[Federal Register Volume 69, Number 94 (Friday, May 14, 2004)]
[Notices]
[Pages 26851-26860]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 04-10966]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families


Funding Opportunity for Field Initiated Service Demonstration 
Projects in the Adoption Field

    Federal Agency Contact Name: Administration for Children and 
Families (ACF) & Children's Bureau.
    Funding Opportunity Title: Field Initiated Service Demonstration 
Projects in the Adoption Field.
    Announcement Type: Initial.
    Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2004-ACF-ACYF-CO-0019.
    CFDA Number: 93.652.
    Due Date for Applications: The due date for receipt of applications 
is July 13, 2004.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

    The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support continuous 
innovation and improvement in the quality of adoption services on 
topics identified by the field as cutting edge or to test new solutions 
to continuing problems. Projects must address one of the ACF key 
priorities: Healthy Marriage, Fatherhood, Rural Initiatives, Faith-
based and Community Initiatives, Positive Youth Development and 
Prevention. Topics of interest to the Children's Bureau also include, 
but are not limited to, special recruitment, retention, and support for 
the adoption of children age nine and older, sibling groups and 
children with disabilities. Other topics of interest include

[[Page 26852]]

assessment of adoption services and services that expedite adoptions.

Background Information

    The number of children in out-of-home care is approximately 
534,000. Children entering substitute care have complex problems that 
require intensive services. Many of these children have special needs 
because they are born to mothers who did not receive prenatal care, are 
born with life-threatening conditions or disabilities, are born 
addicted to alcohol or other drugs, have been exposed to infection with 
the etiologic agent for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or have 
been victims of child abuse and neglect. Each year thousands of 
children are in need of placement in a permanent home. Most of these 
children are difficult to place because they are older or may be part 
of a sibling group. Currently there are approximately 126,000 children 
waiting for adoption.
    This funding opportunity is intended to support projects that 
contribute to the continued expansion of knowledge about the familial 
and systemic aspects of successful adoptions, as well as the benefits 
of support for healthy marriages, responsible fatherhood, and positive 
youth development to successful adoptions. It is believed that the 
inclusion of faith-based and community organizations is important to 
developing and sustaining programs that support safety, permanency and 
well-being for children and families within urban and rural 
communities. Applicants are encouraged to develop projects that are 
highly innovative and demonstrate approaches that shorten the time 
required to achieve permanency for sibling groups, children with 
disabilities, and adolescents; reduce the number of adoption 
disruptions; eliminate barriers to inter-jurisdictional adoption; and/
or develop and support innovative models for adoption exchanges, 
networking among agencies and parent support groups across 
jurisdictional boundaries.
    Projects must incorporate one or more of the ACF priorities:
     Prevention: Dedicating resources to prevent the need for 
intervention services.
     Rural Initiative: Strengthening rural families and 
communities.
     Positive Youth Development: Promoting ongoing 
relationships with adult role models; safe places with structured 
activities; healthy life styles; opportunities to acquire marketable 
skills; and opportunities for community service and civic 
participation.
     Faith-based/Community Initiatives: Removing barriers to 
the full participation of faith-based and other community services in 
the delivery of social services.
     Healthy Marriage: Helping couples who choose marriage for 
themselves to develop the skills and knowledge to form and sustain 
healthy marriages.
     Fatherhood: Helping men become responsible, committed, 
involved fathers.
    For more information: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/region10/priorities/index.html.
    Service demonstration grants are awarded to the field to develop 
collaboration strategies and models designed to increase the number of 
adoptions, to provide innovative services and to test new service 
delivery models designed to strengthen families who have adopted 
children. Projects previously funded by the Children's Bureau have 
demonstrated that adoptions can be facilitated by designing and 
implementing plans for permanency early in the child's placement 
process.

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Grant.
    Anticipated Total Program Funding: The anticipated total for all 
awards under this funding opportunity in FY2004 is $2 million.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: It is anticipated that up to 5 
projects will be funded.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: The grant amount will not 
exceed $400,000 in the first budget period. An application received 
that exceeds the upper value of the dollar range specified will be 
considered ``non-responsive'' and be returned to the applicant without 
further review.
    Floor of Individual Award Amounts: None.
    Average Anticipated Award Amount: $400,000 per budget period.
    Project Periods for Awards: The projects will be awarded for a 
project period of 48 months. The initial grant award will be for a 12 
month budget period. The award of continuation funding beyond each 12 
month budget period will be subject to the availability of funds, 
satisfactory progress on the part of the grantee, and a determination 
that continued funding would be in the best interest of the government.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

State governments
County governments
State controlled institutions of higher education
Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Non-profits that do not have 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
For-profit organizations other than small businesses
Small businesses
Faith-based organizations are eligible to apply

    Additional Information on Eligibility: All applicants must have 
child welfare and/or adoption experience. Organizations with expertise 
in child welfare and adoption, and organizations which currently serve 
children in the public child welfare system are eligible to apply. 
Applicants without direct access or responsibility for targeted 
children must apply in partnership with States, local government 
entities, or public or private licensed child welfare agencies.
    Non-profit organizations, including community and faith-based 
organizations are eligible to apply. Non-profit organizations applying 
for funding are required to submit proof of their non-profit status. 
Proof of non-profit status is any one of the following:
    (a) A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the 
Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most recent list of tax-exempt 
organizations described in the IRS code.
    (b) A copy of a currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate.
    (c) A statement from a State taxing body, State Attorney General, 
or other appropriate State official certifying that the applicant 
organization has a non-profit status and that none of the net earnings 
accrue to any private shareholders or individuals.
    (d) A certified copy of the organization's certificate of 
incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes non-profit 
status.
    (e) Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately above for a 
State or national parent organization and a statement signed by the 
parent organization that the applicant organization is a local non-
profit affiliate.
    Private non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents 
and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants'' 
at www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
    Applicants are cautioned that the ceiling for individual awards is 
$400,000. Applications exceeding the $400,000 threshold will be 
considered

