[Federal Register Volume 65, Number 149 (Wednesday, August 2, 2000)]
[Notices]
[Pages 47618-47632]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 00-19492]



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Part III





Department of Health and Human Services





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Children and Families Administration



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Developmental Disabilities: Final Notice of Availability of Financial 
Assistance and Request for Applications To Support Demonstration 
Projects Under the Projects of National Significance Program; Notice

  Federal Register / Vol. 65, No. 149 / Wednesday, August 2, 2000 / 
Notices  

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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families

[Program Announcement No. 93631-00-03]


Developmental Disabilities: Final Notice of Availability of 
Financial Assistance and Request for Applications To Support 
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, announces that applications 
are being accepted for funding of Fiscal Year 2000 Projects of National 
Significance.
    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 2000 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 is September 1, 2000. Mailed or hand-carried applications 
received after 4:30 p.m. on the closing date will be classified as 
late.
    Deadline: Mailed applications shall be considered as meeting an 
announced deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time 
and date at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, ACF/
Administration on Developmental Disabilities, 370 L'Enfant Promenade 
SW, Mail Stop 326-HHH, 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 hand-carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other 
representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers 
shall be considered as meeting an announced deadline if they are 
received on or before the deadline date, between the hours of 8:00 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 Promendade 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 which 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 Joan Rucker, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Rm. 300F, Washington, DC 20447, 202/690-7898, 
http://www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/ add; or [email protected].

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Administration for Children and 
Families (ACF), Joan Rucker, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., Rm. 300F, 
Washington, D.C., 20447, 202/690-7898; or [email protected].
    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: Projects of National Significance.
    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 
individuals, including people with developmental disabilities, to live 
productive and independent lives integrated into their communities. The 
Projects of National Significance Program is one means through which

[[Page 47619]]

ADD promotes the achievement of these goals.

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 which 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.

Part II. Background Information for Applicants

A. Description of Projects of National Significance

    Under Part E of the Act, grants and contracts are awarded for 
projects of national significance that support the development of 
national and State policy to enhance the independence, productivity, 
and integration and inclusion of individuals with developmental 
disabilities through:
     Data collection and analysis;
     Technical assistance to enhance the quality of State 
developmental disabilities councils, protection and advocacy systems, 
and university affiliated programs; and
     Other projects of sufficient size and scope that hold 
promise to expand or improve opportunities for people with 
developmental disabilities, including:

--Technical assistance for the development of information and referral 
systems;
--Educating policy makers;
--Federal interagency initiatives;
--The enhancement of participation of minority and ethnic groups in 
public and private sector initiatives in developmental disabilities;
--Transition of youth with developmental disabilities from school to 
adult life; and
--Special pilots and evaluation studies to explore the expansion of 
programs under part B (State developmental disabilities councils) to 
individuals with severe disabilities other than developmental 
disabilities.

B. Comments on FY 2000 Proposed Priority Areas

    ADD received 21 letters in response to the public comment notice. 
Commentary was from the following sources:
     Advocacy agencies, including national organizations and 
associations, national advocacy groups and State/local advocacy groups;
     Service organizations, including agencies that provide 
services for individuals with developmental disabilities as well as 
providing advocacy services on behalf of a particular disability, 
including developmental disabilities councils;
     Educational systems, including schools, colleges, and 
universities, programs located within a university setting and 
University Affiliated Programs;
     Private agencies, including national, State, and local 
nonprofit organizations;
     Government agencies, including Federal, State, county, and 
local government agencies; and
     Private individuals.
    Comments ranged from requests for copies of the final application 
solicitation, to general support to informative, clarifying responses 
for this year's proposed funding priorities and recommendations for 
other priority areas. The vast majority supported and expanded upon 
what we proposed in the announcement. Other comments relate 
specifically to the program goals and priorities of the particular 
agencies that responded to the announcement.
    The comments helped highlight the concerns of the developmental 
disabilities field and have been used in refining the final priority 
areas.

