[Federal Register Volume 66, Number 68 (Monday, April 9, 2001)]
[Notices]
[Pages 18476-18486]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 01-8572]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families

[Program Announcement No. 93631-01-01]


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

AGENCY: Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD), ACF, DHHS.

ACTION: Invitation to apply for financial assistance.

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SUMMARY: The Administration on Developmental Disabilities, 
Administration for Children and Families (ACF), announces that 
applications are being accepted for funding of Fiscal Year 2001 under 
family support.
    This program announcement consists of five parts. Part I, the 
Introduction, discusses the goals and objectives of ACF and ADD. Part 
II provides the necessary background information on ADD for applicants. 
Part III describes the review process. Part IV describes the priority 
under which ADD requests applications for Fiscal Year 2001 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 May 24, 2001.
    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 326F, Washington, DC 20447, Attention: Lois Hodge. Any 
applications received after 4:30 p.m. on the deadline date will not be 
considered for competition.
    Applicants must ensure that a legibly dated U.S. Postal Service 
postmark or a legibly dated, machine produced postmark of a commercial 
mail service is affixed to the envelope/package containing the 
application(s). To be acceptable as proof of timely mailing, a postmark 
from a commercial mail service must include the logo/emblem of the 
commercial mail service company and must reflect the date the package 
was received by the commercial mail service company from the applicant. 
Private Metered postmarks shall not be acceptable as proof of timely 
mailing.
    Applications handcarried by applicants, applicant couriers, other 
representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers 
shall be considered as meeting an announced deadline if they are 
received on or before the deadline date, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. 
and 4:30 p.m., EST, at the U.S. Department of Health and Human 
Services, ACF/Office of Grants Management, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW, 
ACF Mail Center, 2nd Floor (near loading dock), Aerospace Center, 901 D 
Street, SW, Washington, DC 20024, between Monday and Friday (excluding 
Federal holidays). This address must appear on the envelope/package 
containing the application with the note ``Attention: Lois Hodge. 
Applicants using express/overnight services should allow two working 
days prior to the deadline date for receipt of applications. 
(Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail services do not 
always deliver as agreed.)
    ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by fax or 
through other electronic media. Therefore, applications transmitted to 
ACF electronically will not be accepted regardless of date or time of 
submission and time of receipt.
    Late Applications: Applications that do not meet the criteria above 
are considered late applications. ADD shall notify each late applicant 
that its application will not be considered in the current competition.
    Extension of Deadlines: ACF may extend the deadline for all 
applicants because of acts of God such as floods and hurricanes, etc., 
widespread disruption of the mails, or when it is anticipated that many 
of the applications will come from rural or remote areas. However, if 
ACF does not extend the deadline for all applicants, it may not waive 
or extend the deadline for any applicants.

[[Page 18477]]


ADDRESSES: Application materials are available from Joan Rucker, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., 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, SW., Washington, 
DC 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, Mail Stop 300F, Washington, DC 20447, Attn: Family Support.
    This information will be used to determine the number of expert 
reviewers needed and to update the mailing list to whom program 
announcements are sent.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Part I. General Information

A. Goals of the Administration on Developmental Disabilities

    The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is located 
within the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Department 
of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Although different from the other 
ACF program administrations in the specific populations it serves, ADD 
shares a common set of goals that promote the economic and social well 
being of families, children, individuals and communities. Through 
national leadership, ACF and ADD envision:
     Families and individuals empowered to increase their own 
economic independence and productivity;
     Strong, healthy, supportive communities having a positive 
impact on the quality of life and the development of children;
     Partnerships with individuals, front-line service 
providers, communities, States and Congress that enable solutions which 
transcend traditional agency boundaries;
     Services planned and integrated to improve client access;
     A strong commitment to working with Native Americans, 
persons with developmental disabilities, refugees and migrants to 
address their needs, strengths and abilities; and
     A community-based approach that recognizes and expands on 
the resources and benefits of diversity.
    Emphasis on these goals and progress toward them will help more 
individuals, including people with developmental disabilities, to live 
productive and independent lives integrated into their communities.

B. Purpose of the Administration on Developmental Disabilities

    The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is the lead 
agency within ACF and DHHS responsible for planning and administering 
programs that promote the self-sufficiency and protect the rights of 
persons with developmental disabilities.
    The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act 
(42 U.S.C.15001, 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 Centers for Excellence for 
interdisciplinary pre-service training, technical assistance, research 
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 
2000, 42 U.S.C. 15000, et seq. The Projects of National Significance is 
Part E of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights 
Act of 2000, 42 U.S.C. 15081, et seq. The Consolidated Appropriations 
Act, FY 2001, Pub. L. 106-554.

Part II. Background Information for Applicants

A. Description of Family Support Program

    The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 
2000, 42 U.S.C., et seq. was authorized on October 30, 2000. The Act 
includes a new Title II, the ``Families of Children

[[Page 18478]]

With Disabilities Support Act of 1999''. The purpose of this new family 
support program is for states to create or expand statewide systems 
change. It allows for the award of competitive, statewide system change 
grants to conduct training and technical assistance and other national 
activities designed to address the problems which impede the self-
sufficiency of families of children with disabilities. Although 
authorization levels were provided, funds were never appropriated.

