[Federal Register Volume 69, Number 122 (Friday, June 25, 2004)]
[Notices]
[Pages 35860-35918]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 04-14170]



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Part IV





Department of Health and Human Services





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Administration for Children and Families



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National Child Welfare Resource Centers Cooperative Agreements; Notice

  Federal Register / Vol. 69, No. 122 / Friday, June 25, 2004 / 
Notices  

[[Page 35860]]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families


National Child Welfare Resource Centers Cooperative Agreements

    Federal Agency Contact Name: Administration for Children and 
Families, Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Children's 
Bureau.
    Funding Opportunity Title: Seven National Child Welfare Resource 
Centers.
    Announcement Type: Cooperative Agreements-Initial.
    Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2004-ACF-ACYF-CZ-0026.
    CFDA Number: 93.556.
    Due Date for Applications: August 24, 2004.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

General Information: The Seven National Child Welfare Resource Centers

    In order to more fully meet the promise, potential and challenges 
of the Adoption and Safe Families Act (ASFA) and other legislation that 
are transforming the child welfare field, the Administration on 
Children, Youth and Families proposes to establish a coordinated 
national technical assistance network that can address the range of 
challenges State child welfare systems confront in delivering effective 
services to children, youth and families. To accomplish this, seven new 
cooperative agreements will be awarded to establish National Resource 
Centers for Child Welfare Programs.
    It is critically important that these national resource centers: 
(1) Function systematically as a network; (2) have the ability to work 
effectively in a rapidly changing environment; (3) deliver technical 
assistance in ways that best meet the needs of child welfare agencies; 
(4) document use of funds and the effectiveness of the services they 
deliver; and (5) use technology to support service delivery and 
knowledge management.
    For over a decade, the Children's Bureau (CB) has been funding a 
network of National Resource Centers, Clearinghouses, and other 
national centers with expertise in specific topic areas related to 
child maltreatment and child welfare. Through this network the 
Children's Bureau provides training and technical assistance (T/TA) to 
the States to support and enhance States' service delivery systems. For 
more information on this network, see http://nccanch.acf.hhs.gov/pubs/reslist/cbttan/index.cfm.
    Additionally, Section 1123A of the Social Security Act requires the 
Secretary to make technical assistance available to States, to the 
extent feasible, to enable them to develop and implement program 
improvement plans stemming from the Child and Family Service Reviews 
(CFSRs). Findings from the first round of CFSRs have demonstrated the 
need for a more integrated and coordinated technical assistance 
approach to assist States in meeting the goals of their program 
improvement plans (PIPs) and other child welfare systems change 
objectives.
    Over the last four years, the Children's Bureau has worked closely 
with its entire network of National Resource Centers and Clearinghouses 
to begin to develop a more coordinated strategy and approach for 
working with the States. The changes started in the last four years 
have greatly increased the collaboration and coordination across the 
entire T/TA network. To this end, the Children's Bureau is committed to 
planning and implementing a stronger, more formalized, coordinated 
training and technical assistance strategy across the network of T/TA 
providers to support the States in the planning and implementation of 
the CFSRs and other child welfare systems change efforts.
    One of the most immediate changes has been to direct the Children's 
Bureau network of T/TA Resource Centers to give priority to issues 
identified by the Children's Bureau as areas of greatest need. As a 
result, the focus of the majority of T/TA has been responding to State 
needs related to Federal reviews and implementation of program 
improvement plans. The Children's Bureau envisions that this new 
network of T/TA providers will need to be flexible and responsive to 
the issues that may arise over the next five years. Resource Centers 
funded by the Children's Bureau must have the capacity to adjust and 
refine their T/TA approaches based on ever changing needs and 
priorities from legislation and the field.
    In this context, the Children's Bureau has modified the overall 
management of the National Resource Center programs in four significant 
ways: developing a single point of entry, coordination through the 
Training and Technical Assistance Coordination Committee, close 
coordination with other technical assistance providers and an 
identified evaluator of technical assistance efforts. The following 
section on Coordination of the Seven National Resource Centers provides 
details on these management strategies.
    The current atmosphere of systems change and reform has brought a 
number of Child Protective Service (CPS) issues to the forefront. 
Effective T/TA strategy should not only analyze and respond to 
expressed needs, but also provide leadership to the field of child 
welfare through knowledge building and seeking out and disseminating 
evidenced-based practices. Given the limited resources available, this 
T/TA strategy must include a commitment to working with other Federal, 
State, and local resources and providers to maximize the T/TA available 
for States and insure positive outcomes for children, youth and 
families.
    The National Resource Centers play a pivotal role in assisting 
States as they transform their service delivery systems to achieve 
safety and permanency for children and youth. Integrated into the role 
of every National Resource Center will be the responsibility of 
assisting States to improve performance in the areas of safety, 
permanency and well-being. These concepts must be integrally linked at 
each stage of service delivery to provide effective services to 
families, youth and children.
    The purpose of these National Resource Centers is to build the 
capacity of State, local, Tribal, and other publicly administered or 
publicly supported child welfare agencies, and family and juvenile 
courts, through the provision of training, technical assistance and 
consultation on the full array of Federal requirements administered by 
the Children's Bureau. Special attention will be given to assisting 
States in improving conformity with the outcomes and systemic factors 
defined in the Child and Family Services Review (CFSR) and the results 
of other monitoring reviews conducted by the Children's Bureau (such as 
title IV-E, AFCARS and SACWIS). These efforts will focus on the 
development, expansion, strengthening and/or improvement of the quality 
and effectiveness of child welfare services to children, youth and 
families and on the information management systems used to record case 
activity. The National Resource Centers will focus efforts on 
strengthening the capacity of agencies to integrate policy and practice 
and to improve the delivery of services and the outcomes for children. 
A primary focus of all National Resource Centers will be to assist 
States in the planning and implementing of systemic change as defined 
in the States' program improvement plans (PIPs) related to all 
monitoring reviews.
    In order to provide T/TA relevant to the monitoring reviews and 
related corrective action plans, and to meet

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other legislative requirements and agency priorities, cooperative 
agreements to establish seven National Resource Centers for Child 
Welfare Programs will be awarded to organizations with expertise in the 
following topical areas:
     Organizational Improvement. Improving management and 
operations, bolstering organizational capacity and promoting service 
integration in order to improve outcomes for children, youth and 
families.
     Child Protective Services. Developing and integrating 
policies and practices that improve the prevention, reporting, 
assessment and treatment of child abuse and neglect.
     Family-Centered Practice and Permanency Planning. 
Institutionalizing a safety-focused, family-centered, and community-
based approach to meet the multiple and complex needs of children, 
youth and families, developing, supporting and maintaining a range of 
services to safely maintain children in the home when appropriate; 
providing quality care for children and youth in the care and custody 
of the State; and moving children from foster care to safe permanent 
home placements effectively.
     Data and Technology. Supporting and enhancing State child 
welfare case management information systems and the collection and 
utilization of data and information that improve outcomes for children 
and their families and support informed decisions about policies, 
programs, and practices.
     Legal and Judicial Issues. Improving legal representation 
of agencies, children, youth and parents and supporting court 
improvement to establish processes that achieve timely and appropriate 
permanency for children and youth, and result in informed judicial 
decision making.
     Special Needs Adoption. Developing, supporting and 
maintaining a range of services to increase the number of children who 
are adopted from foster care and improving the effectiveness and 
quality of adoption and post-adoption services.
     Youth Development. Developing, supporting and maintaining 
a range of services and supports to assist youth in making a smooth 
transition to adulthood, achieving permanency, and reducing the 
likelihood of dependency on the adult social welfare system.
    Recent shifts in the delivery of child welfare services have 
focused on family-centered, community-based and individually focused 
approaches. The National Resource Centers' services are expected to 
support such approaches in providing training and technical assistance 
on the delivery of State services.
    Family-centered practice is designed to strengthen and empower 
families to protect and nurture their children; safely preserve family 
relationships and connections when appropriate; recognize the strong 
influence social systems have on individual behavior; enhance family 
autonomy; respect the rights, values and cultures of families; and 
focus on an entire family rather than selected individuals within a 
family.
    Community-based practice is designed to support the needs of 
children within the context of their families and communities; 
emphasize prevention-oriented services and support; and provide local 
communities a role in identifying, designing, implementing and 
overseeing services within the community.
    Individualized services are designed to tailor interventions to 
meet the specific needs of children, youth and families served; 
recognize that children, youth and families are affected by both 
individual and environmental factors; recognize that children, youth, 
families and the environments in which they operate are unique; and 
offer children, youth and families opportunities to provide input into 
their strengths, needs, and goals and the means to achieve those goals.

Coordination of the Seven National Child Welfare Resource Centers

    The first round of CFS reviews has demonstrated the need for a more 
integrated and coordinated technical assistance approach to assist 
States to meet PIP objectives, especially since States that fail to 
meet objectives face penalties. In this context, the Children's Bureau 
has modified the overall management of the National Child Welfare 
Resource Center programs in four significant ways:
    (1) The Children's Bureau is establishing a single point of entry 
for States and Tribes to request onsite training and technical 
assistance from National Child Welfare Resource Centers and 
AdoptUSKids. The National Child Welfare Resource Center on 
Organizational Improvement (NCWRCOI) will operate as this single point 
of entry. The other six national resource centers funded to provide T/
TA to State child welfare agencies will need to work collaboratively 
with the NCWRCOI to ensure a coordinated and immediate response to on-
site T/TA requests from the States, ACF Regional Offices, and the 
Children's Bureau.
    (2) All National Resource Centers funded by the Children's Bureau 
will work with the Training and Technical Assistance Coordination 
Committee, which will be composed of Federal staff from the Children's 
Bureau and Regional Offices, and will provide direction to the 
strategic development of the training and technical assistance network.
    (3) All National Resource Centers will work collaboratively with 
AdoptUSKids, the Children's Bureau Clearinghouses, and other members of 
the training and technical assistance network funded by the Children's 
Bureau, particularly as it relates to the Child and Family Service 
Reviews and other issues of priority identified by the Children's 
Bureau.
    (4) The NCWRCOI will evaluate the results and benefits of the 
technical assistance provided by all seven National Child Welfare 
Resource Centers. The National Child Welfare Resource Centers will 
provide evaluation data to the NCWRCOI. The purpose of this evaluation 
is to track and coordinate activities in order to improve services and 
build knowledge. The evaluation will not be used to determine 
compliance or merit and the results of the evaluation will not be used 
to judge, award or penalize NRC performance.
    Recent experience with the National Child Welfare Resource Centers 
has highlighted the importance of the centers working together to 
assist States in strategies towards systemic change. The need for 
integrating technical assistance from multiple National Child Welfare 
Resource Centers is clear. The combined knowledge and energies of the 
National Resource centers have been required in a number of projects 
and this trend is expected to continue. To assist with these issues, 
the Children's Bureau will create a Training and Technical Assistance 
Coordination Committee to work with the National Child Welfare Resource 
Center network. The Training and Technical Assistance Committee will be 
made up of Federal staff, including Federal Project Officers, CFSR 
National Review Team members, Regional Office and other Federal staff. 
It will coordinate with other training and technical assistance 
initiatives of the Children's Bureau and work with the seven National 
Child Welfare Resource Centers and AdoptUSKids to establish training 
and technical assistance priorities.
    These resource centers will each serve as a primary contributor to 
a national repository of expertise and resources in the field of child 
welfare. They will engage in a process of knowledge building and 
knowledge transfer that takes place within and across resource

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centers. In coordination with the Children's Bureau, these resource 
centers will identify promising practices and approaches that reflect 
the state of the art and contribute to improved outcomes for children, 
youth and families in the child welfare system. All training and 
technical assistance will be provided in the comprehensive context of 
child welfare services and will be integrated to assist States in 
meeting the legislative requirements and agency priorities of the 
Children's Bureau.
    The National Child Welfare Resource Center network must have a 
commitment to working collaboratively with other Children's Bureau 
partners, including public/private, State, regional, and Federal 
partnerships in implementing their training and technical assistance 
efforts.

Programs of ACYF and the Children's Bureau

    The Administration on Children, Youth and Families (ACYF) 
administers national programs for children and youth; works with States 
and local communities to develop services which support and strengthen 
family life; seeks joint ventures with the private sector to enhance 
the lives of children and their families; and provides information and 
other assistance to parents. The concerns of ACYF extend to all 
children from birth through adolescence. Many of the programs 
administered by the agency focus on children from low-income families; 
abused and neglected children; children and youth in need of foster 
care, independent living, adoption or other child welfare services; 
preschool children; children with disabilities; children of prisoners; 
runaway and homeless youth; and children from Native American and 
migrant families.
    Within ACYF, the Children's Bureau plans, manages, coordinates, and 
supports child abuse and neglect prevention and child welfare services 
programs, and promotes continuous improvement in the delivery of child 
welfare services. Children's Bureau programs are designed to prevent 
neglect and abuse of children and to promote the safety, permanency, 
and well-being of all children, including those in foster care, 
available for adoption, recently adopted, abused, neglected, dependent, 
disabled, or homeless children and youth. The programs encourage 
strengthening the family unit to help prevent the unnecessary 
separation of children from their families, and support reunification 
of families when separation has occurred, as appropriate. The 
Children's Bureau also supports programs and services that encourage 
healthy marriage; promote family stability; support relationship 
building for parenting couples; reach out to and provide assistance to 
fathers; and emphasize the role of fathers in ensuring the well-being 
of their children.
    State child welfare systems are designed to protect children who 
have suffered maltreatment, who are at risk for maltreatment, or who 
are under the care and placement responsibility of the State because 
their families are unable to care for them. These systems also focus on 
securing permanent living arrangements through foster care and adoption 
for children who are unable to return home.
    The Children's Bureau fulfills its mission by providing leadership 
and conducting activities designed to assist and enhance national, 
State, and community efforts to prevent, assess, identify, and treat 
child abuse and neglect. These activities include data collection and 
analysis; research and demonstration programs, and grants to States 
for: Developing comprehensive, child-centered and family-focused child 
protective services systems; providing training and technical 
assistance to develop the necessary resources to implement successful, 
comprehensive, child and family protection strategies; developing 
comprehensive case-management information systems; and gathering, 
processing, and housing high-quality data.
    Federal programs administered by the Bureau include the Foster Care 
and Adoption Assistance Programs, the Child and Family Services State 
Grants Program, Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment State Grant, Child 
Welfare Services Training Program, the Chafee Foster Care Independence 
Program and Education and Training Voucher Program, the Adoption 
Opportunities Program, the Abandoned Infants Assistance Program, the 
Court Improvement Program, the Infant Adoption Awareness Training 
Program, the Children's Justice Act Grants Program, Community-Based 
Grants for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, and several 
discretionary grant programs authorized by the Child Abuse Prevention 
and Treatment Act (CAPTA). For more information about Children's Bureau 
programs, visit http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb.

Legislation Governing ACYF and Children's Bureau Programs

    This section provides a summary of key legislation governing and 
providing critical guidance to all of the National Child Welfare 
Resource Centers. During the past ten years, policymakers and the 
public have become increasingly concerned over the fate of children who 
come into contact with the child welfare system. Fortunately, the level 
of concern over children in child welfare has generated a productive 
climate of reform, evidenced by the passage of major pieces of Federal 
legislation listed and described below. For instance, ASFA, passed in 
1997, requires a focus on results and accountability and makes it clear 
that child welfare services must lead to positive outcomes for 
children. This legislation provided the Federal government and its 
partners at the State and local levels with an important opportunity to 
reform and revitalize child welfare services.
    The following table indicates the specific legislation which 
authorizes and/or provides funding for each of the individual National 
Child Welfare Resource Centers.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Funding source/authorizing
             Priority area                         legislation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. National Child Welfare Resource       Adoption Opportunities, Child
 Center for Organizational Improvement.   Abuse Prevention and Treatment
                                          Act, Promoting Safe and Stable
                                          Families.
2. National Child Welfare Resource       Child Abuse Prevention and
 Center for Child Protective Services.    Treatment Act.
3. National Resource Center for Family-  Adoption Opportunities,
 Centered Practice and Permanency         Promoting Safe and Stable
 Planning.                                Families.
4. National Resource Center for Child    Title IV-E.
 Welfare Data and Technology.
5. National Child Welfare Resource       Adoption Opportunities, Child
 Center on Legal and Judicial Issues.     Abuse Prevention and Treatment
                                          Act, Promoting Safe and Stable
                                          Families.
6. National Resource Center for Special  Adoption Opportunities.
 Needs Adoption.
7. National Resource Center for Youth    Adoption Opportunities,
 Development.                             Chaffee, Promoting Safe and
                                          Stable Families.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


