under this category;
that is, it may apply as an individual organization or as part of a
collaboration, but not both.
g. Local affiliates, chapters, or programs of national and regional
organizations are eligible to apply. In this case, the local affiliate,
chapter, or program applying must meet criteria
a-f, above.
h. Governmental or municipal agencies, their affiliate
organizations or agencies (e.g., health departments, school boards,
public hospitals), and private or public universities and colleges are
not eligible for funding under this announcement.
2. Category B--Capacity-Building Assistance Program
The Capacity-Building Assistance Program (Category B) will serve
four regional groups as follows:
Northeast Region: CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT, PR, U.S.
Virgin Islands
Midwest Region: IA, IL, IN, KS, MI, MN, MO, ND, NE, OH, SD, WI
South Region: AL, AR, D.C., DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, OK, SC,
TN, TX, VA, WV
West Region: AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NV, NM, OR, UT, WA, WY
Eligible applicants for Category B are: (1) A national minority
organization serving up to four regions either independently or as the
lead agency within a coalition; or (2) a regional minority organization
serving at least one region either independently or as the lead agency
within a coalition; or (3) a local minority organization as the lead
agency within a coalition serving one region. A coalition may consist
of any combination of national, regional or local minority
organizations.
The lead agency must be the legal applicant and all applicants must
meet the following criteria:
a. Have a copy of a currently valid IRS Determination letter
stating that the organization is a 501(c)(3).
b. Have a documented and established 3-year record of service to
community-based organizations serving gay men of color and to gay men
of color population(s). Acceptable documentation includes letters of
support, agency annual reports, client satisfaction survey summaries,
and memoranda of agreement.
c. Have a board or governing body composed of greater than 50
percent of the racial/ethnic minority population to be served. This
body must also include representation from members of the target
population (i.e. men who have sex with men, including bisexuals,
transgenders, and Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (GBT) youth).
d. Have greater than 50 percent of key positions in the applicant
organization, including management, supervisory, administrative, and
service positions filled by persons of the racial/ethnic population to
be served (for example, executive director, program director, fiscal
director, trainer, technical assistance provider, curricula development
specialist, or group facilitator).
e. Local affiliates, chapters, or programs of national and regional
organizations are eligible. In this case, the local affiliate, chapter,
or program applying must meet criteria a-d, above.
3. Categories A and B
Note: Public Law 104-65 states that an organization described in
section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that engages
in lobbying activities is not eligible to receive Federal funds
constituting an award, grant, cooperative agreement, contract, loan
or any other form.
C. Availability of Funds
Awards will be made in two categories: (A) community-based HIV
prevention services; and (B) capacity-building assistance program.
Applicants may apply for both categories if eligible; however, separate
applications must be submitted for each category.
1. Category A--Community-Based HIV Prevention Services.
Approximately $4,000,000 is available in FY 1999 to fund approximately
20 awards. It is expected that awards will begin on or about September
30, 1999 and will be made for a 12-month budget period within a project
period of up to 4 years. It is expected that the average award will be
approximately $200,000.
Note: Funds to support CBOs to provide HIV prevention services
are also available under Program Announcement 99092--Community Based
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Prevention Projects for African
Americans, Program Announcement 99096-HIV Prevention Projects for
African American Faith-Based Organizations, and Program Announcement
99047--Human Immunodeficiency Virus Community Based Prevention
Projects for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the United States
Virgin Islands. Eligible organizations may apply for and receive
funding under more than one of these announcements; however, the
total combined funding provided to any organization under these four
new announcements and those grantees currently funded under Program
Announcement 704 (97004) can not exceed $300,000, and awards will
not support the same project activities twice.
2. Category B--Capacity-Building Assistance Program Approximately
$2,400,000 is available in FY 1999 to fund approximately 9 awards. It
is expected that awards will begin on or about September 30, 1999 and
will be made for a 12-month budget period within a project period of up
to five years. It is expected that the average award will be
approximately $300,000.
3. Categories A and B
Funding estimates may change based on the availability of funds.
Continuation awards within an approved project period will be made
on the basis of availability of funds and the applicant's satisfactory
progress toward achieving objectives. Satisfactory progress toward
achieving objectives will be determined by progress reports submitted
by the recipient and site visits conducted by CDC representatives.
Proof of continued eligibility is required with noncompeting
continuation applications.
Use of Funds
1. Category A--Community-Based HIV Prevention Services Funds
provided under this Announcement must support activities directly
related to primary HIV prevention. However, intervention activities
which involve preventing other STDs or substance abuse as a means of
reducing or eliminating the risk of HIV transmission may also be
supported.
[[Page 33295]]
2. Category B--Capacity-Building Assistance Program Funds available
under this announcement must support assistance that increases the
capacity of CBOs to expand and sustain effective HIV prevention
activities for gay men of color whose behavior places them at high risk
for HIV and other STDs, and should include the following populations:
men who have sex with men, including bisexuals, transgenders, and Gay,
Bisexual and Transgender (GBT) youth.
Note: If indirect costs are requested, you must provide a copy
of your organization's current negotiated indirect rate agreement.
In the absence of an indirect cost rate agreement, the recipient may
request, with detailed justification, a maximum of 10 percent for
the executive director. If the organization has an indirect rate
that includes the executive director's salary, no additional funds
will be provided. Funds will not be provided for the salary of an
executive director that is also a member of the organization's Board
of Directors.
3. Categories A and B:
Applicants are encouraged to develop coalitions and may contract
with other organizations under these cooperative agreements; however,
applicants must perform a substantial portion of the activities
(including program management and operations and delivery of services)
for which funds are requested. Applications requesting funds to support
only administrative and managerial functions will not be accepted.
No funds will be provided for direct patient medical care
(including substance abuse treatment, medical treatment, or
medications) or research.
These funds may not be used to supplant or duplicate existing
funding. Funds awarded should be used to enhance or expand existing
activities.
Funding Priorities
1. Category A--Community-Based HIV Prevention Services
In making awards under Category A--Community Prevention Services,
priority for funding will be given to:
a. Ensuring a national distribution of CBO awards based on AIDS
morbidity among racial/ethnic minority populations, and
b. Supporting several CBO collaborations (consisting of two or more
minority organizations) in which the applicant (the lead organization)
proposes to share resources, strategies, and expertise with a start-up
or less experienced HIV prevention organization.
2. Category B--Capacity-Building Assistance Program
In making awards under Category B (Capacity-Building Assistance
Program), priority for funding will be given to: ensure that funding
for capacity-building assistance is distributed in proportion to the
disease burden for gay men of color in each region.
Interested persons are invited to comment on the proposed funding
priorities. All comments received within 30 days after publication in
the Federal Register will be considered before the final funding
priorities are established. If the funding priorities change because of
comments received, a revised announcement will be published in the
Federal Register, and revised applications will be accepted before the
final selections are made. Address comments to: Van Malone, Grants
Management Specialist, Grants Management Branch, Procurement and Grants
Office Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2920 Brandywine
Road, Room 3000, Mailstop E-15, Atlanta, GA 30341-4146.
D. Program Requirements--Category A--(Community-Based HIV Prevention
Services)
HIV prevention interventions are specific activities (or set of
related activities) using a common method of delivering the prevention
messages to reach persons at risk of becoming HIV-infected or, if
already infected, of transmitting the virus to others. The goal of HIV
prevention interventions is to bring about HIV risk reduction in a
particular population.
In order to maximize the effective use of CDC funds, each applicant
must conduct at least one of the following priority HIV prevention
interventions: (1) HIV Counseling, Testing and Referral Services; (2)
Individual Level Interventions; (3) Group Level Interventions; (4)
Community Level Interventions; and (5) Street and Community Outreach. A
brief description of these priority interventions is provided in
Attachment 1. Also, please reference the materials included in the tool
kit for additional information about these interventions. The tool kit
will be sent with the application packet.
