[Federal Register Volume 67, Number 104 (Thursday, May 30, 2002)]
[Notices]
[Pages 37818-37835]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 02-13427]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families

[Program Announcement No. 93631-02-02]


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

AGENCY: Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD), 
Administration for Children and Families (ACF), DDHS.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD), 
Administration for Children and Families (ACF), is accepting 
applications for Fiscal Year 2002 Projects of National Significance 
(PNS).
    This Program Announcement (Number 93631-02-02) consists of five 
parts. Part I, the Introduction, discusses the goals and objectives of 
ACF and ADD, while Part II provides background information on ADD for 
applicants. Part III describes the application review process. Part IV 
contains several components including: description of eligible 
applicants, purpose of project funds, requirements of project design, 
and evaluation criteria for each of the Priority Areas which ADD 
requests applications for Fiscal Year 2002 funding of projects. 
Additionally, Part IV describes the five (5) Priority Areas, identifies 
the purpose of each Priority Area, and provides background information 
specific to each Priority Area in detail for the eligible applicants. 
The Priority Areas for Fiscal Year 2002 and the primary objective for 
each Priority Area are as follows:
    [sbull] Priority Area 1: Learning through Assisting. The Primary 
Objective of Primary Area 1 is to create opportunities for and provide 
support to high school students to earn service learning credits by 
assisting children with developmental disabilities in inclusive 
environments.
    [sbull] Priority Area 2: Creating and Celebrating One Community for 
All Citizens. The Primary Objective of Priority Area is to build and 
support local communities of diverse citizens where individuals with 
developmental disabilities feel welcome and able to make contributions.
    [sbull] Priority Area 3: Enhancing Early Literacy and Education for 
Children with Developmental Disabilities. The Primary Objective of 
Priority Area 3 is to identify, evaluate, and promote promising 
practices in inclusive early literacy and educational programs for 
young children with developmental disabilities.
    [sbull] Priority Area 4: Increasing Access in Rural Communities. 
The Primary Objective for Priority Area 4 is to identify, develop, and 
promote inclusive transportation opportunities and coalitions in rural 
communities with individuals who experience developmental disabilities.
    [sbull] Priority Area 5: Expanding Positive Youth Development 
Activities for Young People with Developmental Disabilities. The 
Primary Objective for Priority Area 5 is to expand youth development 
activities and provide positive community college experiences for young 
adults with developmental disabilities.

[[Page 37819]]

    Finally, Part V describes the process for preparing and submitting 
the application.

DATES: The closing date for submittal of applications under this 
announcement is July 24, 2002.
    Deadline: Applications Submitted by Mail. 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/Office of Grants Management, 370 L'Enfant 
Promenade SW., Mail Stop 326-F, Washington, DC 20447-0002, 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. All applications shall be mailed or hand-carried at the 
request and expense of the applicant.

Application Submitted by Courier

    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 closing date, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. 
and 4:30 p.m., EST, Monday through Friday (excluding Federal holidays), 
at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, ACF/Office of 
Grants Management, 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 mailing 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 (working days are defined as 
Monday through Friday, excluding Federal Holidays) prior to the closing 
date for receipt of applications.

    Note to Applicants:  Express/overnight mail services do not 
always deliver in the agreed upon timeframe.

    Receipt of Applications: Applications must either be hand delivered 
or mailed to the addresses listed above (under DEADLINE). ACF cannot 
accommodate transmission of applications by fax or through other 
electronic media. Applications transmitted electronically will not be 
accepted. Videotapes and cassette tapes may not be included as part of 
a grant application for panel review. Additional material will not be 
accepted, or added to an application, unless it is postmarked by the 
deadline date.
    Late Applications: Applications that do not meet the criteria above 
are considered late applications. ACF shall notify each late applicant 
that its application will not be considered in the current competition.
    Extension of Deadlines: ACF may extend application deadlines when 
circumstances such as acts of God (e.g., floods, hurricanes) occur, or 
when there is widespread disruption of the mail service. Determinations 
to extend or waive deadline requirements rest with the Chief Grants 
Management Officer.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For information about the application 
process, program information and application materials contact, ADD at 
the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Attention: April 
Myers, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Rm. 300F, Washington, DC, 20447, 
send e-mail to [email protected], or call 202/690-5985. Copies of this 
Program Announcement and many of the required forms may be obtained 
electronically at the ADD World Wide Web Page: http://www.acf.hhhs.gov/programs/add/.
    Notice of Intent to Submit Application: If you intend to submit an 
application, please fax the following information to April Myers, (202) 
690-6904 at, ADD; the number and title of this announcement, the 
Priority Area you wish to apply under, your organization's name and 
address, and your contact person's name, your contact's phone and fax 
numbers, and their e-mail address. This information will be used to 
determine the number of expert reviewers needed and to update the 
mailing list for future program announcements.

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) at the 
Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). ADD shares goals with 
other ACF programs that promote the economic and social well being of 
families, children, individuals, and communities. ACF and ADD envision:
    [sbull] Families and individuals empowered to increase their own 
economic independence and productivity;
    [sbull] Strong, healthy, supportive communities having a positive 
impact on the quality of life and the development of children;
    [sbull] Partnerships with individuals, front-line service 
providers, communities, States, and Congress that enable solutions 
which transcend traditional agency boundaries;
    [sbull] Services planned and integrated to improve client access;
    [sbull] A strong commitment to working with Native Americans, 
persons with developmental disabilities, refugees and migrants to 
address their individual needs, strengths and abilities; and
    [sbull] A community-based approach that recognizes and expands on 
the resources and benefits of diversity.
    The goals will enable more individuals, including people with 
developmental disabilities, to live productive and independent lives 
integrated into their communities. The Projects of National 
Significance (PNS) Program is one means through which 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 to promote the self-sufficiency and protect the rights of 
persons with developmental disabilities. ADD implements the 
Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, the DD 
Act, that was reauthorized in 2000. The DD Act defines developmental 
disabilities, reauthorizes four major programs under ADD, devolves 
advocacy to the States, promotes consumer oriented systems change and 
capacity building activities and facilitates network formations.
    The Act supports and provides assistance to States, public 
agencies, and private nonprofit 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.

[[Page 37820]]

    As defined in the DD Act, the term ``Developmental disabilities'' 
means a severe, chronic disability of an individual that is 
attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of 
mental and physical impairments that is manifested before the 
individual attains age 22 and is likely to continue indefinitely. 
Developmental Disabilities result in substantial limitations in three 
or more of the following functional areas; self-care, receptive and 
expressive language, learning, mobility, self-direction, capacity for 
independent living, and capacity for economic self-sufficiency.
    In the DD Act, Congress cited the following findings:
    [sbull] 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;
    [sbull] Individuals whose disabilities occur during their 
developmental period frequently have severe disabilities that are 
likely to continue indefinitely; and
    [sbull] 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 DD Act further promotes the best practices and policies 
presented below:
    [sbull] 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;
    [sbull] 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; and
    [sbull] 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.
    Toward these ends, ADD seeks to support and accomplish the 
following:
    [sbull] Enhance the capabilities of families in assisting 
individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve their maximum 
potential;
    [sbull] Support the increasing ability of individuals with 
developmental disabilities to exercise greater choice and self-
determination and to engage in leadership activities in their 
communities; and
    [sbull] Ensure the protection of individuals with developmental 
disabilities' legal and human rights.
    The four programs funded under the DD Act are:
    [sbull] State Council on Developmental Disabilities that engage in 
advocacy, capacity building and systematic change activities.
    [sbull] State Protection and Advocacy System (P&A's) that protect 
the legal and human rights of individuals with developmental 
disabilities.
    [sbull] The National Network of University Centers for Excellence 
in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCDD's) 
that engages in training, outreach and dissemination activities.
    [sbull] The Projects of National Significance (PNS), including 
Family Support Grants, support the development of family centered and 
directed systems for families of children with disabilities.
    All ADD programs must engage in activities related to advocacy, 
capacity building and systems change in one or more areas of emphasis. 
These areas of emphasis are: child-care related activities; early 
intervention and education activities; employment-related activities; 
health-related activities; housing-related activities; recreation-
related activities; transportation-related activities; and quality 
assurance activities.