[[Page 26853]]

non-responsive and will not be eligible for funding under this 
announcement.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

    The grantee must provide at least 10 per cent of the total approved 
cost of the project. The total approved cost is the sum of the Federal 
share and the non-Federal share. Therefore, a project requesting 
$400,000 per budget period must include a match of at least $44,444 per 
budget period. Applicants should provide a letter of commitment 
verifying the actual amount of the non-Federal share of project costs.
    The following example shows how to calculate the required 10% match 
amount for a $400,000 grant:
    $400,000 (Federal share) divided by .90 (100%-10%) equals $444,444 
(total project cost including match) minus $400,000 (Federal share) 
equals $44,444 (required 10% match).
    The non-Federal share may be cash or in-kind contributions, 
although applicants are encouraged to meet their match requirements 
through cash contributions. If approved for funding, grantees will be 
held accountable for the commitment of non-Federal resources even if 
over the amount of the required match. Failure to provide the required 
amount will result in a disallowance of Federal funds.
    Applications that fail to include the required amount of cost 
sharing will be considered non-responsive and will not be eligible for 
funding under this announcement.

3. Other

    All applicants must have a Dun and Bradstreet Number. On June 27, 
2003, the Office of Management and Budget published in the Federal 
Register a new Federal policy applicable to all Federal grant 
applicants. The policy requires all Federal grant applicants to provide 
a Dun and Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number when 
applying for Federal grants or cooperative agreements on or after 
October 1, 2003. The DUNS number will be required whether an applicant 
is submitting a paper application or using the government-wide 
electronic portal (www.Grants.gov). A DUNS number will be required for 
every application for a new award or renewal/continuation of an award, 
including applications or plans under formula, entitlement and block 
grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003.
    Please ensure that your organization has a DUNS number. You may 
acquire a DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free 
DUNS number request line on 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number 
online at http://www.dnb.com.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to Request Application Package

    ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., ATTN: Children's 
Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132; Telephone: (866) 
796-1591.
    URL to Obtain Application: www.Grants.gov.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

    You may submit your application to us either in electronic or paper 
format. To submit an application electronically, please use the 
www.Grants.gov apply site. If you use Grants.gov you will be able to 
download a copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and 
then upload and submit the application via the Grants.gov site. You may 
not e-mail an electronic copy of a grant application to us.
    Please note the following if you plan to submit your application 
electronically via Grants.gov:
     Electronic submission is voluntary.
     When you enter the Grants.gov site, you will find 
information about submitting an application electronically through the 
site, as well as the hours of operation. We strongly recommend that you 
do not wait until the application deadline date to begin the 
application process through Grants.gov.
     To use Grants.gov, you, as the applicant, must have a DUNS 
Number and register in the Central Contractor Registry (CCR). You 
should allow a minimum of five days to complete the CCR registration.
     You will not receive additional point value because you 
submit a grant application in paper format.
     You may submit all documents electronically, including all 
information typically included on the SF424 and all necessary 
assurances and certifications.
     Your application must comply with any page limitation 
requirements described in this program announcement.
     After you electronically submit your application, you will 
receive an automatic acknowledgement from Grants.gov that contains a 
Grants.gov tracking number. The Administration for Children and 
Families will retrieve your application from Grants.gov.
     We may request that you provide original signatures on 
forms at a later date.
     You may access the electronic application for this program 
on www.Grants.gov.
     You must search for the downloadable application package 
by the CFDA number.
    Private, non-profit organizations may voluntarily submit with their 
applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents and 
Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants'' at 
www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
    Please see Section V.1. Criteria for instructions on preparing the 
project summary/abstract and the full project description.
    Each application must contain the following items in the order 
listed:

--Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424). Follow the 
instructions below and those that accompany the form.

    In Item 5 of Form 424, put DUNS number in ``Organizational DUNS:'' 
box.
    In Item 5 of Form 424, include name, phone number, and, if 
available, email and fax numbers of the contact person.
    In Item 8 of Form 424, check `New.'
    In Item 10 of Form 424, clearly identify the Catalog of Federal 
Domestic Assistance (CFDA) program title and number for the program for 
which funds are being requested as stated at the end of this funding 
opportunity announcement.
    In Item 11 of Form 424, identify the single funding opportunity the 
application addresses.
    In Item 12 of Form 424, identify the specific geographic area to be 
served.
    In Item 14 of Form 424, identify Congressional districts of both 
the applicant and project.

--Budget Information Non-Construction Programs (Form 424A) and Budget 
Justification.

    Follow the instructions provided. Note that Federal funds provided 
to States and services or other resources purchased with Federal funds 
may not be used to match project grants.

--Certifications/Assurances. Applicants requesting financial assistance 
for nonconstruction projects must file the Standard Form 424B, 
``Assurances: Non-Construction Programs.'' Applicants must sign and 
return the Standard Form 424B with their applications.