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    With the passage of Public Law 96-272, the Adoption Assistance and 
Child Welfare Act of 1980, the Federal government established a clear 
focus on the need for permanency for children in foster care and the 
importance of permanency planning and timely decision-making for these 
children. At that time, the law increased protections for children in 
foster care by requiring case plans that included goals, a description 
of the placement and its appropriateness, required periodic 
administrative reviews and judicial permanency placement 
determinations.
    In 1986, Congress amended Title IV-E of the Social Security Act 
(the Act) by adding section 479, which requires the Federal government 
to institute a foster care and adoption data collection system (known 
as AFCARS). The AFCARS collects case level information on all children 
in foster care for whom the State child welfare agency has 
responsibility for placement, care or supervision and on children who 
are adopted under the auspices of the State's public child welfare 
agency.
    The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1993 provided 
States with the opportunity to obtain 75 percent enhanced funding 
through the Title IV-E program of the Social Security Act to plan, 
design, develop, and implement a Statewide Automated Child Welfare 
Information System (SACWIS) (Federal fiscal years 1993-1996). Title V, 
Section 502 of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity 
Reconciliation Act of 1996 extended the SACWIS enhanced funding through 
Federal fiscal year 1997. Additionally, the legislation provided an 
enhanced SACWIS cost allocation to States so that Title IV-E would 
absorb all SACWIS costs for foster and adopted children, without regard 
to their Title IV-E eligibility. A SACWIS is expected to be a 
comprehensive, automated, case-management tool that supports social 
workers' foster care and adoption assistance case-management practice. 
Additionally, the systems may contain functionality that supports child 
protective and family preservation services, thereby providing a 
unified automated tool to support all child welfare services. By law, a 
SACWIS is required to support the reporting of data to Adoption and 
Foster Care Automated Reporting System (AFCARS) and the National Child 
Abuse and Neglect Data System.
    The Multi-Ethnic Placement Act of 1994, as amended, prohibits the 
delay or denial of any adoption or placement in foster care due to the 
race, color or national origin of the child or the foster or adoptive 
parents and requires States to provide for diligent recruitment of 
potential foster and adoptive families that reflect the ethnic and 
racial diversity of children for whom homes are needed. Section 1808 of 
Public Law 104-188 affirms the prohibition against delaying or denying 
the placement of a child for adoption or foster care on the basis of 
race, color, or national origin of the foster or adoptive parents or 
the child involved [42 U.S.C. 1996b].
    The Adoption Promotion Act of 2003 encourages States to focus 
greater effort on finding adoptive families for children ages nine and 
older. Under the legislation the Adoption Incentive Program will now 
include a targeted bonus for States successful in increasing the number 
of older children adopted from foster care, and continue to recognize 
overall progress in increasing adoptions from foster care.
    States must implement the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) [25 
U.S.C. 1901 et seq.] which governs the jurisdiction, placement, 
termination of parental rights, and adoption of Native American 
children. This Act, passed in 1978, provided key standards that must be 
met by States when working with Tribal children, including notice to 
Tribes of State custody; standards for placement of Indian children in 
foster homes and termination of parental rights; active efforts to 
provide rehabilitative services; transfer of jurisdiction to Tribal 
courts and preferred placement of Indian children with extended 
families and other Indian families; and the Tribal right to intervene 
in State custody proceedings.
    The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) recently 
reauthorized as part of the Keeping Children and Families Safe Act of 
2003 (Pub. L. 108-36) [42 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.; 42 U.S.C. 5116 et seq.] 
is one of the key pieces of legislation that guides child protection. 
The reauthorization provides a number of amendments to the eligibility 
requirements for the CAPTA State grant including: policies and 
procedures that address the needs of drug-exposed infants; triage 
procedures for referral of children not at imminent risk of harm to 
community or preventative services; notification of an individual who 
is the subject of an investigation about allegations made against them; 
training for CPS workers on their legal duties and parents' rights; 
provisions to refer children under age three who are involved in a 
substantiated case to early intervention services under IDEA Part C. 
The 2003 Act amends other provisions of CAPTA including the authority 
for the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect, research and 
technical assistance, grants for demonstration programs and projects, 
Children's Justice Act grants, and Community-Based Grants for the 
Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (formerly known as the Community-
Based Family Resource and Support Grants), and gives flexibility for 
States to determine open court policies in cases of child abuse and 
neglect.
    In November 1997, the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997 
(ASFA), Pub. L. 105-89 amended titles IV-B and IV-E of the Social 
Security Act. This law impacts the State child welfare system in two 
ways. It focuses on moving children who are languishing in the system 
into adoption or other permanent placements, and it seeks to change the 
experience of children entering the system to increase the timeliness 
of securing permanency. ASFA embodies five key principles:
    1. The safety of children is the paramount concern that must guide 
all child welfare services.
    2. Foster care is a temporary setting and not a place for children 
to grow up.
    3. Permanency planning efforts for children should begin as soon as 
a child enters foster care and should be expedited by the provision of 
services to families.
    4. The child welfare system must focus on results and 
accountability.
    5. Innovative approaches are needed to achieve the goals of safety, 
permanency, and well-being.
    To implement these principles, the law requires that child safety 
be the paramount concern in making service provision, placement, and 
permanency planning decisions. It reaffirms the importance of making 
reasonable efforts to preserve and reunify families, but also specifies 
that States are not required to make efforts to keep children with 
their parents when doing so places a child's safety in jeopardy. To 
ensure that the system respects a child's developmental needs, the law 
includes provisions that shorten the time frame for making permanency 
planning decisions, and that establish a time frame for initiating 
proceedings to terminate parental rights.
    The law also calls for the Children's Bureau to focus on results, 
which has been at the heart of this reform effort. To this end, the 
Child and Family Services (CFS) review process was published in a final 
rule in the Federal Register (65 FR 40-4093) on January 25, 2000. 
Unlike previous review systems, the CFS reviews require States to 
demonstrate that children and families served by the child welfare 
system are experiencing positive results. By June

[[Page 35864]]

2004 all States, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico will have 
completed CFS reviews. Thirty-two States have developed Program 
Improvement Plans (PIPs) to build on strengths and address areas 
needing improvement that were noted in the review process, with special 
attention to improving State capacity to create positive outcomes for 
children and families.
    In 1999, the Chafee Foster Care Independence Program (CFCIP) was 
enacted under the Foster Care Independence Act of 1999, section 477 of 
the Social Security Act, as amended. This Act expanded the purposes and 
resources of the Federal Independent Living Program (ILP) originally 
enacted in 1986 under Public Law 96-272. CFCIP offers assistance to 
help current and former foster care youths achieve self-sufficiency. 
Grants are offered to States who submit a plan to assist youth in a 
wide variety of areas designed to support a successful transition to 
adulthood. Activities and programs include, but are not limited to help 
with education, employment, financial management, housing, emotional 
support and assured connections to caring adults for older youth in 
foster care as well as youth 18-21 who have aged out of the foster care 
system. A reporting system for States and a program evaluation 
component will be used to attain more knowledge about the outcomes of 
youth transitioning to adulthood.
    Under Title II of the Promoting Safe and Stable Families Amendments 
(PSSF Amendments) of 2001, Public Law 107-133 is the Education and 
Training Vouchers for Youths Aging Out of Foster Care Program (ETV). It 
amends section 477 of Title IV-E of the Social Security Act, adding a 
new purpose to CFCIP specifically targeting additional resources to 
meet the education and training needs of youth aging out of foster 
care. The law authorizes payments to States for post secondary 
educational and training vouchers for youth that have aged out of 
foster care; or are otherwise eligible for services under the State 
program under this section. The full text of the above applicable laws 
enacted since 1996 can be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/laws/index.htm.
    The Title IV-B, subpart 2, Promoting Safe and Stable Families 
program provides funds to states to provide family support, family 
preservation, time-limited family reunification services, and services 
to promote and support adoptions. These services are primarily aimed at 
preventing the risk of abuse and promoting nurturing families, 
assisting families at risk of having a child removed from their home, 
promoting the timely return of a child to his/her home, and if 
returning home is not an option, placement of a child in a permanent 
setting with services that support the family. As part of this program, 
the Court Improvement Program provides grants to help State courts 
improve their handling of proceedings relating to foster care and 
adoption. After an initial assessment of court practices and policies, 
States use these funds for improvements and reform activities. Typical 
activities include development of mediation programs, joint agency-
court training, automated docketing and case tracking, linked agency-
court data systems, one judge/one family models, time-specific 
docketing, formalized relationships with the child welfare agency, and 
legislative change.

Other General Information

    Available Funds: Applicants should note that cooperative agreements 
to be awarded under this program announcement are subject to the 
availability of funds.
    Assurances: By signing the ``Signature of Authorized 
Representative'' on the SF 424, the applicant is providing a 
certification for completing the cooperative agreement requirements 
that are listed under ``assurances'' in each of the individual NRC 
program descriptions.
    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 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 of each priority area 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.

Table of Contents

General Information: The Seven National Child Welfare Resource 
Centers
Priority Area 1 Organizational Improvement
Priority Area 2 Child Protective Services
Priority Area 3 Family-Centered Practice and Permanency Planning
Priority Area 4 Data and Technology
Priority Area 5 Legal and Judicial Issues
Priority Area 6 Special Needs Adoption
Priority Area 7 Youth Development
Award Administration Information for all 7 priority areas
Agency Contacts for all 7 priority areas
Other Information for all 7 priority areas

Summary Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement.
    Description of Federal Substantial Involvement With Cooperative 
Agreement: Each National Child Welfare Resource Center will operate 
under a cooperative agreement. A cooperative agreement is a specific 
method of awarding Federal assistance in which substantial Federal 
involvement is anticipated. A cooperative agreement clearly defines the 
respective responsibilities of the Children's Bureau and the grantee 
prior to the award. The Children's Bureau anticipates that agency 
involvement will produce programmatic benefits to the recipient 
otherwise unavailable to them for carrying out the project. The 
involvement and collaboration includes Children's Bureau review and 
approval of planning stages of the activities before implementation 
phases may begin; Children's Bureau involvement in the establishment of 
policies and procedures that maximize open competition, and rigorous 
and impartial development, review and funding of sub-grant or sub-grant 
activities, if applicable; and Children's Bureau and recipient joint 
collaboration in the performance of key programmatic activities (i.e., 
strategic planning, implementation, information technology 
enhancements, training and technical assistance, publications or 
products, and evaluation). Close monitoring by the Children's Bureau of 
the requirements stated in this announcement that limit the grantee's 
discretion with respect to scope of services offered, organizational 
structure

[[Page 35865]]

and management processes, coupled with close Children's Bureau 
monitoring during performance may, in order to ensure compliance with 
the intent of this funding, exceed those Federal stewardship 
responsibilities customary for grant activities.
    Anticipated Total Funding: $6,700,000.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: Seven.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: Individual priority areas 
vary from $800,000 to $1,400,000 in the first budget period of the 
project.
    Floor of Individual Award Amounts: None.
    Average Projected Award Amount: Individual priority areas vary from 
$800,000 to $1,400,000 in the first budget period of the project.
    Project Periods for Awards: 60 months.

Priority Area 1--National Child Welfare Resource Center for 
Organizational Improvement

    Purpose: The purpose of this Cooperative Agreement is to provide 
financial support for training and technical assistance to build the 
organizational capacity of State, local, Tribal and other publicly 
supported child welfare agencies in order to improve the outcomes of 
child welfare activities and to achieve the Adoption and Safe Families 
Act of 1997 (ASFA) goals of safety, permanency and well-being of 
children. This purpose will be accomplished by providing technical 
assistance, training, and consultation to child welfare agencies to 
strengthen, enhance, and focus their efforts to develop agency 
management structures and systems that improve the ability to 
administer titles IV-B and IV-E child welfare programs, including the 
development of program improvement plans in response to Child and 
Family Services Reviews.
    The National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational 
Improvement is expected to provide these additional training and 
technical assistance management functions under this Cooperative 
Agreement:
     The first round of CFS reviews demonstrated the need for a 
more integrated and coordinated approach to assist States in meeting 
Program Improvement Plan objectives. In this context, the Children's 
Bureau is establishing a single point of entry for States and Tribes to 
request on-site training and technical assistance from the Children's 
Bureau's seven National Child Welfare Resource Centers and AdoptUSKids. 
The NCWRCOI is expected to serve this function.
     The National Child Welfare Resource Center on 
Organizational Improvement (NCWRCOI) will evaluate the results and 
benefits of the technical assistance provided by all seven National 
Child Welfare Resource Centers. The National Child Welfare Resource 
Centers will provide evaluation data to the NCWRCOI.
    Activities to be conducted by the Resource Center for 
Organizational Improvement will include, but are not limited to:
    (1) Identifying the organizational improvement needs of child 
welfare agencies and developing a national technical assistance and 
training strategy for organizational improvement that takes into 
consideration development of State Child and Family Services Plans and 
Program Improvement Plans, as well as CAPTA, Chafee and IV-B 
requirements;
    (2) Providing technical assistance, training and consultation 
directly on-site as well as through state-of-the-art communication and 
technology-based methods to State, local, Tribal, and child welfare and 
child protective services agencies on issues of organizational 
improvement;
    (3) Identifying and disseminating exemplary and innovative 
organizational improvement practices in such areas as strategic 
planning; team building; cross-program and cross-system coordination in 
the areas of mental health, health, education, substance abuse and 
domestic violence; quality assurance strategies; worker safety; 
caseloads and child welfare staffing, staff retention and training;
    (4) Demonstrating a commitment to meaningful stakeholder 
involvement by involving courts, youth, Tribes and other relevant 
stakeholders in program planning, implementation and evaluation and 
other systems change initiatives;
    (5) Coordinating with the Children's Bureau, ACF Regional Offices 
and State and Tribal agencies in the development of the annual 
technical assistance and training strategy;
    (6) Providing specific training to States and their relevant 
stakeholders about strategic planning, program improvement plan 
development, implementation and monitoring, and integration of the 
program improvement plan into the Child and Family Services Plan;
    (7) Providing a single point of entry for States and Tribes to 
request onsite T/TA from NRCs and AdoptUSKids. For each on-site T/TA 
request the NCWRCOI will involve the Regional Office Staff, the 
appropriate NRCs or AdoptUSKids, and Children's Bureau staff as needed, 
as well as any other critical stakeholder to facilitate an assessment 
of T/TA needs and a coordinated and immediate response that avoids 
delays or duplication of effort;
    (8) Building the capacity of child welfare agencies and courts by 
coordinating twice-a-year team meetings of the Training and Technical 
Assistance Network funded by the Children's Bureau, and the Training 
and Technical Assistance Coordination Committee;
    (9) Collaborating with other ACYF Resource Centers, other agencies 
in the Department of Health and Human Services and other agents of the 
Children's Bureau to strengthen TA efforts, avoid duplication and to 
manage resources effectively;
    (10) Building the capacity of child welfare agencies and courts by 
managing, maintaining and updating to improve functionality, when 
needed, the web-based tracking system for training and technical 
assistance requests developed to track NRC's responses to all T/TA 
requests from State, local, Tribal and other publicly supported child 
welfare agencies;
    (11) Evaluating the results and benefits of the technical 
assistance provided by all seven National Resource Centers in order to 
build knowledge and improve services;
    (12) Supporting States and localities in developing and 
implementing their Program Improvement Plans resulting from Child and 
Family Service Reviews; and
    (13) Building the capacity of child welfare agencies and courts by 
providing logistical arrangements and meeting planning for the annual 
national Child and Family Services Review conference.
    Expected outcomes include the enhanced capacity of each State 
agency to:
    (1) Develop, support, and maintain a range of services and supports 
which can be individualized to enhance positive outcomes in safety, 
permanency and well-being for children and families;
    (2) Build interagency systems to expand and maintain required 
services;
    (3) Coordinate the delivery of child welfare, health, mental 
health, substance abuse, domestic violence and educational services to 
children and families in the child welfare system;
    (4) Develop and maintain effective training systems supporting 
family-centered, community-based practice;
    (5) Promote the meaningful participation of stakeholders, including

[[Page 35866]]

courts, in the design, implementation and evaluation of funded 
services;
    (6) Implement quality assurance systems that include a peer review 
component, effective data utilization and other evaluation 
methodologies to enhance positive outcomes for children and families in 
the areas of safety, permanency and well-being; and
    (7) Build on and benefit from their State's Child and Family 
Services Review/ Program Improvement Planning processes.
    The aim of the Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational 
Improvement is to strengthen State, local and Tribal child welfare 
administrative and management systems that are critical to achieving 
child safety, permanency and well-being by guiding them in planning and 
implementing systemic change, especially in response to Child and 
Family Services Reviews. This Resource Center is expected to train and 
assist State, local, Tribal and other publicly supported child welfare 
agencies to establish effective interagency cooperation and 
collaboration that involves all stakeholders, and promotes public-
private partnerships in the coordination of child welfare services. 
Training and technical assistance needs will be identified by NRC staff 
in collaboration with States, the CB T/TA Coordinating Committee and 
coordinated with other ongoing national training and technical 
assistance efforts. The Resource Center will also be actively involved 
with identifying other training and technical assistance needs based on 
their work with other child welfare organizations. Training outcomes 
should be achieved through a combination of strategies, including on-
site training, on and off-site technical assistance, and consultation 
with all appropriate stakeholder groups. Additionally, this resource 
center will act as the single point of entry for technical assistance 
requests to all NRCs and AdoptUSKids, evaluation of T/TA provided by 
NRCs and will provide logistical assistance with the annual Child and 
Family Services Review conference.

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement.
    Description of Federal Substantial Involvement With Cooperative 
Agreement: Each National Child Welfare Resource Center will operate 
under a cooperative agreement. A cooperative agreement is a specific 
method of awarding Federal assistance in which substantial Federal 
involvement is anticipated. A cooperative agreement clearly defines the 
respective responsibilities of the Children's Bureau and the grantee 
prior to the award. The Children's Bureau anticipates that agency 
involvement will produce programmatic benefits to the recipient 
otherwise unavailable to them for carrying out the project. The 
involvement and collaboration includes Children's Bureau review and 
approval of planning stages of the activities before implementation 
phases may begin; Children's Bureau involvement in the establishment of 
policies and procedures that maximize open competition, and rigorous 
and impartial development, review and funding of sub-grant or sub-grant 
activities, if applicable; and Children's Bureau and recipient joint 
collaboration in the performance of key programmatic activities (i.e., 
strategic planning, implementation, information technology 
enhancements, training and technical assistance, publications or 
products, and evaluation). Close monitoring by the Children's Bureau of 
the requirements stated in this announcement that limit the grantee's 
discretion with respect to scope of services offered, organizational 
structure and management processes, coupled with close Children's 
Bureau monitoring during performance may, in order to ensure compliance 
with the intent of this funding, exceed those Federal stewardship 
responsibilities customary for grant activities.
    Anticipated Total Program Funding: The anticipated total for the 
award under this priority area in FY2004 is $1,400,000 in the first 
year of the project. It is anticipated that the award will increase to 
$1,750,000 in the remaining years of the project.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: It is anticipated that one project 
will be funded.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: The grant amount will not 
exceed $1,400,000 in the first budget period of the project and 
$1,750,000 per budget period in the remaining years of the project. 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: $1,400,000 in the first budget 
period of the project and $1,750,000 per budget period in the remaining 
years of the project.
    Project Periods for Awards: This grant will be awarded for a 
project period of 60 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
City or township governments
State controlled institutions of higher education
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
For-profit organization other than small businesses
Small businesses

    Additional Information on Eligibility Collaborative efforts and 
interdisciplinary approaches are acceptable. Applications from 
collaborations must identify a primary applicant responsible for 
administering the grants.
    Non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community 
organizations are elgible to apply. 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.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

    The grantee must provide at least 10 percent of the total approved 
cost of the project. The total approved cost is the sum of the Federal 
share and the non-

[[Page 35867]]

Federal share. Therefore, a project requesting $1,400,000 for the first 
year must include a match of at least $155,555 for that 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 $1,400,000 grant:

$1,400,000 (Federal share)
divided by .90 (100%-10%)
equals $1,555,555 (total project cost including match)
minus $1,400,000 (Federal share)
equals $155,555 (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 and 
failure to provide the required amount will result in a disallowance of 
unmatched Federal funds.