C. Statutory Authorities Covered Under This Announcement

    This Announcement is covered under the Developmental Disabilities 
Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000, 42 U.S.C. 15000, et. seq. 
The Projects of National Significance (PNS) is Part E of the DD Act of 
2000, 42 U.S.C. 15081, et. seq. Provision under this section provides 
for the award of grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements for 
projects of national and state policies that reinforce and promote the 
self-determination, independence, productivity, and integration and 
inclusion in all facets of community life of individuals with 
developmental disabilities through family support and data collection 
activities and other projects that hold promise to expand or improve 
opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.

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 (PNS) that support the development of 
National and State policies to enhance the independence, productivity, 
integration, and inclusion of individuals with developmental 
disabilities through:
    [sbull] Data collection and analysis;
    [sbull] Technical assistance to enhance the quality of State 
Councils on Developmental Disabilities, Protection and Advocacy 
Systems, and University Centers in Developmental Disabilities; and
    [sbull] Other projects of sufficient size and scope that hold 
promise to expand or improve opportunities for people with 
developmental disabilities, including:
    (a) Technical assistance for the development of information and 
referral systems;
    (b) Educating policy makers;
    (c) Federal interagency initiatives;
    (d) The enhancement of participation of minority and ethnic groups 
in public and private sector initiatives in developmental disabilities; 
and
    (e) Transition of youth with developmental disabilities from school 
to adult life.
    The purpose of the Projects of National Significance (PNS) program 
is not only to provide technical assistance to the Developmental 
Disabilities Councils, the Protection and Advocacy Systems, and the 
University Centers in Developmental Disabilities, but also to support 
projects ``that hold promise to expand or improve opportunities for 
people with developmental disabilities.'' 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. The 2002 Priority Areas relate to the outcomes contained 
in ADD's plan for implementing the Government Performance Reporting Act 
(GPRA). In general, Projects are expected to increase community support 
and services, promote self-determination and productivity, and 
encourage interaction and collaboration among all sectors of the 
Developmental Disabilities field.

[[Page 37821]]

Part III. The Application Review Process

A. Eligible Applicants

    Before applications under this Program Announcement (Number 93631-
02-02) are reviewed, each one will be screened to determine whether the 
applicant is eligible for funding as public or non-profit private 
entities under the selected Priority Area. Applications from 
organizations that do not meet the eligibility requirements for the 
Priority Area will not be considered or reviewed in the competition, 
and the applicant will be so informed.
    Only public or non-profit private entities, not individuals, are 
eligible to apply under any of the Priority Areas. All applications 
developed jointly by more than one agency or organization must identify 
only one organization as the lead organization and official applicant. 
The other participating agencies and organizations may be included as 
co-participants, sub-grantees, or subcontractors. Under this 
solicitation, a few of the Priority Areas may specify that a certain 
type of organization, such as a Community College, must be the official 
applicant.
    Nonprofit organizations must submit proof of their nonprofit status 
in the applications at the time of submission. Proof of status includes 
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, a copy of a valid IRS tax 
exemption certificate, or 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.
    Faith-based organizations are eligible to apply for PNS grants if 
they meet the eligibility requirements stated above and for the 
specified Priority Area.

B. Review Process and Funding Decisions

    Applications under this Program Announcement (Number 93631-02-02) 
from eligible applicants received by the deadline date will be 
competitively reviewed and scored. Experts in the field, generally 
persons from outside of the Federal government, will use the evaluation 
criteria listed later in this Part of the Program Announcement to 
review and to 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 
and/or the applicant. ADD may also solicit comments from ACF 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 PNS decisions for 2002 grant awards, ADD will consider 
whether applications focus on or feature the following aspects/
activities in their project design:
    [sbull] Services to culturally diverse or ethnic populations;
    [sbull] A substantially innovative strategy with the potential to 
improve theory or practice in the field of human services;
    [sbull] A model practice or set of procedures that holds the 
potential for replication by organizations administering or delivering 
human services;
    [sbull] A substantial involvement of volunteers, the private sector 
(either financial or programmatic), and/or national or community 
foundations;
    [sbull] A favorable balance between Federal and non-Federal funds 
available for the proposed project, which is likely to result in the 
potential for high benefit for low Federal investment; and
    [sbull] A programmatic focus on those most in need of services and 
assistance, such unserved and underserved populations.
    This year, 5 additional points will be added to the applicant's 
total in the scoring process for any project that includes partnership 
and collaboration with one or more of the 140 Empowerment Zones/
Enterprise Communities. To receive the additional 5 points, the 
applicant must provide a clear outline for the collaboration and a 
discussion of how the involvement of the EZ/EC is related to the 
objectives and the activities of the project. 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 and to address each of the Priority Areas.

C. Evaluation Process

    Using the evaluation criteria (described under each Priority Area 
in Part IV), a panel of at least three reviewers (primarily experts 
from outside the Federal government) will evaluate and score the 
applications. To facilitate this review, applicants should ensure that 
they address the minimum requirements identified 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 under the Priority Area in Part VI indicates the 
maximum numerical weight that each applicant may receive per section in 
the review process.

D. Structure of Priority Area Descriptions

    The Priority Area Description is composed of the following 
sections:
    [sbull] Eligible Applicants: This section specifies the type of 
organization eligible to apply under the particular Priority Area. 
Specific restrictions are also noted, where applicable.
    [sbull] Purpose: This section presents the basic focus and/or broad 
goal(s) of the Priority Area.
    [sbull] 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. Relevant information on projects previously funded by 
ACF, ADD, and/or other State models are noted, where applicable.
    [sbull] 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.
    [sbull] Key Elements of Project Designs: As a general guide, ADD 
expects to fund only those proposals for projects that incorporate the 
elements listed in this section under each Priority Area.
    [sbull] Evaluation Criteria: This section presents the basic set of 
issues that must

[[Page 37822]]

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 carefully review the section on the Uniform Project 
Description and the evaluation criteria under the Priority Area.
    [sbull] 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 expected to be available to support the 
project's activities.
    [sbull] Federal Share of Project Costs: This section specifies the 
maximum amount of Federal support for the project.
    [sbull] Matching Requirement: This section specifies the minimum 
non-Federal contribution, either cash or in-kind match, required to 
receive Federal project funds.
    [sbull] Anticipated Number of Projects To Be Funded: This section 
specifies the number of projects ADD anticipates funding under the 
Priority Area.
    [sbull] CFDA: This section identifies the Catalog of Federal 
Domestic Assistance (CFDA) number and title of the program under which 
applications in the Priority Areas will be funded. This information is 
needed to complete item 10 on the SF 424.
    Please note that applications under this Program Announcement that 
do not comply with their specific Priority Area requirements in the 
section on ``Eligible Applicants'' will not be reviewed.
    Applicants under this Program Announcement must clearly identify 
the specific Priority Area under which they wish to have their 
applications considered, and tailor their applications accordingly. 
Applications that are more clearly focused on and directly responsive 
to the concerns of their specific Priority Area usually score better 
than those that are less specific and more generally defined.