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. Applications from organizations that do not meet the 
eligibility requirements for the priority area will not be considered 
or reviewed in the competition, and the applicant will be so informed.
    Only public or non-profit private entities, not individuals, are 
eligible to apply under any of the priority areas. All applications 
developed jointly by more than one agency or organization must identify 
only one organization as the lead organization and official applicant. 
The other participating agencies and organizations can be included as 
co-participants, subgrantees or subcontractors.
    Nonprofit organizations must submit proof of nonprofit status in 
their applications at the time of submission. One means of 
accomplishing this is by providing a copy of the applicant's listing in 
the Internal Revenue Service's most recent list of tax-exempt 
organizations described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code or by 
providing a copy of the currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate, 
or by providing a copy of the articles of incorporation bearing the 
seal of the State in which the corporation or association is domiciled.
    ADD cannot fund a nonprofit applicant without acceptable proof of 
its nonprofit status.

B. Review Process and Funding Decisions

    Timely applications under this announcement from eligible 
applicants received by the deadline date will be reviewed and scored 
competitively. Experts in the field, generally persons from outside of 
the Federal government, will use the appropriate evaluation criteria 
listed later in this Part to review and score the applications. The 
results of this review are a primary factor in making funding 
decisions.
    ADD reserves the option of discussing applications with, or 
referring them to, other Federal or non-Federal funding sources when 
this is determined to be in the best interest of the Federal government 
or the applicant. It may also solicit comments from ADD Regional Office 
staff, other Federal agencies, interested foundations, national 
organizations, specialists, experts, States and the general public. ADD 
will consider these comments, along with those of the expert reviewers, 
in making funding decisions.
    In making decisions on awards, ADD will consider whether 
applications focus on or feature: services to culturally diverse or 
ethnic populations among others; a substantially innovative strategy 
with the potential to improve theory or practice in the field of human 
services; a model practice or set of procedures that holds the 
potential for replication by organizations administering or delivering 
of human services; substantial involvement of volunteers; substantial 
involvement (either financial or programmatic) of the private sector; a 
favorable balance between Federal and non-Federal funds available for 
the proposed project; the potential for high benefit for low Federal 
investment; a programmatic focus on those most in need; and/or 
substantial involvement in the proposed project by national or 
community foundations.
    This year, 5 points will be awarded in scoring for any project that 
demonstrates in their application a partnership and collaboration with 
any of 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 representative 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 Project Narrative 
Statement.
    Reviewers will determine the strengths and weaknesses of each 
application in terms of the evaluation criteria listed below, provide 
comments, and assign numerical scores. The point value following each 
criterion heading indicates the maximum numerical weight that each 
section may be given in the review process.

D. Structure of Priority Area Descriptions

    The priority area description is composed of the following 
sections:
     Eligible Applicants: This section specifies the type of 
organization that is eligible to apply under the particular priority 
area. Specific restrictions are also noted, where applicable.
     Purpose: This section presents the basic focus and/or 
broad goal(s) of the priority area.
     Background Information: This section briefly discusses the 
legislative background as well as the current state-of-the-art and/or 
current state-of-practice that supports the need for the particular 
priority area activity. Relevant information on projects previously 
funded by ACF and/or other State models are noted, where applicable.
     Evaluation Criteria: This section presents the basic set 
of issues that must be addressed in the application. Typically, they 
relate to need for assistance, results expected, project design, and 
organizational and staff capabilities. Inclusion and discussion of 
these items is important since the information provided will be used by 
the reviewers in evaluating the application against the evaluation 
criteria.
     Minimum Requirements for Project Design: This section 
presents the basic set of issues that must be addressed in the 
application. Typically, they relate to project design, evaluation, and 
community involvement. This section also asks for specific information 
on the proposed project. Inclusion and discussion of these items is 
important since they will be used by the reviewers to evaluate the 
applications against the evaluation criteria. Project products, 
continuation of the project after Federal support ceases, and 
dissemination/utilization activities, if appropriate, are also 
addressed.
     Project Duration: This section specifies the maximum 
allowable length

[[Page 18479]]

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. 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. Therefore, applicants 
should tailor their applications according to the requirements of the 
priority area description.

E. Available Funds

    ADD intends to award new grants resulting from this announcement 
during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2001, subject to the 
availability of funding. The size of the awards will vary. The priority 
area description includes information on the maximum Federal share of 
the project costs and the anticipated number of projects to be funded.
    For general information, 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.