3. Other (If Applicable)

    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 (http://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.
    Applications that exceed the $1,400,000 ceiling in the first year 
of the project and $1,750,000 per budget period ceiling in the 
remaining years of the project will be considered non-responsive and 
will not be eligible for funding under this announcement.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

    ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, (866) 796-1591.

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.
    Each application must contain the following items in the order 
listed:
    1. 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, e-mail 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 in the funding opportunity 
announcement.
    In Item 11 of Form 424, identify the single priority area 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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 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 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 application.
    If applicable, applicants must include a completed SPOC 
certification (Single Point of Contact) with the date of the SPOC 
contact entered in line 16, page 1 of the Form 424.

[[Page 35868]]

    Assurances: 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 
cooperative agreement requirements:
     The applicant will have the project fully functioning 
within 90 days of the notification of the award.
     The applicant will participate in any evaluation or 
technical assistance effort supported by ACYF.
     The applicant will submit all required semi-annual and 
final Financial Status Reports (SF269) and Program Performance Reports 
in a timely manner, in hard-copy and electronic formats (preferably MS 
WORD and PDF) as negotiated with the Federal Project Officer.
     The Resource Center Project Director or one key staff 
member will attend the following meetings in Washington, DC. A meeting 
with the Federal Project Officer and other ACYF staff within 60 days of 
receiving the award; two meetings annually, for one to two days each, 
with Children's Bureau staff and other training and technical 
assistance partners to plan a national training and technical 
assistance strategy; one meeting annually to participate in a 
Children's Bureau grantee meeting with the purpose of disseminating 
knowledge gained from work with State agencies and courts around child 
welfare issues.
     In situations where the applicant's organizational 
position on a particular policy and/or practice might differ from the 
Federal position, the Federal position will be used to guide the 
Resource Center activity and will be reflected in all public statements 
and publications of the Resource Center.
     The applicant will enter into a Cooperative Agreement with 
the Children's Bureau.
     The Resource Center will work in partnership with the 
Children's Bureau and the ACF Regional Offices by providing technical 
assistance to States that have needs identified through one of ACF's 
review processes.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the 
other six National Resource Centers and AdoptUSKids and will serve as a 
single point of entry for States and Tribes to request onsite training 
and technical assistance to ensure a coordinated and immediate 
response.
     The Resource Center will work with the Training and 
Technical Assistance Coordination Committee, which will be composed of 
Federal staff from the Children's Bureau and Regional Offices and will 
provide direction to the strategic development of the training and 
technical assistance network.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the CB 
Clearinghouses and other members of the training and technical 
assistance network funded by the Children's Bureau in providing 
training and technical assistance.
    The Office for Human Research Protections of the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services provides Web site 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.
    In implementing their projects, grantees are expected to comply 
with all applicable administrative regulations regarding extent or 
types of costs. Applicable HHS regulations can be found in 45 CFR part 
74 or 92.
    4. Project Abstract/Summary (one page maximum). Clearly mark this 
page with the applicant name as shown on item 5 of the Form 424, 
identify the competitive priority area 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. It should describe the 
objectives of the project, the approach to be used and the results or 
benefits expected.
    5. Project Description for Evaluation. Applicants should organize 
their project description according to the Evaluation Criteria 
described in this priority area announcement providing information that 
addresses all the components.
    6. Proof of non-profit status (if applicable). Any non-profit 
organization submitting an application must submit proof of its non-
profit status in its application at the time of submission. Any of the 
following constitutes acceptable proof of such status:
    a. A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the 
Internal Revenue Services' (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 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.
    7. 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.
    8. 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.
    9. Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount of 
the non-Federal share of project costs.
    10. The application limit is 85 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) and following 
the guidance provided. The application must be signed by an individual 
authorized to act for the applicant organization 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 
the section titled Deadline. 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 priority area 
announcement will be removed from the application

[[Page 35869]]

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 priority area. The package must be clearly labeled for the 
specific priority area 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 application copies (not 
originals) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified 
in the application budget. The copies may include summary salary 
information.
    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.''
    Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on preparing the 
project summary/abstract and the full project description.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. 
eastern standard time (e.s.t.) on August 24, 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.s.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

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Required form or
          What to submit             Required content           format                  When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. SF424.........................  Per required form...  May be found at      See application due date.
                                                          http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms forms.htm.
2. SF424A........................  Per required form...  May be found at      See application due date.
                                                          http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms forms.htm.
3.a. SF424B......................  Per requiredform....  May be found at      See application due date.
                                                          http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms forms.htm.
3.b. Certification regarding       Per required form...  May be found at      See application due date.
 lobbying.                                                http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms forms.htm.
3.c. Disclosure of Lobbying        Per required form...  May be found at      See application due date.
 Activities (SF-LLL).                                     http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms forms.htm.
4. Project Summary/Abstract......  Summary of            See instructions in  See application due date.
                                    application request.  this funding
                                                          announcement.
5. Project Description...........  Responsiveness to     See instructions in  See application due date.
                                    evaluation criteria.  this funding
                                                          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.
    Total application............  See above...........  Application limit    See application due date.
                                                          85 pages total
                                                          including all
                                                          forms and
                                                          attachments.
                                                          Submit one
                                                          original and two
                                                          copies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Forms
    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the additional survey located under ``Grant Related 
Documents and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant 
Applicants.''

[[Page 35870]]



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

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
    This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' and 45 CFR Part 100, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services 
Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own 
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance 
under covered programs.
    As of October 2003, of the most recent SPOC list, the following 
jurisdictions have elected not to participate in the Executive Order 
process. Applicants from these jurisdictions or for projects 
administered by Federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take no action 
in regard to E.O. 12372: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, 
Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, 
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, 
Oregon, Palau, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, 
Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.
    Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in 
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of 
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, 
Territory, Commonwealth, etc., does not have a SPOC. All remaining 
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have 
established SPOCs.
    Applicants from participating jurisdictions should contact their 
SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the prospective applications 
and receive instructions. Applicants must submit any required material 
to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that the program office can obtain 
and review SPOC comments as part of the award process. The applicant 
must submit all required materials, if any, to the SPOC and indicate 
the date of this submittal (or the date of contact if no submittal is 
required) on the Standard Form 424, item 16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), 
a SPOC has 60 days from the application deadline to comment on proposed 
new or competing continuation awards.
    SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine 
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are 
requested to differentiate clearly between mere advisory comments and 
those official State process recommendations which may trigger the 
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
    When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be 
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration 
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447.
    The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions 
elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following URL: 
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

5. Funding Restrictions

    Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
    Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this 
solicitation.
    Federal funds received as a result of this announcement cannot be 
paid as profit to grantees or sub-grantees, i.e., any amount in excess 
of allowable direct and indirect costs of the recipient (45 CFR 74.81).

6. Other Submission Requirements

    Submission by Mail: An applicant must provide an original 
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized 
representative and two copies. The application must be received at the 
address below by 4:30 p.m, eastern standard time on or before the 
closing date. Applications should be mailed to: ACYF Operations, The 
Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 
20002-2132.
    For Hand Delivery: Applicant must provide an original application 
with all attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two 
copies. The application must be received at the address below by 4:30 
p.m. eastern standard time on or before the closing date. Applications 
that are hand delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 
4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applications may be delivered to: 
ACYF Operations, The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132. It is strongly recommended that 
applicants obtain documentation that the application was hand delivered 
on or before the closing date. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
    Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV.2. Content and Form of 
Application Submission, for guidelines and requirements when submitting 
applications electronically.
    Electronic Address Where Applications Will Be Accepted: 
www.Grants.gov.
    Address Where Hard Copy Applications Will Be Accepted: Children's 
Bureau Grant Receipt Point, ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon 
Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132
    ACYF will not acknowledge receipt of hard copy application 
submissions.

V. Application Review Information

    The following Paperwork Reduction Act information and General 
Instruction for Preparing Full Project Description apply to all seven 
Priority Areas under this funding announcement. The Specific Evaluation 
Criteria in this section apply to this Priority Area only.

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 4/30/2007. 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.
Instruction
    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.

[[Page 35871]]

1. Criteria
General Instruction for Preparing Full Project Description
    Objectives and Need for Assistance. Clearly identify the physical, 
economic, social, financial, institutional, and/or other problem(s) 
requiring a solution. The need for assistance must be demonstrated and 
the principal and subordinate objectives of the project must be clearly 
stated; supporting documentation, such as letters of support and 
testimonials from concerned interests other than the applicant, may be 
included. Any relevant data based on planning studies should be 
included or referred to in the endnotes/footnotes. Incorporate 
demographic data and participant/beneficiary information, as needed. In 
developing the project description, the applicant may volunteer or be 
requested to provide information on the total range of projects 
currently being conducted and supported (or to be initiated), some of 
which may be outside the scope of the program announcement.
    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

[[Page 35872]]

extent practical, open and free competition. Recipients and sub-
recipients, 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 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 (non-contractual), 
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 under this Priority Area. 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 applicant demonstrates a clear and 
thorough understanding of the need for providing coordinated training 
and technical assistance to public and private child welfare agencies 
responsible for serving the target population(s), and the goals of the 
applicable legislative mandates.
    (2) The extent to which the training and technical assistance 
objectives of the project will build the capacity of State, and local 
public and private agencies to support effective efforts to develop, 
operate, expand, and enhance initiatives improving outcomes for 
children, youth and families served by these agencies.
    (3) The extent to which the proposed project will produce 
significant results and benefits, and a high level of customer 
satisfaction on the part of agencies served and their State and local 
constituents.
Criterion 2. Approach
    In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be 
considered: (50 points)
    (1) The extent to which there is a reasonable timeline for 
implementing the proposed project, including the activities to be 
conducted in chronological order, showing a reasonable schedule of 
accomplishments and target dates and the factors that may accelerate or 
decelerate the work.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant provides a workable plan of 
action and evaluation plan. The extent to which these plans relate to 
the stated objectives and scope of the project and reflect the intent 
of the legislative mandates.
    (3) The extent to which the applicant describes sound strategies 
for providing technical assistance and effectively building the 
capacity of State, and local public and private agencies to fulfill the 
legislative mandates for the target population effectively.
    (4) The extent to which the applicant presents a sound plan for 
providing technical assistance to the agencies on the development and 
implementation of evaluation processes that will determine the efficacy 
and impact of their networks, programs, and activities.
    (5) The extent to which the applicant describes sound and effective 
strategies to help agencies successfully develop a family-focused, 
child-centered, multi-disciplinary approach to the delivery of child 
welfare services, supports and activities that fulfills the legislative 
mandates such as the Child and Family Services Plan requirements as 
well as the objectives of the Child and Family Service Reviews. The 
extent to which this plan includes sound and effective strategies that 
will be used to enhance the agency's capacity to promote successful 
stakeholder involvement in the planning, implementation, and evaluation 
of funded programs.
    (6) The extent to which the applicant describes clear strategies to 
provide specific training to States and their relevant stakeholders 
about strategic planning, program improvement plan development, 
implementation and monitoring, and integration of the program 
improvement plan into the Child and Family Services Plan;
    (7) The extent to which the applicant describes sound strategies 
for acting as the single point of entry for States and Tribes to 
request onsite T/TA from NRCs and AdoptUSKids. The extent to which this 
plan includes effectively facilitating the involvement of the Regional 
Office Staff, the appropriate NRCs or AdoptUSKids, and Children's 
Bureau staff as needed, as well as any other critical stakeholder, in 
an effective assessment of T/TA needs. The extent to which the 
applicant includes sound strategies for a coordinated and immediate 
response which avoids delays and duplication of efforts, and supports 
the effective design and implementation of sound TA work plans.
    (8) The extent to which there are sound strategies for building the 
capacity of child welfare agencies and courts by effectively managing, 
maintaining and updating the functionality, as needed, of the web-based 
tracking system for training and technical assistance requests 
developed for the Children's Bureau to track NRC's responses to on-site 
T/TA requests from State and Tribal child welfare agencies
    (9) The extent to which there are sound procedures for providing 
effective logistical support for the annual national Child and Family

[[Page 35873]]

Services Review conference and the two meetings for the Children's 
Bureau funded NRCs, the Children's Bureau and its Training and 
Technical Assistance Coordination Committee. The extent to which the 
plan includes collaboration with the Children's Bureau in setting 
dates, agendas and specific presentations.
    (10) The extent to which the Resource Center's services, program 
activities, and materials will be developed and provided in a manner 
that is racially and culturally sensitive to the population(s) being 
served.
    (11) The extent to which the applicant proposes a sound strategy 
for evaluating the training and technical assistance provided by the 
seven national resource centers in order to build knowledge and improve 
services. The extent to which this plan includes sound methods and 
criteria to evaluate the results and benefits of the technical 
assistance provided.
Criterion 3. Organizational Profiles (20 points)
    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 (including experience on the national level) in: (1) 
Identifying the training and technical assistance needs of an agency or 
organization; (2) developing or participating in the development of a 
plan to meet those needs; (3) designing, developing and delivering 
training and technical assistance including recruiting, assigning, and 
deploying staff with appropriate experience; (4) coordinating with 
other National Resource Centers to identify services from those 
resource centers to meet the requested technical assistance needs; (5) 
developing evaluation strategies and providing technical assistance on 
evaluation methodologies, (6) designing, developing, delivering and 
evaluating training materials, (7) establishing effective working 
partnerships with other agencies and organizations; (8) managing, 
maintaining and updating functionality, as needed, of the web-based 
tracking system for training and technical assistance requests; and (9) 
the administration, development, implementation, management, and 
evaluation of similar projects. The extent to which each participating 
organization (including partners and/or subcontractors) possesses the 
organizational capability to fulfill their assigned roles and functions 
effectively (if the application involves partnering and/or 
subcontracting with other agencies/organizations).
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's project director and key 
project staff possess sufficient relevant knowledge, experience and 
capabilities to implement and manage a project of this size, scope and 
complexity effectively. The extent to which the role, responsibilities 
and time commitments of each proposed project staff position, including 
consultants, subcontractors and/or partners, are clearly defined and 
appropriate to the successful implementation of the proposed project. 
The extent to which the author of this proposal will be closely 
involved throughout the implementation of the proposed project.
    (3) The extent to which there is a sound management plan for 
achieving the objectives of the proposed project on time and within 
budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, timelines and 
milestones for accomplishing project tasks and ensuring quality. The 
extent to which the plan clearly defines the role and responsibilities 
of the lead agency. The extent to which the plan clearly describes the 
effective management and coordination of activities carried out by any 
partners, subcontractors and consultants (if appropriate). 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 (10 points)
    In reviewing the budget and budget justification, the following 
factors will be considered: (10 points)
    (1) The extent to which the costs of the proposed project are 
reasonable, in view of the activities to be conducted and expected 
results and benefits.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's fiscal controls and 
accounting procedures would ensure prudent use, proper and timely 
disbursement and accurate accounting of funds received under this 
program announcement.

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. 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.
    Available Funds: Applicants should note that grants to be awarded 
under this program announcement are subject to the availability of 
funds. The size of

[[Page 35874]]

the actual awards will vary. 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 later competitions.

Priority Area 2--National Child Welfare Resource Center for Child 
Protective Services

    Purpose: The purpose of the National Resource Center for Child 
Protective Services (NRCCPS) is to build the capacity of State, local, 
Tribal, and other publicly administered or publicly supported child 
welfare agencies to achieve safety, permanency and well-being for 
children and families; to provide effective child abuse and neglect 
prevention, investigation, comprehensive assessment, intervention, and 
treatment services to families using a family-centered approach; to 
implement the requirements of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment 
Act (CAPTA), as amended by the Keeping Children and Families Safe Act 
of 2003; and to achieve the goals of other related legislation 
administered by the Children's Bureau including ASFA and ICWA.
    The National Resource Center for Child Protective Services will 
work with State, Tribal, and local agencies to integrate research and 
policy into the development and implementation of programs that support 
quality practice in preventing, reporting, assessing and treating child 
abuse and neglect. The National Resource Center for Child Protective 
Services will also engage in ancillary activities which support the 
delivery of training and technical assistance congruent with Federal 
priorities.
    Training and technical assistance activities to be conducted by the 
NRCCPS will include, but are not limited to:
    (1) Conducting regular and ongoing interagency needs assessments of 
State, Tribal, and local child protective services needs, incorporating 
applicable findings from other statewide needs assessments processes 
such as the Child and Family Services Review (CFSR);
    (2) Assisting States in improving the delivery of prevention, 
investigation, comprehensive assessment, intervention and treatment 
services to at-risk, abused or neglected children and their families;
    (3) Supporting States in their Program Improvement Plans regarding 
child abuse and neglect related issues identified through the CFSR;
    (4) Fostering an understanding, appreciation and knowledge of 
family-centered practices including healthy marriage, community 
collaboration strategies, individualized services and how substance 
abuse and domestic violence impact on child maltreatment and on 
intervention strategies;
    (5) Providing technical assistance, training and consultation 
directly on-site as well as through state-of-the-art communication and 
technology-based methods to State, local, Tribal, and child welfare and 
child protective services agencies;
    (6) Identifying and disseminating promising and innovative 
practices that address emerging child welfare issues related to child 
abuse and neglect prevention, investigation, assessment, intervention, 
and treatment using a family-centered approach;
    (7) Building the capacity of child welfare agencies and courts by 
developing and disseminating materials, including curricula, guidelines 
and training materials;
    (8) Coordinating with the Children's Bureau, ACF Regional Offices 
and State and Tribal agencies in the development of the annual 
technical assistance and training strategy;
    (9) Processing all on-site T/TA requests through the single point 
of entry established by the NCWRCOI, which will involve the Regional 
Office staff, the appropriate NRCs or AdoptUSKids, and Children's 
Bureau staff as needed, as well as any other critical stakeholder to 
facilitate an assessment of T/TA needs and a coordinated and immediate 
response that avoids delays or duplication of effort;
    (10) Participating in twice-a-year team meetings of the Training 
and Technical Assistance Network funded by the Children's Bureau, and 
the Training and Technical Assistance Coordination Committee;
    (11) Collaborating with other ACYF Resource Centers, other agencies 
in the Department of Health and Human Services and other agents of the 
Children's Bureau to strengthen TA efforts, avoid duplication and 
manage resources effectively;
    (12) Building the capacity of child welfare agencies and courts by 
providing information and cooperation needed by the NCWRCOI as it 
manages, maintains and updates to improve functionality, when needed, 
the web-based tracking system for training and technical assistance 
requests developed to track NRC's responses to T/TA requests from 
State, local, Tribal and other publicly supported child welfare 
agencies; and
    (13) Providing data needed by the NCWRCOI to evaluate the results 
and benefits of the technical assistance provided by the National 
Resource Center.