E. Available Funds

    Subject to the availability of funding. ADD intends to award new 
grants resulting from this Program Announcement during the fourth 
quarter of Fiscal Year 2002. For the purpose of the awards under this 
Program Announcement, the successful applicants should expect a project 
start date of October 1, 2002. The Priority Area descriptions include 
information on the maximum Federal share of the project costs and the 
anticipated number of projects to be funded.
    The term ``budget period'' defines a one-year (12 months) interval 
of time. Where applicable, a multi-year period of assistance (referred 
to as the project period) is divided for budgetary and funding purposes 
into one-year budget periods. The term ``project period'' means to the 
total time a project is approved for support, including continuation 
applications and any federally approved 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 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 provide 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 Public Law 95-134, 
which requires that the Department waive any requirement for local 
matching funds for grants under $200,000.
    The applicant contribution must be secured from non-Federal 
sources, except as provided by Federal statute. A cost-sharing or 
matching requirement may not be met by costs from another Federal 
grant, unless Federal statue sanctions such. For example, funds from 
Federal programs that benefit Tribes and Native American organizations 
have been used to provide valid sources of matching funds. Any Tribe or 
Native American organization submitting an application to ADD should 
identify the Federal program(s) that will provide the matching funds in 
its application. If the applicant is selected to receive PNS funds, 
then ADD will determine whether there is statutory authority for use of 
such 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 should prepare the project 
description statement in accordance with the following instructions.
    Project summary/abstract: Provide a summary of the project 
description (a page or less) with reference to the funding request.
    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. 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.
    Results or Benefits Expected: Identify the results and benefits to 
be derived. Extent to which the applicant is consistent with the 
objectives of the application indicates the anticipated contributions 
to policy practice, theory and/or research. Extent to which the 
proposed project cost is reasonable in view of the expected results.
    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,

[[Page 37823]]

or extraordinary social and community involvement.
    Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the 
accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such 
terms as the number of people to be served and the number of activities 
accomplished. When accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or 
function, list them in chronological order to show the schedule of 
accomplishments and their target dates.
    If any data is to be collected, maintained, and/or disseminated, 
clearance may be required from the U.S. Office of Management and Budget 
(OMB). This clearance pertains to any ``collection of information that 
is conducted or sponsored by ACF.''
    List organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other key 
individuals who will work on the project along with a short description 
of the nature of their effort or contribution.
    1. Organization Profile: Provide information on the applicant 
organization(s) and cooperating partners such as organizational charts, 
financial statements, audit reports or statements from CPAs/Licensed 
Public Accountants, Employer Identification Numbers, names of bond 
carriers, contact persons and telephone numbers, child care licenses 
and other documentation of professional accreditation, information on 
compliance with Federal/State/local government standards, documentation 
of experience in the program area, and other pertinent information. Any 
non-profit organization submitting an application must submit proof of 
its non-profit status in its application at the time of submission. The 
non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing a copy of the 
applicant's listing in the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most recent 
list of tax-exempt organizations described in Section 501(c)(3) of the 
IRS code, or by providing a copy of the currently valid IRS tax 
exemption certificate, or by providing a copy of the articles of 
incorporation bearing the seal of the State in which the corporation or 
association is domiciled.

Part IV: Fiscal Year 2002 Priority Areas for Projects of National 
Significance Description and Requirements

    The following section presents the Priority Areas for Fiscal Year 
2002 Projects of National Significance (PNS) and solicits the 
appropriate applications.

Fiscal Year 2002 Priority Area 1: Learning Through Assisting

    [sbull] Eligible Applicants: State agencies, public or private 
nonprofit organizations, institutions or agencies, including a 
consortia of some or all of the above.
    [sbull] Purpose: To create opportunities for and provide support to 
high school students to earn service learning credits by assisting 
children with developmental disabilities in inclusive environments.
    [sbull] Background Information: Increasingly high schools 
throughout the country are requiring their students to earn community 
or service learning credits prior to graduation. In most circumstances, 
students are able to receive their credit hours by volunteering their 
time and skills in a wide range of community settings with the approval 
of the appropriate school personnel. This trend proposes a unique 
opportunity and a potential resource for families and agencies desiring 
to support children with disabilities in inclusive educational and 
recreational settings.
    With a little training and on-going supervision, high school 
students can provide a valuable set of capable hands to support 
children with disabilities in activities and environments where paid 
professionals are limited or not available to families. Additionally, 
the non-material benefits of the formation of a relationship between a 
child with developmental disabilities and a young adult are endless to 
all involved parties. For example, the high school students will gain 
insights into the lives and dreams of individuals with disabilities 
that will carry into their future professional and private lives in the 
adult world. The children with disabilities will also have the 
opportunity to develop a friendship with an individual who can blend 
into their environment and even be looked up to by the children's 
peers, in a manner that few adults can achieve.
    [sbull] Minimum Requirements for Project Design: ADD is 
particularly interested in supporting projects, which include the 
following activities and desired outcomes:
    [sbull] Developing and implementing a model program for recruiting, 
preparing, and supporting high school students to work with children 
who have developmental disabilities and their families;
    [sbull] Fostering partnerships between State Developmental 
Disabilities Networks (the Councils, Protection and Advocacy Systems, 
and University Centers), private and public high schools, community 
volunteer groups/organizations, service coalitions, businesses, and 
agencies to support and promote service learning opportunities with 
individuals who experience disabilities;
    [sbull] Identifying and/or developing materials for high schools on 
professional opportunities and career paths in supporting individuals 
with developmental disabilities and their families, including educators 
and direct support workers;
    [sbull] Building the capacity of community volunteer groups/
organizations and high school service learning programs to include and 
support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families;
    [sbull] Identifying existing model programs, best practices, and 
resources for high school students providing assistance to children 
with disabilities and their families;
    [sbull] Providing training, guidance, supervision, and mentoring to 
high school students volunteering to assist children with developmental 
disabilities in inclusive community, recreational, and/or educational 
settings;
    [sbull] Developing and disseminating educational and recruiting 
resources on the benefits of high school students being involved in the 
lives of children with developmental disabilities and their families 
for school high school administrators, educators, guidance counselors, 
volunteer coordinators, students, and parents; and
    [sbull] Designing and disseminating web-based technical assistance 
materials on training and supporting high school students to assist 
children with developmental disabilities in inclusive environments.
    [sbull] Key Elements of Project Designs:
    As a general guide, ADD expects to fund only PNS proposals that 
incorporate the following elements in their project design:
    [sbull] Involvement of consumers/self-advocates in planning and 
implementation;
    [sbull] Key project personnel whom have direct life experience with 
living with a disability;
    [sbull] Strong advisory components that consist of a majority of 
individuals with disabilities;
    [sbull] A structure where individuals with disabilities make real 
decisions that determine the activities and outcomes of the grant;
    [sbull] Research reflecting the principles of participatory action;
    [sbull] Cultural competency;
    [sbull] Description of how individuals with disabilities and their 
families will

[[Page 37824]]

be involved in all aspects of the design, implementation, and 
evaluation of the project;
    [sbull] Attention to unserved and inadequately served individuals 
with disabilities and their families from multicultural backgrounds, 
rural and inner-city areas, migrant, homeless, and refugees;
    [sbull] 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 (Public Law 102-569);
    [sbull] Collaboration with other organizations, groups, agencies, 
and foundations through partnerships and coalitions;
    [sbull] Capacity to communicate and disseminate information and 
technical assistance through e-mail and other effective, affordable, 
and accessible forms of electronic communication;
    [sbull] Develop and establish practices and programs beyond the 
project period from ADD;
    [sbull] Dissemination of models, products, best practices, and 
strategies to the disability networks and others;
    [sbull] Widespread distribution of grant funded products (reports, 
summary documents, audio-visual materials, etc.) in accessible format 
and in languages other than English;
    [sbull] Describe and develop methods/plans to be used to continue 
the transfer of knowledge and information once the project period ends;
    [sbull] 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; and
    [sbull] Specific outcomes tied to increasing the independence, 
productivity, integration and inclusion of individuals with 
developmental disabilities built into the project.
    Evaluation Criteria: Four criteria will be used to review and 
evaluate each application. Each criterion should be addressed in the 
project description section of the application. The point values 
indicate the maximum numerical weight possible for each criterion 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 following information: (a) The 
need for assistance, (b) the objectives of the proposed project, (c) 
the precise location of the proposed project, and (d) the area to be 
served by the proposed project.
    The applicant may accomplish this best by: (a) Pinpointing the 
relevant physical, economic, social, financial, institutional, or other 
problems requiring a solution; (b) demonstrating the need for the 
assistance; (c) stating the principal and subordinate objectives for 
the proposed project; (d) providing supporting documentation and/or 
other testimonies from concerned individuals and groups other than the 
applicant; (e) providing relevant data based on research or planning 
studies, and (f) including maps and other graphic aids.
Criterion 2: Results or Benefits Expected (20 points)
    The expected results and benefits of the proposed project should be 
consistent with the objectives of the application. The application must 
state the project's anticipated contributions to policy, practice, 
theory and/or research. The proposed project costs should be reasonable 
in view of the expected results.
Criterion 3: Approach (35 points)
    The applicant must outline a sound, workable, and detailed plan of 
action, pertaining to the goals and objectives of the proposed project. 
Activities should be identified in chronological order, with target 
dates for accomplishment and the key personnel responsible for 
completing the activity. The plan of action should also clearly 
identify and delineate the roles and involvement of each of the 
proposed project's partners, collaborators, and/or sub-grantees.
    The plan of action should involve the following types of 
information: (a) How the work will be accomplished; (b) factors that 
might accelerate or decelerate the work; (c) reasons for taking this 
approach as opposed to other possibilities; and (d) descriptions of 
innovations and/or unusual features (such as technological or design 
innovations, reductions in cost and/or time, or extraordinary community 
involvement). Additionally, the applicant must provide a discussion of 
how the expected results and benefits will be evaluated for the 
proposed project. This discussion should explain the methodology that 
will be used to determine if the needs identified and discussed in the 
application 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 
applicant must describe the relationship between this project and other 
work that is planned, anticipated, or currently under way by the 
applicant.
    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 structured, 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 it may 
describe the competence of the project team and its demonstrated 
ability to produce final products that is readily comprehensible and 
usable. An organization chart showing the relationship of the project 
to the current organization must be included.
    [sbull] Project Duration: ADD is soliciting applications for 
project periods up to two years (24 months) under this Priority Area. 
Awards, on a competitive basis, will be for a one-year budget period, 
although project periods may be for 24 months. Applications for 
continuation grant funds beyond the one-year budget period, but within 
the project period for the Priority Area, will be entertained, subject 
to the availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the grantee, and 
determination that continued or carryover funding would be in the best 
interest of the Government.
    [sbull] Federal Share of Project Costs: The maximum Federal share 
is not to exceed $100,000 for the first 12-month budget period.
    [sbull] 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/ADD 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