Although activities may overlap from one type of intervention to
another (e.g., individual or group level interventions may be a part of
a community-level intervention), each applicant must indicate which one
of the five interventions is their primary focus.
Because of the resources, special expertise, and organizational
capacities needed for success, applicants should carefully consider the
feasibility of undertaking more than two of the priority interventions
listed. Recipients proposing to conduct more than two of these priority
prevention interventions must demonstrate the capacity to implement
them effectively.
In conducting activities to achieve the purposes of this program,
the recipient will be responsible for the activities under number 1.
(Recipient Activities) and CDC will be responsible for activities under
number 2. (CDC Activities) below.
1. Recipient Activities:
a. Design program activities by using epidemiologic data, needs
assessments, and prioritization of groups and interventions.
b. Develop program activities which are consistent with applicable
State and local comprehensive HIV prevention plans or adequately
justify addressing other priorities.
c. Provide--or assist high risk clients in gaining access to--HIV
counseling, testing, and referral for other needed services.
d. Conduct health education and risk reduction interventions for
persons at high risk of becoming infected or transmitting HIV to
others.
e. Assist HIV-positive persons in gaining access to appropriate HIV
treatment and other early medical care, substance abuse prevention
services, STD screening and treatment, partner counseling and referral
services, psychosocial support, mental health services, TB prevention
and treatment, primary HIV prevention such as health education and risk
reduction services, and other supportive services. High-risk clients
who test negative should be referred to appropriate health education
and risk reduction services and other appropriate prevention and
treatment services.
f. Ensure adequate protection of client confidentiality.
g. Coordinate and collaborate with health departments, community
planning groups, and other organizations and agencies involved in HIV
prevention activities, especially those serving the target population.
h. Participate in the HIV prevention community planning process.
Participation may include involvement in workshops; attending meetings;
if nominated and selected, serving as a member of the group; reporting
on program activities; or reviewing and commenting on plans.
i. Incorporate cultural competency and linguistic and developmental
appropriateness into all program activities and prevention messages.
j. Coordinate program activities with relevant national, regional,
State, and local HIV prevention programs to prevent duplication of
efforts.
[[Page 33296]]
k. Monitor and evaluate major program and intervention activities
and services supported with CDC HIV prevention funds under this
cooperative agreement. This should include assessing client
satisfaction periodically via quantitative (e.g., periodic surveys) and
qualitative methods (e.g., focus groups).
l. Compile ``lessons learned'' from the project and facilitate the
dissemination of ``lessons learned'' and successful prevention
interventions and program models to other organizations and CDC through
peer-to-peer interactions, meetings, workshops, conferences, Internet,
communications with project officers, and other capacity-building and
technology transfer mechanisms.
m. Work with CDC-funded capacity-building assistance programs to
meet your and other organizations' capacity-building needs.
n. Develop and implement a plan for obtaining additional resources
from non-CDC sources to supplement the program conducted through this
cooperative agreement and to enhance the likelihood of its continuation
after the end of the project period.
o. Adhere to CDC policies for securing approval for CDC sponsorship
of conferences.
p. Before using funds awarded through this cooperative agreement to
develop HIV prevention materials, recipients must check with the CDC
National Prevention Information Network (NPIN) to determine if suitable
materials are already available. Also, materials developed by
recipients must be made available for dissemination through the CDC
NPIN.
CDC's National Prevention Information Network (NPIN) maintains a
collection of HIV, STD and TB resources for use by organizations and
the public. Successful applicants may be contacted by NPIN to obtain
information on program resources for use in referrals and resource
directories. Also, grantees should send three copies of all educational
materials and resources developed under this grant for inclusion in
NPIN's databases.
NPIN also makes available information and technical assistance
services for use in program planning and evaluation. For further
information on NPIN services and resources, contact NPIN at 1-800-458-
5231(TTY users: 1-800-243-7012). NPIN's web site is www.cdcnpin.org;
the fax number is 1-888-282-7681.
2. CDC Activities
a. As appropriate, link funded applicants to a coordinated national
capacity building and technology transfer network.
b. Provide consultation and technical assistance in planning,
implementing, and evaluating prevention activities. CDC may provide
consultation and technical assistance both directly and indirectly
through prevention partners such as health departments, national and
regional minority organizations (NRMOs), contractors, and other
national organizations.
c. Provide up-to-date scientific information on risk factors for
HIV infection, prevention measures, and program strategies for
prevention of HIV infection.
d. Assist in the design and implementation of program evaluation
activities, including provision of evaluation forms, if appropriate.
e. Assist recipients in collaborating with State and local health
departments, community planning groups, and other federally supported
HIV/AIDS recipients.
f. Facilitate the transfer of successful prevention interventions,
program models, and ``lessons learned'' through convening meetings of
grantees, workshops, conferences, newsletters, use of the Internet, and
communications with project officers. Also facilitate exchange of
program information and technical assistance among community
organizations, health departments, and national and regional
organizations.
g. Monitor the recipient's performance of program activities,
protection of client confidentiality, and compliance with other
requirements.
h. Conduct an overall evaluation of this cooperative agreement
program.
E. Application Content--Category A--Community-Based HIV Prevention
Services
Use the information in the Program Requirements, Other
Requirements, and Application Evaluation Criteria sections to develop
the application content. Your application will be evaluated on the
criteria listed, so it is important to follow them in laying out your
program plan. The narrative should be no more than 40 pages (not
including the budget or attachments).
Number each page sequentially, and provide a complete Table of
Contents to the application and its appendices. Please begin each
separate section of the application on a new page. The original and
each copy of the application set must be submitted unstapled and
unbound. All material must be typewritten, single spaced, with
unreduced 12 point or 10 pitch font on 8\1/2\'' by 11'' paper, with at
least 1'' margins, headings and footers, and printed on one side only.
Materials which should be part of the basic narrative will not be
accepted if placed in the appendices.
Note: Applicants may apply for both categories (A and B), if
eligible; however, a separate application must be submitted for each
category.
In developing the application, you must follow the format and
instructions below:
Format For Category A--Community-Based HIV Prevention Services
1. Abstract.
2. Assessment of Need and Justification for Proposed Activities.
3. Long-term Goals.
4. Organizational History and Capacity.
5. Program Plan.
6. Program Evaluation Plan.
7. Communications and Dissemination Plan.
8. Plan for Acquiring Additional Resources.
9. Budget and Staffing Breakdown and Justification.
10. Training and Technical Assistance Plan.
11. Attachments.
Instructions For Category A--Community-Based HIV Prevention Services
1. Abstract (not to exceed 2 pages): summarize which intervention
category of the five priority HIV prevention interventions--(1) HIV
Counseling, Testing, and Referral Services; (2) Individual Level
Interventions; (3) Group Level Interventions; (4) Community Level
Interventions; and (5) Street and Community Outreach--you intend to
implement and your proposed intervention activities. Include the
following:
a. brief summary of the need for the proposed activities;
b. long-term goals;
c. brief summary of proposed plan of operation, including the
population(s) to be served, activities to be undertaken, and services
to be provided; and
d. brief summary of plans for evaluating the activities of this
project.
2. Assessment of Need and Justification for Proposed Activities
(not to exceed 5 pages):
a. Describe the population(s) for which your proposed
intervention(s) will provide services.
b. Describe the impact of the AIDS epidemic on the priority
population and their community and any specific environmental, social,
cultural, or linguistic characteristics of the priority populations
which you have considered
[[Page 33297]]
and addressed in developing prevention strategies, such as:
(1) HIV prevalence and incidence (if available), reported AIDS
cases, and the proportion that engages in specific risk behaviors
(sexual behaviors, substance use, etc.) in the target population;
(2) HIV/AIDS-related baseline knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and
behaviors;
(3) Patterns of substance use and rates of STDs and tuberculosis
(TB); and
(4) Other relevant information. (Specify)
c. Identify the need that will be addressed by your proposed
intervention(s), and describe how you assessed the need. Include
epidemiologic and other data that were used to identify the need.