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement.
    Description of Federal Substantial Involvement With Cooperative 
Agreement: Each National Child Welfare Resource Center will operate 
under a cooperative agreement. A cooperative agreement is a specific 
method of awarding Federal assistance in which substantial Federal 
involvement is anticipated. A cooperative agreement clearly defines the 
respective responsibilities of the Children's Bureau and the grantee 
prior to the award. The Children's Bureau anticipates that agency 
involvement will produce programmatic benefits to the recipient 
otherwise unavailable to them for carrying out the project. The 
involvement and collaboration includes Children's Bureau review and 
approval of planning stages of the activities before implementation 
phases may begin; Children's Bureau involvement in the establishment of 
policies and procedures that maximize open competition, and rigorous 
and impartial development, review and funding of sub-grant or sub-grant 
activities, if applicable; and Children's Bureau and recipient joint 
collaboration in the performance of key programmatic activities (i.e., 
strategic planning, implementation, information technology 
enhancements, training and technical assistance, publications or 
products, and evaluation). Close monitoring by the Children's Bureau of 
the requirements stated in this announcement that limit the grantee's 
discretion with respect to scope of services offered, organizational 
structure and management processes, coupled with close Children's 
Bureau monitoring during performance may, in order to ensure compliance 
with the intent of this funding, exceed those Federal stewardship 
responsibilities customary for grant activities.
    Anticipated Total Program Funding: The anticipated total for the 
award under this priority area in FY2004 is $900,000.

[[Page 35875]]

    Anticipated Number of Awards: It is anticipated that one project 
will be funded.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: The grant amount will not 
exceed $900,000 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: $900,000 per budget period.
    Project Periods for Awards: This grant will be awarded for a 
project period of 60 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
City or township governments
State controlled institutions of higher education
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
For-profit organization other than small businesses
Small businesses

    Additional Information on Eligibility: Collaborative efforts and 
interdisciplinary approaches are acceptable. Applications from 
collaborations must identify a primary applicant responsible for 
administering the grants.
    Non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community 
organizations are elgible to apply. 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.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

    The grantee must provide at least 10 percent 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 
$900,000 per budget period must include a match of at least $100,000 
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 $900,000 grant:

$900,000 (Federal share)
divided by .90 (100%-10%)
equals $1,000,000 (total project cost including match)
minus $900,000 (Federal share)
equals $100,000 (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 and 
failure to provide the required amount will result in a disallowance of 
unmatched Federal funds.

3. Other (If Applicable)

    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.
    Applications that exceed the $900,000 per budget period ceiling 
will be considered non-responsive and will not be eligible for funding 
under this announcement.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

    ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, (866) 796-1591.

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

[[Page 35876]]

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.
    Each application must contain the following items in the order 
listed:
    1. 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, e-mail 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 in the funding opportunity 
announcement.
    In Item 11 of Form 424, identify the single priority area 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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 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 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 application.
    If applicable, applicants must include a completed SPOC 
certification (Single Point of Contact) with the date of the SPOC 
contact entered in line 16, page 1 of the Form 424.
    Assurances: 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 
cooperative agreement requirements:
     The applicant will have the project fully functioning 
within 90 days of the notification of the award.
     The applicant will participate in any evaluation or 
technical assistance effort supported by ACYF.
     The applicant will submit all required semi-annual and 
final Financial Status Reports (SF269) and Program Performance Reports 
in a timely manner, in hard-copy and electronic formats (preferably MS 
WORD and PDF) as negotiated with the Federal Project Officer.
     The Resource Center Project Director or one key staff 
member will attend the following meetings in Washington, DC: A meeting 
with the Federal Project Officer and other ACYF staff within 60 days of 
receiving the award; two meetings annually, for one to two days each, 
with Children's Bureau staff and other training and technical 
assistance partners to plan a national training and technical 
assistance strategy; one meeting annually to participate in a 
Children's Bureau grantee meeting with the purpose of disseminating 
knowledge gained from work with State agencies and courts around child 
welfare issues.
     In situations where the applicant's organizational 
position on a particular policy and/or practice might differ from the 
Federal position, the Federal position will be used to guide the 
Resource Center activity and will be reflected in all public statements 
and publications of the Resource Center.
     The applicant will enter into a Cooperative Agreement with 
the Children's Bureau.
     The Resource Center will work in partnership with the 
Children's Bureau and the ACF Regional Offices by providing technical 
assistance to States that have needs identified through one of ACF's 
review processes.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the 
other six National Resource Centers and AdoptUSKids.
     The Resource Center will work with the Training and 
Technical Assistance Coordination Committee, which will be composed of 
Federal staff from the Children's Bureau and Regional Offices and which 
will provide direction to the strategic development of the training and 
technical assistance network.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the CB 
Clearinghouses and other members of the training and technical 
assistance network funded by the Children's Bureau in providing 
training and technical assistance.
     The Resource Center will work directly with the National 
Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement (NCWRCOI), 
which will serve as a single point of entry for States and Tribes to 
request onsite training and technical assistance to ensure a 
coordinated and immediate response.
     The Resource Center will provide evaluation data to the 
NCWRCOI that addresses both process and outcomes to evaluate the 
results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
    The Office for Human Research Protections of the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services provides Web site 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.
    In implementing their projects, grantees are expected to comply 
with all applicable administrative regulations regarding extent or 
types of costs. Applicable HHS regulations can be found in 45 CFR part 
74 or 92.
    4. Project Abstract/Summary (one page maximum). Clearly mark this 
page with the applicant name as shown on item 5 of the Form 424, 
identify the competitive grant priority area 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. It should describe the 
objectives of the

[[Page 35877]]

project, the approach to be used and the results or benefits expected.
    5. Project Description for Evaluation. Applicants should organize 
their project description according to the Evaluation Criteria 
described in this priority area announcement providing information that 
addresses all the components.
    6. Proof of non-profit status (if applicable). Any non-profit 
organization submitting an application must submit proof of its non-
profit status in its application at the time of submission. Any of the 
following constitutes acceptable proof of such status:
    a. A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the 
Internal Revenue Services' (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 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.
    7. 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.
    8. 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.
    9. Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount of 
the non-Federal share of project costs.
    10. The application limit is 75 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) and following 
the guidance provided. The application must be signed by an individual 
authorized to act for the applicant organization 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 
the section titled Deadline. 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 priority area 
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 priority 
area. The package must be clearly labeled for the specific priority 
area 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 application copies (not 
originals) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified 
in the application budget. The copies may include summary salary 
information.
    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.''
    Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on preparing the 
project summary/abstract and the full project description.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. 
eastern standard time (e.s.t.) on August 24, 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.s.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

[[Page 35878]]



----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          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
                                                            www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/    date.
                                                            forms.htm.
2. SF424A.........................  Per required form....  May be found at http://          See application due
                                                            www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/    date.
                                                            forms.htm.
3.a. SF424B.......................  Per required form....  May be found at http://          See application due
                                                            www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/    date.
                                                            forms.htm.
3.b. Certification regarding        Per required form....  May be found at http://          See application due
 lobbying.                                                  www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/    date.
                                                            forms.htm.
3.c. Disclosure of Lobbying         Per required form....  May be found at http://          See application due
 Activities (SF-LLL).                                       www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/    date.
                                                            forms.htm.
4. Project Summary/Abstract.......  Summary of             See instructions in this         See application due
                                     application request.   funding announcement.            date.
5. Project Description............  Responsiveness to      See instructions in this         See application due
                                     evaluation criteria.   funding announcement.            date.
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.
    Total application.............  See above............  Application limit 75 pages       See application due
                                                            total including all forms and    date.
                                                            attachments. Submit one
                                                            original and two copies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Forms
    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the additional survey located under ``Grant Related 
Documents and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant 
Applicants.''

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

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
    This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs'', and 45 CFR Part 100, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services 
Programs and Activities''. Under the Order, States may design their own 
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance 
under covered programs.
    As of October 2003, of the most recent SPOC list, the following 
jurisdictions have elected not to participate in the Executive Order 
process. Applicants from these jurisdictions or for projects 
administered by Federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take no action 
in regard to E.O. 12372: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, 
Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, 
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, 
Oregon, Palau, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, 
Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.
    Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in 
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of 
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, 
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. All remaining 
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have 
established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should 
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the 
prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must 
submit any required material to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that 
the program office can obtain and review SPOC comments as part of the 
award process. The applicant must submit all required materials, if 
any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date 
of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item 
16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application 
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
    SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine 
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are 
requested to differentiate clearly between mere advisory comments and 
those official State process recommendations which may trigger the 
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
    When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be 
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration 
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447.
    The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions 
elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following URL: 
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

5. Funding Restrictions

    Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
    Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this 
solicitation.
    Federal funds received as a result of this announcement cannot be 
paid as profit to grantees or sub-grantees, i.e.,

[[Page 35879]]

any amount in excess of allowable direct and indirect costs of the 
recipient (45 CFR 74.81).

6. Other Submission Requirements

    Submission by Mail: An applicant must provide an original 
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized 
representative and two copies. The application must be received at the 
address below by 4:30 p.m. eastern standard time on or before the 
closing date. Applications should be mailed to: ACYF Operations, The 
Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 
20002-2132.
    For Hand Delivery: Applicant must provide an original application 
with all attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two 
copies. The application must be received at the address below by 4:30 
PM Eastern Standard Time on or before the closing date. Applications 
that are hand delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 
4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applications may be delivered to: 
ACYF Operations, The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau 118 Q Street, 
NE, Washington, DC 20002-2132. It is strongly recommended that 
applicants obtain documentation that the application was hand delivered 
on or before the closing date. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
    Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV. 2. Content and Form 
of Application Submission, for guidelines and requirements when 
submitting applications electronically.
    Electronic Address Where Applications Will Be Accepted: 
www.Grants.gov.
    Address Where Hard Copy Applications Will Be Accepted: Children's 
Bureau Grant Receipt Point, ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon 
Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132 ACYF will not 
acknowledge receipt of hard copy application submissions.

V. Application Review Information

    Refer to Priority Area 1, Section V. Application Review 
Information, for information on The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 
(Pub. L. 104-13) and General Instruction for Preparing Full Project 
Description.

Specific Evaluation Criteria

    The following criteria will be used to review and evaluate each 
application under this Priority Area. 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 applicant demonstrates a clear and 
thorough understanding of the need for providing coordinated training 
and technical assistance about preventing, reporting, assessing and 
treating child abuse and neglect to public and private child welfare 
agencies responsible for serving the target population(s), and the 
goals of the applicable legislative mandates.
    2. The extent to which the training and technical assistance 
objectives of the project will effectively build the capacity of State, 
and local public and private agencies to support effective efforts to 
develop, operate, expand, and enhance initiatives improving outcomes 
for children, youth and families served by these agencies.
    3. The extent to which the proposed project will produce 
significant results and benefits, and a high level of customer 
satisfaction on the part of agencies served and their State and local 
constituents.
Criterion 2. Approach
    In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be 
considered: (50 points)
    1. The extent to which there is a reasonable timeline for 
implementing the proposed project, including the activities to be 
conducted in chronological order, showing a reasonable schedule of 
accomplishments and target dates and the factors that may accelerate or 
decelerate the work. The extent to which the applicant proposes 
appropriate outreach and engagement activities for States, Tribes and 
local agencies. The extent to which a reasonable number of States and 
Tribes will be targeted to receive T/TA from the NRC.
    2. The extent to which the applicant provides a workable plan of 
action. The extent to which this plan relates to the stated objectives 
and scope of the project and reflects the intent of the applicable 
legislative mandates.
    3. The extent to which the applicant describes sound strategies for 
providing technical assistance and effectively building the capacity of 
State, and local public and private agencies to fulfill the legislative 
mandates for the target population effectively. The extent to which the 
applicant presents a sound plan for effectively and efficiently 
providing technical assistance to the agencies in the areas of child 
abuse and neglect prevention, investigation, comprehensive assessment, 
intervention, and treatment and using a family-centered model and 
practices, e.g., encouraging healthy marriage, community collaboration 
strategies, individualized services and addressing the impact of 
substance abuse and domestic violence on child maltreatment and on 
intervention strategies.
    4. The extent to which the applicant will help child welfare and 
child protective services agencies improve services to over-represented 
populations, particularly minority families and children. The extent to 
which effective techniques will be used in assisting agencies to 
deliver culturally appropriate services.
    5. The extent to which the Resource Center's services, program 
activities, and materials will be developed and provided in a manner 
that is racially and culturally sensitive to the population(s) being 
served.
    6. The extent to which the applicant will effectively coordinate 
its activities with other National Resource Centers, AdoptUSKids, 
Clearinghouses, other members of the training and technical assistance 
network funded by the Children's Bureau, and the Training and Technical 
Assistance Coordination Committee made up of Federal staff from the 
Children's Bureau and Regional Offices.
    7. The extent to which the applicant will collaborate effectively 
with the National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational 
Improvement in assessing training and technical assistance needs and 
developing and implementing a T/TA work plan in response to requests 
from States and Tribes for on-site training and technical assistance.
    8. The extent to which the applicant will make significant annual 
contributions to the planning and implementation of a two to three day 
national meeting for Child Protective Services State Liaison Officers, 
and which may also include foster care managers, adoption specialists 
and other state staff involved in child welfare and child protective 
services programs.
    9. The extent to which the applicant will provide effective support 
and coordination (which may include surveying State Liaison Officers 
regarding CAPTA implementation issues and TA needs) for the Child 
Protective Services State Liaison

[[Page 35880]]

Officers, under the direction of the Children's Bureau.
    10. The extent to which the applicant will provide appropriate 
process and outcome evaluation data to the NCWRCOI, so it can evaluate 
the results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
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 (including experience on the national level) in: (1) 
Identifying the training and technical assistance needs of an agency or 
organization; (2) developing or participating in the development of a 
plan to meet those needs; (3) designing, developing and delivering 
training and technical assistance including recruiting, assigning, and 
deploying staff with appropriate experience; (4) developing evaluation 
strategies and providing technical assistance on evaluation 
methodologies, (5) designing, developing, delivering and evaluating 
training materials, (6) establishing effective working partnerships 
with other agencies and organizations; and (7) administering, 
developing, implementing, managing, and evaluating similar projects. 
The extent to which each participating organization (including partners 
and/or subcontractors) possesses the organizational capability to 
fulfill their assigned roles and functions effectively (if the 
application involves partnering and/or subcontracting with other 
agencies/organizations).
    2. The extent to which the applicant's project director and key 
project staff possess sufficient relevant knowledge, experience and 
capabilities to implement and manage a project of this size, scope and 
complexity effectively. The extent to which the role, responsibilities 
and time commitments of each proposed project staff position, including 
consultants, subcontractors and/or partners, are clearly defined and 
appropriate to the successful implementation of the proposed project. 
The extent to which the author of this proposal will be closely 
involved throughout the implementation of the proposed project.
    3. The extent to which there is a sound management plan for 
achieving the objectives of the proposed project on time and within 
budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, timelines and 
milestones for accomplishing project tasks and ensuring quality. The 
extent to which the plan clearly defines the role and responsibilities 
of the lead agency. The extent to which the plan clearly describes the 
effective management and coordination of activities carried out by any 
partners, subcontractors and consultants (if appropriate). 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 costs of the proposed project are 
reasonable, in view of the activities to be conducted and expected 
results and benefits.
    2. The extent to which the applicant's fiscal controls and 
accounting procedures would ensure prudent use, proper and timely 
disbursement and accurate accounting of funds received under this 
program announcement.

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. 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.
    Available Funds: Applicants should note that grants to be awarded 
under this program announcement are subject to the availability of 
funds. The size of the actual awards will vary. 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 later competitions.