[[Page 37825]]

(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%).
    [sbull] Anticipated Number of Projects To Be Funded: ADD 
anticipates funding up to five projects under this Priority Area in FY 
2002. Grants will be awarded under this program announcement subject to 
the availability of funds for support of these activities.
    [sbull] 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 
SF424.

Fiscal Year 2002 Priority Area 2: Creating and Celebrating One 
Community for All Citizens

    [sbull] Eligible Applicants: State agencies, public or private 
nonprofit organizations, institutions or agencies, including a 
consortia of some or all of the above.
    [sbull] Purpose: To build and support local communities of diverse 
citizens where individuals with developmental disabilities feel welcome 
and able to make contributions.
    [sbull] Background Information: Throughout our Nation's history, 
America has taken great pride in the strength and diversity of its 
communities. Citizens of such a free land have the right, opportunity, 
and responsibility to work together in partnerships and coalitions to 
address their collective community of needs. Yet, most formal and 
informal groups elect to pledge their alliance to organizations with 
the mission to assist similar populations of citizens.
    The end result is organizations and agencies working with one group 
of citizens rarely extend invitations of partnerships and coalitions to 
agencies and organizations assisting another segment of the community 
with similar issues and needs. As long as this standard of doing 
business remains the dominant practice, persons with developmental 
disabilities will continue to be segregated into separate programs, 
treated differently by their peers, and generally feel isolated from 
their own community. Additionally, generic service providers and 
business owners will continue to view the needs of individuals with the 
most significant disabilities as being ``too special'' to address and 
beyond their capacity and/or expertise.
    In light of this, ADD is seeking applications to build, document, 
and disseminate information on community-based coalitions and 
grassroots efforts around pressing community needs that will result in 
increased productivity, independence, and inclusion of persons with 
developmental disabilities. Proposed projects should identify an Area 
of Emphasis (childcare, housing, education, employment, transportation, 
health, recreation, or quality assurance) from the DD Act of 2002 to 
develop community-based initiatives and coalitions that encompass the 
State Developmental Disabilities Network, cross-disability groups, and 
agencies and organizations with traditionally a non-disability focus. 
Example of agencies, groups, and organizations with traditionally a 
non-disability focus include, but are not limited to, the following: 
Inter-Faith Coalitions, Girls' and Boys' Clubs, Care Givers 
Associations, Rotary Clubs, Minority Colleges and Universities 
(Historical Black Colleges and Tribal Universities), Commerce and 
Business Associations, Rural Economic Development Councils, Main Street 
Improvement Funds, Safe Neighborhoods Projects, Small Business 
Organizations, Employment Networks, Youth Recreational Programs, 
Outdoor Adventure Clubs, Affordable Day Care or Housing Coalitions, and 
Health Promotion Campaigns.
    [sbull] Minimum Requirements for Project Design: ADD is 
particularly interested in supporting projects, which include the 
following activities and desired outcomes:
    [sbull] Developing and fostering partnerships between State 
Developmental Disabilities Networks (the Councils, Protection and 
Advocacy Systems, and University Centers) and other groups, 
organizations, coalitions, businesses, and agencies with traditionally 
a non-disability focus;
    [sbull] Identifying an Area of Emphasis (transportation, child 
care, education, housing, recreation, health, employment, or quality 
assurance) and supporting local and/or State coalitions between 
disability related groups/agencies and other community groups/
organizations to create system change and/or build capacity;
    [sbull] Building the capacity of community groups and organizations 
to include and support individuals with developmental disabilities in 
community, social, and civic activities;
    [sbull] Identifying opportunities and resources for individuals 
with developmental disabilities to participate in community events, 
organizations, and activities;
    [sbull] Providing training and mentoring to individuals with 
developmental disabilities to prepare them for community involvement 
and leadership roles;
    [sbull] Developing and disseminating a guidebook or manual for 
State Developmental Disabilities Networks to foster partnerships and 
coalitions with non-disability groups, agencies, coalitions, 
businesses, and organizations; and
    [sbull] Designing and disseminating web-based technical assistance 
materials on coalition building and sustainability.
    [sbull] Key Elements of Project Designs:
    As a general guide, ADD expects to fund only PNS proposals that 
incorporate the following elements in their project design:
    [sbull] Involvement of consumers/self-advocates in planning and 
implementation;
    [sbull] Key project personnel whom have direct life experience with 
living with a disability;
    [sbull] Strong advisory components that consist of a majority of 
individuals with disabilities;
    [sbull] A structure where individuals with disabilities make real 
decisions that determine the activities and outcomes of the grant;
    [sbull] Research reflecting the principles of participatory action;
    [sbull] Cultural competency;
    [sbull] Description of how individuals with disabilities and their 
families will be involved in all aspects of the design, implementation, 
and evaluation of the project;
    [sbull] Attention to unserved and inadequately served individuals 
with disabilities and families from multicultural backgrounds, rural 
and inner-city areas, migrant, homeless, and refugees;
    [sbull] 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 (Public Law 102-569);
    [sbull] Collaboration with other organizations, groups, agencies, 
and foundations through partnerships and coalitions;
    [sbull] Capacity to communicate and disseminate information and 
technical assistance through e-mail and other effective, affordable, 
and accessible forms of electronic communication;
    [sbull] Develop and establish practices and programs beyond the 
project period from ADD;
    [sbull] Dissemination of models, products, best practices, and 
strategies to the disability networks and others;
    [sbull] Widespread distribution of grant funded products (reports, 
summary documents, audio-visual materials, etc.) in accessible format 
and in languages other than English;
    [sbull] Describe and develop methods/plans to be used to continue 
the transfer