Include a description of existing HIV prevention and risk-reduction
efforts provided by other organizations to address the needs of the
target population(s), and an analysis of the gap between the identified
need and the resources currently available to address the need (i.e.,
How will the proposed intervention(s) address an important unmet HIV
prevention need?).
d. Describe the specific behaviors and practices that the proposed
intervention(s) is designed to promote and prevent (e.g., increases in
correct and consistent condom use, knowledge of serological status, not
sharing needles, and enrollment in drug treatment and other preventive
programs).
e. Describe how your proposed intervention(s) complements the HIV
prevention priority populations and interventions identified in the
applicable State or local comprehensive HIV prevention plan(s). If the
comprehensive HIV prevention plan does not prioritize the needs that
you have identified, justify the need and the priority of your proposed
intervention activities and summarize how the activities address
prevention gaps and complement ongoing prevention efforts. State why
the funds being applied for in this application are necessary to
address the need. A list of the names and telephone numbers of State
health department contacts from whom you may obtain a copy of the
jurisdiction's comprehensive HIV prevention plan is provided with the
application kit;
f. Explain any specific barriers to the implementation of your
proposed intervention(s) and how you will overcome these barriers.
3. Long-term Goals (not to exceed 2 pages): Describe the broad HIV
prevention goals that your proposed intervention(s) aims to achieve by
the end of the project period (four years).
4. Organizational History and Capacity (not to exceed 4 pages)
Describe the following:
a. Organizational structure, including the role, responsibilities,
and racial/ethnic composition of board of directors; committee
structure of board of directors; organizational management,
administrative and program components; constituent or affiliate
organizations or networks; how the organizational structure will
support the proposed intervention activities; and how the structure
offers the capacity to reach targeted populations. Describe how the
organizational structure includes, or has the ability to obtain
meaningful input and representation from, members of the target
population(s) (for example, gay, bisexual, and Transgender populations,
youth at risk, HIV-positive individuals, substance abusers).
b. Past and current experience in developing and implementing
effective HIV prevention strategies and activities, and in developing
and implementing interventions similar to the one(s) proposed in this
application.
c. The process in your organization for making major programmatic
decisions.
d. Mechanisms used by your organization to monitor program
implementation and quality assurance.
e. Experience in working or collaborating with governmental and
non-governmental organizations, including State and local health
departments, local and State non-governmental organizations, national
agencies or organizations, community planning groups, and other groups
that provide HIV prevention services.
f. Capacity to provide the proposed interventions in a manner that
is culturally competent and linguistically and developmentally
appropriate, and which responds effectively to the gender,
environmental, and social characteristics of the target populations.
g. For any of the above areas in which you do not have direct
experience or current capacity, describe how you will ensure that your
organization will gain capacity (e.g., through staff development,
collaboration with other organizations, or a contract).
5. Program Plan (not to exceed 10 pages): Use this section to
describe the specific characteristics of your proposed intervention(s).
a. Involvement of the target population: Describe how the target
population is, or will be, involved in planning, implementing, and
evaluating activities and services throughout the project period.
b. Intervention Objectives: Develop process objectives that are
specific, measurable, appropriate, realistic, and time-based. Process
objectives focus on the projected amount, frequency, and duration of
the intervention activities and the number and characteristics of the
target population to be served. If applicable, describe how the
objectives are related to the prevention priorities outlined in the
jurisdiction's comprehensive HIV prevention plan. Describe potential
barriers to or facilitators for reaching these objectives.
c. Plan of Operation:
(1) Describe the specific activities to be conducted or services to
be provided to accomplish the objectives and where these activities or
services will take place. Make certain that your proposal addresses all
required activities. The following four HERR interventions will be
funded: Individual level (including prevention case management [PCM]),
group level, community level interventions, and street and community
outreach. Each recipient must conduct at least one of these
interventions. Applicants should not apply for more interventions than
they can conduct effectively.
(2) Describe your mechanisms for soliciting clients into the
program and obtaining informed consent.
(3) Describe your staffing plan and the responsibilities each staff
position will have in conducting the proposed activities. Describe how
the proposed program will be managed, including the location of the
program within your organization.
(4) Describe the potential for volunteer involvement in your
program. If volunteers will be involved, describe plans to recruit,
train, place, and retain volunteers.
(5) Describe how you will market and promote your program in the
community.
(6) Describe how you will prioritize the program activities to
place emphasis on populations or communities that are at high risk for
HIV infection.
d. Appropriateness of Interventions: Describe mechanisms that will
be used to ensure client satisfaction. Describe how you will ensure
that the proposed interventions and services are culturally competent;
sensitive to issues of sexual orientation; developmentally,
educationally, and linguistically appropriate; and targeted to the
needs of the target populations.
e. Scientific, Theoretical, Conceptual, or Program Experience
Foundation for Proposed Activities: Provide a detailed description of
the program experience or scientific, theoretical, or conceptual
foundation on which the proposed
[[Page 33298]]
activities are based and which support the potential effectiveness of
these activities for addressing the stated needs.
f. Collaborations, Linkages, and Coordination:
(1) Describe any formal collaborations with State or local health
departments, community planning groups, and other appropriate service
groups or organizations that will be used in the development and
implementation of your program. Describe the respective roles and
responsibilities of each collaborating entity in developing and
implementing the program.
(2) Specify any and all organizations and agencies with which you
will establish linkages and coordinate activities, and describe the
activities that will be coordinated with each listed organization.
These may include, as appropriate, the following:
(a) Community groups and organizations, including churches and
religious groups;
(b) HIV/AIDS service organizations;
(c) Ryan White CARE Title I and Title II planning bodies;
(d) Schools, boards of education, and other State or local
education agencies;
(e) State and local substance abuse agencies, community-based and
other drug treatment or detoxification programs;
(f) Federally funded community projects, such as those funded by
the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations'
(SAMHSA) Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT) and Center for
Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP), the Health and Human Services'
Health Resource Services Administration (HRSA), Office of Minority
Health (OMH), and other Federal entities;
(g) Providers of services to youth in high risk situations (e.g.,
youth in shelters);
(h) State or local departments of mental health;
(i) Juvenile and adult criminal justice, correctional, or parole
systems and programs;
(j) Family planning and women's health agencies; and
(k) STD and TB clinics and programs.
(3) Describe how referrals to other service providers will be
initiated.
(4) Provide a time line that identifies major implementation steps
and assigns approximate dates for the inception and completion of each.
6. Quality Assurance and Program Evaluation Plan (not to exceed 5
pages): The plan should describe when and how evaluation activities
will be implemented. At a minimum, the plan should outline strategies
for implementing process evaluation of interventions to determine if
the process objectives are being achieved. Indicate which member(s) of
the staff will be responsible for implementing the evaluation plan.
Your process evaluation plan should include the following:
a. A list of resources available to the organization to carry out
process evaluation (e.g., provider staff, health department staff, data
experts to design a system for managing information about proposed
interventions, evaluation consultants, NRMOs (National/Regional
Minority Organizations)).
b. A list of who will be involved in implementing the evaluation
and identify their roles. Describe who will collect, report, enter, and
analyze data.
c. A description of the data that will be collected. To assure
valid data are collected, established instruments should be used when
feasible. Established instruments include those that have been either
science-based or previously administered in effective HIV prevention
interventions. In addition, data sources should be verifiable through
appropriate documentation (such as storing original data for the
duration of the cooperative agreement). Examples of data that could be
collected include:
(1) Detailed information on the specific intervention service(s).
(2) The number of persons who received the service(s) by (a) risk
categories (MSM, IDU, etc.) and (b) demographics, such as age, race and
ethnicity, gender, and if appropriate and available, sexual
orientation.
(3) When and how often the intervention service was provided.
(4) Where the intervention service was provided (e.g., CTRPN site,
STD clinic, street corner, housing project).