Priority Area 3--National Resource Center for Family-Centered Practice 
and Permanency Planning

    Purpose: The purpose of establishing the National Resource Center 
for Family Centered Practice and Permanency Planning is to build the 
capacity of State, local, Tribal, and other publicly administered or 
publicly supported child welfare agencies to institutionalize

[[Page 35881]]

a safety-focused, family-centered, and community-based approach to meet 
the multiple and complex needs of children and families; to develop, 
support and maintain a range of services to maintain children safely in 
the home when appropriate; to provide quality care for children in the 
care and custody of the State; to plan effectively for and move 
children from foster care to safe, permanent home placements; to assess 
the child and family's strengths and needs; to remediate family needs 
and build on strengths; to provide supports to prevent recidivism; to 
engage all family members, including fathers; to implement the Federal 
legislation administered by the Children's Bureau; and to achieve the 
goals of ASFA, MEPA and ICWA. Technical assistance activities to be 
conducted by the National Resource Center for Family-Centered Practice 
and Permanency Planning will include, but are not limited to:
    (1) Fostering an understanding, appreciation, and knowledge of 
effective permanency planning, including concurrent planning, resulting 
in improved outcomes for the children, youth and families in the Child 
Welfare System;
    (2) Facilitating and assisting State, local, tribal, public and 
private agencies in the coordinated planning and development of a range 
of services and supports to safely maintain children in the home when 
appropriate, provide quality care for children in the care and custody 
of the State and achieve permanency plans for children and youth;
    (3) Conducting regular and ongoing needs assessments that will be 
used to identify unmet needs and which also incorporate findings from 
other statewide needs assessment processes such as the Child and Family 
Services Review; and developing a national technical assistance 
strategy to improve family-centered practice and permanency planning.
    (4) Providing on-site technical assistance, training and 
consultation to State and Tribal child welfare agencies;
    (5) Identifying and disseminating promising and innovative 
practices that address emerging child welfare issues related to safety-
focused, family-centered practices and effective community 
collaboration strategies and foster care and permanency planning;
    (6) Demonstrating a commitment to meaningful stakeholder 
involvement, especially youth in foster care and those members of other 
underrepresented or underserved groups;
    (7) Supporting States in their Program Improvement Plans resulting 
from Child and Family Service Reviews;
    (8) Building the capacity of child welfare agencies and courts by 
developing and disseminating materials, including curricula, guidelines 
and training materials;
    (9) Providing financial support and effective coordination for the 
National Association of State Foster Care Managers (NASFCM). The 
purpose of this Association is to develop a collegial group of State 
foster care managers to keep each other informed on the latest program, 
policy and practice developments, laws, and strategies to maintain an 
efficient, state-of-the- art foster care and permanency planning 
program to improve the outcomes of safety, permanency and well-being 
for children in foster care. It is anticipated that NASFCM will meet 
once a year to discuss relevant issues and will include relevant 
Children's Bureau staff in the meeting;
    (10) Coordinating with the Children's Bureau, ACF Regional Offices 
and State and Tribal agencies in the development of the annual 
technical assistance and training strategy;
    (11) Processing all on-site T/TA requests through the single point 
of entry established by the NCWRCOI, which will involve the Regional 
Office staff, the appropriate NRCs or AdoptUSKids, and Children's 
Bureau staff as needed, as well as any other critical stakeholder to 
facilitate an assessment of T/TA needs and a coordinated and immediate 
response that avoids delays or duplication of effort;
    (12) Participating in twice-a-year team meetings of the Training 
and Technical Assistance Network funded by the Children's Bureau, and 
the Training and Technical Assistance Coordination Committee;
    (13) Collaborating with other ACYF Resource Centers, other agencies 
in the Department of Health and Human Services and other agents of the 
Children's Bureau to strengthen TA efforts, avoid duplication and 
manage resources effectively;
    (14) Providing information and cooperation needed by the NCWRCOI as 
it manages, maintains and updates to improve functionality, when 
needed, the web-based tracking system for training and technical 
assistance requests developed for the Children's Bureau to track NRC's 
responses to T/TA requests from State, local, Tribal and other publicly 
supported child welfare agencies; and
    (15) Providing data needed by the NCWRCOI to evaluate the results 
and benefits of the technical assistance provided by the National 
Resource Center.
    Expected outcomes include the enhanced capacity of each State 
agency to:
    (1) Develop, support, and maintain a range of services and 
supports, including effective safety-focused, family-centered practices 
and effective community collaboration strategies; prevention and 
support services for children and families to safely maintain children 
in the home when appropriate; supports to prevent recidivism after 
reunification; comprehensive family assessments; engagement of all 
members of the family, including fathers; integration of substance 
abuse and domestic violence services; and permanency planning services 
to assist children and their families in achieving positive outcomes in 
permanency, safety and well-being;
    (2) Conduct interagency needs assessments of required services;
    (3) Facilitate concurrent planning, dual licensure of foster homes 
and other effective permanency program and policy development; and to 
facilitate safety-focused, family-centered services, family assessment, 
encouraging healthy marriages, engagement of all family members, 
including fathers; collaborative community-based services; and 
substance abuse and domestic violence program and policy development;
    (4) Coordinate the delivery of foster care and permanency planning 
services; and
    (5) Promote the meaningful participation of stakeholders in the 
design and implementation of services.
    The goal of the National Resource Center for Family-Centered 
Practice and Permanency Planning is to help strengthen the capacity of 
agencies to integrate policy and practice; to institutionalize a 
safety-focused, family-centered, and community-based approach to meet 
the multiple and complex needs of children and families; to develop, 
support and maintain a range of services to maintain children safely in 
the home when appropriate; to provide quality care for children in the 
care and custody of the State; to plan for and move children from 
foster care to safe, permanent home placements effectively; to assess 
the child and family's strengths and needs; to remediate family needs 
and build on strengths; to provide supports to prevent recidivism; to 
engage all family members, including fathers; and to implement the 
Federal legislation administered by the Children's Bureau. The Resource 
Center will also be

[[Page 35882]]

expected to build the capacity of child welfare agencies and courts by 
developing and distributing brochures, technical assistance 
announcements, articles, and other materials. The Resource Center will 
be expected to be creative and innovative in responding to questions 
and requests from the State agencies as well as developing new 
materials on cutting edge issues as they emerge from Federal and State 
legislation, new regulations and other developments in the child 
welfare field. Technical assistance outcomes should be achieved through 
a combination of strategies, including on-site training, on and off-
site technical assistance, and consultation with all appropriate 
stakeholder groups. The Resource Center will be expected to forge 
strong links with the full range of Children's Bureau resource centers 
and support contractors, including joint training and technical 
assistance presentations and resources development.

II.Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement.
    Description of Federal Substantial Involvement With Cooperative 
Agreement: Each National Child Welfare Resource Center will operate 
under a cooperative agreement. A cooperative agreement is a specific 
method of awarding Federal assistance in which substantial Federal 
involvement is anticipated. A cooperative agreement clearly defines the 
respective responsibilities of the Children's Bureau and the grantee 
prior to the award. The Children's Bureau anticipates that agency 
involvement will produce programmatic benefits to the recipient 
otherwise unavailable to them for carrying out the project. The 
involvement and collaboration includes Children's Bureau review and 
approval of planning stages of the activities before implementation 
phases may begin; Children's Bureau involvement in the establishment of 
policies and procedures that maximize open competition, and rigorous 
and impartial development, review and funding of sub-grant or sub-grant 
activities, if applicable; and Children's Bureau and recipient joint 
collaboration in the performance of key programmatic activities (i.e., 
strategic planning, implementation, information technology 
enhancements, training and technical assistance, publications or 
products, and evaluation). Close monitoring by the Children's Bureau of 
the requirements stated in this announcement that limit the grantee's 
discretion with respect to scope of services offered, organizational 
structure and management processes, coupled with close Children's 
Bureau monitoring during performance may, in order to ensure compliance 
with the intent of this funding, exceed those Federal stewardship 
responsibilities customary for grant activities.
    Anticipated Total Program Funding: The anticipated total for the 
award under this priority area in FY2004 is $1,200,000.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: It is anticipated that one project 
will be funded.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: The award amount will not 
exceed $1,200,000 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: $1,200,000 per budget period.
    Project Periods for Awards: This grant will be awarded for a 
project period of 60 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
City or township governments
State controlled institutions of higher education
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
For-profit organization other than small businesses
Small businesses

    Additional Information on Eligibility: Collaborative efforts and 
interdisciplinary approaches are acceptable. Applications from 
collaborations must identify a primary applicant responsible for 
administering the grants.
    Non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community 
organizations are eligible to apply. 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.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

    The grantee must provide at least 10 percent 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 
$1,200,000 per budget period must include a match of at least $133,333 
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 $1,200,000 grant:

$1,200,000 (Federal share)
divided by .90 (100%-10%)
equals $1,333,333 (total project cost including match)
minus $1,200,000 (Federal share)
equals $133,333 (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 and 
failure to provide the required amount will result in a disallowance of 
unmatched Federal funds.

3. Other (If Applicable)

    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

[[Page 35883]]

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.
    Applications that exceed the $1,200,000 ceiling will be considered 
non-responsive and will not be eligible for funding under this 
announcement.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

    ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, (866) 796-1591.

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.
    Each application must contain the following items in the order 
listed:
    1. 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, e-mail 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 in the funding opportunity 
announcement.
    In Item 11 of Form 424, identify the single priority area 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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 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 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 application.
    If applicable, applicants must include a completed SPOC 
certification (Single Point of Contact) with the date of the SPOC 
contact entered in line 16, page 1 of the Form 424.
    Assurances: 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 
cooperative agreement requirements:
     The applicant will have the project fully functioning 
within 90 days of the notification of the award.
     The applicant will participate in any evaluation or 
technical assistance effort supported by ACYF.
     The applicant will submit all required semi-annual and 
final Financial Status Reports (SF269) and Program Performance Reports 
in a timely manner, in hard-copy and electronic formats (preferably MS 
WORD and PDF) as negotiated with the Federal Project Officer.
     The Resource Center Project Director or one key staff 
member will attend the following meetings in Washington, DC: A meeting 
with the Federal Project Officer and other ACYF staff within 60 days of 
receiving the award; two meetings annually, for one to two days each, 
with Children's Bureau staff and other training and technical 
assistance partners to plan a national training and technical 
assistance strategy; one meeting annually to participate in a 
Children's Bureau grantee meeting with the purpose of disseminating 
knowledge gained from work with State agencies and courts around child 
welfare issues.
     In situations where the applicant's organizational 
position on a particular policy and/or practice might differ from the 
Federal position, the Federal position will be used to guide the 
Resource Center activity and will be reflected in all public statements 
and publications of the Resource Center.
     The applicant will enter into a Cooperative Agreement with 
the Children's Bureau.

[[Page 35884]]

     The Resource Center will work in partnership with the 
Children's Bureau and the ACF Regional Offices by providing technical 
assistance to States that have needs identified through one of ACF's 
review processes.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the 
other six National Resource Centers and AdoptUSKids.
     The Resource Center will work with the Training and 
Technical Assistance Coordination Committee, which will be composed of 
Federal staff from the Children's Bureau and Regional Offices and which 
will provide direction to the strategic development of the training and 
technical assistance network.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the CB 
Clearinghouses and other members of the training and technical 
assistance network funded by the Children's Bureau in providing 
training and technical assistance.
     The Resource Center will work directly with the National 
Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement (NCWRCOI), 
which will serve as a single point of entry for States and Tribes to 
request onsite training and technical assistance to ensure a 
coordinated and immediate response.
     The Resource Center will provide evaluation data to the 
NCWRCOI that addresses both process and outcomes to evaluate the 
results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
    The Office for Human Research Protections of the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services provides Web site 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.
    In implementing their projects, grantees are expected to comply 
with all applicable administrative regulations regarding extent or 
types of costs. Applicable HHS regulations can be found in 45 CFR part 
74 or 92.
    4. Project Abstract/Summary (one page maximum). Clearly mark this 
page with the applicant name as shown on item 5 of the Form 424, 
identify the competitive grant priority area 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. It should describe the 
objectives of the project, the approach to be used and the results or 
benefits expected.
    5. Project Description for Evaluation. Applicants should organize 
their project description according to the Evaluation Criteria 
described in this priority area announcement providing information that 
addresses all the components.
    6. Proof of non-profit status (if applicable). Any non-profit 
organization submitting an application must submit proof of its non-
profit status in its application at the time of submission. Any of the 
following constitutes acceptable proof of such status:
    a. A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the 
Internal Revenue Services' (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 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.
    7. 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.
    8. 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.
    9. Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount of 
the non-Federal share of project costs.
    10. The application limit is 75 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) and following 
the guidance provided. The application must be signed by an individual 
authorized to act for the applicant organization 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 
the section titled Deadline. 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 priority area 
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 priority 
area. The package must be clearly labeled for the specific priority 
area 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 application copies (not 
originals) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified 
in the application budget. The copies may include summary salary 
information.
    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.''
    Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on preparing the 
project summary/abstract and the full project description.

[[Page 35885]]

3. Submission Dates and Times

    The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. 
eastern standard time (e.s.t.) on August 24, 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.s.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

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                         Required form or
         What to submit             Required content          format                   When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. SF424........................  Per required form..  May be found at      See application due date.
                                                        http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms forms.htm.
2. SF424A.......................  Per required form..  May be found at      See application due date.
                                                        http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms forms.htm.
3.a. SF424B.....................  Per required form..  May be found at      See application due date.
                                                        http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms forms.htm.
3.b. Certification regarding      Per required form..  May be found at      See application due date.
 lobbying.                                              http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms forms.htm.
3.c. Disclosure of Lobbying       Per required form..  May be found at      See application due date.
 Activities (SF-LLL).                                   http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms forms.htm.
4. Project Summary/Abstract.....  Summary of           See instructions in  See application due date.
                                   application          this funding
                                   request.             announcement.
5. Project Description..........  Responsiveness to    See instructions in  See application due date.
                                   evaluation           this funding
                                   criteria.            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.
                                 ----------------------
    Total application...........  See above..........  Application limit    See application due date.
                                                        75 pages total
                                                        including all
                                                        forms and
                                                        attachments.
                                                        Submit one
                                                        original and two
                                                        copies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Forms
    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the additional survey located under ``Grant Related 
Documents and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant 
Applicants.''

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

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
    This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs'', and 45 CFR Part 100, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services 
Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own 
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance 
under covered programs.
    As of October 2003, of the most recent SPOC list, the following 
jurisdictions have elected not to participate in the Executive Order 
process. Applicants from these jurisdictions or for projects 
administered by Federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take no action 
in regard to E.O. 12372: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, 
Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana,

[[Page 35886]]

Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, 
Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Palau, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, 
Vermont, Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.
    Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in 
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of 
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, 
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. All remaining 
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have 
established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should 
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the 
prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must 
submit any required material to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that 
the program office can obtain and review SPOC comments as part of the 
award process. The applicant must submit all required materials, if 
any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date 
of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item 
16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application 
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
    SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine 
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are 
requested to differentiate clearly between mere advisory comments and 
those official State process recommendations which may trigger the 
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
    When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be 
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration 
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447.
    The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions 
elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following URL: 
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

5. Funding Restrictions

    Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
    Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this 
solicitation.
    Federal funds received as a result of this announcement cannot be 
paid as profit to grantees or sub-grantees, i.e., any amount in excess 
of allowable direct and indirect costs of the recipient (45 CFR 74.81).

6. Other Submission Requirements

    Submission by Mail: An applicant must provide an original 
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized 
representative and two copies. The application must be received at the 
address below by 4:30 p.m. eastern standard time on or before the 
closing date. Applications should be mailed to: ACYF Operations, The 
Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 
20002-2132.
    For Hand Delivery: Applicant must provide an original application 
with all attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two 
copies. The application must be received at the address below by 4:30 
p.m. eastern standard time on or before the closing date. Applications 
that are hand delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 
4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applications may be delivered to: 
ACYF Operations, The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132. It is strongly recommended that 
applicants obtain documentation that the application was hand delivered 
on or before the closing date. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
    Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV. 2. Content and Form 
of Application Submission, for guidelines and requirements when 
submitting applications electronically.
    Electronic Address Where Applications Will Be Accepted: 
www.Grants.gov.
    Address Where Hard Copy Applications Will Be Accepted: Children's 
Bureau Grant Receipt Point, ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon 
Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132
    ACYF will not acknowledge receipt of hard copy application 
submissions.

V. Application Review Information

    Refer to Priority Area 1, Section V. Application Review 
Information, for information on The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 
(Pub. L. 104-13) and General Instruction for Preparing Full Project 
Description.

Specific Evaluation Criteria

    The following criteria will be used to review and evaluate each 
application under this Priority Area. 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 applicant demonstrates a clear and 
thorough understanding of the need for providing coordinated training 
and technical assistance about foster care and permanency planning and 
family-centered practice to public and private child welfare agencies 
responsible for serving the target population(s), and the goals of the 
applicable legislative mandates.
    (2) The extent to which the training and technical assistance 
objectives of the project will build the capacity of State, and local 
public and private agencies to support effective efforts to develop, 
operate, expand, and enhance initiatives improving outcomes for 
children, youth and families served by these agencies.
    (3) The extent to which the proposed project will produce 
significant results and benefits, and a high level of customer 
satisfaction on the part of agencies served and their State and local 
constituents.

Criterion 2. Approach

    In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be 
considered: (50 points)
    (1) The extent to which there is a reasonable timeline for 
implementing the proposed project, including the activities to be 
conducted in chronological order, showing a reasonable schedule of 
accomplishments and target dates and the factors that may accelerate or 
decelerate the work. The extent to which the applicant proposes 
appropriate outreach and engagement activities for States, Tribes and 
local agencies. The extent to which a reasonable number of States and 
Tribes will be targeted to receive T/TA from the NRC.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant provides a workable plan of 
action. The extent to which this plan relates to the stated objectives 
and scope of the project and reflects the intent of the legislative 
mandates.
    (3) The extent to which the applicant describes sound strategies 
for providing technical assistance and effectively building the 
capacity of State, and local public and private agencies in the 
following areas: Effective family-centered practice; safely maintaining

[[Page 35887]]

children in the home when appropriate and providing supports to prevent 
recidivism after reunification; collaborative, community-based 
services; integrated substance abuse and domestic violence services; 
conducting comprehensive family assessments; encouraging healthy 
marriages, engaging all family members, including fathers; and 
permanency planning to achieve permanency, safety and well-being for 
children and youth served by the child welfare system.
    (4) The extent to which the applicant describes strategies which 
will be employed to help child welfare agencies deliver family-centered 
practices; and innovative and exemplary foster care and permanency 
planning programs. Include planning, collaboration, and implementation 
methods; service development strategies; practice techniques; resources 
such as training curricula and educational materials.
    (5) The extent to which the applicant will help States improve 
services to underrepresented and over-represented populations, 
particularly minority families and children in care. The extent to 
which the Resource Center will effectively assess factors which impede 
the delivery of culturally appropriate services and assist agencies in 
reducing these factors. The extent to which the Resource Center's 
services, program activities, and materials will be developed and 
provided in a manner that is racially and culturally sensitive to the 
population(s) being served while being inclusive of a range of adoption 
resources.
    (6) The extent to which the applicant provides a sound plan for 
assisting agencies in developing effective practices which are 
consistent with the anti-discriminatory placement and recruitment 
provisions of the Multiethnic Placement Act (MEPA), the Inter-Ethnic 
Adoption Provisions (IEP), and the interjurisdictional provisions of 
ASFA.
    (7) The extent to which the applicant will collaborate effectively 
with the National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational 
Improvement in assessing training and technical assistance needs and 
developing and implementing a T/TA work plan in response to requests 
from States and Tribes for on-site training and technical assistance.
    (8) The extent to which the applicant will provide appropriate 
process and outcome evaluation data to the NCWRCOI, so it can evaluate 
the results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
    (9) The extent to which the applicant will effectively coordinate 
its activities with other National Resource Centers, AdoptUSKids, 
Clearinghouses, other members of the training and technical assistance 
network funded by the Children's Bureau, and the Training and Technical 
Assistance Coordination Committee made up of Federal staff from the 
Children's Bureau and Regional Offices.
    (10) The extent to which the applicant describes a sound plan for 
conducting or providing partial financial support for a two to three 
day national conference for State foster care managers that also 
includes adoption specialists and state staff involved in child welfare 
programs.
    (11) The extent to which the applicant will provide financial 
support and effective coordination for the National Association of 
State Foster Care Managers (NASFCM) as described in the beginning of 
this funding announcement.