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    Comment: Ten letters recommended additional or other funding 
priorities for FY 2000. Suggestions included projects addressing: 
recruitment and retention of direct support service staff; waiting 
lists; adults living with aging parents; aging; child care; 
transportation; recreation; employment; economic empowerment; self-
determination and research issues related to existing PNS projects. 
Three letters specifically expressed that the proposed areas were not 
critical areas in their states in the field of developmental 
disabilities, and did not relate to ADD's efforts in meeting the 
requirements of the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA).
    Response: ADD appreciates the comments it receives concerning other 
areas needing attention. Comments refine our understanding of the 
realities occurring with individuals with developmental disabilities 
and their families, and are often a sobering reminder of the 
unfulfilled goals that require our collective attention as a society. 
The comment process expands our awareness level and provides the basis 
for new priority areas.
    ADD recognizes the need for recruitment and retention of direct 
support service staff; the elimination of waiting list; the resolution 
of recreation and transportation issues; the need for economic 
empowerment, including the use of Indivudial Development Accounts; and 
the critical impact these and other issues have on the quality of life 
for people with developmental disabilities. ADD welcomes applications 
in these and other areas. Such applications would appropriately be 
submitted under Priority Area 1: Mobilizing for Change/Rapid Deployment 
of Good Ideas which is open-ended as to subject, issue and topic.
    Some of the areas suggested as priorities have been funded 
previously or are currently funded projects. Employment and the basic 
supports necessary to perform a job were the objectives of our six 
natural support projects which ended September, 1996. Strategies for 
securing first jobs, especially by young people, are two projects that 
ended in 1998. In June, 1998 ADD was a co-sponsor of the first national 
forum on careers in the arts and disability and has continued to co-
sponsor such activities. In 1997, ADD funded the ``National Center on 
Self-Determination and 21st Century Leadership'', a consortium of self-
advocacy groups, non-profit organizations and institutions of higher 
education. The Center was designed to build leadership capacities of 
people with development disabilities. Additionally, the Center focused 
on establishing linkages between disability organizations, and 
organizing national mentorship and consultant networks. The Center 
developed a clearinghouse on promising self-determination practices and 
strategies and sponsored a number of summits, forums and 
teleconferences.
    In June, 2000, ADD and the National Council on the Aging co-
sponsored a conference/work session on the subject of aging and adult 
sons and daughters with developmental disabilities living with aging 
parents. The purpose of the conference was to explore the issues aging 
parents must face as they continue to provide services to their adult 
sons and daughters; as well as explore potential resources and examine 
successful models in the field. Additional information regarding this 
conference may be obtained by writing to ADD. Additionally, in 
September, 1999 ADD awarded Family Support Grants to 20 States and 2 
territories to develop, implement or enhance family support service 
system to families of children with disabilities. Several of these 
projects have goals which support families in planning for a secure 
future for the aging family member with a developmental disability as 
well as the aging parent. Finally, nine of ADD's University Affiliated 
Programs (UAPs) have undertaken projects in the area of Aging. Within 
ADD's website is a listing of current PNS projects with contact 
information; other ADD programs can be contacted by using the list 
contained there.
    The majority of comments received were very supportive of the three 
proposed funding areas; many stated that these Priority Areas offer 
``incredible opportunities to share information and best practices 
through a variety of media as well as getting the technology down to 
the community level.'' The purpose of the Projects of National 
Significance program is not only to provide technical assistance to the 
developmental disabilities councils, the protection and advocacy 
systems, and the university affiliated programs, but to support 
projects ``that hold promise to expand or improve opportunities for 
people with developmental disabilities.'' Representing only 4% of ADD's 
federal dollars, these PNS funds have initiated cutting edge projects, 
such as the ``Reinventing Quality: Promising Practices in Person-
Centered Community Services and quality Assurance for People with 
Development Disabilities'' that are at the forefront of the 
developmental disabilities field challenging traditional thinking and 
practices. These priority areas directly relate to ADD's outcomes 
contained in its ``Roadmap to the Future,'' our plan for implementing 
GPRA: (1) All are intended to increase community support and promote 
self-determination, (2) These priority areas will encourage 
interaction, and collaboration among all sectors of the Developmental 
Disabilities field to attain and share information.

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 which 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, sub-grantees 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.

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.