(5) Documents referral systems, including the number of persons
referred; how you intend to determine the success of referral systems
(e.g., the number actually receiving services by referral sites); and
how well the system functions in identifying referral services.
(6) Describe client satisfaction with HIV prevention intervention
services.
d. Discuss how data will be collected, managed, and monitored over
time. Address ways to collect, report, enter, and analyze data as well
as how you would use data for program improvement. Describe how often
data will be collected. Discuss how data security will be maintained
and client confidentiality assured.
e. Discuss how you will assess the performance of staff to ensure
that they are providing information and services accurately and
effectively.
Because of the additional cost and need for scientific support
beyond the scope of these cooperative agreements, you may not be able
to conduct outcome evaluations (i.e., long-term effects of the program
in terms of changes in behavior or health status, such as changes in
HIV incidence after the intervention) with funds provided through this
cooperative agreement. CDC will continue to support special projects to
evaluate the behavioral and other outcomes of interventions commonly
used by CBOs and other organizations, and disseminate information and
lessons learned from this research to CBOs, health departments,
community planning groups, and other organizations and agencies
involved in HIV prevention programs.
7. Communications and Dissemination Plan (not to exceed 2 pages):
Describe how you will share successful approaches and ``lessons
learned'' with other organizations.
8. Plan for Acquiring Additional Resources (not to exceed 1 page):
Describe how you will develop and implement a plan for obtaining
additional resources from other (non-CDC) sources to supplement the
program conducted through this cooperative agreement and to increase
the likelihood of its continuation after the end of the project period.
9. Budget/Staffing Breakdown and Justification
a. Detailed Budget: Provide a detailed, separate budget for each
intervention proposed (i.e., CTR, individual level, group level,
community level, or street and community outreach), with accompanying
justification of all operating expenses that is consistent with the
stated objectives and planned priority activities. CDC may not approve
or fund all proposed activities. Be precise about the program purpose
of each budget item and itemize calculations wherever appropriate.
For contracts and consultant agreements, applicants should name the
contractor, if known; describe the services to be performed which
justifies the use of a contractor; provide a breakdown of and
justification for the estimated costs of the contracts; the period of
performance; the method of selection; and method of monitoring the
contract.
b. Staffing Plan: Provide a job description for each position
specifying job title; function, general duties, and activities; salary
range or rate of pay; and the level of effort and percentage of time
spent on activities funded through this cooperative agreement. If the
[[Page 33299]]
identity of any key personnel who will fill a position is known, her/
his name and resume should be attached. Experience and training related
to the proposed project should be noted. If the identity of staff is
not known, describe your recruitment plan. If volunteers are involved
in the project provide job descriptions.
10. Training and Technical Assistance Plan (not to exceed 2 pages):
Describe areas in which you anticipate needing technical assistance in
designing, implementing, and evaluating your program and discuss how
you will obtain needed technical assistance. Also, describe anticipated
staff training needs related to the proposed program and how these
needs will be met. Describe your plan for providing ongoing training to
ensure that staff are knowledgeable about HIV and STD risks and
prevention measures. This information will assist CDC to better address
your needs and help you to identify technical assistance and training
providers.
11. Attachments
a. Proof of Eligibility.
Each applicant must provide documentation that they comply with all
eligibility requirements specified under the ``Eligible Applicants''
section of this program announcement. Applicants should provide a
separate section within this Attachments section that is entitled Proof
of Eligibility to include the documents listed below. Failure to
provide the required documentation will result in disqualification.
(1) A copy of the Internal Revenue Service's determination letter
showing their approval of your 501(c)(3) status.
(2) A list of the members of your organization's governing body
along with their positions on the board, their expertise in working
with or providing services to the proposed target population, and their
racial/ethnic backgrounds. (Submission of information regarding the HIV
status or other confidential information regarding the board is
optional, and must not be linked to a specific individual.)
(3) Documentation that your organization is located and provides
services in the geographical area to be served. This documentation
could include letters of support, news articles, brochures or flyers,
annual reports, memoranda of agreement, or client surveys.
(4) A Table of Organization of existing and proposed staff,
including the board of directors, volunteer staff, and their racial/
ethnic backgrounds.
(5) Documentation that your organization has an established record
of providing services to the target population for at least two years,
and a description of the specific services that have been provided.
(6) Affiliates, chapters, or programs of national or regional
organizations must include with the application an original, signed
letter from the national or regional organization's chief executive
officer assuring their understanding of the intent of this program
announcement and the responsibilities of recipients.
(7) A separate sheet of paper stating if your organization is
currently funded under CDC Program Announcement 704, Community Based
HIV Prevention Projects.
b. Other Attachments.
(1) A list of all collaborating or coordinating entities and
memoranda of understanding or agreement as evidence of these
established or agreed-upon collaborative or coordinating relationships.
Memoranda of agreement should specifically describe the proposed
collaborative activities. Evidence of continuing collaboration must be
submitted each year to ensure that the collaborative relationships are
still in place. Memoranda of agreement from health departments should
include a statement that they have reviewed your application for these
funds.
(2) A list of major community resources and health care providers
to which referrals will be made.
(3) Protocols to guide and document training, activities, services,
and referrals (e.g., applicants seeking funds for Street and Community
Outreach Interventions must provide a description of the policies and
procedures that will be followed to assure the safety of outreach
staff).
(4) Samples of data collection tools that will be used in
performing, monitoring, or evaluating program activities, if available.
(5) A description of funds received from any source to conduct HIV/
AIDS programs and other similar programs targeting the population
proposed in the program plan. This summary must include: (1) the name
of the sponsoring organization/source of income, amount of funding, a
description of how the funds have been used, and the budget period; (2)
a summary of the objectives and activities of the funded program(s);
and (3) an assurance that the funds being requested will not duplicate
or supplant funds received from any other Federal or non-Federal
source. In addition, identify proposed personnel devoted to this
project who are supported by other funding sources and the activities
they are supporting.
(6) Independent audit statements from a certified public accountant
for the previous 2 years.
(7) A copy of your organization's current negotiated Federal
indirect cost rate agreement, if applicable.
Note: Materials submitted as attachments should be printed on
one side of 8\1/2\'' x 11'' paper. Please do not attach bound
materials such as booklets or pamphlets. Rather, submit copies of
the materials printed on one side of 8\1/2\'' x 11'' paper. Bound
materials may not be reviewed.
F. Evaluation Criteria--Category A--Community-Based HIV Prevention
Services
Each application will be evaluated individually against the
following criteria by an independent review group appointed by CDC.
1. Abstract. (not scored)
2. Assessment of Need and Justification for the Proposed
Activities. (15 points)
a. The extent to which the applicant soundly and convincingly
documents a substantial need for the proposed program and activities;
and the degree to which the proposed activities are consistent with the
Recipient Activities described in the Program Requirements Section. (5
points)
b. The degree to which the applicant describes the specific
behaviors and practices that the interventions are designed to promote
and prevent (i.e., increases in correct and consistent condom use,
knowledge of serological status, not sharing needles, and enrollment in
drug treatment and other preventive programs). (5 points)
c. The quality of the applicant's plan to ensure consistency with
the State and local comprehensive HIV prevention plans and, if
applicable, the adequacy with which the applicant demonstrates the
rationale for deviating from the jurisdiction's comprehensive HIV
prevention plan. (5 points)
3. Long-term Goals (5 points) The quality of the applicant's stated
goals and the extent to which they are consistent with the purpose of
this cooperative agreement, as described in this program announcement.