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 (including experience on the national level) in: (1) 
Identifying the training and technical assistance needs of an agency or 
organization; (2) developing or participating in the development of a 
plan to meet those needs; (3) designing, developing and delivering 
training and technical assistance including recruiting, assigning, and 
deploying staff with appropriate experience; (4) developing evaluation 
strategies and providing technical assistance on evaluation 
methodologies, (5) designing, developing, delivering and evaluating 
training materials, (6) establishing effective working partnerships 
with other agencies and organizations; and (7) administering, 
developing, implementing, managing, and evaluating similar projects. 
The extent to which each participating organization (including partners 
and/or subcontractors) possesses the organizational capability to 
fulfill their assigned roles and functions effectively (if the 
application involves partnering and/or subcontracting with other 
agencies/organizations).
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's project director and key 
project staff possess sufficient relevant knowledge, experience and 
capabilities to implement and manage a project of this size, scope and 
complexity effectively. The extent to which the role, responsibilities 
and time commitments of each proposed project staff position, including 
consultants, subcontractors and/or partners, are clearly defined and 
appropriate to the successful implementation of the proposed project. 
The extent to which the author of this proposal will be closely 
involved throughout the implementation of the proposed project.
    (3) The extent to which there is a sound management plan for 
achieving the objectives of the proposed project on time and within 
budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, timelines and 
milestones for accomplishing project tasks and ensuring quality. The 
extent to which the plan clearly defines the role and responsibilities 
of the lead agency. The extent to which the plan clearly describes the 
effective management and coordination of activities carried out by any 
partners, subcontractors and consultants (if appropriate). 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 costs of the proposed project are 
reasonable, in view of the activities to be conducted and expected 
results and benefits.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's fiscal controls and 
accounting procedures would ensure prudent use, proper and timely 
disbursement and accurate accounting of funds received under this 
program announcement.

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.

[[Page 35888]]

    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. 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.
    Available Funds: Applicants should note that grants to be awarded 
under this program announcement are subject to the availability of 
funds. The size of the actual awards will vary. 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 later competitions.

Priority Area 4--National Resource Center for Child Welfare Data and 
Technology

    Purpose: The purpose of this Cooperative Agreement is to assist 
States to develop, implement and/or improve effective case management 
and data collection information systems and to use data to enable State 
child welfare agencies to manage child welfare programs in order to 
improve outcomes for children and families. This Resource Center will 
provide training and technical assistance to enhance State child 
welfare program managers' and caseworkers' ability to analyze data for 
purposes of program evaluation. This effort will also support the 
coordination of the information systems operated by child welfare 
agencies and family and juvenile courts that are used to manage child 
welfare cases. This Resource Center will provide support to States and 
ACF to increase the quality and utilization of Federal data collection 
and reporting efforts, such as, AFCARS, NCANDS, and Chafee.
    Activities to be conducted during the five-year period covered by 
this cooperative agreement with the Resource Center for Child Welfare 
Data and Technology will include, but are not limited to:
    (1) Coordinating with the Children's Bureau, ACF Regional Offices 
and State agencies in the development of a national training and 
technical assistance strategy to promote the effective analysis and use 
of data as well as improvements to State information systems;
    (2) Providing on-site technical assistance, training and 
consultation to State and Tribal child welfare agencies to improve the 
collection, reporting, use, and analysis of Federal child welfare data, 
improve inter- and intra-departmental collaborations to improve 
outcomes for children and families, and enhance collaboration among 
child welfare practitioners, policy and information technology staffs;
    (3) Enhancing the capacity of State personnel to recognize the 
relationship between the use of effective automation and obtaining 
reliable data to measure movement toward achieving established outcomes 
and program goals;
    (4) Sharing information on the effective use of child welfare 
information systems, the collection and utilization of data, or the use 
of data in self-assessment activities, specifically between State child 
welfare agency and family and juvenile court staff as they develop 
information systems and use data generated by those systems to support 
the management of child welfare cases under their purview;
    (5) Building the capacity of State and Tribal agency managers and 
administrators, workers and court personnel to use child welfare data 
in making policy, practice, and management decisions;
    (6) Identifying and developing training curriculum to enhance 
cooperation between State program and State information system staff to 
work together to meet the challenge of data collection and use;
    (7) Identifying and disseminating materials on exemplary and 
innovative child welfare information systems and technologies that are 
used to support practice and improve outcomes for children effectively;
    (8) Identifying and disseminating materials on effective quality 
assurance strategies; worker training on data and information systems; 
agency and court information system collaboration, and data and 
technology practices;
    (9) Coordinating with the Children's Bureau, State agencies and ACF 
Regional Offices in the development of annual data utilization and 
information systems conferences, including Regional meetings with 
States and Federal staff;
    (10) Providing support to the National State peer-to-peer network, 
which supports and enhances networking among State child welfare staff, 
administrators, supervisors, and program managers, both technical and 
program personnel to design, develop and implement effective automation 
capable of supporting case practice;
    (11) Supporting States and localities in their Program Improvement 
Plans resulting from Child and Family Service Reviews;
    (12) Supporting States in their action plans resulting from AFCARS 
and SACWIS reviews;
    (13) Supporting States in completing the development of their 
SACWIS systems;
    (14) Coordinating with the Children's Bureau, ACF Regional Offices 
and State and Tribal agencies in the development of the annual 
technical assistance and training strategy;
    (15) Processing all on-site T/TA requests through the single point 
of entry established by the NCWRCOI, which will involve the Regional 
Office staff, the appropriate NRCs or AdoptUSKids, and Children's 
Bureau staff as needed, as well as any other critical stakeholder to 
facilitate an

[[Page 35889]]

assessment of T/TA needs and a coordinated and immediate response that 
avoids delays or duplication of effort;
    (16) Participating in twice-a-year team meetings of the Training 
and Technical Assistance Network funded by the Children's Bureau, and 
the Training and Technical Assistance Coordination Committee;
    (17) Collaborating with other ACYF Resource Centers, other agencies 
in the Department of Health and Human Services and other agents of the 
Children's Bureau to strengthen TA efforts, avoid duplication and 
manage resources effectively;
    (18) Providing information and cooperation needed by the NCWRCOI as 
it manages, maintains and updates to improve functionality, when 
needed, the web-based tracking system for training and technical 
assistance requests developed for the Children's Bureau to track NRCs 
responses to T/TA requests from State, local, Tribal and other publicly 
supported child welfare agencies; and
    (19) Providing data needed by the NCWRCOI to evaluate the results 
and benefits of the technical assistance provided by the National 
Resource Center.
    Expected outcomes include the enhanced capacity of each State 
agency to:
    (1) Develop and maintain a range of services and supports to assist 
public agencies in developing and maintaining effective case management 
information systems;
    (2) Conduct interagency needs assessments of required services;
    (3) Facilitate the development and completion of the States' 
SACWIS;
    (4) Conduct program evaluations that include a peer review 
component and other evaluation methodologies.
    (5) Assist front-line workers, supervisors and administrators, as 
well as judges and court administrative personnel, in using technology 
and information to improve policy and practice in child welfare; and
    (6) Evaluate how to verify that an agency's information system is 
equipped to meet the reporting requirements of AFCARS, NCANDS, and 
other future Federal data collection requirements.
    This Resource Center is expected to train and assist State agencies 
to examine and analyze the effective use of automation in meeting 
program requirements, goals, objectives and data reporting 
requirements.
    Training and technical assistance needs will be identified by NRC 
staff in collaboration with States, the CB T/TA Coordinating Committee, 
and coordinated with other ongoing national training and technical 
assistance efforts. The Resource Center will also be actively involved 
with identifying other training and technical assistance needs based on 
their work with the other NRCs and national organizations. Training 
outcomes should be achieved through a combination of strategies, 
including on-site training, on and off-site technical assistance, and 
consultation with all appropriate stakeholder groups.

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement.
    Description of Federal Substantial Involvement With Cooperative 
Agreement: Each National Child Welfare Resource Center will operate 
under a cooperative agreement. A cooperative agreement is a specific 
method of awarding Federal assistance in which substantial Federal 
involvement is anticipated. A cooperative agreement clearly defines the 
respective responsibilities of the Children's Bureau and the grantee 
prior to the award. The Children's Bureau anticipates that agency 
involvement will produce programmatic benefits to the recipient 
otherwise unavailable to them for carrying out the project. The 
involvement and collaboration includes Children's Bureau review and 
approval of planning stages of the activities before implementation 
phases may begin; Children's Bureau involvement in the establishment of 
policies and procedures that maximize open competition, and rigorous 
and impartial development, review and funding of sub-grant or sub-grant 
activities, if applicable; and Children's Bureau and recipient joint 
collaboration in the performance of key programmatic activities (i.e., 
strategic planning, implementation, information technology 
enhancements, training and technical assistance, publications or 
products, and evaluation). Close monitoring by the Children's Bureau of 
the requirements stated in this announcement that limit the grantee's 
discretion with respect to scope of services offered, organizational 
structure and management processes, coupled with close Children's 
Bureau monitoring during performance may, in order to ensure compliance 
with the intent of this funding, exceed those Federal stewardship 
responsibilities customary for grant activities.
    Anticipated Total Program Funding: The anticipated total for the 
award under this priority area in FY2004 is $800,000.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: It is anticipated that one project 
will be funded.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: The award amount will not 
exceed $800,000 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: $800,000 per budget period.
    Project Periods for Awards: This grant will be awarded for a 
project period of 60 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
City or township governments
State controlled institutions of higher education
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
For-profit organization other than small businesses
Small businesses

    Additional Information on Eligibility: Collaborative efforts and 
interdisciplinary approaches are acceptable. Applications from 
collaborations must identify a primary applicant responsible for 
administering the grants.
    Non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community 
organizations are eligible to apply. 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

[[Page 35890]]

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.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

    The grantee must provide at least 10 percent 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 
$800,000 per budget period must include a match of at least $88,889 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 an $800,000 grant:

$800,000 (Federal share)
divided by .90 (100%-10%)
equals $888,889 (total project cost including match)
minus $800,000 (Federal share)
equals $88,889 (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 and 
failure to provide the required amount will result in a disallowance of 
unmatched Federal funds.

3. Other (If Applicable)

    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.
    Applications that exceed the $800,000 per budget period ceiling 
will be considered non-responsive and will not be eligible for funding 
under this announcement.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

    ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, (866) 796-1591.

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.
    Each application must contain the following items in the order 
listed:
    1. 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, e-mail 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 in the funding opportunity 
announcement.
    In Item 11 of Form 424, identify the single priority area 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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 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 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.

[[Page 35891]]

    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 application.
    If applicable, applicants must include a completed SPOC 
certification (Single Point of Contact) with the date of the SPOC 
contact entered in line 16, page 1 of the Form 424.
    Assurances: 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 
cooperative agreement requirements:
     The applicant will have the project fully functioning 
within 90 days of the notification of the award.
     The applicant will participate in any evaluation or 
technical assistance effort supported by ACYF.
     The applicant will submit all required semi-annual and 
final Financial Status Reports (SF269) and Program Performance Reports 
in a timely manner, in hard-copy and electronic formats (preferably MS 
WORD and PDF) as negotiated with the Federal Project Officer.
     The Resource Center Project Director or one key staff 
member will attend the following meetings in Washington, DC: A meeting 
with the Federal Project Officer and other ACYF staff within 60 days of 
receiving the award; two meetings annually, for one to two days each, 
with Children's Bureau staff and other training and technical 
assistance partners to plan a national training and technical 
assistance strategy; one meeting annually to participate in a 
Children's Bureau grantee meeting with the purpose of disseminating 
knowledge gained from work with State agencies and courts around child 
welfare issues.
     In situations where the applicant's organizational 
position on a particular policy and/or practice might differ from the 
Federal position, the Federal position will be used to guide the 
Resource Center activity and will be reflected in all public statements 
and publications of the Resource Center.
     The applicant will enter into a Cooperative Agreement with 
the Children's Bureau.
     The Resource Center will work in partnership with the 
Children's Bureau and the ACF Regional Offices by providing technical 
assistance to States that have needs identified through one of ACF's 
review processes.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the 
other six National Resource Centers and AdoptUSKids.
     The Resource Center will work with the Training and 
Technical Assistance Coordination Committee, which will be composed of 
Federal staff from the Children's Bureau and Regional Offices and which 
will provide direction to the strategic development of the training and 
technical assistance network.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the CB 
Clearinghouses and other members of the training and technical 
assistance network funded by the Children's Bureau in providing 
training and technical assistance.
     The Resource Center for Child Welfare Data and Technology, 
or any subgrantee, will not bid on any contractual work conducted by 
States to develop, implement or operate their child welfare management 
systems.
     The Resource Center will work directly with the National 
Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement (NCWRCOI), 
which will serve as a single point of entry for States and Tribes to 
request onsite training and technical assistance to ensure a 
coordinated and immediate response.
     The Resource Center will provide evaluation data to the 
NCWRCOI that addresses both process and outcomes to evaluate the 
results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
    The Office for Human Research Protections of the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services provides Web site 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.
    In implementing their projects, grantees are expected to comply 
with all applicable administrative regulations regarding extent or 
types of costs. Applicable HHS regulations can be found in 45 CFR part 
74 or 92.
    4. Project Abstract/Summary (one page maximum). Clearly mark this 
page with the applicant name as shown on item 5 of the Form 424, 
identify the competitive grant priority area 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. It should describe the 
objectives of the project, the approach to be used and the results or 
benefits expected.
    5. Project Description for Evaluation. Applicants should organize 
their project description according to the Evaluation Criteria 
described in this priority area announcement providing information that 
addresses all the components.
    6. Proof of non-profit status (if applicable). Any non-profit 
organization submitting an application must submit proof of its non-
profit status in its application at the time of submission. Any of the 
following constitutes acceptable proof of such status:
    a. A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the 
Internal Revenue Services' (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 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.
    7. 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.
    8. 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.
    9. Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount of 
the non-Federal share of project costs.
    10. The application limit is 75 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

[[Page 35892]]

the electronic links provided) and following the guidance provided. The 
application must be signed by an individual authorized to act for the 
applicant organization 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 
the section titled Deadline. 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 priority area 
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 priority 
area. The package must be clearly labeled for the specific priority 
area 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 application copies (not 
originals) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified 
in the application budget. The copies may include summary salary 
information.
    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.''
    Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on preparing the 
project summary/abstract and the full project description.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. 
eastern standard time (e.s.t.) on August 24, 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.s.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

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

[[Page 35893]]

 
Total application................  See above...........  Application limit    See application due date.
                                                          75 pages total
                                                          including all
                                                          forms and
                                                          attachments.
                                                          Submit one
                                                          original two
                                                          copies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Forms
    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the additional survey located under ``Grant Related 
Documents and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant 
Applicants.''

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

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
    This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372,
    ``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Program'' and 45 CFR Part 
100, ``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human 
Services Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design 
their own processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal 
assistance under covered programs.
    As of October 2003, of the most recent SPOC list, the following 
jurisdictions have elected not to participate in the Executive Order 
process. Apllicants from these jurisdictions or for projects 
administered by Federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take no action 
in regard to E.O. 12372: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, 
Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, 
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, 
Oregon, Palau, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, 
Vriginia, Washington and Wyoming.
    Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in 
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of 
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, 
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. All remaining 
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have 
established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should 
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the 
prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must 
submit any required material to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that 
the program office can obtain and review SPOC comments as part of the 
award process. The applicant must submit all required materials, if 
any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date 
of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item 
16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a) (2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application 
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
    SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine 
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are 
requested to differentiate clearly between mere advisory comments and 
those official State process recommendations which may trigger the 
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
    When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be 
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration 
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447.
    The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions 
elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following URL: 
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

5. Funding Restrictions

    Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
    Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this 
solicitation.
    Federal funds received as a result of this announcement cannot be 
paid as profit to grantees or sub-grantees, i.e., any amount in excess 
of allowable direct and indirect costs of the recipient (45 CFR 74.81).

6. Other Submission Requirements

    Submission by Mail: An applicant must provide an original 
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized 
representative and two copies. The application must be received at the 
address below by 4:30 p.m. eastern standard time on or before the 
closing date. Applications should be mailed to: ACYF Operations, The 
Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 
20002-2132.
    For Hand Delivery: Applicant must provide an original application 
with all attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two 
copies. The application must be received at the address below by 4:30 
p.m. eastern standard time on or before the closing date. Applications 
that are hand delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 
4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applications may be delivered to: 
ACYF Operations, The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132. It is strongly recommended that 
applicants obtain documentation that the application was hand delivered 
on or before the closing date. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
    Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV. 2. Content and Form 
of Application Submission, for guidelines and requirements when 
submitting applications electronically.
    Electronic Address Where Applications Will Be Accepted: 
www.Grants.gov.
    Address Where Hard Copy Applications Will Be Accepted: Children's 
Bureau Grant Receipt Point, ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon 
Group, Inc., 118 Q Street NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132
    ACYF will not acknowledge receipt of hard copy application 
submissions.

V. Application Review Information

    Refer to Priority Area 1, Section V. Application Review 
Information, for information on The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 
(Pub. L. 104-13)

[[Page 35894]]

and General Instruction for Preparing Full Project Description.