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    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. 
These comments, along with those of the expert reviewers, will be 
considered by ADD 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 140 Empowerment Zones/
Enterprise Communities. A discussion of how the involvement of the EZ/
EC is related to the objectives and/or the activities of the project 
must be clearly outlined for the award of the 5 points. Also, a letter 
from the appropriate representatives of the EZ/EC must accompany the 
application indicating its agreement to participate and describing its 
role in the project.
    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 which 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. Applicants should review the section on the Uniform Project 
Description and the evaluation section under each priority area.
     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 2000, 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.
    For multi-year projects, continued Federal funding beyond the first 
budget period, but within the approved project period, is subject to 
the availability of

[[Page 47622]]

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. The non-Federal share may be met by cash or in-kind 
contributions, although applicants are encouraged to meet their match 
requirements through cash contributions. Therefore, a project 
requesting $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 are required to submit a full project 
description and must 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. 
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 which 
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.
    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 testimonies 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. 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. 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; 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 are 
reasonable in view of the expected results.
    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. Cites 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.
    ADD is particularly interested in discussing 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.
    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

[[Page 47623]]

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. ADD is particularly interested in the following: that 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.

G. 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.

H. Closed Captioning for Audiovisual Efforts

    Applicants are encouraged to include ``closed captioning'' in the 
development of any audiovisual products.

Part IV. Fiscal Year 2000 Priority Areas for Projects of National 
Significance--Description and Requirements

    The following section presents the final priority areas for Fiscal 
Year 2000 Projects of National Significance (PNS) and solicits the 
appropriate applications.

Fiscal Year 2000 Priority Area 1: Mobilizing for Change/Rapid 
Deployment of Good Ideas

     Eligible Applicants: State agencies, public or private 
nonprofit organizations, institutions or agencies, including a 
consortia of some or all of the above.
     Purpose: ADD is interested in awarding grant funds that 
``reinvent'' new projects models in the field of developmental 
disabilities which will transfer information and knowledge through the 
utilization of creative and innovative methods of implementation, 
replication and dissemination. These projects must demonstrate proven 
success by increasing the independence, productivity, integration and 
inclusion of people with developmental disabilities and their families 
in communities in which they live.
     Background Information: In March of 1993, President 
Clinton unveiled his new initiative to reinvent the federal government. 
He proposed a leaner, more efficient government that viewed the 
American people as its customers. The President discussed how all of us 
to some extent count on the government to do certain things such as, 
``protect the environment, to provide education and health care and 
other basic needs.'' However, he pointed out that a ``democracy can 
become quickly an empty phrase, if those who are elected to serve 
cannot meet the needs of the people except with Government that costs 
too much or is too slow or too arrogant or too unresponsive.'' Federal 
workers were empowered to reinvent their agencies in ways that would 
put customers first, cut red tape, get results, and get back to basics.
    At ADD, our agency efforts resulted in a document called ``The 
Roadmap to the Future,'' which was developed together with the programs 
it funds, establishes a course of action for ADD and for its programs. 
The Roadmap defines the mission and vision of ADD, of the State 
Developmental Disabilities Councils (DDCs), of the Protection and 
Advocacy Systems (P&As), of the University Affiliated Programs (UAPs), 
and of the Projects of National Significance (PNS), and it identifies 
goals created to increase the independence, productivity, and 
integration and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities and 
their families. Program activities will be directed toward achieving 
the Roadmap goals.
    The Projects of National Significance (PNS) Program is one of the 
activities of ADD. Every year since 1975 there have been model 
demonstration projects funded to increase the independence, 
productivity, and integration and inclusion of people with 
developmental disabilities. These projects have generated inventive 
approaches, strategies, and methodologies designed to address pervasive 
problems or needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and 
their families. Over the years, PNS projects have contributed to the 
knowledge base of the developmental disabilities field and the larger 
disability field as well.
    In the past decade, the leadership capacity of individuals with 
developmental disabilities, especially self-advocates, has been 
nourished and strengthened by the funding of PNS projects.
    Although dissemination of information from these projects has been 
a requirement of funding, it is a concern of ADD's that the rich volume 
of knowledge and information produced by these projects has not reached 
a broader range of people who either could directly benefit from it or 
are in a position to replicate it. More important, depending on the 
target audience, we have not been successful in influencing permanent 
behavioral changes. The explosion of communications arts and technology 
offer new possibilities for reaching a broader audience. A major 
challenge lies in connecting with those segments of our population who 
do not have easy access to a computer or English is not their primary 
language or there are cultural differences. New design models of 
transferring knowledge and fostering utilization must be explored if we 
are to meet the needs of Americans with disabilities and their 
families. ADD is extremely interested in supporting this 
``reinvention'' of new models under this priority area.
    These models must surpass our standard methods of communicating 
best practices, practical solutions to those we serve and those who 
serve them. Projects must be outcome driven--demonstrating 
effectiveness and behavioral changes of the targeted population. 
Content area is open to any proven, positive results-based practice, 
methodology or process in the field of developmental or other 
disabilities or directly related field such as universal design. It can 
be as expansive as systems change or a new paradigm. These new models 
should consider creative partnering in implementing the project. A few 
examples of this by the Federal government are the JedI project under 
the U.S. Geological Survey and The Knowledge Loom under the U.S. 
Department of Education/Office of Educational Research and Improvement. 
The former, which stands for joint