4. Organizational History and Capacity (15 points) The extent of
the applicant's documented experience, capacity, and ability to address
the identified needs and implement the proposed activities, including:
a. How the applicant's organizational structure and planned
collaborations (including constituent or affiliated organizations or
networks) will support the proposed program activities, and how the
proposed program will have the capacity to reach targeted populations;
(3 points)
[[Page 33300]]
b. Applicant's past and current experience in developing and
implementing effective HIV prevention strategies and activities, and in
developing and implementing programs similar to those proposed in this
application; (3 points)
c. Applicant's experience and ability in collaborating with
governmental and non-governmental organizations, including other
national agencies or organizations, State and local health departments,
community planning groups, and State and local non-governmental
organizations that provide HIV prevention services; (3 points)
d. Applicant's capacity to obtain meaningful input and
representation from members of the target population(s) and to provide
culturally competent and appropriate services which respond effectively
to the cultural, gender, environmental, social, and multilingual
character of the target audiences, including documentation of any
history of providing such services; (3 points) and
e. Plans to ensure capacity to implement proposed program where no
direct experience or capacity currently exists within the applicant
organization. (3 points)
5. Program Plan. (45 total points)
a. Involvement of the target population (5 points) The degree to
which the applicant describes the involvement of the target population
in planning, implementing, and evaluating activities and services
throughout the project period.
b. Intervention Objectives (5 points) Degree to which the proposed
process objectives are specific, measurable, appropriate, realistic,
and time-based, related to the proposed activities, and consistent with
the program's long-term goals; and the extent to which the applicant
identifies possible barriers to or facilitators for reaching these
objectives.
c. Plan of Operation (15 points) The quality of the applicant's
plan for conducting program activities, and the potential effectiveness
of the proposed activities in meeting objectives.
d. Appropriateness of Interventions (5 points) The degree to which
the applicant describes how the proposed priority interventions and
services are culturally competent, sensitive to issues of sexual
orientation, developmentally appropriate, linguistically-specific, and
educationally appropriate.
e. Scientific, Theoretical, Conceptual, or Program Experience
Foundation for Proposed Activities (5 points) The degree to which the
applicant provides a detailed description of the scientific,
theoretical, conceptual, or program experience foundation on which the
proposed activities are based and which support the potential
effectiveness of these activities for addressing the stated need.
f. Collaborations, Linkages, and Coordination (5 points)
Appropriateness of collaboration and coordination with other
organizations serving the same priority population(s). At minimum, the
applicant provides a description of the collaboration or coordination
and a signed memoranda of agreement for each agency with which
collaborative activities are proposed, and other evidence of
collaboration that describe previous, current, as well as future areas
of collaboration.
g. Time line (5 points) The extent to which the applicant's
proposed time line is specific and realistic.
6. Quality Assurance and Program Evaluation Plan (10 points) The
potential of the evaluation plan to describe when and how evaluation
activities will be implemented by the applicant; the extent to which
the evaluation plan is realistic and feasible, taking into account the
applicant's unique needs, resources, capabilities, and priorities; and
the extent to which a plan has been created that will guide the
collection of data for improving HIV prevention efforts and informing
stakeholders of the progress made in HIV prevention.
7. Communication and Dissemination Plan (5 points) The degree to
which the applicant describes how successful approaches and ``lessons
learned'' will be documented and shared with other organizations.
8. Plan for Acquiring Additional Resources (5 points) the degree to
which the applicant describes plans to develop and implement a plan for
obtaining additional resources from other (non-CDC) sources to
supplement the program conducted through this cooperative agreement and
to increase the likelihood of its continuation after the end of the
project period.
9. Budget and Staffing Breakdown and Justification (not scored)
a. Budget Appropriateness of the budget for the proposed project.
b. Personnel Appropriateness of the staffing pattern for the
proposed project.
10. Training and Technical Assistance Plan (not scored). The extent
to which the applicant describes areas in which technical assistance is
anticipated in designing, implementing, and evaluating the proposed
program and how the applicant will obtain this technical assistance.
The extent to which the applicant describes anticipated staff training
needs related to the proposed program and how these needs will be met.
The extent to which the applicant describes a plan for providing
ongoing training to staff.
Before final award decisions are made, CDC may either make
predicisional site visits to CBOs whose applications are highly ranked
or review the items below with the local or State health department and
applicant's board of directors.
a. The organizational and financial capability of the applicant to
implement the proposed program.
b. The special programmatic conditions and technical assistance
requirements of the applicant.
A business management and fiscal recipient capability assessment
may be required of some applicants prior to the award of funds.
G. Program Requirements--Category B Capacity-Building Assistance
In conducting activities to achieve the purposes of this program,
the recipient will be responsible for the activities under number 1.
(Recipient Activities) and CDC will be responsible for activities under
number 2. (CDC Activities) below.
For additional information on capacity-building assistance
activities, see Attachment 2.
1. Recipient Activities:
a. Conduct regional community needs and resource assessments around
issues related to HIV prevention, leadership development, and community
mobilization.
b. Develop a regional plan of action to mobilize community and
agency resources to meet priority needs related to Community Capacity-
Building for HIV prevention.
c. Develop a regional plan of action to provide capacity-building
assistance in HIV Prevention Community Planning Effectiveness and
Participation.
d. Provide capacity-building assistance to CBOs serving gay men of
color populations and community stakeholders in the following areas:
Community Capacity-Building for HIV Prevention, and HIV Prevention
Community Planning Effectiveness and Participation. These services are
to be provided through the use of the following mechanisms: Information
Transfer, Skills Building, Technical Consultation, Technical Services,
and Technology Transfer (where appropriate and approved by the CDC).
See Addendum for additional information.
e. Develop and implement a plan for targeting, engaging, and
maintaining long term capacity-building relationships with CBOs serving
gay men of color populations and community stakeholders. The plan
[[Page 33301]]
should include strategies for conducting ongoing CBO and community
stakeholder needs assessments related to areas listed in Section d
above. The plan should also include the strategy for developing
tailored capacity building packages to be delivered over the course of
the project period.
f. Develop a strategy that includes forming a regional community
advisory board which includes CDC-funded CBOs, members of the target
population(s), and community representatives and other HIV prevention
stakeholders. This community advisory board should be involved with
providing input into the overall direction of the proposed program and
in assessing the proposed program's communication, linkages,
performance, and services to the target population.
g. Ensure that capacity-building assistance is allocated according
to priority capacity-building assistance needs of CBOs and highly
affected gay men of color communities and sub-populations, such as gay,
bisexual and Transgender youth (GBT Youth); injection drug users and
other substance abusers (IDU/SA); and incarcerated, soon-to-be-released
and released persons.
h. Develop and implement a system that responds to requests for
assistance in Community Capacity-Building; HIV Prevention Community
Planning Participation and Effectiveness; and other types of capacity-
building assistance from CBOs and gay men of color community
stakeholders. This process must include mechanisms for conducting needs
assessments, prioritizing requests, assigning staff or consultants,
delivering services, reporting on service delivery, and conducting
quality assurance.
i. Develop a standardized system for tracking and reporting all
capacity-building assistance requests and delivery with CDC assistance
as needed.
j. Incorporate cultural competency and linguistic and educational
appropriateness into all capacity-building activities.
k. Develop and implement an effective strategy for marketing
capacity-building assistance and services.
l. Participate in a CDC-coordinated capacity-building network.
m. Coordinate program activities with appropriate national,
regional, state, and local HIV prevention programs and community
planning groups to prevent duplication of efforts and optimize use of
resources.
n. Monitor and evaluate the accomplishment of program objectives,
and the process of capacity-building assistance.
o. Facilitate the dissemination of information about successful
capacity-building assistance strategies and ``lessons learned'' through
peer-to-peer interactions, meetings, workshops, conferences, and
communications with CDC project officers.
p. Participate in CDC coordinated train-the-trainer opportunities.
q. Adhere to CDC policies for securing approval for CDC sponsorship
of conferences.
r. Develop a strategy for obtaining additional resources from non-
CDC sources to supplement the program conducted through this
cooperative agreement and to enhance the likelihood of its continuation
after the end of the project period.