    Applicants must provide a ``Certification Regarding Lobbying'' Form 
when applying for an award in excess of $100,000. Applicants must sign 
and return the certification with their applications.
    Applicants must disclose lobbying activities on the Standard Form 
LLL

[[Page 26854]]

when applying for an award in excess of $100,000. Applicants who have 
used non-Federal funds for lobbying activities in connection with 
receiving assistance under this announcement shall complete a 
disclosure form to report lobbying. Applicants must sign and return the 
disclosure form, if applicable, with their applications.
    Applicants must make the appropriate certification regarding 
environmental tobacco smoke. By signing and submitting the application, 
the applicant is providing the certification and need not mail back the 
certification with the applications.
    Adoption Opportunities program applicants are not required to 
submit their applications to State Single Points of Contact (SPOC).
    By signing the ``Signature of Authorized Representative'' on the SF 
424, the applicant is providing a certification and need not mail 
assurances for completing the following grant and cooperative agreement 
requirements:
    1. The applicant will have the project fully functioning 90 days of 
the notification of the grant award.
    2. The applicant will participate if the Children's Bureau chooses 
to do a national evaluation or a technical assistance contract that 
relates to this priority area.
    3. All reports will be submitted in a timely manner, in recommended 
format (to be provided), and the final report will also be submitted on 
disk or electronically using a standard word-processing program.
    4. Within 90 days of project end date, the applicant will submit a 
copy of the final report, the evaluation report, and any program 
products to the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse, 330 C 
Street, SW., Washington, DC 20447. This is in addition to the standard 
requirement that the final program and evaluation report must also be 
submitted to the Grants Management Specialist and the Federal Project 
Officer.
    5. Allocate sufficient funds in the budget to:
    a. Provide for the project director and evaluator to attend an 
annual 3-day grantees' meeting in Washington, DC.
    b. Provide for the project director and evaluator to attend an 
early kickoff meeting for grantees funded under this priority area to 
be held within the first three months of the project (first year only) 
in Washington, DC.
    c. Provide for 10-15 percent of the proposed budget to project 
evaluation.
    The Office for Human Research Protections of the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services provides website information and policy 
guidance on the Federal regulations pertaining to protection of human 
subjects (45 CFR part 46), informed consent, informed consent 
checklists, confidentiality of personal identification information, 
data collection procedures, and internal review boards: http://ohrp.osophs.dhhs.gov/polasur.htm.
    If applicable, applicants must include a completed Form 310, 
Protection of Human Subjects.

--Project Summary/Abstract (one page maximum). Clearly mark this page 
with the applicant name as shown on item 5 of the Form 424, identify 
the competitive grant funding opportunity and the title of the proposed 
project as shown in item 11 and the service area as shown in item 12 of 
the Form 424. The summary description should not exceed 300 words.

    Care should be taken to produce an abstract/summary that accurately 
and concisely reflects the proposed project (see Section V. Application 
Review Information). It should describe the objectives of the project, 
the approach to be used and the results or benefits expected.

--Project Description for Evaluation. Applicants should organize their 
project description according to the Evaluation Criteria described in 
Section V. Application Review Information of this funding opportunity 
announcement providing information that addresses all the components.
--Proof of non-profit status (if applicable). See Section III. 
Eligibility Information for submission information.
--Indirect cost rate agreement. If claiming indirect costs, provide 
documentation that applicant currently has an indirect cost rate 
approved by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or 
another cognizant Federal agency.
--Letters of agreement and memoranda of understanding. If applicable, 
include a letter of commitment or Memorandum of Understanding from each 
partner and/or sub-contractor describing their role, detailing specific 
tasks to be performed, and expressing commitment to participate if the 
proposed project is funded.
--Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount of the 
non-Federal share of project costs.
--The application limit is 80 pages total including all forms and 
attachments. Submit one original and two copies.

    To be considered for funding, each application must be submitted 
with the Standard Federal Forms (provided at the end of this 
announcement or through the electronic links provided) following the 
guidance provided. The application must be signed by an individual 
authorized to act for the applicant agency and to assume responsibility 
for the obligations imposed by the terms and conditions of the grant 
award.
    To be considered for funding, each applicant must submit one signed 
original and two additional copies of the application, including all 
forms and attachments, to the application receipt point specified in 
Section IV.3. Submission Dates and Times. The original copy of the 
application must have original signatures, signed in black ink.
    The application must be typed, double spaced, printed on only one 
side, with at least \1/2\ inch margins on each side and 1 inch at the 
top and bottom, using standard 12 Point fonts (such as Times Roman or 
Courier). Pages must be numbered.
    Pages over the page limit stated within this funding opportunity 
announcement will be removed from the application and will not be 
reviewed. All copies of an application must be submitted in a single 
package, and a separate package must be submitted for each funding 
opportunity. The package must be clearly labeled for the specific 
funding opportunity it is addressing.
    Because each application will be duplicated, do not use or include 
separate covers, binders, clips, tabs, plastic inserts, maps, 
brochures, or any other items that cannot be processed easily on a 
photocopy machine with an automatic feed. Do not bind, clip, staple, or 
fasten in any way separate subsections of the application, including 
supporting documentation. Applicants are advised that the copies of the 
application submitted, not the original, will be reproduced by the 
Federal government for review. Each copy must be stapled securely in 
the upper left corner.
    Applicants have the option of omitting from the application copies 
(not the original) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals 
specified in the application budget and Social Security Numbers if 
otherwise required for individuals. The copies may include summary 
salary information.
    Tips for Preparing a Competitive Application: It is essential that 
applicants read the entire announcement package carefully before 
preparing an application and include all of the required application 
forms and attachments. The application must reflect a thorough 
understanding of the