F. Grantee Share of Project Costs

    Grantees must match $1 for every $3 requested in Federal funding to 
reach 25% of the total approved cost of the project. The total approved 
cost of the project is the sum of the ACF share and the non-Federal 
share. Cash or in-kind contributions may meet the non-Federal share, 
although applicants are encouraged to meet their match requirements 
through cash contributions. Therefore, a project requesting $100,000 in 
Federal funds (based on an award of $100,000 per budget period) must 
include a match of at least $33,333 (total project cost is $133,333, of 
which $33,333 is 25%).
    An exception to the grantee cost-sharing requirement relates to 
applications originating from American Samoa, Guam, the Virgin Islands, 
and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Applications from 
these areas are covered under Section 501(d) of Pub. 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.
    Applicants required to submit a full project description shall 
prepare the project description statement in accordance with the 
following instructions.
    1. Project summary/abstract: Provide a summary of the project 
description (a page or less) with reference to the funding request.
    2. Objectives and need for assistance: Clearly identify the 
physical, economic, social, financial, institutional, and/or other 
problem(s) requiring a solution. The need for assistance must be 
demonstrated and the principal and subordinate objectives of the 
project must be clearly stated; supporting documentation, such as 
letters of support and testimonials from concerned interests other than 
the applicant, may be included. Any relevant data based on planning 
studies should be included or referred to in the endnotes/footnotes. 
Incorporate demographic data and participant/beneficiary information, 
as needed. In developing the project description, the applicant may 
volunteer or be requested to provide information on the total range of 
projects currently being conducted and supported (or to be initiated), 
some of which may be outside the scope of the program announcement.
    3. Results or benefits expected: Identify the results and benefits 
to be derived. For example, when applying for a grant to establish a 
neighborhood child care center, describe who will occupy the facility, 
who will use the facility, how the facility will be used, and how the 
facility will benefit the community which it will serve.
    4. Approach: Outline a plan of action which describes the scope and 
detail of how the proposed work will be accomplished. Account for all 
functions or activities identified in the application. Cite factors 
which might accelerate or decelerate the work and state your reason for 
taking the proposed approach rather than others. Describe any unusual 
features of the project such as design or technological innovations, 
reductions in cost or time, or extraordinary social and community 
involvement.
    Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the 
accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such 
terms as the number of people to be served and the number of microloans 
made. 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.
    5. 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,

[[Page 18480]]

child care licenses and other documentation of professional 
accreditation, information on compliance with Federal/State/local 
government standards, documentation of experience in the program area, 
and other pertinent information. Any non-profit organization submitting 
an application must submit proof of its non-profit status in its 
application at the time of submission. The non-profit agency can 
accomplish this by providing a copy of the applicant's listing in the 
Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most recent list of tax-exempt 
organizations described in Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code, or by 
providing a copy of the currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate, 
or by providing a copy of the articles of incorporation bearing the 
seal of the State in which the corporation or association is domiciled.

Part IV. Fiscal Year 2001 Families of Children With Disabilities 
Support Projects--Description and Requirements

    The following section presents the final announcement for the area 
of family support for Fiscal Year 2001 and solicits the appropriate 
applications.
    Eligible Applicants: A State entity, unit or office designated by 
the chief executive officer of the state as the lead agency for this 
project. Proof of designation as lead agency by the governor/CEO must 
be submitted with the application. Applicants who were awarded grants 
last year (FY 2000) under this priority area are not eligible. 
Applicants who were awarded grants in Fiscal Year 1999 are eligible to 
apply for implementation funds. Applicants who have never received 
grants under this priority are eligible to apply for funds.
    Purpose: Project funds are to be utilized to support systems change 
activities designed to assist each State to develop and implement, or 
expand and enhance, a family-centered and family-directed, culturally 
competent, community-centered, comprehensive, statewide system of 
family support for families of children with disabilities designed to--
    (1) ensure the full participation, choice and control of families 
of children with disabilities in decisions related to the provision of 
such family support for their family;
    (2) ensure the active involvement of families of children with 
disabilities in the planning, development, implementation, and 
evaluation of such a statewide system;
    (3) increase the availability of, funding for, access to, and 
provision of family support for families of children with disabilities;
    (4) promote training activities that are family-centered and 
family-directed and that enhance the ability of family members of 
children with disabilities to increase participation, choice, and 
control in the provision of family support for families of children 
with disabilities;
    (5) increase and promote interagency coordination among State 
agencies, and between State agencies and private entities that are 
involved in these projects; and
    (6) increase the awareness of laws, regulations, policies, 
practices, procedures, and organizational structures, which facilitate 
or impede the availability or provision of family support for families 
of children with disabilities.
    Background Information: The concept of family support for families 
with a child with a disability is a relatively new phenomenon in 
disability policy. Historically, the only means of receiving publicly 
funded services for a child with a severe disability was by placing the 
child in a state institution. With a shift in thinking in the early 
1980s to a more family-centered approach to service provision many 
states initiated family support legislation. This legislation was often 
the result of initiatives developed by the state developmental 
disabilities councils. Currently, all the states plus the District of 
Columbia offer some type of family support program; this has consisted 
of any community-based service administered or financed by the state 
MR/DD agency providing for vouchers, direct cash payments to families, 
reimbursement, or direct payments to service providers which the state 
agency itself identified as family support. A review of these programs 
reveals the range of services that fall within ``family support''--cash 
subsidy payments, respite care, family counseling, architectural 
adaptation of the home, in-home counseling, sibling support programs, 
education and behavior management services and the purchase of 
specialized equipment. Family support is a growing expenditure in state 
budgets; in 1996 it constituted 2.3% of total MR/DD resources, compared 
to 1.6% in 1992. The number of families supported is also growing, from 
174,441 in 1992 to 280,535 in 1996.
    The Federal government's involvement in family support began in 
1982 with what is known as the ``Katie Beckett Waiver'', an option 
under Medicaid which allows a state to waive the deeming of parental 
income and resources for any child eighteen years of age and under who 
is eligible for placement in a Medicaid certified long term care 
institution or hospital, ICF/MR or nursing home. This waiver allows 
parents access to an array of family, home and community supports. A 
majority of states have not exercised this option.
    Federal disability policy in the 1980s increasingly began to 
reflect the principles of family-centered, community-based, coordinated 
care as Federal programs were established or reauthorized. The 
Temporary Respite Care and Crisis Nurseries Act of 1986 funded a 
variety of in-home and out-of-home respite programs; a new Part H for 
infants, toddlers, and their families was added in 1986 to the then 
Education of the Handicapped Act; the reauthorization of the Maternal 
and Child Health Care Block grant in 1989 emphasized these principles 
in it's Children with Special Health Care Needs program; and in the 
Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act a 
definition of family support services was added in 1990.
    Minimum Requirements for Project Design: ADD is interested in 
awarding grant funds that will maximize opportunities for systems 
change through the collaboration with and strengthening of generic 
community action service organizations in order to ensure the provision 
of family support to families of children with disabilities. Activities 
should contain the following key components:
     Establish a state policy council of families of children 
with disabilities or utilize an existing council which will advise and 
assist the lead entity in the performance of activities of this 
application and be composed of a majority of members who are family 
members of children with disabilities and who are youth with 
disabilities (ages 18-21);
     Training and technical assistance for family members, 
service providers, community members, professionals, members of the 
Policy Council, state agency staff, students and others;
     Interagency coordination of Federal and State policies, 
resources, and services; interagency workgroups to enhance public 
funding options and coordination; and other interagency activities that 
promote coordination;
     Outreach to locate families who are eligible for family 
support and to identify groups who are underserved or unserved;
     Policy studies that relate to the development and 
implementation, or expansion and enhancement, of a