[[Page 37826]]

of knowledge and information once the project period ends;
    [sbull] 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; and
    [sbull] Specific outcomes tied to the ADD increasing the 
independence, productivity, integration and inclusion of individuals 
with developmental disabilities built into the project.
    Evaluation Criteria: Four criteria will be used to review and 
evaluate each application. Each criterion should be addressed in the 
project description section of the application. The point values 
indicate the maximum numerical weight possible for each criterion 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 following information: (a) The 
need for assistance, (b) the objectives of the proposed project, (c) 
the precise location of the proposed project, and (d) the area to be 
served by the proposed project.
    The applicant may accomplish this best by: (a) Pinpointing the 
relevant physical, economic, social, financial, institutional, or other 
problems requiring a solution; (b) demonstrating the need for the 
assistance; (c) stating the principal and subordinate objectives for 
the proposed project; (d) providing supporting documentation and/or 
other testimonies from concerned individuals and groups other than the 
applicant; (e) providing relevant data based on research or planning 
studies, and (f) including maps and other graphic aids.
Criterion 2: Results or Benefits Expected (20 points)
    The expected results and benefits of the proposed project should be 
consistent with the objectives of the application. The application must 
state the project's anticipated contributions to policy, practice, 
theory and/or research. The proposed project costs should be reasonable 
in view of the expected results.
Criterion 3: Approach (35 points)
    The applicant must outline a sound, workable, and detailed plan of 
action, pertaining to the goals and objectives of the proposed project. 
Activities should be identified in chronological order, with target 
dates for accomplishment and the key personnel responsible for 
completing the activity. The plan of action should also clearly 
identify and delineate the roles and involvement of each of the 
proposed project's partners, collaborators, and/or sub-grantees.
    The plan of action should involve the following types of 
information: (a) How the work will be accomplished; (b) factors that 
might accelerate or decelerate the work; (c) reasons for taking this 
approach as opposed to other possibilities; and (d) descriptions of 
innovations and/or unusual features (such as technological or design 
innovations, reductions in cost and/or time, or extraordinary community 
involvement). Additionally, the applicant must provide a discussion of 
how the expected results and benefits will be evaluated for the 
proposed project. This discussion should explain the methodology that 
will be used to determine if the needs identified and discussed in the 
application 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 
applicant must describe the relationship between this project and other 
work that is planned, anticipated, or currently under way by the 
applicant.
    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 structured, 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 it may 
describe the competence of the project team and its demonstrated 
ability to produce final products that is readily comprehensible and 
usable. An organization chart showing the relationship of the project 
to the current organization must be included.
    [sbull] Project Duration: ADD is soliciting applications for 
project periods up to two years (24 months) under this Priority Area. 
Awards, on a competitive basis, will be for a one-year budget period, 
although project periods may be for 24 months. Applications for 
continuation grant funds beyond the one-year budget period, but within 
the project period for the Priority Area, will be entertained, subject 
to the availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the grantee, and 
determination that continued or carryover funding would be in the best 
interest of the Government.
    [sbull] Federal Share of Project Costs: The maximum Federal share 
is not to exceed $100,000 for the first 12-month budget period.
    [sbull] 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/ADD 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 
(the total project cost is $133,333, of which $33,333 is 25%).
    [sbull] Anticipated Number of Projects To Be Funded: ADD 
anticipates funding up to five projects under this Priority Area in FY 
2002. Grants will be awarded under this program announcement subject to 
the availability of funds for support of these activities.
    [sbull] 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 
SF424.

Fiscal Year 2002 Priority Area 3: Enhancing Early Literacy and 
Education for Children With Developmental Disabilities

    [sbull] Eligible Applicants: State agencies, public or private 
nonprofit organizations, institutions, or agencies, including a 
consortia of some or all of the above.
    [sbull] Purpose: To identify, evaluate, and promote ``Promising 
Practices'' in inclusive early literacy and educational programs for 
young children with developmental disabilities.
    [sbull] Background Information: With the emergence of welfare-to-
work programs and the increase in two income families, the impact and 
importance of quality childcare and early education is rapidly growing 
in our Nation. The Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted over ten 
years ago and continues to expand

[[Page 37827]]

opportunities for children with developmental disabilities and their 
families to enter childcare centers. For most children, their day care 
and early education experiences will sharply shape how they tackle 
educational opportunities well into young adulthood. Ensuring and 
promoting quality early education environments where all children feel 
welcome, safe, and included is key to our Nation's children with 
developmental disabilities future educational success, self-confidence, 
and overall mental health. As a step towards improving childcare 
services for all children and increasing early literacy, it is 
imperative for a knowledge basis to be identified, developed, and 
fostered on best practices and disseminated throughout the country for 
children with developmental disabilities.
    [sbull] Minimum Requirements for Project Design: ADD is 
particularly interested in supporting creative projects, which include 
the following types of activities and desired outcomes:
    [sbull] Identifying and evaluating a diverse sample of inclusive 
childcare providers with promising best practices in early literacy and 
education;
    [sbull] Providing web-based, user-friendly materials and 
information on promising practices in early literacy and education for 
children with developmental disabilities;
    [sbull] Developing and disseminating tools for parents of children 
with developmental disabilities to evaluate the quality of educational 
services from their childcare providers;
    [sbull] Offering technical assistance to childcare providers on 
promising practices in inclusive education and early literacy;
    [sbull] Collaborating with Head Start Programs and Early 
Intervention Projects to strengthen early literacy skills in young 
children with developmental disabilities;
    [sbull] Collecting data on the impact of early literacy programs on 
and the unmet needs of children with developmental disabilities;
    [sbull] Identifying and promoting after school care for young 
children with developmental disabilities that include an educational 
component;
    [sbull] Increasing the parental involvement of young children with 
developmental disabilities in early literacy and education programs; 
and
    [sbull] Promoting and establishing partnerships between parent 
advocacy organizations, childcare providers, disability-related groups, 
foundations/groups interested in early literacy, and others to improve 
early literacy in children with developmental disabilities.
    [sbull] Key Elements of Project Designs:
    As a general guide, ADD expects to fund only PNS proposals that 
incorporate the following elements in their project design:
    [sbull] Involvement of consumers/self-advocates in planning and 
implementation;
    [sbull] Key project personnel whom have direct life experience with 
living with a disability;
    [sbull] Strong advisory components that consist of a majority of 
individuals with disabilities
    [sbull] A structure where individuals with disabilities make real 
decisions that determine the activities and outcomes of the grant;
    [sbull] Research reflecting the principles of participatory action;
    [sbull] Cultural competency;
    [sbull] Description of how individuals with disabilities and their 
families will be involved in all aspects of the design, implementation, 
and evaluation of the project;
    [sbull] Attention to unserved and inadequately served individuals 
with disabilities and families from multicultural backgrounds, rural 
and inner-city areas, migrant, homeless, and refugees;
    [sbull] 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 (Public Law 102-569);
    [sbull] Collaboration with other organizations, groups, agencies, 
and foundations through partnerships and coalitions;
    [sbull] Capacity to communicate and disseminate information and 
technical assistance through e-mail and other effective, affordable, 
and accessible forms of electronic communication;
    [sbull] Develop and establish practices and programs beyond the 
project period from ADD;
    [sbull] Dissemination of models, products, best practices, and 
strategies to the disability networks and others;
    [sbull] Widespread distribution of grant funded products (reports, 
summary documents, audio-visual materials, etc.) in accessible format 
and in languages other than English;
    [sbull] Describe and develop methods/plans to be used to continue 
the transfer of knowledge and information once the project period ends;
    [sbull] 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; and
    [sbull] Specific outcomes tied to increasing the independence, 
productivity, integration and inclusion of individuals with 
developmental disabilities built into the project.
    Evaluation Criteria: Four criteria will be used to review and 
evaluate each application. Each criterion should be addressed in the 
project description section of the application. The point values 
indicate the maximum numerical weight possible for each criterion 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 following information: (a) The 
need for assistance, (b) the objectives of the proposed project, (c) 
the precise location of the proposed project, and (d) the area to be 
served by the proposed project.
    The applicant may accomplish this best by: (a) Pinpointing the 
relevant physical, economic, social, financial, institutional, or other 
problems requiring a solution; (b) demonstrating the need for the 
assistance; (c) stating the principal and subordinate objectives for 
the proposed project; (d) providing supporting documentation and/or 
other testimonies from concerned individuals and groups other than the 
applicant; (e) providing relevant data based on research or planning 
studies, and (f) including maps and other graphic aids.
Criterion 2: Results or Benefits Expected (20 points)
    The expected results and benefits of the proposed project should be 
consistent with the objectives of the application. The application must 
state the project's anticipated contributions to policy, practice, 
theory and/or research. The proposed project costs should be reasonable 
in view of the expected results.
Criterion 3: Approach (35 points)
    The applicant must outline a sound, workable, and detailed plan of 
action, pertaining to the goals and objectives of the proposed project. 
Activities should be identified in chronological order, with target 
dates for accomplishment and the key personnel responsible for 
completing the activity. The plan of action should also clearly 
identify and delineate the roles and involvement of each of the 
proposed project's partners, collaborators, and/or sub-grantees.