[[Page 26855]]

purpose and objectives of the Children's Bureau priority-area 
initiatives. Reviewers expect applicants to understand the goals of the 
legislation and the Children's Bureau's interest in each topic. A 
``responsive application'' is one that addresses all of the evaluation 
criteria in ways that demonstrate this understanding. Applications that 
are considered to be ``unresponsive'' generally receive very low scores 
and are rarely funded.
    The Children's Bureau's Web site (http://www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/cb) provides a wide range of information and links to other relevant 
Web sites. Before you begin preparing an application, we suggest that 
you learn more about the mission and programs of the Children's Bureau 
by exploring the Web site.
    Organizing Your Application: The specific evaluation criteria in 
Section V. Application Review Information of this funding opportunity 
announcement will be used to review and evaluate each application. The 
applicant should address each of these specific evaluation criteria in 
the project description. It is strongly recommended that applicants 
organize their proposals in the same sequence and using the same 
headings as these criteria, so that reviewers can readily find 
information that directly addresses each of the specific review 
criteria.
    Project Evaluation Plan: Project evaluations are very important. If 
you do not have the in-house capacity to conduct an objective, 
comprehensive evaluation of the project, then the Children's Bureau 
advises that you propose contracting with a third-party evaluator 
specializing in social science or evaluation, or a university or 
college, to conduct the evaluation. A skilled evaluator can assist you 
in designing a data collection strategy that is appropriate for the 
evaluation of your proposed project. Additional assistance may be found 
in a document titled ``Program Manager's Guide to Evaluation.'' A copy 
of this document can be accessed at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/core/pubs_reports/prog_mgr.html or ordered by contacting the National 
Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information, 330 C Street, 
SW., Washington, DC 20447; phone (800) 394-3366; fax (703) 385-3206; e-
mail [email protected].
    Logic Model: A logic model is a tool that presents the conceptual 
framework for a proposed project and explains the linkages among 
program elements. While there are many versions of the logic model, 
they generally summarize the logical connections among the needs that 
are the focus of the project, project goals and objectives, the target 
population, project inputs (resources), the proposed activities/
processes/outputs directed toward the target population, the expected 
short- and long-term outcomes the initiative is designed to achieve, 
and the evaluation plan for measuring the extent to which proposed 
processes and outcomes actually occur. Information on the development 
of logic models is available on the Internet at http://www.uwex.edu/ces/pdande/ or http://www.extension.iastate.edu/cyfar/capbuilding/outcome/outcome_logicmdir.html.
    Use of Human Subjects: If your evaluation plan includes gathering 
data from or about clients, there are specific procedures which must be 
followed in order to protect their privacy and ensure the 
confidentiality of the information about them. Applicants planning to 
gather such data are asked to describe their plans regarding an 
Institutional Review Board (IRB) review. For more information about use 
of human subjects and IRB's you can visit these Web sites: http://ohrp.osophs.dhhs.gov/irb/irb_chapter2.htm#d2 and http://ohrp.osophs.dhhs.gov/humansubjects/guidance/ictips.htm.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. 
eastern standard time (e.t.) on July 13, 2004. Mailed or handcarried 
applications received after 4:30 p.m. on the closing date will be 
classified as late.
    Deadline: Mailed applications shall be considered as meeting an 
announced deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time 
and date at the following address: ACYF Operations Center, c/o The 
Dixon Group, Inc., ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., 
Washington, DC 20002-2132.
    Applicants are responsible for mailing applications well in 
advance, when using all mail services, to ensure that the applications 
are received on or before the deadline time and date.
    Applications hand-carried by applicants, applicant couriers, or by 
other representatives of the applicant shall be considered as meeting 
an announced deadline if they are received on or before the deadline 
date, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., e.t., at ACYF 
Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., ATTN: Children's Bureau, 
118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, between Monday and Friday 
(excluding Federal holidays). This address must appear on the envelope/
package containing the application with the note ``ATTN: Children's 
Bureau.'' Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail services 
do not always deliver as agreed. ACF cannot accommodate transmission of 
applications by fax.
    Late applications: Applications which 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 (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur, or 
when there are widespread disruptions of mail service. Determinations 
to extend or waive deadline requirements rest with the Chief Grants 
Management Officer.
    Required Forms: Numbers for each required item correspond to the 
numbering of the description of these items in Section IV.2. Content 
and Form of Application Submission.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          What to submit               Required content    Required form or format         When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. SF424..........................  Per required form....  May be found at http://  See application due date.
                                                            www.acf.hhs.gov/
                                                            programs/ofs/grants/
                                                            form.htm.
2. SF424A.........................  Per required form....  May be found at http://  See application due date.
                                                            www.acf.hhs.gov/
                                                            programs/ofs/grants/
                                                            form.htm.
3.a. SF424B.......................  Per required form....  May be found at http://  See application due date.
                                                            www.acf.hhs.gov/
                                                            programs/ofs/grants/
                                                            form.htm.
3.b Certification regarding         Per required form....  May be found at http://  See application due date.
 lobbying.                                                  www.acf.hhs.gov/
                                                            programs/ofs/grants/
                                                            form.htm.
3.c. Disclosure of Lobbying         Per required form....  May be found at http://  See application due date.
 Activities (SF-LLL).                                       www.acf.hhs.gov/
                                                            programs/ofs/grants/
                                                            form.htm.
4. Project Summary/Abstract.......  Summary of             See instructions in      See application due date.
                                     application request.   this funding
                                                            opportunity
                                                            announcement.