[[Page 18481]]

statewide system of family support for families of children with 
disabilities;
     Hearings and forums to solicit input from families of 
children with disabilities regarding family support programs, policies, 
and plans for such families;
     Public awareness and education to families of children 
with disabilities, parent groups and organizations, public and private 
agencies, students, policymakers, and the general public;
     Needs assessment;
     Data collection and analysis related to the statewide 
system of family support for families of children with disabilities;
     Implementation plans to utilize generic community service 
organizations in innovative partnerships to include families of 
children with disabilities;
     Pilot demonstration projects to demonstrate new approaches 
to the provision of family support for families of children with 
disabilities;
     Evaluation system using measurable outcomes based on 
family satisfaction indicators such as the extent to which a service or 
support meets a need, solves a problem, or adds value for a family, as 
determined by the individual family.
    ADD is particularly interested in applications that incorporate 
into these activities one or more of the following populations relevant 
to their state: (1) Unserved and underserved populations which includes 
populations such as individuals from racial and ethnic minority 
backgrounds, economically disadvantaged individuals, individuals with 
limited-English proficiency, and individuals from underserved 
geographic areas (rural or urban); (2) aging families of adult children 
with disabilities who are over age 21 with a focus on assisting those 
families and their adult child to be included as self-determining 
members of their communities; (3) foster/adoptive families of children 
with disabilities; (4) families participating in the state's Temporary 
Assistance to Needy Families Program (TANF) , welfare-to-work, and/or 
SSI program; (5) veterans with families having a child with a 
disability; (6) parents with disabilities, especially with cognitive 
disabilities, having children with or without disabilities; and (7) 
families of children with behavioral/emotional issues.
    As a general guide, ADD will expect to fund only those applications 
for projects that incorporate the following elements:
     Consumer/self-advocate orientation and participation.
     Key project personnel with direct life experience with 
living with a disability.
     Strong advisory components that consist of a majority of 
individuals with disabilities and a structure where individuals with 
disabilities make real decisions that determine the outcome of the 
grant.
     Research reflects the principles of participatory action.
     Cultural competency.
     A description of how individuals with disabilities and 
their families will be involved in all aspects of the design, 
implementation, and evaluation of the project.
     Attention to unserved and inadequately served individuals, 
having a range of disabilities from mild to severe, from multicultural 
backgrounds, rural and inner-city areas, migrant, homeless, and refugee 
families, with severe disabilities.
     Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and 
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended by the 
Rehabilitation Act amendments of 1998 (P.L. 105-220).
     Collaboration through partnerships and coalitions.
     Development of the capacity to communicate and disseminate 
information and technical assistance through e-mail and other 
effective, affordable, and accessible forms of electronic 
communication.
    Applications should also include provisions for the travel of a key 
staff person during the project period to Washington, DC.
    Evaluation Criteria: The four criteria that follow will be used to 
review and evaluate each application under this announcement. Each of 
these criterion should be addressed in the project description section 
of the application. The point values indicate the maximum numerical 
weight each criterion will be accorded in the review process. The 
specific information to be included under each of these headings is 
described in Section G of Part III, General Instructions for the 
Uniform Project Description. Additional information that must be 
included is described below.
Criterion 1: Objectives and Need for Assistance (20 points)
    The application must identify the precise location of the project 
and area to be served by the proposed project. Maps and other graphic 
aids 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. Applicants choosing to develop 
audiovisual products must include closed captioning and an audio 
description.
Criterion 4: Organizational Profile (25 points)
    The application identifies the background of the project director/
principal investigator and key project staff (including name, address, 
training, educational background and other qualifying experience) and 
the experience of the organization to demonstrate the applicant's 
ability to effectively and efficiently administer this project. The 
application describes the relationship between this project and other 
work planned, anticipated or under way by the applicant which is being 
supported by Federal assistance.
    This section should consist of a brief (two to three pages) 
background description of how the applicant organization (or the unit 
within the organization that will have responsibility for the project) 
is organized, the types and quantity of services it provides, and/or 
the research and management capabilities it possesses. It may include 
descriptions of any current or previous relevant experience, or 
describe the competence of the project team and its demonstrated 
ability to produce a final product that is readily comprehensible and 
usable. An organization chart showing the relationship of the project 
to the current organization should be included.
    Project Duration: This announcement is soliciting applications for 
a project period up to seventeen (17) months under this area. Awards, 
on a competitive basis, can be up to a seventeen-month (17) budget 
period.
    Federal Share of Project Costs: The maximum Federal share for 
applicants, who have never received an award shall not exceed $200,000 
for a state and not to exceed $100,000 for a territory for the