[[Page 37828]]

    The plan of action should involve the following types of 
information: (a) How the work will be accomplished; (b) factors that 
might accelerate or decelerate the work; (c) reasons for taking this 
approach as opposed to other possibilities; and (d) descriptions of 
innovations and/or unusual features (such as technological or design 
innovations, reductions in cost and/or time, or extraordinary community 
involvement). Additionally, the applicant must provide a discussion of 
how the expected results and benefits will be evaluated for the 
proposed project. This discussion should explain the methodology that 
will be used to determine if the needs identified and discussed in the 
application 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 
applicant must describe the relationship between this project and other 
work that is planned, anticipated, or currently under way by the 
applicant.
    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 structured, 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 it may 
describe the competence of the project team and its demonstrated 
ability to produce final products that is readily comprehensible and 
usable. An organization chart showing the relationship of the project 
to the current organization must be included.
    [sbull] Project Duration: ADD is soliciting applications for 
project periods up to two years (24 months) under this Priority Area. 
Awards, on a competitive basis, will be for a one-year budget period, 
although project periods may be for 24 months. Applications for 
continuation grant funds the one-year budget period, but within the 
project period for the Priority Area, will be entertained, subject to 
the availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the grantee, and 
determination that continued or carryover funding would be in the best 
interest of the Government.
    [sbull] Federal Share of Project Costs: The maximum Federal share 
is not to exceed $100,000 for the first 12-month budget period.
    [sbull] 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/ADD 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 
(the total project cost is $133,333, of which $33,333 is 25%).
    [sbull] Anticipated Number of Projects To Be Funded: ADD 
anticipates funding up to five projects under this Priority Area in FY 
2002. Grants will be awarded under this program announcement subject to 
the availability of funds for support of these activities.
    [sbull] 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 
SF424.

Fiscal Year 2002 Priority Area 4: Increasing Access in Rural 
Communities With Individuals Who Have Developmental Disabilities

    [sbull] Eligible Applicants: State agencies, public or private 
nonprofit organizations, institutions, or agencies, including a 
consortia of some or all of the above.
    [sbull] Purpose: To identify, develop, and promote inclusive 
transportation opportunities and coalitions in rural communities with 
individuals who experience developmental disabilities.
    [sbull] Background Information: Improving and expanding the 
Department of Health and Human Services programs in rural communities 
is a priority of Secretary Thompson's Administration and the 
President's New Freedom Initiative is a national emphasis to enhance 
the quality of life for Americans with disabilities. For individuals 
with developmental disabilities residing in rural communities, the lack 
of reliable, dependable, affordable transportation remains their 
greatest barrier to achieving self-sufficiency and becoming an 
inclusive member of their community. The size of the general population 
in most rural communities is not believed to be ample to financially 
support on-going public transportation systems. Where taxi companies do 
exist in the rural community, the expense of taking private taxis on a 
routine basis for most individuals with developmental disabilities is 
cost prohibited. Access to transportation is a community issue, which 
requires creative, collaborative, local solutions.
    [sbull] Minimum Requirements for Project Design: ADD is 
particularly interested in supporting creative projects, which include 
the following types of activities and desired outcomes:
    [sbull] Identifying and evaluating a diverse sample of promising 
programs and best practices in providing inclusive transportation in 
rural communities;
    [sbull] Organizing and hosting a National Summit on transportation 
for individuals with developmental disabilities residing in rural 
communities;
    [sbull] Designing and offering web-based, user-friendly materials 
and information on promising practices in providing inclusive 
transportation services to individuals with developmental disabilities 
in rural communities;
    [sbull] Identifying funding resources and opportunities for the 
development of and on-going costs associated with delivering inclusive 
transportation services in rural communities;
    [sbull] Collecting and compiling data on the impact of barriers to 
transportation in rural areas for individuals with developmental 
disabilities on their productivity, independence, and inclusion, as 
well as the local economy, their community, family members, and the 
State's health care and service systems;
    [sbull] Providing technical assistance to rural communities on how 
to develop and/or expand model programs for delivering inclusive 
transportation services; and
    [sbull] Promoting and establishing partnerships between consumer/
parent advocacy organizations, transportation providers, disability-
related groups, public/private entities, other groups serving 
populations who experience transportation barriers, (such as the 
elderly, individuals living in poverty, and migrant workers), and 
others to improve access to transportation services for individuals 
with developmental disabilities in rural communities.
    [sbull] Key Elements of Project Designs:
    As a general guide, ADD expects to fund only PNS proposals that 
incorporate the following elements in their project designs:

[[Page 37829]]

    [sbull] Involvement of consumers/self-advocates in planning and 
implementation;
    [sbull] Key project personnel whom have direct life experience with 
living with a disability;
    [sbull] Strong advisory components that consist of a majority of 
individuals with disabilities;
    [sbull] A structure where individuals with disabilities make real 
decisions that determine the activities and outcomes of the grant;
    [sbull] Research reflecting the principles of participatory action;
    [sbull] Cultural competency;
    [sbull] Description of how individuals with disabilities and their 
families will be involved in all aspects of the design, implementation, 
and evaluation of the project;
    [sbull] Attention to unserved and inadequately served individuals 
with disabilities and families from multicultural backgrounds, rural 
and inner-city areas, migrant, homeless, and refugees;
    [sbull] 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);
    [sbull] Collaboration with other organizations, groups, agencies, 
and foundations through partnerships and coalitions;
    [sbull] Capacity to communicate and disseminate information and 
technical assistance through e-mail and other effective, affordable, 
and accessible forms of electronic communication;
    [sbull] Develop and establish practices and programs beyond the 
project period from ADD;
    [sbull] Dissemination of models, products, best practices, and 
strategies to the disability networks and others;
    [sbull] Widespread distribution of grant funded products (reports, 
summary documents, audio-visual materials, etc.) in accessible format 
and in languages other than English;
    [sbull] Describe and develop methods/plans to be used to continue 
the transfer of knowledge and information once the project period ends;
    [sbull] 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; and
    [sbull] Specific outcomes tied to increasing the independence, 
productivity, integration and inclusion of individuals with 
developmental disabilities built into the project.
    Evaluation Criteria: Four criteria will be used to review and 
evaluate each application. Each criterion should be addressed in the 
project description section of the application. The point values 
indicate the maximum numerical weight possible for each criterion 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 following information: (a) The 
need for assistance, (b) the objectives of the proposed project, (c) 
the precise location of the proposed project, and (d) the area to be 
served by the proposed project.
    The applicant may accomplish this best by: (a) Pinpointing the 
relevant physical, economic, social, financial, institutional, or other 
problems requiring a solution; (b) demonstrating the need for the 
assistance; (c) stating the principal and subordinate objectives for 
the proposed project; (d) providing supporting documentation and/or 
other testimonies from concerned individuals and groups other than the 
applicant; (e) providing relevant data based on research or planning 
studies, and (f) including maps and other graphic aids.
Criterion 2: Results or Benefits Expected (20 points)
    The expected results and benefits of the proposed project should be 
consistent with the objectives of the application. The application must 
state the project's anticipated contributions to policy, practice, 
theory and/or research. The proposed project costs should be reasonable 
in view of the expected results.
Criterion 3: Approach (35 points)
    The applicant must outline a sound, workable, and detailed plan of 
action, pertaining to the goals and objectives of the proposed project. 
Activities should be identified in chronological order, with target 
dates for accomplishment and the key personnel responsible for 
completing the activity. The plan of action should also clearly 
identify and delineate the roles and involvement of each of the 
proposed project's partners, collaborators, and/or sub-grantees.
    The plan of action should involve the following types of 
information: (a) How the work will be accomplished; (b) factors that 
might accelerate or decelerate the work; (c) reasons for taking this 
approach as opposed to other possibilities; and (d) descriptions of 
innovations and/or unusual features (such as technological or design 
innovations, reductions in cost and/or time, or extraordinary community 
involvement). Additionally, the applicant must provide a discussion of 
how the expected results and benefits will be evaluated for the 
proposed project. This discussion should explain the methodology that 
will be used to determine if the needs identified and discussed in the 
application 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 
applicant must describe the relationship between this project and other 
work that is planned, anticipated, or currently under way by the 
applicant.
    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 structured, 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 it may 
describe the competence of the project team and its demonstrated 
ability to produce final products that is readily comprehensible and 
usable. An organization chart showing the relationship of the project 
to the current organization must be included.
    [sbull] Project Duration: ADD is soliciting applications for 
project periods up to one year (12 months) under this Priority Area. 
Awards, on a competitive basis, will be for a one-year budget period, 
although project periods may be for 24 months. Applications for 
continuation grant funds beyond the one-year budget period, but within 
the project period for the Priority Area, will be entertained, subject 
to the availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the grantee, and 
determination that continued or carryover funding would be in the best 
interest of the Government.
    [sbull] Federal Share of Project Costs: The maximum Federal share 
is not to exceed $100,000 for the first 12-month budget period.