2. CDC Activities:
a. Serve as the coordinator for CDC's capacity-building programs,
which will include organizations providing capacity-building assistance
under this program announcement.
b. Provide recipients with consultation in planning, developing,
managing, and evaluating capacity-building services. CDC will provide
consultation and assistance both directly through CDC and indirectly
through contractors; national, regional and local organizations; and
peer-to-peer assistance from CDC-funded partners.
c. Provide up-to-date scientific information on the risk factors
for HIV infection, prevention measures, and program strategies for
prevention of HIV infection.
d. Facilitate and promote collaboration through the exchange of
program information, coalition maintenance strategies, and technical
assistance among CBOs; State and local health departments; HIV
prevention community planning groups; national, regional, and local
organizations; and other HIV prevention partners.
e. Support train-the-trainer opportunities that enhance capacity-
building assistance delivery systems.
f. Facilitate and collaborate in the dissemination of successful
capacity-building strategies and ``lessons learned'' through meetings
of grantees, workshops, conferences, and communications.
g. Work with recipients to standardize a system for tracking and
reporting all capacity-building assistance requests and delivery.
h. Monitor the recipient's performance of program activities,
protection of client confidentiality, and compliance with federally
mandated requirements.
i. Coordinate an evaluation of the overall capacity-building
assistance program.
H. Application Content--Category B--Capacity-Building Assistance
Use the information in the Program Requirements, Other
Requirements, and Application Evaluation Criteria sections to develop
the application content. Your application will be evaluated on the
criteria listed, so it is important to follow them in laying out your
program plan. The narrative should be no more than 40 pages.
Number each page sequentially, and provide a complete Table of
Contents to the application and its appendices. Please begin each
separate section of the application on a new page. The original and
each copy of the application set must be submitted unstapled and
unbound. All material must be typewritten, single spaced, with
unreduced 12 point or 10 pitch font on 8\1/2\'' by 11'' paper, with at
least 1'' margins, headings and footers, and printed on one side only.
Materials which should be part of the basic narrative will not be
accepted if placed in the appendices.
Note: Applicants may apply for both categories (A and B), if
eligible; however, a separate application must be submitted for each
category.
In developing the application, you must follow the format and
instructions below:
Format for Category B--Capacity-Building Assistance Program
1. Abstract.
2. Long-term Goals.
3. Organizational History and Capacity.
a. Organizational Structure.
b. History Providing Community Capacity Development and Other
Capacity-Building Assistance to CBOs serving Gay Men of Color
populations and communities.
c. Capacity for Cultural Competence.
d. Current Capability in Providing Capacity-Building Assistance.
e. Experience Working with Coalitions (where appropriate) and
Current Collaborations.
4. Assessing the Need for Community Capacity Development and HIV
Prevention Community Planning Effectiveness and Participation.
a. Characteristics of Gay Men of Color Population(s).
b. Capacity-Building Needs.
5. Program Plan.
a. Involvement of Local CBOs and HIV Prevention Stakeholders.
b. Objectives.
[[Page 33302]]
c. Plan of Operation.
d. Coordination/Collaboration.
e. Time line.
6. Program Evaluation Plan.
7. Communications/Dissemination Plan.
8. Plan for Acquiring Additional Resources.
9. Budget and Staffing Breakdown and Justification.
a. Detailed Budget.
b. Mechanisms for Use of Funds.
c. Staffing Plan.
10. Training and Technical Assistance Plan.
11. Attachments.
Instructions for Category B--Capacity-Building Assistance Program
1. Abstract (not to exceed 3 pages).
Briefly summarize the following:
a. Region(s) applying for and the type of organization (national,
regional, or local) and, if national or regional, whether applying
independently or with a coalition.
b. Organizational structure, philosophy, mission, history.
c. Long term goals of the proposed project.
d. Overview of plan of operation.
e. Overview of plan for collaboration and coordination with other
capacity-building service providers, state and local health
departments, and community planning groups.
f. Composition of proposed coalition (where appropriate).
g. Future year activities.
2. Long-term Goals (not to exceed 1 page).
Describe the broad capacity-building goals that your proposed
program aims to achieve over the course of the project period.
3. Organizational History and Capacity (not to exceed 10 pages).
a. Describe your existing organizational structure, including the
role, responsibilities, and racial/ethnic composition of board of
directors; board committee structure (including advisory board); board
recruitment and training process; organizational management,
administrative, and program components; constituent or affiliate
organizations or networks; and how the organizational structure offers
the ability to provide capacity-building assistance.
b. Describe your organization's history with providing assistance
in community capacity development; HIV prevention community planning
effectiveness and participation; and providing other capacity-building
assistance to CBOs serving Gay Men of Color populations and
communities. Describe specific assistance or services provided.
c. Describe your organization's capability to provide services that
respond effectively to the cultural, gender, environmental, social, and
multilingual characteristics of CBOs serving Gay Men of Color
populations. Include a description of the types of services provided
and a list summarizing culturally, linguistically, and developmentally
appropriate curricula and materials.
d. Describe your organization's capability in developing and
implementing capacity-building programs, strategies, or activities
(refer to recipient activities section), and in developing and
implementing programs similar to the one proposed in this program
announcement. If you are proposing to conduct more than two priority
prevention interventions, demonstrate your capacity to implement both
effectively.
e. Describe your organization's experience, if appropriate, working
with a coalition(s) and in collaborating with governmental and non-
governmental organizations, including national or regional agencies or
organizations, State and local health departments, community planning
groups, and State and local non-governmental organizations that provide
HIV prevention services.
4. Assessing the Need for Community Capacity Development, and HIV
Prevention Community Planning Effectiveness and Participation (not to
exceed 5 pages).
a. Describe the demographics of the racial/ethnic minority
populations you intend to serve. Describe the impact of the HIV and
AIDS epidemic on these population(s) and any specific environmental,
social, cultural, or linguistic characteristics which will be
considered in your capacity-building strategy.
b. Describe the priority needs related to community capacity
development and HIV prevention community planning effectiveness and
participation for Gay Men of Color communities and CBOs serving Gay Men
of Color populations in the region(s) you intend to serve. Describe the
process for determining these needs, including where appropriate: the
use of epidemiologic and other data, resource inventories, regional
needs assessments, and the use of gap analyses.
c. Describe how your proposed program complements the HIV
comprehensive plans in the region(s) you plan to serve.
5. Program Plan (not to exceed 20 pages).
Describe your proposed program, including:
a. Involvement of Local CBOs and Community HIV Prevention
Stakeholders: Describe how CBOs and other community HIV prevention
stakeholders within a region will be involved in providing input into
the direction of the proposed program and in assessing the proposed
program's communication, linkages, performance, and services provided
throughout the project period.
b. Objectives: Provide specific, realistic, time-phased, and
measurable objectives to be accomplished during the first budget
period. Describe how these objectives relate to the goals described in
this announcement. Describe possible barriers to or facilitators for
reaching these objectives.
c. Plan of Operation: Describe the following:
(1) the strategies (in detail) that will be used, the activities
that will be conducted, and the services that will be provided to meet
the proposed goals and objectives and to complete all the required
recipient activities (including the provision of services through the
use of the ``capacity-building assistance delivery mechanisms'');
(2) the process for responding to requests for assistance in
community capacity development; HIV prevention community planning
participation and effectiveness; and other types of capacity-building
assistance from CBOs and other HIV prevention stakeholders in the Gay
Men of Color community. Include in your description how you will: (a)
conduct needs assessments, (b) prioritize requests to place major
emphasis on assistance to CBOs and other prevention stakeholders
serving Gay Men of Color populations most heavily affected by HIV, (c)
assign staff and consultants, (d) deliver services, (e) report on
service delivery, and (f) conduct quality assurance;
(3) how your organization will ensure that assistance provided will
be culturally competent, sensitive to issues of sexual and gender
identity, developmentally appropriate, linguistically-specific,
educationally appropriate, and targeted to the needs of CBOs and other
prevention stakeholders serving Gay Men of Color;
(4) how your organization will market program services;
(5) how the proposed program will be managed and staffed, including
the fiscal, administrative, managerial, and personnel infrastructure
and resources that will be used to support the proposed capacity-
building program;
(6) the placement of the program within your organizational
structure and the space that will be used to house the proposed program
staff;
[[Page 33303]]
(7) the equipment and information management systems that could be
used to maintain information related to this announcement; and
(8) the respective roles and responsibilities of your organization
and those of each coalition member performing any of the proposed
activities or functions.
d. Coordination and Collaboration: Describe how you will coordinate
and collaborate with other national, regional, state, and local
governmental and nongovernmental organizations and HIV prevention
providers (see Addendum for examples of collaborating agencies).
e. Time line: Provide a time line that identifies major
implementation phases and assigns approximate dates for inception and
completion.