[[Page 26856]]

 
5. Project Description............  Responsiveness to      See instructions in      See application due date.
                                     evaluation criteria.   this funding
                                                            opportunity
                                                            announcement.
6. Proof of non-profit status.....  See above............  See above..............  See application due date.
7. Indirect cost rate agreement...  See above............  See above..............  See application due date.
8. Letters of agreement & MOUs....  See above............  See above..............  See application due date.
9. Non-Federal share letter.......  See above............  See above..............  See application due date.
10. Total application.............  See above............  Application limit 80     See application due date.
                                                            pages total including
                                                            all forms and
                                                            attachments. Submit
                                                            one original and two
                                                            copies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Forms
    Private non-profit organizations may submit with their applications 
the voluntary survey located under ``Grant Related Documents and 
Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants'' at 
www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          What to submit               Required content    Required form or format         When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Survey for Private, Non-Profit      Per required form....  May be found at http://  See application due date.
 Grant Applicants.                                          www.acf.hhs.gov/
                                                            programs/ofs/grants/
                                                            forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
    The Adoption Opportunities program is not covered under Executive 
Order 12372, ``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' and 45 
CFR Part 100, ``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and 
Human Services Programs and Activities.'' Therefore, applicants are not 
required to submit their applications to State Single Points of Contact 
(SPOC).

5. Funding Restrictions

    Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs. 
Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this 
solicitation.
    The non-Federal share may be cash or in-kind contributions, 
although applicants are encouraged to meet their match requirements 
through cash contributions. If approved for funding, grantees will be 
held accountable for the commitment of non-Federal resources even if 
over the amount of the required match. Failure to provide the required 
amount will result in a disallowance of Federal funds.

6. Other Submission Requirements

    Submission 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 following address: ACYF Operations 
Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q 
Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132.
    Applicants are responsible for mailing applications well in 
advance, when using all mail services, to ensure that the applications 
are received on or before the deadline time and date.
    Hand Delivery: Applications hand-carried by applicants, applicant 
couriers, or by other representatives of the applicant shall be 
considered as meeting an announced deadline if they are received on or 
before the deadline date, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., 
e.t., at ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., ATTN: 
Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, 
between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays). This address 
must appear on the envelope/package containing the application with the 
note ``ATTN: Children's Bureau.'' Applicants are cautioned that 
express/overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed. ACF 
cannot accommodate transmission of applications by fax.
    Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV. 2. Content and Form 
of Application Submission, for guidelines and requirements when 
submitting applications electronically.

V. Application Review Information

1. Criteria

The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13)
    Public reporting burden for this collection of information is 
estimated to average 40 hours per response, including the time for 
reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and 
reviewing the collection information. The project description is 
approved under OMB control number 0970-0139 which expires 3/31/2004. An 
agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to 
respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently 
valid OMB control number.
General Instruction for Preparing Full Project Description
    Introduction. Applicants required to submit a full project 
description shall prepare the project description statement in 
accordance with the following instructions and the specified evaluation 
criteria. The instructions give a broad overview of what your project 
description should include while the evaluation criteria expands and 
clarifies more program-specific information that is needed.
    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 
testimonials from concerned interests other than the applicant, may be 
included. Any relevant data based on planning studies should be 
included or referred to in the endnotes/footnotes. Incorporate 
demographic data and participant/beneficiary information, as needed. In 
developing the project description, the

[[Page 26857]]

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.
    Approach. Outline a plan of action which describes the scope and 
detail of how the proposed work will be accomplished. Account for all 
functions or activities identified in the application. Cite factors 
which might accelerate or decelerate the work and state your reason for 
taking the proposed approach rather than others. Describe any unusual 
features of the project such as design or technological innovations, 
reductions in cost or time, or extraordinary social and community 
involvement.
    Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the 
accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such 
terms as the number of people to be served and the number of 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.
    Organizational Profiles. 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.
    Budget and Budget Justification. Provide line item detail and 
detailed calculations for each budget object class identified on the 
Budget Information form. Detailed calculations must include estimation 
methods, quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative detail 
sufficient for the calculation to be duplicated. The detailed budget 
must also include a breakout by the funding sources identified in Block 
15 of the SF-424.
    Provide a narrative budget justification that describes how the 
categorical costs are derived. Discuss the necessity, reasonableness, 
and allocability of the proposed costs.
    Personnel.
    Description: Costs of employee salaries and wages.
    Justification: Identify the project director or principal 
investigator, if known. For each staff person, provide the title, time 
commitment to the project (in months), time commitment to the project 
(as a percentage or full-time equivalent), annual salary, grant salary, 
wage rates, etc. Do not include the costs of consultants or personnel 
costs of delegate agencies or of specific project(s) or businesses to 
be financed by the applicant.
    Fringe Benefits.
    Description: Costs of employee fringe benefits unless treated as 
part of an approved indirect cost rate.
    Justification: Provide a breakdown of the amounts and percentages 
that comprise fringe benefit costs such as health insurance, FICA, 
retirement insurance, taxes, etc.
    Travel.
    Description: Costs of project-related travel by employees of the 
applicant organization (does not include costs of consultant travel).
    Justification: For each trip, show the total number of traveler(s), 
travel destination, duration of trip, per diem, mileage allowances, if 
privately owned vehicles will be used, and other transportation costs 
and subsistence allowances. Travel costs for key staff to attend ACF-
sponsored workshops should be detailed in the budget.
    Equipment.
    Description: ``Equipment'' means an article of nonexpendable, 
tangible personal property having a useful life of more than one year 
and an acquisition cost which equals or exceeds the lesser of (a) the 
capitalization level established by the organization for the financial 
statement purposes, or (b) $5,000. (Note: Acquisition cost means the 
net invoice unit price of an item of equipment, including the cost of 
any modifications, attachments, accessories, or auxiliary apparatus 
necessary to make it usable for the purpose for which it is acquired. 
Ancillary charges, such as taxes, duty, protective in-transit 
insurance, freight, and installation shall be included in or excluded 
from acquisition cost in accordance with the organization's regular 
written accounting practices.)
    Justification: For each type of equipment requested, provide a 
description of the equipment, the cost per unit, the number of units, 
the total cost, and a plan for use on the project, as well as use or 
disposal of the equipment after the project ends. An applicant 
organization that uses its own definition for equipment should provide 
a copy of its policy or section of its policy which includes the 
equipment definition.
    Supplies.
    Description: Costs of all tangible personal property other than 
that included under the Equipment category.
    Justification: Specify general categories of supplies and their 
costs. Show computations and provide other information which supports 
the amount requested.
    Contractual.
    Description: Costs of all contracts for services and goods except 
for those which belong under other categories such as equipment, 
supplies, construction, etc. Third-party evaluation contracts (if 
applicable) and contracts with secondary recipient organizations, 
including delegate agencies and specific project(s) or businesses to be 
financed by the applicant, should be included under this category.
    Justification: All procurement transactions shall be conducted in a 
manner to provide, to the maximum extent practical, open and free 
competition. Recipients and subrecipients, other than States that are 
required to use part 92 procedures, must justify any anticipated 
procurement action that is expected to be awarded without competition 
and exceed the simplified acquisition threshold fixed at 41 U.S.C. 
403(11). Recipients might be required to make available to ACF pre-
award review and procurement documents, such as request for proposals 
or invitations for bids, independent cost estimates, etc.