[[Page 18482]]

budget period. The maximum Federal share for applicants requesting 
implementation funds shall not exceed $100,000 for a state and not to 
exceed $50,000 for a territory.
    Matching Requirement: Grantees must match $1 for every $3 requested 
in Federal funding to reach 25% of the total approved cost of the 
project. The total approved cost of the project is the sum of the ACF 
share and the non-Federal share. Cash or in-kind contributions may meet 
the non-Federal share, although applicants are encouraged to meet their 
match requirements through cash contributions. Therefore, a project 
requesting $200,000 in Federal funds (based on an award of $200,000 per 
budget period) must include a match of at least $66,666 (the total 
project cost is $266,666, of which $66,666 is 25%).
    Anticipated Number of Projects to be Funded: It is anticipated that 
up to thirty-six (36) 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.

Part V. Instructions for the Development and Submission of 
Applications

    This Part contains information and instructions for submitting 
applications in response to this announcement. Application forms and 
other materials can be obtained by any of the following methods: Joan 
Rucker, ADD, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW, Mailstop 300F, Washington, DC, 
20447, 202/690-7898; http:// www. acf.dhhs.gov/programs/add gov/programs/add; or 
[email protected]. Please copy and use these forms in submitting an 
application.
    Potential applicants should read this section carefully in 
conjunction with the information contained within the specific priority 
area under which the application is to be submitted. The priority area 
description is in Part IV.

A. Required Notification of the State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)

    All applications under the ADD priority areas are required to 
follow the Executive Order (E.O.) 12372 process, ``Intergovernmental 
Review of Federal Programs,'' and 45 CFR Part 100, ``Intergovernmental 
Review of Department of Health and Human Services Program and 
Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own processes 
for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance under 
covered programs.


    Note: State/Territory Participation in the Intergovernmental 
Review Process Does Not Signify Applicant Eligibility for Financial 
Assistance Under a Program. A Potential Applicant Must Meet the 
Eligibility Requirements of the Program for Which it is Applying 
Prior to Submitting an Application to its SPOC, if Applicable, or to 
ACF.


    As of November 20, 1998, all States and territories, except 
Alabama, Alaska, American Samoa, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, 
Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New 
Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Palau, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, 
Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington, have elected to 
participate in the Executive Order process and have established a State 
Single Point of Contact (SPOC). Applicants from these jurisdictions or 
for projects administered by Federally recognized Indian Tribes need 
take no action regarding E.O. 12372. Otherwise, applicants should 
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the 
prospective applications and receive any necessary instructions.
    Applicants must submit all required materials to the SPOC as soon 
as possible so that the program office can obtain and review SPOC 
comments as part of the award process. It is imperative that the 
applicant submit all required materials and indicate the date of this 
submittal (or date SPOC was contacted, if no submittal is required) on 
the SF 424, item 16a.
    Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application 
due date to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards. 
These comments are reviewed as part of the award process. Failure to 
notify the SPOC can result in delays in awarding grants.
    SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine 
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are 
requested to clearly differentiate between mere advisory comments and 
those Official State process recommendations that may trigger the 
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
    When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be 
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration 
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants and Audit 
Resolution, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW, Mail Stop 326F, Washington, DC 
20447, Attn: 93.631 ADD--Projects of National Significance.
    Contact information for each State's SPOC is found at the ADD 
website (http:// www. acf.dhhs.gov/programs/add) or by contacting Joan 
Rucker, ADD, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW, Mailstop 300F, Washington, DC, 
20447, 202/690-7898.