[[Page 37830]]

    [sbull] 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/ADD 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 
(the total project cost is $133,333, of which $33,333 is 25%).
    [sbull] Anticipated Number of Projects To Be Funded: ADD 
anticipates funding up to five projects under this Priority Area in FY 
2002. Grants will be awarded under this program announcement subject to 
the availability of funds for support of these activities.
    [sbull] 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 
SF424.

Fiscal Year 2002 Priority Area 5: Expanding Positive Youth Development 
Activities for Young People With Developmental Disabilities

    [sbull] Eligible Applicants: Community Colleges. (While applicants 
competing under this Priority Area are encouraged to work in 
partnership with disability-related organizations and groups, the led 
grantee for these projects will be required to submit documentation of 
their legal status as a Community College to ADD.)
    [sbull] Purpose: To expand youth development activities and provide 
positive community college experiences for young adults with 
developmental disabilities.
    [sbull] Background Information: Community colleges represent a 
viable, active resource for our Nation with the potential to positive 
impact the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and 
their families at the local level. According to the American 
Association of Communities Colleges' (AACC) web site, America has a 
total of 1,166 community colleges (1,004 public institutions and 147 
independent institutions) providing quality, affordable higher 
education to over 10 million students annually. In a consumer 
satisfaction survey, 95% of businesses and organizations that make use 
of the services offered through community colleges would recommend the 
workforce education and training programs to their colleagues. 
Additionally, it is reported that 65% of our Nation's new healthcare 
workers each year receive their training at community colleges and 48% 
of community colleges offer welfare-to-work programs.
    [sbull] Minimum Requirements for Project Design: ADD is 
particularly interested in supporting projects, which include the 
following types of activities and desired outcomes:
    [sbull] Identifying, promoting, and establishing collaborative 
initiatives among community colleges, Department of Labor's ``One Stop 
Centers,'' Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies, and disability-related 
groups;
    [sbull] Expanding and/or developing community college based models 
for offering positive college experiences to youth with developmental 
disabilities;
    [sbull] Developing and offering non-traditional and innovative 
career developmental programs for persons with disabilities;
    [sbull] Identifying, promoting, and/or forming community-based 
employment networks to assist young people with developmental 
disabilities in securing paid internships and jobs; and
    [sbull] Exploring offering training to direct support workers while 
supporting college students with developmental disabilities to achieve 
their educational and vocational goals.
    [sbull] Key Elements of Project Designs:
    As a general guide, ADD expects to fund only PNS proposals that 
incorporate the following elements in their project design:
    [sbull] Involvement of consumers/self-advocates in planning and 
implementation;
    [sbull] Key project personnel whom have direct life experience with 
living with a disability;
    [sbull] Strong advisory components that consist of a majority of 
individuals with disabilities;
    [sbull] A structure where individuals with disabilities make real 
decisions that determine the activities and outcomes of the grant;
    [sbull] Research reflecting the principles of participatory action;
    [sbull] Cultural competency;
    [sbull] Description of how individuals with disabilities and their 
families will be involved in all aspects of the design, implementation, 
and evaluation of the project;
    [sbull] Attention to unserved and inadequately served individuals 
with disabilities and families from multicultural backgrounds, rural 
and inner-city areas, migrant, homeless, and refugees;
    [sbull] 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 (Public Law 102-569);
    [sbull] Collaboration with other organizations, groups, agencies, 
and foundations through partnerships and coalitions;
    [sbull] Capacity to communicate and disseminate information and 
technical assistance through e-mail and other effective, affordable, 
and accessible forms of electronic communication;
    [sbull] Develop and establish practices and programs beyond the 
project period from ADD;
    [sbull] Dissemination of models, products, best practices, and 
strategies to the disability networks and others;
    [sbull] Widespread distribution of grant funded products (reports, 
summary documents, audio-visual materials, etc.) in accessible format 
and in languages other than English;
    [sbull] Describe and develop methods/plans to be used to continue 
the transfer of knowledge and information once the project period ends;
    [sbull] 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; and
    [sbull] Specific outcomes tied to increasing the independence, 
productivity, integration and inclusion of individuals with 
developmental disabilities built into the project.
    Evaluation Criteria: Four criteria will be used to review and 
evaluate each application. Each criterion should be addressed in the 
project description section of the application. The point values 
indicate the maximum numerical weight possible for each criterion 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 following information: (a) The 
need for assistance, (b) the objectives of the proposed project, (c) 
the precise location of the proposed project, and (d) the area to be 
served by the proposed project.
    The applicant may accomplish this best by: (a) Pinpointing the 
relevant physical, economic, social, financial, institutional, or other 
problems requiring a solution; (b) demonstrating the need for the 
assistance; (c) stating

[[Page 37831]]

the principal and subordinate objectives for the proposed project; (d) 
providing supporting documentation and/or other testimonies from 
concerned individuals and groups other than the applicant; (e) 
providing relevant data based on research or planning studies, and (f) 
including maps and other graphic aids.
Criterion 2: Results or Benefits Expected (20 points)
    The expected results and benefits of the proposed project should be 
consistent with the objectives of the application. The application must 
state the project's anticipated contributions to policy, practice, 
theory and/or research. The proposed project costs should be reasonable 
in view of the expected results.
Criterion 3: Approach (35 points)
    The applicant must outline a sound, workable, and detailed plan of 
action, pertaining to the goals and objectives of the proposed project. 
Activities should be identified in chronological order, with target 
dates for accomplishment and the key personnel responsible for 
completing the activity. The plan of action should also clearly 
identify and delineate the roles and involvement of each of the 
proposed project's partners, collaborators, and/or sub-grantees.
    The plan of action should involve the following types of 
information; (a) How the work will be accomplished; (b) factors that 
might accelerate or decelerate the work; (c) reasons for taking this 
approach as opposed to other possibilities; and (d) descriptions of 
innovations and/or unusual features (such as technological or design 
innovations, reductions in cost and/or time, or extraordinary community 
involvement). Additionally, the applicant must provide a discussion of 
how the expected results and benefits will be evaluated for the 
proposed project. This discussion should explain the methodology that 
will be used to determine if the needs identified and discussed in the 
application 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 
applicant must describe the relationship between this project and other 
work that is planned, anticipated, or currently under way by the 
applicant.
    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 structured, 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 it may 
describe the competence of the project team and its demonstrated 
ability to produce final products that is readily comprehensible and 
usable. An organization chart showing the relationship of the project 
to the current organization must be included.
    [sbull] Project Duration: ADD is soliciting applications for 
project periods up to two years (24 months) under this Priority Area. 
Awards, on a competitive basis, will be for a one-year budget period, 
although project periods may be for 24 months. Applications for 
continuation grant funds beyond the one-year budget period, but within 
the project period for the Priority Area, will be entertained, subject 
to the availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the grantee, and 
determination that continued or carryover funding would be in the best 
interest of the Government.
    [sbull] Federal Share of Project Costs: The maximum Federal share 
is not to exceed $100,000 for the first 12-month budget period.
    [sbull] 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/ADD 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 
(the total project cost is $133,333, of which $33,333 is 25%).
    [sbull] Anticipated Number of Projects To Be Funded: ADD 
anticipates funding up to five projects under this Priority Area in FY 
2002. Grants will be awarded under this program announcement subject to 
the availability of funds for support of these activities.
    [sbull] 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 
SF424.