[[Page 47624]]

education initiative, utilized CD-ROM technology containing different 
types of data and in conjunction with teachers developed educational 
materials that could be used in the classroom. The latter is a recent 
project funded to create an electronic interactive workspace for anyone 
interested in the education environment.
    In the last century we were the beneficiaries of extraordinary 
human developments that would have been considered inconceivable by 
many; it has raised our level of expectation for this new century. This 
is no less true for people with developmental disabilities and their 
families who, in this age of the Internet, the PC, and satellite 
downlinks, expect there will be new models available to everyone who 
needs them. ADD views this priority area as an unprecedented 
opportunity to take what we have learned through federally funded 
projects and find enterprising, inventive, and imaginative ways of 
using the knowledge so that all will benefit--people with developmental 
disabilities and other disabilities, professionals who serve them, 
their families, and the communities in which they live.
     Minimum Requirements for Project Design: ADD is 
particularly interested in supporting projects which include the 
following:
     Partnerships between consumers/advocacy organizations, 
research foundations, public/private entities and others to coordinate, 
implement and disseminate information and transfer of knowledge to a 
broad audience to include consumers and their families and entities 
that serve them.
     Project design must address barriers and issues of access 
to the mechanism(s) used to transfer knowledge and information, for 
persons using various assistive devices and equipment.
     All projects shall provide for the widespread distribution 
of their products (reports, summary documents, audio-visual materials, 
etc.) in accessible format and in languages other than English.
     Describe and develop methods/plans to be used to continue 
the transfer of knowledge and information once the project period ends.
     Develop and implement an evaluation process to ensure that 
systematic and objective information is available about the utilization 
and effectiveness of the products from this project.
     Specific outcomes tied to the ADD ``Roadmap to the 
Future'' to increase the independence, productivity, integration and 
inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities must be built 
into the project for dissemination to a board audience.
     Describe measurable outcomes.
    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 who have 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 reflecting 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, 
from multicultural backgrounds, rural and inner-city areas, migrant, 
homeless, and refugee families, with 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 1992 (P.L. 102-569).
     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.
     Development and establishment of practices and programs 
beyond project period.
     Dissemination of models, products, best practices, and 
strategies for distribution between the networks and beyond. A plan 
describing initial activities is needed between funded projects as well 
as at the end of the project period. These activities should maintain 
and share ongoing information, existing resources of consultants/
experts, and curriculum/materials with funded projects and within the 
network.
    Evaluation Criteria: The four criteria that follow will be used to 
review and evaluate each application under this priority area. Each 
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 must be addressed 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 must 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 the 
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 
description 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 must be included.
     Project Duration: This announcement is soliciting 
applications

[[Page 47625]]

for project periods up to three years under this priority area. Awards, 
on a competitive basis, will be for a one-year budget period, although 
project periods may be for three years. Applications for continuation 
grants funded under this priority area beyond the one-year budget 
period, but within the three-year 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 
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 $100,000 for the first 12-month budget period or a 
maximum of $300,000 for a three-year project period.
     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. The non-Federal share may be met 
by cash or in-kind contributions, although applicants are encouraged to 
meet their match requirements through cash contributions. Therefore, a 
project requesting $100,000 in Federal funds (based on an award of 
$100,000 per budget period) must include a match of at least $33,333 
(the total project cost is $133,333, of which $33,333 is 25%).
     Anticipated Number of Projects to be Funded: It is 
anticipated that up to six (6) projects will be funded.
     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.