    Note: Whenever the applicant intends to delegate part of the 
project to another agency, the applicant must provide a detailed 
budget and budget narrative for each delegate agency, by agency 
title, along with the

[[Page 26858]]

required supporting information referred to in these instructions.

    Other. Enter the total of all other costs. Such costs, where 
applicable and appropriate, may include but are not limited to 
insurance, food, medical and dental costs (noncontractual), 
professional services costs, space and equipment rentals, printing and 
publication, computer use, training costs, such as tuition and 
stipends, staff development costs, and administrative costs.
    Justification: Provide computations, a narrative description and a 
justification for each cost under this category.
    Indirect Charges.
    Description: Total amount of indirect costs. This category should 
be used only when the applicant currently has an indirect cost rate 
approved by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or 
another cognizant Federal agency.
    Justification: An applicant that will charge indirect costs to the 
grant must enclose a copy of the current rate agreement. If the 
applicant organization is in the process of initially developing or 
renegotiating a rate, it should immediately upon notification that an 
award will be made, develop a tentative indirect cost rate proposal 
based on its most recently completed fiscal year in accordance with the 
principles set forth in the cognizant agency's guidelines for 
establishing indirect cost rates, and submit it to the cognizant 
agency. Applicants awaiting approval of their indirect cost proposals 
may also request indirect costs. It should be noted that when an 
indirect cost rate is requested, those costs included in the indirect 
cost pool should not also be charged as direct costs to the grant. 
Also, if the applicant is requesting a rate which is less than what is 
allowed under the program, the authorized representative of the 
applicant organization must submit a signed acknowledgement that the 
applicant is accepting a lower rate than allowed.
Specific Evaluation Criteria
    The following criteria will be used to review and evaluate each 
application. The applicant should address each criterion in the project 
description. The point values (summing up to 100) indicate the maximum 
numerical weight each criterion will be accorded in the review process.
Criterion 1. Objectives and Need for Assistance
    In reviewing the objectives and need for assistance, the following 
factors will be considered: (20 points)
    (1) The extent to which the application demonstrates an 
understanding of the goals and objectives of the Adoption Opportunities 
legislation. This includes the extent to which the proposed project 
will contribute to achieving those goals and objectives, including 
goals stated in the purpose and background sections of this funding 
opportunity announcement.
    (2) The extent to which the application present a clear vision of 
the service system for the target population, including a clear 
statement of the goals (end products of an effective project) and 
objectives (measurable steps for reaching these goals) of the proposed 
project. The extent to which these goals and objectives are based on a 
thorough understanding of the characteristics of the clients and the 
context of the proposed intervention.
    (3) The extent to which the application demonstrates a clear 
understanding of the ACF priorities (Prevention, Rural Initiatives, 
Positive Youth Development, Faith and Community Initiatives, Healthy 
Marriage, and Fatherhood) which are addressed by the project. The 
extent to which the project will effectively incorporate and promote 
one or more of these priorities in program implementation.
    (4) The extent to which the application demonstrates a thorough 
understanding of the characteristics of the target population, the 
service needs of this population and community, and the status of 
existing services for children, adolescents and their families/
caregivers.
    (5) The extent to which the application's review of the literature 
is comprehensive and reflects a clear understanding of the research on 
best practices and promising approaches as it relates to the proposed 
project. This includes the extent to which the review of literature 
provides evidence that the proposed project is innovative and, if 
successfully implemented and evaluated, likely to yield findings or 
results that will contribute to and promote evidence-based practices 
that will be useful to other agencies and organizations in developing 
effective services and programs to address the issues effectively.
Criterion 2. Approach
    In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be 
considered: (50 points).
    (1) The extent to which the application provides a reasonable 
timeline for implementing the proposed project, including major 
milestones and target dates. The extent to which the application 
describes the factors that could speed or hinder project 
implementation, and explains how these factors would be managed.
    (2) The extent to which there is a detailed description of the 
services to be provided by the program. The extent to which this 
program will bridge gaps or substantially improve the current service 
delivery system and benefit the target population. The extent to which 
the proposed services are comprehensive in scope, will address a broad 
range of the target population's needs, and include services identified 
in Section I. Funding Opportunity Description.
    (3) The extent to which the design of the proposed project is 
evidence-based, reflects up-to-date knowledge from the research and 
literature on known effective practices, and builds on current theory, 
research, evaluation data and best practices. The extent to which the 
project will contribute to increased knowledge or understanding of the 
problem, issues, or effective strategies and practices in the field. 
The extent to which the logic model for this project demonstrates 
strong links between proposed inputs and activities, and intended 
short-term and long-term outcomes. The extent to which the logic model 
clearly shows how the achievement of these outcomes would be measured.
    (4) The extent to which the project will be culturally responsive 
to the target population.
    (5) The extent to which the proposed services will involve the 
collaboration of appropriate partners for maximizing the effectiveness 
of service delivery. The extent to which there are letters of 
commitment or memoranda of understanding from organizations, agencies, 
and consultants that will be partners or collaborators in the proposed 
project. The extent to which these documents describe the role of the 
agency, organization, or consultant and detail specific tasks to be 
performed.
    (6) The extent to which there is a sound plan for effectively 
evaluating the achievement of the project's objectives, customer 
satisfaction, processes, outcomes, impact, the effectiveness of project 
strategies and the efficiency of the implementation process. The extent 
to which there is a reasonable plan for securing an external evaluator, 
if not using internal resources for project evaluation.
    (7) The extent to which the methods of evaluation include the use 
of objective performance measures that are clearly related to the 
intended outcomes of the project and will produce