6. Program Evaluation Plan (not to exceed 5 pages). Describe your
plan for monitoring progress to determine if the objectives are being
achieved and demonstrating that the methods used to deliver the
proposed capacity-building services are effective and efficient. At a
minimum, the plan should (1) outline strategies for implementing
process evaluation of capacity building activities to determine if the
process objectives are being achieved, (2) outline strategies for
outcome monitoring to determine if the services and methods used to
deliver the services are effective and efficient, (3) describe what
data will be collected and how this data will be collected, analyzed,
and used to evaluate and improve the program, and (4) specify the
persons responsible for designing and implementing evaluation
activities, collecting and analyzing data, and reporting findings.
7. Communication and Dissemination Plan (not to exceed 2 pages).
Describe how you will share successful approaches and ``lessons
learned'' with other organizations.
8. Plan for Acquiring Additional Resources (not to exceed 2 pages).
Describe how you will develop and implement a plan for obtaining
additional resources from other (non-CDC) sources to supplement the
program conducted through this cooperative agreement and to increase
the likelihood of its continuation after the end of the project period.
9. Budget/Staffing Breakdown and Justification (not scored).
a. Detailed Budget: Provide a detailed budget for each proposed
activity. Justify all operating expenses in relation to the stated
objectives and planned activities. CDC may not approve or fund all
proposed activities. Be precise about the program purpose of each
budget item and itemize calculations wherever appropriate.
For contracts and consultants, applicants should name the
contractor, if known; describe the services to be performed which
justifies the use of a contractor; provide a breakdown of and
justification for the estimated costs of the contracts; the period of
performance; the method of selection; and method of monitoring the
contract.
b. Staffing Plan: Provide a job description for each position
specifying job title; function, general duties, and activities; salary
range or rate of pay; and the level of effort and percentage of time
spent on activities funded through this cooperative agreement. If the
identity of any key personnel who will fill a position is known, her/
his name and resume should be attached. Experience and training related
to the proposed project should be noted. If the identity of staff is
not known, describe your recruitment plan. If volunteers are involved
in the project provide job descriptions.
10. Training and Technical Assistance Plan (not scored).
Describe areas in which you anticipate needing technical assistance
in designing, implementing, and evaluating your program and discuss how
you will obtain needed technical assistance. Also, describe anticipated
staff training needs related to the proposed program and how these
needs will be met. Describe your plan for providing ongoing training to
ensure that staff are knowledgeable about HIV and STD risks and
prevention measures. This information will assist CDC to better address
your needs and help you to identify technical assistance and training
providers.
11. Attachments.
a. Proof of Eligibility: Each applicant must provide documentation
that they comply with all eligibility requirements specified under the
``Eligible Applicants'' section of this program announcement.
Applicants should provide a separate section within this Attachments
section that is entitled Proof of Eligibility to include the documents
listed below. Failure to provide the required documentation will result
in disqualification.
(1) A copy of the Internal Revenue Service's determination letter
showing their approval of your 501(c)(3) status.
(2) Documentation that your organization has an established record
of providing capacity-building services to the CBOs serving Gay Men of
Color for at least two years, and a description of the specific
services that have been provided.
(3) Section of Bylaws or Agency Charter that indicates
organization's national or regional scope of work, if applying as a
national or regional organization.
(4) A list and organizational chart of the members of your
organization's governing body along with their positions on the board,
their expertise in working with or providing services to the proposed
target population, and their racial/ethnic backgrounds. (Submission of
information regarding the HIV status or other confidential information
regarding the board is optional, and must not be linked to a specific
individual.)
(5) A list and an organizational chart of existing and proposed
staff for this program, their race/ethnicity, their area of expertise,
and relevant experience. Include resumes (not to exceed 2 pages per
person).
b. Other Attachments:
(1) A list of all collaborating or coordinating entities and
memoranda of understanding or agreement as evidence of these
established or agreed-upon collaborative or coordinating relationships.
Memoranda of agreement should specifically describe the proposed
collaborative activities. Evidence of continuing collaboration must be
submitted each year to ensure that the collaborative relationships are
still in place.
(2) Description of coalition organizations and original signed
letters from the chief executive officers of each organization assuring
their understanding of the intent of this program announcement, the
proposed program, their role in the proposed program, and the
responsibilities of recipients.
(3) A list summarizing services currently delivered and culturally,
linguistically, and developmentally appropriate curricula and
materials.
(4) A description of funds received from any source to conduct HIV/
AIDS programs and other similar programs targeting the population
proposed in the program plan. This summary must include: (a) the name
of the sponsoring organization/source of income, amount of funding, a
description of how the funds have been used, and the budget period; (b)
a summary of the objectives and activities of the funded program(s);
and (c) an assurance that the funds being requested will not duplicate
or supplant funds received from any other Federal or non-Federal
source. CDC awarded funds can be used to expand or enhance services
supported with other Federal or non-Federal funds. In addition,
identify proposed personnel devoted to this project who are
[[Page 33304]]
supported by other funding sources and the activities they are
supporting.
(5) Independent audit statements from a certified public accountant
for the previous 2 years.
(6) A copy of your organization's current negotiated Federal
indirect cost rate agreement, if applicable.
I. Evaluation Criteria--Category B--Capacity-Building Assistance
Program
Each application will be evaluated individually against the
following criteria by an independent review group appointed by CDC.
1. Abstract. (not scored)
2. Long-term Goals. (Total 5 points)
The quality of the applicant's stated long-term goals and the
extent to which the goals are consistent with the purpose of this
program announcement.
3. Organizational History and Capacity. (Total 35 points)
The extent to which the applicant has demonstrated history and
capacity to provide capacity-building assistance and to implement the
proposed program.
These criteria include:
a. The extent to which the applicant's organizational structure
(including planned collaborations or coalition) will support the
proposed program activities. (5 points)
b. The extent to which the applicant demonstrates a history in
providing assistance in community capacity development; HIV prevention
community planning effectiveness and participation; and other capacity-
building assistance to CBOs serving Gay Men of Color and to Gay Men of
Color communities heavily affected by HIV and other STDs. (7 points)
c. The extent to which the applicant demonstrates capacity to
provide services that respond effectively to the cultural, gender,
environmental, social, and multilingual characteristics of CBOs serving
Gay Men of Color and to Gay Men of Color Communities. (7 points)
d. The extent to which the applicant demonstrates capability in
developing and implementing capacity-building programs, strategies or
activities, and in developing and implementing programs similar to
those proposed in this application. The extent to which the applicant
demonstrates the capacity to effectively implement more than two of the
priority prevention interventions, if applicable. (10 points)
e. The extent to which the applicant demonstrates experience and
ability in working with coalitions (where appropriate) and in
collaborating with governmental and non-governmental organizations,
including other national agencies or organizations, State and local
health departments, community planning groups, and State and local non-
governmental organizations that provide HIV prevention services. (6
points)
4. Assessing the Need for Community Capacity Development and HIV
Prevention Community Planning Effectiveness and Participation (Total 10
Points) The extent to which the applicant demonstrates an understanding
of the need for community capacity development and HIV prevention
community planning effectiveness and participation. These criteria
include:
a. The extent to which the applicant describes the demographics of
the racial/ethnic minority population to be served, the impact of the
HIV and AIDS epidemic on this population, and any specific
environmental, social, cultural, or linguistic characteristics which
will be considered in the capacity-building strategy.
b. The extent to which the applicant describes the priority needs
related to community capacity development and HIV prevention community
planning effectiveness and participation for CBOs serving Gay Men of
Color populations and communities in the region(s) to be served, and
the process for determining these needs.
c. The extent to which the applicant describes how the proposed
program complements the HIV comprehensive plans in the region(s) to be
served.