Fiscal Year 2000 Priority Area 2: Bridging the Digital Divide: Building 
Content

    Eligible Applicants: State agencies, public or private nonprofit 
organizations, institutions or agencies, including a consortia of some 
or all of the above.
    Purpose: Under this priority area, ADD will issue a grant award to 
fund one project, designed to build an Internet site that will provide 
relevant content and information on the Medicaid program for 
individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
    Background Information: In a White House speech on February 2, 
2000, President Clinton stated: ``Access to computers and the Internet 
and the ability to effectively use this technology are becoming 
increasingly important for full participation in America's economic, 
political and social life. People are using the Internet to find lower 
prices for goods and services, work from home or start their own 
business, acquire new skills using distance learning, and make better 
informed decisions about their healthcare needs.''
    The President expressed his concern over the widening gap of 
access: ``Access to computers and the Internet has exploded during the 
Clinton-Gore Administration. Unfortunately, there is strong evidence of 
a `digital divide'--a gap between those individuals and communities 
that have access to these Information Age tools and those who don't. In 
some instances, this divide is actually widening.'' The President has 
proposed three basic approaches to narrowing the digital divide: (1) 
Provide hardware and connections to people who do not yet have them; 
(2) Provide training in the use of computers and the internet; and (3) 
build relevant content on the Internet, to attract new users. ADD 
continues to encourage its grantees and partners in all three of these 
strategies, but realizes that a national approach is necessary to the 
third strategy of building relevant content.
    A person with a developmental disability is legislatively defined 
as someone whose disability occurred before age 22; is severe and 
lifelong; and is likely to result in an ongoing, long-term need for 
services and supports. In other words, people with developmental 
disabilities are likely to need to rely on multiple systems of supports 
in order simply to live their lives. And yet, information that could be 
used to improve decision-making is not easily accessible to people with 
developmental disabilities, their families, their advocates, their 
providers of services and supports, or even to the policymakers who 
design and fund systems. For people with developmental disabilities, 
Internet access to relevant information is limited.
    For the majority of people with developmental disabilities and 
their families, Medicaid is the most relevant system; it is a vital 
component in their life. Yet it is a very complex system that changes 
almost constantly, and quite rapidly. It is different in every State. 
As States submit new ideas to the Health Care Finance Administration 
(HCFA) in Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver plans, and as 
these state-generated plans are approved, possibilities for all other 
States and all other citizens shift. In addition, the Medicaid program 
is complex due to the ``patchwork quilt of incremental statutory 
amendments and administrative policy changes spread over several 
decades.'' (GAO, 1996)
    Nevertheless, many (though not all) of the Medicaid questions to 
which people need answers are repetitive and sometimes simple. Clear, 
honest, user-friendly answers to frequently asked questions are often a 
feature of Web sites on any topic and may be one of the best uses of 
the Internet.
    Minimum Requirements for Project Design: ADD is proposing to fund 
one project to build an Internet site that will provide relevant 
content and attractive information on what is possible under the 
Medicaid program.
    To be considered seriously for funding applicants must address the 
following elements:
     The site must be user-friendly and useful to a broad range 
of users, including people with developmental and other related 
disabilities, their families, their advocates, DD network members, 
state policymakers, regional HCFA staff, and other interested persons.
     The site must be responsive to the needs and wants of its 
users, and should collect and measure user satisfaction.
     Design must be interactive and post frequently asked 
questions (FAQs) about Medicaid and provide answers, which will 
encourage frank and open ``human'' interchanges between users.
     The site must be accessible to people with a broad range 
of disabilities.
     Proposing organizations must show that they (1) are 
credible sources of information to people with developmental 
disabilities and (2) that they intend to comply with accessibility 
standards and go beyond compliance to improve access as much as 
possible.
     Special care should be taken to make the site useful and 
attractive to young persons with developmental and other disabilities.
     Design should make use of audio-clips of personal stories 
in multiple languages where possible.
     Project Design must include Partnerships that are composed 
of consumers, family leaders, service providers and professionals 
working together to assist in addressing conflicting information and 
interpretations of the Medicaid program; and create a network which 
would allow for the exchange of ideas and expertise to improve services 
and effect systemic change.
     Site design must provide interactive links to State and 
local resources.
As a general guide, ADD will expect to fund only those proposals for 
projects that incorporate the following elements:

[[Page 47626]]

     Consumer/self-advocate orientation and participation.
     Key project personnel who have 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 reflecting 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 from 
multicultural backgrounds, rural and inner-city areas, migrant, 
homeless, and refugee families, with 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 1992 (P.L. 102-569).
     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.
     Evaluation Criteria: The four criteria that follow will be 
used to review and evaluate each application under this priority area. 
Each 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.
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 contribution 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 the 
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 quality of services it provides, and/or the 
research and management capabilities it possesses. It may include 
descriptions of any current or previous 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 must be included.
     Project Duration: This announcement is soliciting 
applications for project periods up to three years under this priority 
area. Awards, on a competitive basis, will be for a one-year budget 
period, although project periods may be for three years. Applications 
for continuation grants funded under this priority area beyond the one-
year budget period, but within the three-year 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 
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 $300,000 for the first 12-month budget period or a 
maximum of $900,000 for a three-year project period.
     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. The non-Federal share may be met 
by cash or in-kind contributions, although applicants are encouraged to 
meet their match requirements through cash contributions. Therefore, a 
project requesting $300,000 in Federal funds (based on an award of 
$300,000 per budget period) must include a match of at least $100,000 
(the total project cost is $400,000, of which your 25% share is 
$100,000).
     Anticipated Number of Projects to be Funded: It is 
anticipated that one (1) project will be funded.
     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.

Fiscal Year 2000 Priority Area 3: Managing Our Program Knowledge 
Through Web Improvement

    Eligible Applicants: Nonprofit organizations, institutions or 
agencies, including a consortia of some or all of the above.
    Purpose: Under this priority area, ADD will issue a grant award to 
fund one (1) project to develop a model website which would enhance the 
ability of ADD's programs to exchange information and build upon 
ongoing diverse enterprise throughout the developmental disabilities 
community.
    Background Information: The Developmental Disabilities Assistance 
and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act) provides authorization for three State 
programs and a national program that seek to increase the independence, 
productivity, and inclusion of persons with developmental disabilities.
    A Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council) in each State 
promotes, through systemic change, capacity building, and advocacy 
activities, the development of a comprehensive consumer-centered system 
of coordinated and culturally competent services, supports, and other 
assistance. The priority areas addressed by DD Councils include 
employment, community living, child development, and system 
coordination and community education.
    The Protection and Advocacy (P&A) System provides for the 
protection and advocacy of legal and human rights. The P&A Systems 
advocate on behalf of, and provide advocacy services to persons

[[Page 47627]]

with developmental disabilities in issue areas related to their 
disabilities, including: education, abuse and neglect, institutional 
and habilitation services, guardianship issues, and housing issues.
    The University Affiliated Programs (UAPs) are public and private 
non-profit agencies in the States and territories, each affiliated with 
a university. Each UAP receives annual discretionary funding for 
operational and administrative support, which provides a platform for 
interdisciplinary training, clinical and community-based service 
activities, technical assistance to community services personnel, and 
information/dissemination activities.
    In addition to State-based programs, ADD funds research and 
demonstration grants in an effort to address and increase our 
understanding of issues of national scope. The Projects of National 
Significance (PNS) program focuses on the most pressing issues 
affecting people with developmental disabilities and their families. 
Project issues transcend the borders of States and territories, while 
project designs are oriented to permit local implementation of 
practical solutions.
    Each of these programs has a uniqueness and breadth of knowledge 
that if managed through modern technology, would result in a knowledge 
resource warehouse. The nation can not afford a digital divide between 
these programs nor between these programs and those they serve. With 
these programs in mind, ADD is interested in funding a project for the 
development or enhancement of a model website whose design features are 
easily utilized by each of the ADD funded programs. It should be seen 
as the beginning of a new form of fluid cyber architecture with a focus 
on continuous improvement that will enable those programs to improve 
their use of the web and their ability to hyperlink to others.
    Minimum Requirements for Project Design: This new model website 
would enhance the ability of ADD's programs to exchange information and 
build upon ongoing diverse enterprises throughout the developmental 
disabilities community. ADD envisions that the first year would begin 
with the UAPs with the understanding that the model website be 
inclusive of the of the other programs over the duration of the 
project. To be considered seriously for funding applicants must address 
the following elements:
     Project design must include the dissemination of 
contributions and achievements of these programs towards the quality of 
life of persons with disabilities and their families.
     It should support the development of strategies, 
technologies, and media channels for the management of knowledge 
generated/produced by these programs.
     The site should operate as an information center as well 
as a networking tool for the ADD programs and others. This website is 
not about outcomes but content and access to content that affects the 
lives of people with developmental disabilities and their families.
     Priority should be given to PNS projects. It is expected 
that the site would be open to everyone; including the average citizen, 
people working in each program, and people working in related programs.
     Site must be accessible to people with a broad range of 
disabilities utilizing the most current accessibility standards.
     ADD would be supportive of applicants that represent a 
consortia of UAPs and DD Councils.
    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 who have 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 reflecting 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, 
from multicultural backgrounds, rural and inner-city areas, migrant, 
homeless, and refugee families, with 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 1992 (P.L. 102-569).
     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.
     Evaluation Criteria: The four criteria that follow will be 
used to review and evaluate each application under this priority area. 
Each 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 must be 
addressed 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 must be attached.
Criterion 2: Results or Benefits Expected (20 points)
    To the extent to which they are consistent with the objectives of 
the application, and 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 underway 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 quality of services it provides, and/or the 
research and management capabilities it posses. It may include 
descriptions of any