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 can be found at ADD's website: 
http:///www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/add or by contacting ``Joan Rucker, 
ADD, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW, Mailstop 300F, Washington, DC, 20447, 
202/690-7898

C. Instructions for Preparing the Application and Completing 
Application Forms

    The SF 424, SF 424A, SF 424A-Page 2 and Certifications/ Assurances 
are contained in the application package that can be accessed as 
mentioned earlier in this announcement. Please prepare your application 
in accordance with the following instructions:
1. SF 424 Page 1, Application Cover Sheet
    Please read the following instructions before completing the 
application cover sheet. An explanation of each item is included. 
Complete only the items specified.
    Top of Page. Please indicate if you are applying for first time 
funding or implementation funds.
    Item 1. ``Type of Submission''--Preprinted on the form.
    Item 2. ``Date Submitted'' and ``Applicant Identifier'' --Date 
application is submitted to ACF and applicant's own internal control 
number, if applicable.
    Item 3. ``Date Received By State''--State use only (if applicable).
    Item 4. ``Date Received by Federal Agency''--Leave blank.
    Item 5. ``Applicant Information''.
    ``Legal Name''--Enter the legal name of applicant organization. For 
applications developed jointly, enter the name of the lead organization 
only. There must be a single applicant for each application.
    ``Organizational Unit''--Enter the name of the primary unit within 
the applicant organization which will actually carry out the project 
activity. Do not use the name of an individual as the applicant. If 
this is the same as the applicant organization, leave the 
organizational unit blank.
    ``Address''--Enter the complete address that the organization 
actually

[[Page 18483]]

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 ADD's priority area, the following should be entered, 
``93.631--Developmental Disabilities: Projects of National 
Significance.''
    Item 11. ``Descriptive Title of Applicant's Project''--Enter the 
project title. The title is generally short and is descriptive of the 
project, not the priority area title.
    Item 12. ``Areas Affected by Project''--Enter the governmental unit 
where significant and meaningful impact could be observed. List only 
the largest unit or units affected, such as State, county, or city. If 
an entire unit is affected, list it rather than subunits.
    Item 13. ``Proposed Project''--Enter the desired start date for the 
project and projected completion date.
    Item 14. ``Congressional District of Applicant/Project''--Enter the 
number of the Congressional district where the applicant's principal 
office is located and the number of the Congressional district(s) where 
the project will be located. If Statewide, a multi-State effort, or 
nationwide, enter ``00.''

Items 15. Estimated Funding Levels

    In completing 15a through 15f, the dollar amounts entered should 
reflect, for a 17-month or less project period, the total amount 
requested. If the proposed project period exceeds 17 months, enter only 
those dollar amounts needed for the first 12 months of the proposed 
project.
    Item 15a. Enter the amount of Federal funds requested in accordance 
with the preceding paragraph. This amount should be no greater than the 
maximum amount specified in the priority area description.
    Items 15b-e. Enter the amount(s) of funds from non-Federal sources 
that will be contributed to the proposed project. Items b-e are 
considered cost sharing or ``matching funds.'' The value of third party 
in-kind contributions should be included on appropriate lines as 
applicable. For more information regarding funding as well as 
exceptions to these rules, see Part III, Sections E and F, and the 
specific priority area description.
    Item 15f. Enter the estimated amount of program income, if any, 
expected to be generated from the proposed project. Do not add or 
subtract this amount from the total project amount entered under item 
15g. Describe the nature, source and anticipated use of this program 
income in the Project Narrative Statement.
    Item 15g. Enter the sum of items 15a-15e.
    Item 16a. ``Is Application Subject to Review By State Executive 
Order 12372 Process? Yes.''--Enter the date the applicant contacted the 
SPOC regarding this application. Select the appropriate SPOC from the 
listing provided at the end of Part IV. The review of the application 
is at the discretion of the SPOC. The SPOC will verify the date noted 
on the application.
    Item 16b. ``Is Application Subject to Review By State Executive 
Order 12372 Process? No.''--Check the appropriate box if the 
application is not covered by E.O. 12372 or if the program has not been 
selected by the State for review.
    Item 17. ``Is the Applicant Delinquent on any Federal Debt?''--
Check the appropriate box. This question applies to the applicant 
organization, not the person who signs as the authorized 
representative. Categories of debt include audit disallowances, loans 
and taxes.
    Item 18. ``To the best of my knowledge and belief, all data in this 
application/preapplication are true and correct. The document has been 
duly authorized by the governing body of the applicant and the 
applicant will comply with the attached assurances if the assistance is 
awarded.''--To be signed by the authorized representative of the 
applicant. A copy of the governing body's authorization for signature 
of this application by this individual as the official representative 
must be on file in the applicant's office, and may be requested from 
the applicant.
    Item 18a-c. ``Typed Name of Authorized Representative, Title, 
Telephone Number''--Enter the name, title and telephone number of the 
authorized representative of the applicant organization.
    Item 18d. ``Signature of Authorized Representative'' --Signature of 
the authorized representative named in Item 18a. At least one copy of 
the application must have an original signature. Use colored ink (not 
black) so that the original signature is easily identified.
    Item 18e. ``Date Signed''--Enter the date the application was 
signed by the authorized representative.
2. SF 424A--Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs
    This is a form used by many Federal agencies. For this application, 
Sections A, B, C, E and F are to be completed. Section D does not need 
to be completed.
    Sections A and B should include the Federal as well as the non-
Federal funding for the proposed project covering (1) the total project 
period of 17 months or less or (2) the first year budget period, if the 
proposed project period exceeds 15 months.
    Section A--Budget Summary. This section includes a summary of the 
budget. On line 5, enter total Federal costs in column (e) and total 
non-Federal costs, including third party in-kind contributions, but not 
program income, in column (f). Enter the total of (e) and (f) in column 
(g).
    Section B--Budget Categories. This budget, which includes the 
Federal as well as non-Federal funding for the proposed project, covers 
(1) the total project period of 17 months or less or (2) the first-year 
budget period if the proposed project period exceeds 17 months. It 
should relate to item 15g, total funding, on the SF 424. Under column 
(5), enter the total requirements for funds (Federal and non-Federal) 
by object class category.
    A separate budget justification should be included to explain fully 
and justify major items, as indicated below. The types of information 
to be included in the justification are indicated under each category. 
For multiple year projects, it is desirable to provide this information 
for each year of the project. The budget justification should 
immediately follow the second page of the SF 424A.
    Personnel--Line 6a. Enter the total costs of salaries and wages of 
applicant/grantee staff. Do not include the costs of consultants, which 
should be included on line 6h, ``Other.''