5. Program Plan. (Total 35 points)
a. Involvement of CBOs. (5 points)
The extent to which CBOs and community HIV prevention stakeholders
will be involved in providing input into the direction of the program
and the program's communication, linkages, performance, and services
provided throughout the project period.
b. Objectives. (5 points)
(1) The extent to which the proposed first-year objectives are
specific, realistic, time-phased, measurable, and consistent with the
program's long-term goals and proposed services; and
(2) The extent to which the applicant identifies possible barriers
to or facilitators for reaching these objectives.
c. Plan of Operation. (15 points)
(1) The overall quality of the applicant's plan for providing
capacity-building assistance in community capacity development and HIV
prevention community planning effectiveness and participation to CBOs
serving Gay Men of Color populations and communities, and the
likelihood that the proposed methods will be successful in achieving
proposed goals and objectives.
(2) The extent to which the applicant's plans address all the
activities listed under Required Recipient Activities.
(3) The extent to which the roles and responsibilities of the
primary applicant and each coalition member (where appropriate),
collaborating organization, or subcontractor are consistent with the
proposed activities.
d. Coordination and Collaboration. (5 points)
(1) The extent to which the applicant describes and documents, as
applicable, intended coordination with national, regional, State, and
local governmental and nongovernmental organizations and HIV prevention
providers, such as other national agencies or organizations, State and
local health departments.
(2) The extent to which the applicant provides memoranda of
agreement or understanding as evidence of agreed-upon collaborative
relationships.
6. Time line. (5 points)
The extent to which the applicant's proposed time line is specific
and realistic.
7. Program Evaluation Plan. (Total 5 points)
The quality of the applicant's evaluation plan for monitoring and
evaluating the implementation of proposed services and measuring the
achievement of program goals and objectives.
8. Communications and Dissemination Plan. (Total 5 points)
The quality of the applicant's plan for sharing successful
approaches and ``lessons learned'' with other organizations.
9. Plan for Acquiring Additional Resources. (Total 5 points)
The quality of the applicant's plan for obtaining additional
resources from other (non-CDC) sources to supplement the program
conducted through this cooperative agreement and ensure its
continuation after the end of the project period.
10. Budget/Staffing Breakdown and Justification. (not scored)
Extent to which the budget is reasonable, itemized, clearly
justified, and consistent with intended use of funds.
11. Training and Technical Assistance Plan. (not scored)
The quality of the applicant's plan for obtaining needed technical
assistance and staff training to support the proposed program.
Before final award decisions are made, CDC may either make
predecisional site visits to applicants whose applications are highly
ranked or review the items below with the applicant's board of
directors.
[[Page 33305]]
a. The organizational and financial capability of the applicant to
implement the proposed program.
b. The special programmatic conditions and technical assistance
requirements of the applicant.
A business management and fiscal recipient capability assessment
may be required of some applicants prior to the award of funds.
J. Submission and Deadline--Categories A and B
Submit the original and two copies of PHS 5161 (OMB Number 0937-
0189). Forms are available at the following Internet address:
www.cdc.gov/* * * Forms, or in the application kit. On or before August
5, 1999, submit the application to the Grants Management Specialist
identified in the ``Where to Obtain Additional Information'' section of
this announcement.
Deadline: Applications shall be considered as meeting the deadline
if they are either:
(a) Received on or before the deadline date;
or
(b) Sent on or before the deadline date and received in time for
submission to the Independent Review Group. (Applicants must request a
legibly dated U.S. Postal Service postmark or obtain a legibly dated
receipt from a commercial carrier or U.S. Postal Service. Private
metered postmarks shall not be acceptable as proof of timely mailing.)
Late Applications: Applications which do not meet the criteria in
(a) or (b) above are considered late applications, will not be
considered, and will be returned to the applicant.
K. Other Requirements--Categories A and B
1. Technical Reporting Requirements.
Provide CDC with the original plus two copies of:
a. Progress reports quarterly, no more than 30 days after the end
of each 3 month period;
b. Financial status report, no more than 90 days after the end of
each budget period; and
c. Final financial status report and performance report, no more
than 90 days after the end of the project period.
Send all reports to the Grants Management Specialist identified in
the ``Where to Obtain Additional Information'' section of this
announcement.
The following additional requirements are applicable to this
program. For a complete description of each, see Attachment 3 in the
application kit.
AR-4 HIV/AIDS Confidentiality Provisions
AR-5 HIV Program Review Panel Requirements
AR-7 Executive Order 12372 Review
AR-8 Public Health system Reporting Requirements
AR-9 Paperwork Reduction Act Requirements
AR-10 Smoke-Free Workplace Requirements
AR-11 Health People 2000
AR-12 Lobbying Restrictions
AR-14 Accounting System Requirements
L. Authority and Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number--
Categories A and B
This program is authorized under Sections 301(a) and 317 of the
Public Health Service Act, 42 U.S.C. 241(a) and 247(b), as amended. The
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number is 93.939.
M. Where To Obtain Additional Information--Categories A and B
To receive additional written information and to request an
application and tool kit, call NPIN at 1-800-458-5231 (TTY users: 1-
800-243-7012); visit their web site: www.cdcnpin.org/program; send
requests by fax to 1-888-282-7681; or sent requests by e-mail:
application-gmc@cdcnpin.org. This information is also posted on the
Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention (DHAP) Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/
nchstp/hiv__aids/funding/toolkit/.
CDC maintains a Listserv (HIV-PREV) related to this program
announcement. By subscribing to the HIV-PREV Listserv, members can
submit questions and will receive information via e-mail with the
latest news regarding the program announcement. Frequently asked
questions on the Listserv will be posted to the Web site. You can
subscribe to the Listserv on-line or via e-mail by sending a message
to: listserv@listserv.cdc.gov and writing the following in the body of
the message: subscribe hiv-prev first name last name.
Pre-application Audio-conference Information: June 24 (2:30-4:00
p.m. EDT)--June 29 (2:30-4:00 p.m. EDT)
The telephone number for all calls is: 800-311-3437 and the pass
code (when asked by the automated voice) is 990238 and the name of the
audio-conference (Gay Men of Color).
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to participate in
one of the scheduled audio-conferences. These audio conferences will
include information on the application and business management
requirements, and how to access additional pre-application resources
relevant to application development. Prospective applicants are
strongly encouraged to read and become familiar with this program
announcement before participating in the audio-conferences.
If you have questions after reviewing the contents of all the
documents, business management technical assistance may be obtained
from: Van Malone, Grants Management Specialist, Grants Management
Branch, Procurement and Grants Office, Program Announcement [99091],
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2920 Brandywine Road, Room
3000, Mailstop E-15, Atlanta, GA 30341-4146, Telephone (770) 488-2733;
E-mail vxm7@cdc.gov.
For program technical assistance, contact: Dr. George Roberts or
Mr. Samuel Taveras, Community Assistance, Planning, and National
Partnerships Branch, National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention,
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1600 Clifton Road, M/
S E-58, Atlanta, GA 30333, Telephone number (404) 639-5280 and (404)
639-5240; Email syt2@cdc.gov or gwr2@cdc.gov.
See also the CDC home page on the Internet: http://www.cdc.gov
Dated: June 11, 1999.
John L. Williams,
Director, Procurement and Grants Office, Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC).
[FR Doc. 99-15372 Filed 6-21-99; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4163-18-P