Specific Evaluation Criteria

    The following criteria will be used to review and evaluate each 
application under this Priority Area. 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 applicant demonstrates a clear and 
thorough understanding of the need for providing coordinated training 
and technical assistance to public and private child welfare and youth 
serving agencies responsible for serving the target population(s), and 
the goals of the applicable legislative mandates.
    (2) The extent to which the training and technical assistance 
objectives of the project will effectively build the capacity of State, 
and local public and private agencies to collect and use data as a 
management tool for evaluating child welfare programs and making 
changes based on the data and evaluations.
    (3) The extent to which the applicant demonstrates a thorough 
understanding of the problems and issues regarding the integration of 
automation into every level of child welfare service including direct 
practice; supervision; management and administration; and ensuring data 
quality and comparability across States. The extent to which the 
applicant demonstrates a thorough understanding of the issues related 
to courts in the management, monitoring and decision-making process.
    (4) The extent to which the applicant proposes a sound approach for 
effectively identifying strengths and weaknesses in existing child 
welfare information systems and for providing effective technical 
assistance to resolve problems for both the information systems and the 
use of data.
    (5) The extent to which the proposed project will produce 
significant results and benefits, and a high level of customer 
satisfaction on the part of agencies served and their State and local 
constituents.
Criterion 2. Approach
    In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be 
considered: (50 points).
    (1) The extent to which there is a reasonable timeline for 
implementing the proposed project, including the activities to be 
conducted in chronological order, showing a reasonable schedule of 
accomplishments and target dates and the factors that may accelerate or 
decelerate the work.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant provides a workable plan of 
action. The extent to which this plan relates to the stated objectives 
and scope of the project and reflects the intent of the applicable 
legislative mandates.
    (3) The extent to which the applicant describes sound strategies to 
help agencies develop and maintain a comprehensive child welfare 
information system that fulfills Federal legislative and regulatory 
requirements. The extent to which these strategies will enhance the 
agency's capacity to promote stakeholder involvement in the planning, 
implementation, and evaluation of funded programs.
    (4) The extent to which the applicant describes sound strategies to 
assist States to complete effective action plans associated with AFCARS 
and SACWIS reviews; and to assist States in successfully completing the 
development of their SACWIS systems.
    (5) The extent to which the applicant describes sound strategies 
for identifying the most effective approach for successfully 
integrating the use of information systems into child welfare practice 
with the intent of supporting workers, improving services and measuring 
program performance and case outcomes.
    (6) The extent to which there is a sound approach to assisting 
State agencies and courts in the analysis of implications of new 
legislative and/or regulatory requirements for change in systems and 
data requirements.
    (7) The extent to which the applicant will effectively maintain the 
National and State peer-to-peer networks in the child welfare 
information and data usage fields to serve as peer consultants.
    (8) The extent to which the applicant will effectively identify 
relevant emerging issues; models that delineate the effective and 
appropriate uses of technology in the administration and case 
management activities of child welfare programs; and innovative and 
exemplary information systems, data utilization and program and system 
evaluation approaches that will be of interest and use to State 
agencies and the courts. The extent to which the applicant will 
effectively evaluate new technological applications in the child 
welfare domain. The extent to which the applicant will also cooperate 
with the Children's Bureau in meetings, briefings, or other forums to 
disseminate knowledge gained from its work with States, other grantees 
and local communities around child welfare issues.
    (9) The extent to which the applicant provides a sound plan for 
effectively assisting the Children's Bureau in planning, organizing and 
conducting at least one national data usage conference/meeting on an 
annual basis for States, court personnel and other relevant 
professionals, groups and organizations. (The conference/meeting may be 
an enhancement of an established national conference/meeting sponsored 
by ACF.)
    (10) The extent to which the applicant will collaborate effectively 
with the National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational 
Improvement in assessing training and technical assistance needs and 
developing and implementing a T/TA work plan in response to requests 
from States and Tribes for on-site training and technical assistance.
    (11) The extent to which the applicant will effectively coordinate 
its activities with other National Resource Centers, AdoptUSKids, 
Clearinghouses, other members of the training and technical assistance 
network funded by the Children's Bureau, and the Training and Technical 
Assistance Coordination Committee made up of Federal staff from the 
Children's Bureau and Regional Offices.
    (12) The extent to which the applicant will provide appropriate 
process and outcome evaluation data to the NCWRCOI, so it can evaluate 
the results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
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 (including experience on the national level) in: (1) 
Identifying the training and technical assistance needs of an agency or 
organization; (2) developing or participating in the development of a 
plan to meet those needs; (3) designing, developing and delivering 
training and technical assistance including recruiting, assigning, and 
deploying staff with appropriate experience; (4) developing evaluation 
strategies and providing technical assistance on evaluation 
methodologies, (5) designing, developing, delivering and evaluating 
training materials, (6) the development

[[Page 35895]]

and enhancement of automated child welfare information systems and the 
generation of high quality and consistent data; (7) the use of that 
data by child welfare agency and court staff; (8) establishing 
effective working partnerships with other agencies and organizations; 
and (9) administering, developing, implementing, managing, and 
evaluating similar projects. The extent to which each participating 
organization (including partners and/or subcontractors) possesses the 
organizational capability to fulfill their assigned roles and functions 
effectively (if the application involves partnering and/or 
subcontracting with other agencies/organizations).
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's project director and key 
project staff possess sufficient relevant knowledge, experience and 
capabilities to implement and manage a project of this size, scope and 
complexity effectively. The extent to which the role, responsibilities 
and time commitments of each proposed project staff position, including 
consultants, subcontractors and/or partners, are clearly defined and 
appropriate to the successful implementation of the proposed project. 
The extent to which the author of this proposal will be closely 
involved throughout the implementation of the proposed project.
    (3) The extent to which there is a sound management plan for 
achieving the objectives of the proposed project on time and within 
budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, timelines and 
milestones for accomplishing project tasks and ensuring quality. The 
extent to which the plan clearly defines the role and responsibilities 
of the lead agency. The extent to which the plan clearly describes the 
effective management and coordination of activities carried out by any 
partners, subcontractors and consultants (if appropriate). 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 costs of the proposed project are 
reasonable, in view of the activities to be conducted and expected 
results and benefits.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's fiscal controls and 
accounting procedures would ensure prudent use, proper and timely 
disbursement and accurate accounting of funds received under this 
program announcement.

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. 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.
    Available Funds: Applicants should note that grants to be awarded 
under this program announcement are subject to the availability of 
funds. The size of the actual awards will vary. 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 later competitions.

Priority Area 5--National Child Welfare Resource Center on Legal and 
Judicial Issues

    Purpose: The purpose of this Cooperative Agreement is to provide 
financial support for training and technical assistance aimed at 
achieving safety, permanency and well being for abused and neglected 
children through improved legal representation and judicial decision-
making. This training and technical assistance will build the capacity 
of public and private, non-profit child welfare agencies and juvenile 
and family courts by providing resources and consultation to help them 
improve outcomes for children and their families. Particular emphasis 
will be placed on supporting and enhancing activities carried out under 
the State Court Improvement Program (CIP), and increasing legal and 
court involvement in the development and implementation of Program 
Improvement Plans in response to the Child and Family Services Reviews.
    Activities to be conducted by the National Child Welfare Resource 
Center for Legal and Judicial Issues will include, but are not limited 
to:
    (1) Providing on-site technical assistance, training and 
consultation to State and Tribal child welfare agencies and juvenile 
and family courts on ASFA implementation, and to State courts on

[[Page 35896]]

implementation of their Court Improvement Programs;
    (2) Supporting States and localities in integrating courts, and 
those who represent children, parents and agencies in courts, into the 
Child and Family Services Review (CFSR) process;
    (3) Identifying and disseminating information about exemplary and 
innovative practices in the legal and judicial areas of child welfare, 
including CIP activities, agency and court collaboration, timely 
decisions on termination of parental rights, non-adversarial case 
resolution, reasonable efforts requirements, legal representation of 
children, parents and child welfare agencies, permanent guardianship, 
confidentiality, legal ethics for child welfare attorneys, action 
planning for courts and agency representatives, the interplay of 
domestic violence and child welfare, expediting dependency appeals, 
interjurisdictional issues, case tracking systems, judicial performance 
and workload issues, and other emerging child welfare issues;
    (4) Developing publications, responding to requests for 
information, and providing resource information to child welfare 
professionals, lawyers, judges, child welfare and judicial educators, 
appellate courts, court administrators and individuals nationwide;
    (5) Conducting regular and ongoing assessment of the legal and 
judicial needs of agencies and courts, identifying new unmet needs and 
developing a national technical assistance and training strategy for 
the next five years;
    (6) Contributing to the annual planning and implementation of a 
national permanency partnership forum for child welfare agency staff 
and Court Improvement Program personnel;
    (7) Coordinating and collaborating with other ACYF resource 
centers, AdoptUSKids, the National Child Welfare Resource Center for 
Organizational Improvement as the single-point of entry for requests 
for on-site training and technical assistance, the Training and 
Technical Assistance Coordination Committee made up of Federal staff 
from the Children's Bureau and Regional Offices, and other agencies in 
the Department to maximize technical assistance and training 
effectiveness, avoid duplication and manage resources effectively;
    (8) Coordinating with the Children's Bureau, ACF Regional Offices 
and State and Tribal agencies in the development of the annual 
technical assistance and training strategy;
    (9) Processing all on-site T/TA requests through the single point 
of entry established by the NCWRCOI, which will involve the Regional 
Office staff, the appropriate NRCs or AdoptUSKids, and Children's 
Bureau staff as needed, as well as any other critical stakeholder, to 
facilitate an assessment of T/TA needs and a coordinated and immediate 
response that avoids delays or duplication of effort;
    (10) Participating in twice-a-year team meetings of the Training 
and Technical Assistance Network funded by the Children's Bureau, and 
the Training and Technical Assistance Coordination Committee;
    (11) Collaborating with other ACYF Resource Centers, other agencies 
in the Department of Health and Human Services and other agents of the 
Children's Bureau to strengthen TA efforts, avoid duplication and 
manage resources effectively;
    (12) Providing information and cooperation needed by the NCWRCOI as 
it manages, maintains and updates to improve functionality, when 
needed, the web-based tracking system for training and technical 
assistance requests developed for the Children's Bureau to track NRC's 
responses to T/TA requests from State, local, Tribal and other publicly 
supported child welfare agencies, and juvenile and family courts; and
    (13) Providing data needed by the NCWRCOI to evaluate the results 
and benefits of the technical assistance provided by the National 
Resource Center.
    The primary goal of the National Child Welfare Resource Center on 
Legal and Judicial Issues is to provide technical assistance to States 
on legal and judicial issues related to child welfare and child 
protection. This Resource Center provides extensive off-site and on-
site technical assistance nationwide, including State-specific work as 
well as participation in regional and national conferences. The 
Resource Center will also be expected to develop and distribute 
brochures, technical assistance announcements, articles, and other 
materials, and maintain a Web site as well as appropriate listserves to 
disseminate information to lawyers, judges and court improvement 
coordinators.
    The Resource Center will be expected to be creative and innovative 
in responding to questions and requests from the state agencies and 
courts, as well as in developing new materials on cutting edge issues 
as they emerge from legal decisions, Federal and State legislation, new 
regulations and other developments in the child welfare field. Critical 
to the work of the Resource Center is the ability to stimulate 
effective and lasting collaboration between State agencies and courts, 
and provide strong support for court improvements to build and sustain 
that collaboration. The Resource Center must have demonstrated ability 
to form partnerships with national legal and judicial organizations as 
well as independent consultants in the field, thus maximizing the 
breadth and substance of the training and technical assistance provided 
to the States. The Resource Center will be expected to forge strong 
links with the full range of the Children's Bureau resource centers and 
support contractors, resulting in joint training and technical 
assistance presentations and collaborative development of resources.
    Expected outcomes will be the increased capacity of juvenile and 
family courts to expedite permanency through more informed and timely 
decision making, strong Court Improvement Programs nationwide 
implementing needed court reform, and better integration of courts and 
legal representatives into the implementation of Program Improvement 
Plans resulting from Child and Family Service Reviews.

Background on the Court Improvement Program

    The State Court Improvement Program (CIP) was created as part of 
the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1993, Public Law 103-
66, which among other things, provided Federal funds to State child 
welfare agencies and Tribes for preventive services and services to 
families at risk or in crisis. OBRA designated a portion of these funds 
($5 million in fiscal year 1995 and $10 million in each of FYs 1996 
through 1998) for grants to State court systems to conduct assessments 
of their foster care and adoption laws and judicial processes, and to 
develop and implement a plan for system improvement. Awards are made to 
the highest State courts in States participating in the IV-E program.
    The Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997 (ASFA), Public Law 105-
89, reauthorized the CIP through 2001, which Congress funded at $10 
million annually. There were no substantive changes made to the CIP in 
the 1997 reauthorization.
    The Promoting Safe and Stable Families Amendments of 2001, Public 
Law 107-133, reauthorized the Court Improvement Program through FY 
2006. The law also expands the scope of the program to: (1) Include 
improvements that the highest courts deem necessary

[[Page 35897]]

to provide for the safety, well-being, and permanence of children in 
foster care, as set forth in ASFA; and (2) implement a corrective 
action plan, as necessary, in response to findings identified in a 
Child and Family Service Review of the State's child welfare system. 
Public Law 107-133 authorizes a mandatory funding level of $10 million 
for CIP and new discretionary funding for FYs 2002 through 2006. From 
any discretionary funding appropriated annually for the Promoting Safe 
and Stable Families Program, the law authorizes a 3.3 percent set-aside 
for the CIP. Finally, the Court Improvement Program authority was 
transferred to a new section 438 of the Social Security Act.
    As of FY 2001 all eligible States (50 States, the District of 
Columbia, and Puerto Rico) are receiving annual Court Improvement 
Program grants. Typical activities include development of mediation 
programs, joint agency-court training, automated docketing and case 
tracking, linked agency-court data systems, one judge/one family 
models, time-specific docketing, formalized relationships with the 
child welfare agency, improvement of representation for children and 
families, CFSR program improvement plan (PIP) development and 
implementation, and legislative changes.

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement.
    Description of Federal Substantial Involvement With Cooperative 
Agreement: Each National Child Welfare Resource Center will operate 
under a cooperative agreement. A cooperative agreement is a specific 
method of awarding Federal assistance in which substantial Federal 
involvement is anticipated. A cooperative agreement clearly defines the 
respective responsibilities of the Children's Bureau and the grantee 
prior to the award. The Children's Bureau anticipates that agency 
involvement will produce programmatic benefits to the recipient 
otherwise unavailable to them for carrying out the project. The 
involvement and collaboration includes Children's Bureau review and 
approval of planning stages of the activities before implementation 
phases may begin; Children's Bureau involvement in the establishment of 
policies and procedures that maximize open competition, and rigorous 
and impartial development, review and funding of sub-grant or sub-grant 
activities, if applicable; and Children's Bureau and recipient joint 
collaboration in the performance of key programmatic activities (i.e., 
strategic planning, implementation, information technology 
enhancements, training and technical assistance, publications or 
products, and evaluation). Close monitoring by the Children's Bureau of 
the requirements stated in this announcement that limit the grantee's 
discretion with respect to scope of services offered, organizational 
structure and management processes, coupled with close Children's 
Bureau monitoring during performance may, in order to ensure compliance 
with the intent of this funding, exceed those Federal stewardship 
responsibilities customary for grant activities.
    Anticipated Total Program Funding: The anticipated total for the 
award under this priority area in FY2004 is $800,000.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: It is anticipated that one project 
will be funded.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: The award amount will not 
exceed $800,000 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: $800,000 per budget period.
    Project Periods for Awards: This grant will be awarded for a 
project period of 60 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
City or township governments
State controlled institutions of higher education
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
For-profit organization other than small businesses
Small businesses

    Additional Information on Eligibility: Collaborative efforts and 
interdisciplinary approaches are acceptable. Applications from 
collaborations must identify a primary applicant responsible for 
administering the grants.
    Non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community 
organizations are elgible to apply. 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.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

    The grantee must provide at least 10 percent 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 
$800,000 per budget period must include a match of at least $88,889 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 an $800,000 grant:

$800,000 (Federal share)
divided by .90 (100%-10%)
equals $888,889 (total project cost including match)
minus $800,000 (Federal share)
equals $88,889 (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 and 
failure to provide the required amount will result in a disallowance of 
unmatched Federal funds.

3. Other (If Applicable)

    On June 27, 2003, the Office of Management and Budget published in

[[Page 35898]]

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.
    Applications that exceed the $800,000 per budget period ceiling 
will be considered non-responsive and will not be eligible for funding 
under this announcement.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

    ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, (866) 796-1591.

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 form 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.
    Each application must contain the following items in the order 
listed:
    1. 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, e-mail 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 in the funding opportunity 
announcement.
    In Item 11 of Form 424, identify the single priority area 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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 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 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 application.
    If applicable, applicants must include a completed SPOC 
certification (Single Point of Contact) with the date of the SPOC 
contact entered in line 16, page 1 of the Form 424.
    Assurances: 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 
cooperative agreement requirements:
     The applicant will have the project fully functioning 
within 90 days of the notification of the award.
     The applicant will participate in any evaluation or 
technical assistance effort supported by ACYF.
     The applicant will submit all required semi-annual and 
final Financial Status Reports (SF269) and Program Performance Reports 
in a timely manner, in hard-copy and electronic formats (preferably MS 
WORD and PDF) as negotiated with the Federal Project Officer.
     The Resource Center Project Director or one key staff 
member will attend the following meetings in Washington, DC: A meeting 
with the Federal Project Officer and other ACYF staff within 60 days of 
receiving the award; two meetings annually, for one to two days each, 
with Children's Bureau staff and other training and technical 
assistance partners to plan a national training and technical 
assistance strategy; one meeting annually to participate in a 
Children's Bureau grantee meeting with the purpose of disseminating 
knowledge gained from work with State agencies and courts around child 
welfare issues.