[[Page 47628]]

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 must be included.
     Project Duration: This announcement is soliciting 
applications for project periods up to three years under this priority 
area. Awards, on a competitive basis, will be for a one-year budget 
period, although project periods may be for three years. Applications 
for continuation grants funded under this priority area beyond the one-
year budget period, but within the three-year 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 
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 $300,000 for the first 12-month budget period or a 
maximum of $900,000 for a three-year project period.
     Matching Requirement: Grantees must provide at least 25 
percent of the total approved cost of the project. The total approved 
cost of the project is the sum of the ACF share and the non-Federal 
share. The non-Federal share may be met by cash or in-kind 
contributions, although applicants are encouraged to meet their match 
requirements through cash contributions. Therefore, a project 
requesting $300,000 in Federal funds (based on an award of $300,000 per 
budget period) must include a match of at least $100,000 (total project 
cost is $400,000, of which $100,000 is 25%).
     Anticipated Number of Projects to be Funded: It is 
anticipated that one (1) project will be funded under this priority 
area.

Part V. Instructions for the Development and Submission of 
Applications

    This Part contains information and instructions for submitting 
applications in response to this announcement. An application package 
containing forms can be obtained by any of the following methods: Joan 
Rucker, ADD, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW., Washington, DC 20447, 202/690-
7898; http://www.acf.dhhs. gov/programs/add; or [email protected].
    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 
descriptions are 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 September 22,1997, all States and territories, except 
Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, 
Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, 
Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, 
Virginia, Washington, American Samoa and Palau, 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 which 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 
on Children Youth and Families, Office of Grants Management, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade, SW, Mail Stop 326F-HHH, Washington, DC 20447, Attn: 
Lois Hodge ADD--Projects of National Significance.
    Contact information for each State's SPOC is found in the 
application package or ADD's website.

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 or ADD's website under Programs.

C. Deadline for Submittal of Applications

    One signed original and two copies of the application must be 
submitted on or before September 1, 2000 to: U.S. Department of Health 
and Human Services, Administration on Children, Youth and Families, 
Administration on Developmental Disabilities, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, 
SW, Mail Stop 326F-HHH, 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 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 
ACYF 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. ACYF/ADD shall notify 
each late applicant that the application will not be considered in the 
current competition.
    Extension of deadlines: ACYF 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 mail. 
However, if the granting agency

[[Page 47629]]

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. 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 ACYF 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 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.''
    Item 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/pre-application 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.

[[Page 47630]]

    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 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 all of the 
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.

[[Page 47631]]

    (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 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 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 xeroxing 
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.
4. Part V--Assurances/Certifications
    Applicants are required to file an 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 which 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.

[[Page 47632]]

____ 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 
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 (Pub.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: July 27, 2000.
Reginald F. Wells,
Deputy Commissioner, Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
[FR Doc. 00-19492 Filed 8-1-00; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P