[[Page 26859]]

quantitative and qualitative outcome data. The extent to which the 
proposed evaluation plan would be likely to yield findings or results 
about effective strategies, and contribute to and promote evaluation 
research and evidence-based practices that could be used to guide 
replication or testing in other settings.
    (8) The extent to which useful data on individuals and families, 
types of services provided, services used, and types and nature of 
needs identified and met will be effectively collected. The extent to 
which there is a sound plan for an Institutional Review Board (IRB) 
review, if applicable.
    (9) The extent to which the products that would be developed during 
the proposed project would provide information on strategies utilized 
and the outcomes achieved that would support evidence-based 
improvements of practices in the field. The extent to which the plan 
for developing and disseminating these products is reasonable and 
appropriate in scope and budget.
    (10) The extent to which the intended audience (e.g., researchers, 
policymakers, and practitioners) for product dissemination is 
appropriate to the goals of the proposed project. The extent to which 
the project's products would be useful to each of these audiences. The 
extent to which there is a sound plan for effectively disseminating 
information, through appropriate mechanisms and forums, that will 
successfully convey the information to, and support replication by, 
other interested agencies.
Criterion 3. Organizational Profiles
    In reviewing the organizational profiles, the following factors 
will be considered: (20 points).
    (1) The extent to which the applicant organization and any 
partnering organizations collectively have sufficient experience and 
expertise in developing and implementing innovative projects, programs, 
or service delivery systems in the adoption, kinship, foster care, or 
child welfare field.
    (2) The extent to which the application evidences sufficient 
organizational resources to implement the proposed project effectively, 
including sufficient capacity for administration, program operations, 
data processing and analysis, reporting and dissemination of findings.
    (3) The extent to which the proposed project director, key project 
staff, and consultants have the necessary technical skill, knowledge, 
and experience to carry out their responsibilities effectively, 
including administration, program operations, data collection and 
analysis, reporting and dissemination of findings. The extent to which 
current and proposed staff has the capacity to fill the described roles 
effectively. The extent to which the author of this proposal will be 
closely involved throughout the implementation of the proposed project.
    (4) The extent to which the management plan details a realistic 
approach to achieving the objectives of the proposed project on time 
and within budget. The extent to which this plan includes clearly 
defined responsibilities timelines and benchmarks for accomplishing 
project tasks. The extent to which there would be a mutually beneficial 
relationship between the proposed project and other work planned, 
anticipated or underway with Federal assistance by the applicant.
Criterion 4. Budget and Budget Justification
    In reviewing the budget and budget justification, the following 
factors will be considered: (10 points).
    (1) The extent to which the application demonstrates that the 
project cost and budget information submitted on the standard 424 and 
424A for the proposed program are reasonable and justified in terms of 
the proposed tasks and anticipated outcomes. The extent to which fiscal 
controls and accounting procedures are in place to ensure prudent use, 
proper and timely disbursement, and accurate accounting of funds 
received under this program announcement.
    (2) The extent to which the application documents allocation of 
sufficient funds in the budget to:
    a. Provide for the project director and evaluator to attend an 
annual 3-day grantees' meeting in Washington, DC.
    b. Provide for the project director and evaluator to attend an 
early kickoff meeting for grantees funded under this priority area to 
be held within the first three months of the project (first year only) 
in Washington, DC.
    c. Provide for 10-15 percent of the proposed budget to project 
evaluation.