[[Page 18484]]

    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 the entire 
program to another agency, the applicant/grantee must complete this 
section (Section B, Budget Categories) for each delegate agency by 
agency title, along with the supporting information. The total cost of 
all such agencies will be part of the amount shown on Line 6f. Provide 
backup documentation identifying the name of contractor, purpose of 
contract, and major cost elements.
    Construction--Line 6g. Not applicable. New construction is not 
allowable.
    Other--Line 6h. Enter the total of all other costs. Where 
applicable, such costs may include, but are not limited to: insurance; 
medical and dental costs; noncontractual fees and travel paid directly 
to individual consultants; local transportation (all travel which does 
not require per diem is considered local travel); space and equipment 
rentals; printing and publication; computer use; training costs, 
including tuition and stipends; training service costs, including wage 
payments to individuals and supportive service payments; and staff 
development costs. Note that costs identified as ``miscellaneous'' and 
``honoraria'' are not allowable.
    Justification: Specify the costs included.
    Total Direct Charges--Line 6i. Enter the total of Lines 6a through 
6h.
    Indirect Charges--6j. Enter the total amount of indirect charges 
(costs). If no indirect costs are requested, enter ``none.'' Generally, 
this line should be used when the applicant (except local governments) 
has a current indirect cost rate agreement approved by the Department 
of Health and Human Services or another Federal agency.
    Local and State governments should enter the amount of indirect 
costs determined in accordance with HHS requirements. When an indirect 
cost rate is requested, these costs are included in the indirect cost 
pool and should not be charged again as direct costs to the grant.
    In the case of training grants to other than State or local 
governments (as defined in title 45, Code of Federal Regulations, part 
74), the Federal reimbursement of indirect costs will be limited to the 
lesser of the negotiated (or actual) indirect cost rate or 8 percent of 
the amount allowed for direct costs, exclusive of any equipment 
charges, rental of space, tuition and fees, post-doctoral training 
allowances, contractual items, and alterations and renovations.
    For training grant applications, the entry under line 6j should be 
the total indirect costs being charged to the project. The Federal 
share of indirect costs is calculated as shown above. The applicant's 
share is calculated as follows:
    (a) Calculate total project indirect costs (a*) by applying the 
applicant's approved indirect cost rate to the total project (Federal 
and non-Federal) direct costs.
    (b) Calculate the Federal share of indirect costs (b*) at 8 percent 
of the amount allowed for total project (Federal and non-Federal) 
direct costs exclusive of any equipment charges, rental of space, 
tuition and fees, post-doctoral training allowances, contractual items, 
and alterations and renovations.
    (c) Subtract (b*) from (a*). The remainder is what the applicant 
can claim as part of its matching cost contribution.
    Justification: Enclose a copy of the indirect cost rate agreement. 
Applicants subject to the limitation on the Federal reimbursement of 
indirect costs for training grants should specify this.
    Total--Line 6k. Enter the total amounts of lines 6i and 6j.
    Program Income--Line 7. Enter the estimated amount of income, if 
any, expected to be generated from this project. Do not add or subtract 
this amount from the total project amount.
    Justification: Describe the nature, source, and anticipated use of 
program income in the Program Narrative Statement.
    Section C--Non-Federal Resources. This section summarizes the 
amounts of non-Federal resources that will be applied to the grant. 
Enter this information on line 12 entitled ``Totals.'' In-kind 
contributions are defined in title 45 of the Code of Federal 
Regulations, Parts 74.51 and 92.24, as ``property or services which 
benefit a grant-supported project or program and which are contributed 
by non-Federal third parties without charge to the grantee, the 
subgrantee, or a cost-type contractor under the grant or subgrant.''
    Justification: Describe third party in-kind contributions, if 
included.
    Section D--Forecasted Cash Needs. Not applicable.
    Section E--Budget Estimate of Federal Funds Needed For Balance of 
the Project. This section should only be completed if the total project 
period exceeds 17 months.
    Totals--Line 20. For projects that will have more than one budget 
period, enter