Part V: Instructions for the Development and Submission of Applications

    This Part contains information and instructions for submitting 
applications in response to this Program Announcement. An application 
package, containing all of the federal required forms, can be obtained 
by April Myers, Program Specialist: ADD, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW, 
Washington, DC, 20447, 202/690-5985; 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 their application is being 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 Area 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 state single point of 
contact (SPOC), if applicable, or to ACF.

    As of November 20, 1998, all States and territories, except 
Alabama, Alaska, American Somoa, 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 Executive Order 12372. Otherwise, applicants 
should contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the 
prospective applications and receive any necessary instructions.

[[Page 37832]]

    Applicants must submit all required materials to the SPOC as soon 
as possible so that the program office can obtain and review SPOC 
comments as part of the award process. It is imperative that the 
applicant submit all required materials and indicate the date of this 
submittal (or date SPOC was contacted, if no submittal is required) on 
the SF 424, item 16a.
    Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application 
due date to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards. 
However, there is insufficient time to allow for a complete SPOC 
comment period. Therefore, we have reduced the comment period to 30 
days from the closing date for applications. These comments are 
reviewed as part of the award process. Failure to notify the SPOC can 
result in delays in awarding grants.
    SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine 
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are 
requested to clearly differentiate between mere advisory comments and 
those official State process recommendations that may trigger the 
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
    When comments are submitted directly to ACF/ADD, 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 can be found on the OMB 
website at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc or by contacting 
your State Governor's office.

B. Notification of State Developmental Disabilities 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. The Council review 
comments are not required concurrently with the grant application, but 
must be received by ADD prior to the award process. A list of the State 
Developmental Disabilities Councils can be found at ADD's website: 
http://www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/add under Programs, or by contacting 
April Myers, ADD, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW, Mailstop 300F, Washington, 
DC, 20447, (202) 690-5985.

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. 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 selected Priority Area under which the 
application is being submitted.
    Item 1. ``Type of Submission''--Preprinted on the form.
    Item 2. ``Date Submitted'' and ``Applicant Identifier'' --Date 
application is submitted to ACF/ADD 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 the 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 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 area of emphasis description.
    Item 15f. Enter the estimated amount of program income, if any, 
expected to be generated from the proposed project.

[[Page 37833]]

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?'' If 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?'' If no, Check the appropriate box if the 
application is not covered by Executive Order 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.
    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

[[Page 37834]]

to: insurance; medical and dental costs; noncontractual fees and travel 
paid directly to individual consultants; local transportation (all 
travel which does not require per diem is considered local travel); 
space and equipment rentals; printing and publication; computer use; 
training costs, including tuition and stipends; training service costs, 
including wage payments to individuals and supportive service payments; 
and staff development costs. Note that costs identified as 
``miscellaneous'' and ``honoraria'' are not allowable.
    Justification: Specify the costs included.
    Total Direct Charges--Line 6i. Enter the total of Lines 6a through 
6h.
    Indirect Charges--6j. Enter the total amount of indirect charges 
(costs). If no indirect costs are requested, enter ``none.'' Generally, 
this line should be used when the applicant (except local governments) 
has a current indirect cost rate agreement approved by the Department 
of Health and Human Services or another Federal agency.
    Local and State governments should enter the amount of indirect 
costs determined in accordance with HHS requirements. When an indirect 
cost rate is requested, these costs are included in the indirect cost 
pool and should not be charged again as direct costs to the grant.
    In the case of training grants to other than State or local 
governments (as defined in title 45, Code of Federal Regulations, part 
74), the Federal reimbursement of indirect costs will be limited to the 
lesser of the negotiated (or actual) indirect cost rate or 8 percent of 
the amount allowed for direct costs, exclusive of any equipment 
charges, rental of space, tuition and fees, post-doctoral training 
allowances, contractual items, and alterations and renovations.
    For training grant applications, the entry under line 6j should be 
the total indirect costs being charged to the project. The Federal 
share of indirect costs is calculated as shown above. The applicant's 
share is calculated as follows:
    (a) Calculate total project indirect costs (a*) by applying the 
applicant's approved indirect cost rate to the total project (Federal 
and non-Federal) direct costs.
    (b) Calculate the Federal share of indirect costs (b*) at 8 percent 
of the amount allowed for total project (Federal and non-Federal) 
direct costs exclusive of any equipment charges, rental of space, 
tuition and fees, post-doctoral training allowances, contractual items, 
and alterations and renovations.
    (c) Subtract (b*) from (a*). The remainder is what the applicant 
can claim as part of its matching cost contribution.
    Justification: Enclose a copy of the indirect cost rate agreement. 
Applicants subject to the limitation on the Federal reimbursement of 
indirect costs for training grants should specify this.
    Total--Line 6k. Enter the total amounts of lines 6i and 6j.
    Program Income--Line 7. Enter the estimated amount of income, if 
any, expected to be generated from this project. Do not add or subtract 
this amount from the total project amount.
    Justification: Describe the nature, source, and anticipated use of 
program income in the Program Narrative Statement.
    Section C--Non-Federal Resources. This section summarizes the 
amounts of non-Federal resources that will be applied to the grant. 
Enter this information on line 12 entitled ``Totals.'' In-kind 
contributions are defined in title 45 of the Code of Federal 
Regulations, Parts 74.51 and 92.24, as ``property or services which 
benefit a grant-supported project or program and which are contributed 
by non-Federal third parties without charge to the grantee, the 
subgrantee, or a cost-type contractor under the grant or subgrant.''
    Justification: Describe third party in-kind contributions, if 
included.
    Section D--Forecasted Cash Needs. Not applicable.
    Section E--Budget Estimate of Federal Funds Needed For Balance of 
the Project. This section should only be completed if the total project 
period exceeds 17 months.
    Totals--Line 20. For projects that will have more than one budget 
period, enter the estimated required Federal funds for the second 
budget period (months 13 through 24) under column ``(b) First.'' If 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/ADD 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 Area of Emphasis 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\[inch] x 11[inch] 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 attachments (such as charts, 
references/footnotes, tables, maps, exhibits, etc.) and letters of 
support 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 all attachments, must not 
exceed 60 pages. The federally required forms should not be count 
towards the total number of pages. The 60 page limit will be strictly 
enforced and reviewers will be instructed to not evaluate the contents 
of the applications beyond the first 60 pages of text. A page is a 
single side of an 8\1/2\[inch] x 11[inch] 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 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.

[[Page 37835]]

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 Area are packaged separately;
--Applications must specifically identify one Priority Area to compete 
under on the first page of the application.
--Applications for different Priority Areas must be package and 
identified separately;
Application is from an organization that is eligible under the 
eligibility requirements, defined in the Priority Area description;
--Application length does not exceed 60 pages, including attachments 
and excluding federally required forms.

    A complete application consists of the following items in this 
order:
--Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424, REV 4-88);

--A completed SPOC certification with the date of SPOC contact entered 
in line 16, page 1 of the SF 424 if applicable.
--Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs (SF 424A, REV 4-88);
--Budget justification for Section B--Budget Categories;
--Table of Contents;
--Letter from the Internal Revenue Service, etc. to prove non-profit 
status, if necessary;
--Copy of the applicant's approved indirect cost rate agreement, if 
appropriate;
--Project Description (See Part III, Section C);
--Any appendices/attachments;
--Assurances--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 424B, REV 4-88);
--Certification Regarding Lobbying; and
--Certification of Protection of Human Subjects, if necessary.
--Certification of the Pro-Children Act of 1994; signature on the 
application represents certification.

F. The Application Package

    Each application package must include an original and two copies of 
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 (Public Law 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.
    Any federal 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: May 23, 2002.
Patricia Morrissey,
Commissioner, Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
[FR Doc. 02-13427 Filed 5-29-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P