2. Review and Selection Process

    When the Operations Center receives your application it will be 
screened to confirm that your application was received by the deadline. 
Federal staff will verify that you are an eligible applicant and that 
the application contains all the essential elements. Applications 
received from ineligible organizations and applications received after 
the deadline will be withdrawn from further consideration.
    A panel of at least three reviewers (primarily experts from outside 
the Federal government) will use the evaluation criteria described in 
this announcement to evaluate each application. The reviewers will 
determine the strengths and weaknesses of each application, provide 
comments about the strengths and weaknesses and give each application a 
numerical score.
    All applications will be reviewed and evaluated using four major 
criteria: (1) Objectives and need for assistance, (2) approach, (3) 
organizational profiles, and (4) budget and budget justification. Each 
criterion has been assigned a point value. The point values (summing up 
to 100) indicate the maximum numerical weight each criterion may be 
given in the review and evaluation process.
    Reviewers also are evaluating the project products and materials 
that you propose. They will be interested in your plans for sustaining 
your project without Federal funds if the evaluation findings are 
supportive. Reviewers will be looking to see that the total budget you 
propose and the way you have apportioned that budget are appropriate 
and reasonable for the project you have described. Remember that the 
reviewers only have the information that you give them--it needs to be 
clear, complete, and concise.
    The results of the competitive review are a primary factor in 
making funding decisions. In addition, Federal staff conducts 
administrative reviews of the applications and, in light of the results 
of the competitive review, will recommend applications for funding to 
the ACYF Commissioner. ACYF reserves the option of discussing 
applications with other funding sources when this is in the best 
interest of the Federal government. ACYF may also solicit and consider 
comments from ACF Regional Office staff in making funding decisions. 
ACYF may take into consideration the involvement (financial and/or 
programmatic) of the private sector, national, or State or community 
foundations; a favorable balance between Federal and non-Federal funds 
for the proposed project; or the potential for high benefit from low 
Federal investment. ACYF may elect not to fund any applicants having 
known management, fiscal, reporting, programmatic, or other problems 
which make it unlikely that they would be able to provide effective 
services or effectively complete the proposed activity.
    With the results of the peer review and the information from 
Federal staff, the Commissioner of ACYF makes the final funding 
decisions. The Commissioner may give special

[[Page 26860]]

consideration to applications proposing services of special interest to 
the Government and to achieve geographic distributions of grant awards. 
Applications of special interest may include, but are not limited to, 
applications focusing on unserved or inadequately served clients or 
service areas and programs addressing diverse ethnic populations.
    Approved but unfunded applications: In cases where more 
applications are approved for funding than ACF can fund with the money 
available, the Grants Officer shall fund applications in their order of 
approval until funds run out. In this case, ACF has the option of 
carrying over the approved applications up to a year for funding 
consideration in a later competition of the same program. These 
applications need not be reviewed and scored again if the program's 
evaluation criteria have not changed. However, they must then be placed 
in rank order along with other applications in the later competition.

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices

    Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates: Applications will be 
reviewed in the Summer 2004. Grant awards will have a start date no 
later than September 30, 2004.
    Award Notices: Successful applicants will receive a Financial 
Assistance Award which will set forth the amount of funds granted, the 
terms and conditions of the grant, the effective date of the grant, the 
budget period for which initial support will be given, the non-Federal 
share to be provided, if applicable, and the total project period for 
which support is contemplated. The Financial Assistance Award will be 
signed by the Grants Officer and transmitted via postal mail.
    The Commissioner will notify organizations in writing when their 
applications will not be funded. Every effort will be made to notify 
all unsuccessful applicants as soon as possible after final decisions 
are made.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

    45 CFR part 74 and 45 CFR part 92.

3. Reporting Requirements

    Programmatic Reports and Financial Reports are required semi-
annually with final reports due 90 days after the project end date. All 
required reports will be submitted in a timely manner, in recommended 
formats (to be provided), and the final report will also be submitted 
on disk or electronically using a standard word-processing program.
    Within 90 days of project end date, the applicant will submit a 
copy of the final report, the evaluation report, and any program 
products to the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse, 330 C 
Street, SW., Washington, DC 20447. This is in addition to the standard 
requirement that the final program and evaluation report must also be 
submitted to the Grants Management Specialist and the Federal Project 
Officer.
    Original reports and one copy should be mailed to: Administration 
for Children and Families, Office of Grants Management, Division of 
Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 
20447.

VII. Agency Contacts

Program Office Contact

    Geneva Ware-Rice, 330 C Street, SW., Washington, DC 20447, 
Telephone: 202-205-8354, E-mail: [email protected].

Grants Management Office Contact

    William Wilson, 330 C Street, SW., Washington, DC 20447, Telephone: 
202-205-8913, E-mail: [email protected].

General Contact

    The Dixon Group, ACYF Operations Center, 118 Q Street, NE., 
Washington, DC 20002-2132, Telephone: 866-796-1591.

VIII. Other Information

    Additional information about this program and its purpose can be 
located on the following Web sites: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/.
    Copies of the following Forms, Assurances, and Certifications are 
available online at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/grants/form.htm.

Standard Form 424: Application for Federal Assistance
Standard Form 424A: Budget Information
Standard Form 424B: Assurances--Non-Construction Programs
Certification Regarding Lobbying
Form LLL: Disclosure of Lobbying
Certification Regarding Environmental Tobacco Smoke
Standard Form 310: Protection of Human Subjects

    Dated: May 6, 2004.
Frank Fuentes,
Deputy Commissioner, Administration on Children, Youth and Families.
[FR Doc. 04-10966 Filed 5-13-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P