[[Page 18485]]

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 Summary/Abstract
    Clearly mark this separate page with the applicant name as shown in 
item 5 of the SF 424, the priority area number as shown at the top of 
the SF 424, and the title of the project as shown in item 11 of the SF 
424. The summary description should not exceed 300 words. These 300 
words become part of the computer database on each project.
    Care should be taken to produce a summary description that 
accurately and concisely reflects the proposal. It should describe the 
objectives of the project, the approaches to be used and the outcomes 
expected. The description should also include a list of major products 
that will result from the proposed project, such as software packages, 
materials, management procedures, data collection instruments, training 
packages, or videos (please note that audiovisuals must be closed 
captioned and audio described). The project summary description, 
together with the information on the SF 424, will constitute the 
project ``abstract.'' It is the major source of information about the 
proposed project and is usually the first part of the application that 
the reviewers read in evaluating the application.
4. Project Description
    The Project Description is a very important part of an application. 
It should be clear, concise, and address the specific requirements 
mentioned under the priority area description in Part IV. The narrative 
should also provide information concerning how the application meets 
the evaluation criteria, using the following headings:
    (a) Objectives and Need for Assistance;
    (b) Results and Benefits Expected;
    (c) Approach; and
    (d) Organization Profile.
    The specific information to be included under each of these 
headings is described in Section G of Part III, General Instructions 
for the Uniform Project Description, and under part IV, Evaluation 
Criteria.
    The narrative should be typed double-spaced on a single-side of an 
8\1/2\" x 11" plain white paper, with 1" margins on all sides, using 
black print no smaller than 12 pitch or 12 point size. All pages of the 
narrative (including charts, references/footnotes, tables, maps, 
exhibits, etc.) must be sequentially numbered, beginning with 
``Objectives and Need for Assistance'' as page number one. Applicants 
should not submit reproductions of larger size paper, reduced to meet 
the size requirement.
    The length of the application, including the application forms and 
all attachments, should not exceed 60 pages. This will be strictly 
enforced. A page is a single side of an 8\1/2\" x 11" sheet of paper. 
Applicants are requested not to send pamphlets, brochures or other 
printed material along with their application as these pose copying 
difficulties. These materials, if submitted, will not be included in 
the review process if they exceed the 60-page limit. Each page of the 
application will be counted to determine the total length.
5. Part V--Assurances/Certifications
    Applicants are required to file a SF 424B, Assurances--Non-
Construction Programs and the Certification Regarding Lobbying. Both 
must be signed and returned with the application. Applicants must also 
provide certifications regarding: (1) Drug-Free Workplace Requirements; 
and (2) Debarment and Other Responsibilities. These two certifications 
are self-explanatory. Copies of these assurances/certifications can be 
obtained from the ADD website (http://www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/add) or 
by contacting Joan Rucker, ADD, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW, Mailstop 
300F, Washington, DC 20447, 202/690-7898. These forms can be 
reproduced, as necessary. A duly authorized representative of the 
applicant organization must certify that the applicant is in compliance 
with these assurances/certifications. A signature on the SF 424 
indicates compliance with the Drug Free Workplace Requirements, and 
Debarment and Other Responsibilities certifications, and need not be 
mailed back with the application.
    In addition, applicants are required under section 162(c)(3) of the 
Act to provide assurances that the human rights of all individuals with 
developmental disabilities (especially those individuals without 
familial protection) who will receive services under projects assisted 
under Part E will be protected consistent with section 110 (relating to 
the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities). Each 
application must include a statement providing this assurance.
    For research projects in which human subjects may be at risk, a 
Protection of Human Subjects Assurance may be required. If there is a 
question regarding the applicability of this assurance, contact the 
Office for Research Risks of the National Institutes of Health at (301) 
496-7041.

E. Checklist for a Complete Application

    The checklist below is for your use to ensure that your application 
package has been properly prepared.

__One original, signed and dated application, plus two copies. 
Applications for different priority areas are packaged separately;
__Application is from an organization that is eligible under the 
eligibility requirements defined in the priority area description 
(screening requirement);
__Application length does not exceed 60 pages, unless otherwise 
specified in the priority area description.

    A complete application consists of the following items in this 
order:

__Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424, REV 4-88);
__A completed SPOC certification with the date of SPOC contact entered 
in line 16, page 1 of the SF 424 if applicable.
__Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs (SF 424A, REV 4-88);
__Budget justification for Section B--Budget Categories;
__Proof of designation as lead agency;
__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);

[[Page 18486]]

__Certification Regarding Lobbying;
__Certification of Protection of Human Subjects, if necessary; and
__Certification of the Pro-Children Act of 1994 (Environmental Tobacco 
Smoke), 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. Paperwork 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 12/31/2003.
    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: April 3, 2001.
Sue Swenson,
Commissioner, Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
[FR Doc. 01-8572 Filed 4-6-01; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P