[[Page 35899]]

     In situations where the applicant's organizational 
position on a particular policy and/or practice might differ from the 
Federal position, the Federal position will be used to guide the 
Resource Center activity and will be reflected in all public statements 
and publications of the Resource Center.
     The applicant will enter into a Cooperative Agreement with 
the Children's Bureau.
     The Resource Center will work in partnership with the 
Children's Bureau and the ACF Regional Offices by providing technical 
assistance to States that have needs identified through one of ACF's 
review processes.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the 
other six National Resource Centers and AdoptUSKids.
     The Resource Center will work with the Training and 
Technical Assistance Coordination Committee, which will be composed of 
Federal staff from the Children's Bureau and Regional Offices and which 
will provide direction to the strategic development of the training and 
technical assistance network.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the CB 
Clearinghouses and other members of the training and technical 
assistance network funded by the Children's Bureau in providing 
training and technical assistance.
     The Resource Center will work directly with the National 
Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement (NCWRCOI), 
which will serve as a single point of entry for States and Tribes to 
request on-site training and technical assistance to ensure a 
coordinated and immediate response.
     The Resource Center will provide evaluation data to the 
NCWRCOI that addresses both process and outcomes to evaluate the 
results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
    The Office for Human Research Protections of the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services provides Web site 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.
    In implementing their projects, grantees are expected to comply 
with all applicable administrative regulations regarding extent or 
types of costs. Applicable HHS regulations can be found in 45 CFR part 
74 or 92.
    4. Project Abstract/Summary (one page maximum). Clearly mark this 
page with the applicant name as shown on item 5 of the Form 424, 
identify the competitive grant priority area 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. It should describe the 
objectives of the project, the approach to be used and the results or 
benefits expected.
    5. Project Description for Evaluation. Applicants should organize 
their project description according to the Evaluation Criteria 
described in this priority area announcement providing information that 
addresses all the components.
    6. Proof of non-profit status (if applicable). Any non-profit 
organization submitting an application must submit proof of its non-
profit status in its application at the time of submission. Any of the 
following constitutes acceptable proof of such status:
    a. A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the 
Internal Revenue Services' (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 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.
    7. 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.
    8. 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.
    9. Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount of 
the non-Federal share of project costs.
    10. The application limit is 75 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) and following 
the guidance provided. The application must be signed by an individual 
authorized to act for the applicant organization 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 
the section titled Deadline. 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 priority area 
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 priority 
area. The package must be clearly labeled for the specific priority 
area 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 application copies (not 
originals) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified 
in the

[[Page 35900]]

application budget. The copies may include summary salary information.
    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.''
    Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on preparing the 
project summary/abstract and the full project description.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. 
eastern standard time (e.s.t.) on August 24, 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.s.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

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        Required form or
          What to submit                    Required content                 format            When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. SF424..........................  Per required form..............  May be found at http:/ See application due
                                                                      / www.acf.hhs.gov/     date.
                                                                      programs/ofs/ forms.
2. SF424A.........................  Per required form..............  May be found at http:/ See application due
                                                                      / www.acf.hhs.gov/     date.
                                                                      programs/ofs/
                                                                      forms.htm.
3.a. SF424B.......................  Per required form..............  May be found at http:/ See application due
                                                                      / www.acf.hhs.gov/     date.
                                                                      programs/ofs/
                                                                      forms.htm.
3.b. Certification regarding        Per required form..............  May be found at http:/ See application due
 lobbying.                                                            / www.acf.hhs.gov/     date.
                                                                      programs/ofs/
                                                                      forms.htm.
3.c. Disclosure of Lobbying         Per required form..............  May be found at http:/ See application due
 Activities (SF-LLL).                                                 / www.acf.hhs.gov/     date.
                                                                      programs/ofs/
                                                                      forms.htm.
4. Project Summary/Abstract.......  Summary of application request.  See instructions in    See application due
                                                                      this funding           date.
                                                                      announcement.
5. Project Description............  Responsiveness to evaluation     See instructions in    See application due
                                     criteria.                        this funding           date.
                                                                      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.
    Total application.............  See above......................  Application limit 75   See application due
                                                                      pages total            date.
                                                                      including all forms
                                                                      and attachments.
                                                                      Submit one original
                                                                      and two copies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 35901]]

Additional Forms
    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the additional survey located under ``Grant Related 
Documents and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant 
Applicants.''

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

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
    This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs'', and 45 CFR Part 100, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services 
Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own 
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance 
under covered programs.
    As of October 2003, of the most recent SPOC list, the following 
jurisdictions have elected not to participate in the Executive Order 
process. Applicants from these jurisdictions or for projects 
administered by Federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take no action 
in regard to E.O. 12372: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, 
Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, 
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, 
Oregon, Palau, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, 
Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.
    Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in 
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of 
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, 
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. All remaining 
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have 
established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should 
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the 
prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must 
submit any required material to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that 
the program office can obtain and review SPOC comments as part of the 
award process. The applicant must submit all required materials, if 
any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date 
of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item 
16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a) (2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application 
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
    SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine 
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are 
requested to differentiate clearly between mere advisory comments and 
those official State process recommendations which may trigger the 
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
    When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be 
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration 
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447.
    The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions 
elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following URL: 
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.
5. Funding Restrictions
    Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
    Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this 
solicitation.
    Federal funds received as a result of this announcement cannot be 
paid as profit to grantees or sub-grantees, i.e., any amount in excess 
of allowable direct and indirect costs of the recipient (45 CFR 74.81).
6. Other Submission Requirements
    Submission by Mail: An applicant must provide an original 
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized 
representative and two copies. The application must be received at the 
address below by 4:30 p.m. eastern standard time on or before the 
closing date. Applications should be mailed to: ACYF Operations, The 
Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 
20002-2132.
    For Hand Delivery: Applicant must provide an original application 
with all attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two 
copies. The application must be received at the address below by 4:30 
p.m. eastern standard time on or before the closing date. Applications 
that are hand delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 
4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applications may be delivered to: 
ACYF Operations, The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132. It is strongly recommended that 
applicants obtain documentation that the application was hand delivered 
on or before the closing date. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
    Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV. 2. Content and Form 
of Application Submission, for guidelines and requirements when 
submitting applications electronically.
    Electronic Address Where Applications Will Be Accepted: 
www.Grants.gov.
    Address Where Hard Copy Applications Will Be Accepted: Children's 
Bureau Grant Receipt Point, ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon 
Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132.
    ACYF will not acknowledge receipt of hard copy application 
submissions.

V. Application Review Information

    Refer to Priority Area 1, Section V. Application Review 
Information, for information on The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 
(Pub. L. 104-13) and General Instruction for Preparing Full Project 
Description.

Specific Evaluation Criteria

    The following criteria will be used to review and evaluate each 
application under this Priority Area. 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 applicant demonstrates a clear and 
thorough understanding of the need for providing coordinated training 
and technical assistance to public and private child welfare agencies 
and courts responsible

[[Page 35902]]

for serving the target population(s), and the goals of the applicable 
legislative mandates.
    (2) The extent to which the training and technical assistance 
objectives of the project will effectively build the capacity of State, 
and local public and private agencies and courts to support effective 
efforts to develop, operate, expand, and enhance initiatives improving 
outcomes for children, youth and families served by these agencies and 
courts.
    (3) The extent to which the proposed project will produce 
significant results and benefits, and a high level of customer 
satisfaction on the part of agencies and courts served and their State 
and local constituents.
Criterion 2. Approach
    In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be 
considered: (50 points).
    (1) The extent to which there is a reasonable timeline for 
implementing the proposed project, including the activities to be 
conducted in chronological order, showing a reasonable schedule of 
accomplishments and target dates and the factors that may accelerate or 
decelerate the work.
    (2) The extent to which there is a sound plan to help agencies and 
courts develop activities that fulfill the legislative mandates and 
meet the objectives of the Child and Family Service Reviews. The extent 
to which this plan enhances agencies' capacity to promote stakeholder 
(especially courts and legal representatives of children, parents and 
child welfare agencies) involvement in the planning and implementation 
of the Program Improvement Plans (PIPs).
    (3) The extent to which the Resource Center's services, program 
activities, and materials will be developed and provided in a manner 
that is racially and culturally sensitive to the population(s) being 
served.
    (4) The extent to which the applicant will collaborate effectively 
with the National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational 
Improvement in assessing training and technical assistance needs and 
developing and implementing a T/TA work plan in response to requests 
from States and Tribes for on-site training and technical assistance.
    (5) The extent to which the applicant will provide appropriate 
process and outcome evaluation data to the NCWRCOI, so it can evaluate 
the results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
    (6) The extent to which the applicant will assist courts nationwide 
to fulfill the mandate of the Court Improvement Program. The extent to 
which the applicant will implement innovative strategies to support the 
States in development of their re-assessments and strategic plans, and 
implementation of recommendations for system improvement.
    (7) The extent to which the Resource Center will identify 
innovative and exemplary practices that would support the training and 
technical assistance objectives under this funding announcement. The 
extent to which the Resource Center will continually identify relevant 
emerging issues and the need for new and different services.
    (8) The extent to which the applicant will establish and maintain 
an excellent national network of professionals in the field to serve as 
consultants. The extent to which there is a sound plan to link these 
individuals with persons, agencies or courts requesting assistance. The 
extent to which the Resource Center will ensure that the network 
promotes the provision of services that is responsive to diverse 
populations. The extent to which there is a sound plan to determine the 
quality of the consultation provided by eliciting consumer 
participation and feedback.
    (9) The extent to which the applicant describes effective 
strategies which will be implemented to foster and strengthen 
communication and coordination activities with legal and judicial 
organizations as well as client and advocacy groups, agencies, and 
other professional organizations serving children, youth and families.
    (10) The extent to which the applicant will effectively coordinate 
its activities with other National Resource Centers, AdoptUSKids, 
Clearinghouses, other members of the training and technical assistance 
network funded by the Children's Bureau, and the Training and Technical 
Assistance Coordination Committee made up of Federal staff from the 
Children's Bureau and Regional Offices.
    (11) The extent to which the applicant describes a sound plan to 
help agencies and courts improve services, legal representation and 
decision-making to over-represented populations, particularly minority 
children in care and their families. The extent to which the applicant 
identifies techniques that will be used in assessing factors that 
impede the delivery of culturally appropriate services and strategies 
that will be used to assist in reducing the effect of those factors.
    (12) The extent to which the applicant describes a sound plan for 
assisting agencies and courts in developing practices which are in 
compliance with the non-discrimination and recruitment provisions of 
the Multi-Ethnic Placement Act of 1994, as amended (MEPA) [42 U.S.C. 
622] and Section 1808 of Public Law 104-188 ``Removal of Barriers to 
Interethnic Adoption'' [42 U.S.C. 1996b], as well as the inter-
jurisdictional provisions of ASFA (Sec. 202(a)(3) Public Law 105-89) 
[42 U.S.C. 622(b)].
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 (including experience on the national level) in: (1) 
Identifying the training and technical assistance needs of an agency or 
court; (2) developing or participating in the development of a plan to 
meet those needs; (3) designing, developing and delivering training and 
technical assistance including recruiting, assigning, and deploying 
staff with appropriate experience; (4) developing evaluation strategies 
and providing technical assistance on evaluation methodologies; (5) 
designing, developing, delivering and evaluating training materials; 
(6) establishing effective working partnerships with other agencies and 
organizations; and (7) administering, developing, implementing, 
managing, and evaluating similar projects. The extent to which each 
participating organization (including partners and/or subcontractors) 
possesses the organizational capability to fulfill their assigned roles 
and functions effectively (if the application involves partnering and/
or subcontracting with other agencies/organizations).
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's project director and key 
project staff possess sufficient relevant knowledge, experience and 
capabilities to implement and manage a project of this size, scope and 
complexity effectively. The extent to which the role, responsibilities 
and time commitments of each proposed project staff position, including 
consultants, subcontractors and/or partners, are clearly defined and 
appropriate to the successful implementation of the proposed project. 
The extent to which the author of this proposal will be closely 
involved throughout the implementation of the proposed project.
    (3) The extent to which there is a sound management plan for 
achieving the objectives of the proposed project on

[[Page 35903]]

time and within budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, 
timelines and milestones for accomplishing project tasks and ensuring 
quality. The extent to which the plan clearly defines the role and 
responsibilities of the lead organization. The extent to which the plan 
clearly describes the effective management and coordination of 
activities carried out by any partners, subcontractors and consultants 
(if appropriate). 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 costs of the proposed project are 
reasonable, in view of the activities to be conducted and expected 
results and benefits.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's fiscal controls and 
accounting procedures would ensure prudent use, proper and timely 
disbursement and accurate accounting of funds received under this 
program announcement.

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. 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.
    Available Funds: Applicants should note that grants to be awarded 
under this program announcement are subject to the availability of 
funds. The size of the actual awards will vary. 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 later competitions.

Priority Area 6--National Resource Center for Special Needs Adoption

    Purpose: The purpose of establishing the National Resource Center 
for Special Needs Adoption is to build the capacity of State, local, 
Tribal, and other publicly administered or publicly supported child 
welfare agencies and adoption agencies to integrate policy and 
practice; to develop, expand, strengthen and improve the quality and 
effectiveness of adoption services for children in the child welfare 
system; and to implement the Federal legislation administered by the 
Children's Bureau effectively. This Resource Center is expected to 
train and assist State agencies and adoption agencies to establish 
effective interagency cooperation and collaboration that involves all 
stakeholders, including youth, and promotes public-private partnerships 
in the coordination of adoption programs for children in the child 
welfare system. Activities to be conducted by the National Resource 
Center for Special Needs Adoption will include, but are not limited to 
the following:
    (1) Fostering an understanding, appreciation, and knowledge of 
special needs adoption resulting in improved outcomes for children and 
youth in the child welfare system;
    (2) Facilitating and assisting efforts of State, local, Tribal, 
public, and private agencies in the coordinated planning and 
development of a range of services and supports for the adoption of 
children from the child welfare system;
    (3) Actively engaging in conducting regular and ongoing needs 
assessments that will be used to identify unmet needs and which also 
incorporates findings from other statewide needs assessment processes 
such as the Child and Family Services Review;
    (4) Demonstrating a commitment to meaningful stakeholder 
involvement, especially youth in foster care and those members of other 
underrepresented or underserved groups;
    (5) Providing on-site technical assistance, training and 
consultation to State and Tribal child welfare agencies;
    (6) Supporting States in their Program Improvement Plans resulting 
from Child and Family Service Reviews;
    (7) Promoting professional leadership development of minorities in 
the adoption field; and developing and disseminating materials, 
including curricula, guidelines and training materials;
    (8) Providing financial support and coordination for the National 
Association of State Adoption Programs (NASAP). The purpose of this 
Association is to develop a collegial group of state adoption managers 
to keep each other informed on the latest program, policy and practice 
developments and adoption laws, and maintain an efficient, state-of-
the-art

[[Page 35904]]

adoption services program to increase the numbers of children adopted, 
to support adoptive families and to remove geographical barriers when 
placing children across jurisdictions. It is anticipated that NASAP 
will meet once a year to discuss relevant issues and will include 
relevant Children's Bureau staff in the meeting;
    (9) Coordinating with the Children's Bureau, ACF Regional Offices 
and State and Tribal agencies in the development of the annual 
technical assistance and training strategy;
    (10) Processing all on-site T/TA requests through the single point 
of entry established by the NCWRCOI, which will involve the Regional 
Office staff, the appropriate NRCs or AdoptUSKids, and Children's 
Bureau staff as needed, as well as any other critical stakeholder, to 
facilitate an assessment of T/TA needs and a coordinated and immediate 
response that avoids delays or duplication of effort;
    (11) Participating in twice-a-year team meetings of the Training 
and Technical Assistance Network funded by the Children's Bureau, and 
the Training and Technical Assistance Coordination Committee;
    (12) Collaborating with other ACYF Resource Centers, other agencies 
in the Department of Health and Human Services and other agents of the 
Children's Bureau to strengthen TA efforts, avoid duplication and 
manage resources effectively;
    (13) Providing information and cooperation needed by the NCWRCOI as 
it manages, maintains and updates to improve functionality, when 
needed, the web-based tracking system for training and technical 
assistance requests developed for the Children's Bureau to track NRCs 
responses to T/TA requests from State, local, Tribal and other publicly 
supported child welfare agencies; and
    (14) Providing data needed by the NCWRCOI to evaluate the results 
and benefits of the technical assistance provided by the National 
Resource Center.
    Expected outcomes include the enhanced capacity of each State 
agency to:
    (1) Develop, support, and maintain a range of services and 
supports, including post-adoption services, for the adoption of 
children from the child welfare system;
    (2) Conduct interagency needs assessments of required services;
    (3) Facilitate special needs adoption program and policy 
development;
    (4) Coordinate the delivery of special needs adoption services;
    (5) Promote the meaningful participation of stakeholders in the 
design and implementation of services; and
    (6) Conduct program evaluations.
    The goal of the National Resource Center is to help strengthen the 
capacity of agencies to integrate policy and practice; to develop, 
expand, strengthen and improve the quality and effectiveness of 
adoption services for children in the child welfare system; and to 
implement the Federal legislation administered by the Children's Bureau 
effectively. This training and technical assistance is intended to 
build the capacity of State, local, Tribal, and other publicly 
administered or publicly supported child welfare agencies and adoption 
agencies. This Resource Center is expected to train and assist State 
agencies and adoption agencies to establish effective interagency 
cooperation and collaboration that involves all stakeholders, including 
youth, and promotes public-private partnerships in the coordination of 
adoption programs for children in the child welfare system.
    Training and technical assistance needs will be identified by NRC 
staff in collaboration with States, the CB T/TA Coordinating Committee, 
the National Resource Center for Organizational Improvement, and 
coordinated with other ongoing national training and technical 
assistance efforts. The Resource Center will also be actively involved 
with identifying other training and technical assistance needs based on 
their work with the other child welfare organizations. The Resource 
Center will be expected to develop and distribute brochures, technical 
assistance announcements, articles, and other materials. The Resource 
Center will be expected to be creative and innovative in responding to 
questions and requests from state agencies as well as developing new 
materials on cutting edge issues as they emerge from Federal and state 
legislation, new regulations and other developments in the child 
welfare field. Technical assistance outcomes should be achieved through 
a combination of strategies, including on-site training, on and off-
site technical assistance, and consultation with all appropriate 
stakeholder groups. The Resource Center will be expected to forge 
strong links with the full range of the Children's Bureau resource 
centers and support contractors, including joint training and technical 
assistance presentations and resources development.

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement.
    Description of Federal Substantial Involvement With Cooperative 
Agreement: Each National Child Welfare Resource Center will operate 
under a cooperative agreement. A cooperative agreement is a specific 
method of awarding Federal assistance in which substantial Federal 
involvement is anticipated. A cooperative agreement clearly defines the 
respective responsibilities of the Children's Bureau and the grantee 
prior to the award. The Children's Bureau anticipates that agency 
involvement will produce programmatic benefits to the recipient 
otherwise unavailable to them for carrying out the project. The 
involvement and collaboration includes Children's Bureau review and 
approval of planning stages of the activities before implementation 
phases may begin; Children's Bureau involvement in the establishment of 
policies and procedures that maximize open competition, and rigorous 
and impartial development, review and funding of sub-grant or sub-grant 
activities, if applicable; and Children's Bureau and recipient joint 
collaboration in the performance of key programmatic activities (i.e., 
strategic planning, implementation, information technology 
enhancements, training and technical assistance, publications or 
products, and evaluation). Close monitoring by the Children's Bureau of 
the requirements stated in this announcement that limit the grantee's 
discretion with respect to scope of services offered, organizational 
structure and management processes, coupled with close Children's 
Bureau monitoring during performance may, in order to ensure compliance 
with the intent of this funding, exceed those Federal stewardship 
responsibilities customary for grant activities.
    Anticipated Total Program Funding: The anticipated total for the 
award under this priority area in FY2004 is $800,000.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: It is anticipated that one project 
will be funded.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: The grant amount will not 
exceed $800,000 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.

[[Page 35905]]

    Average Anticipated Award Amount: $800,000 per budget period.
    Project Periods for Awards: This grant will be awarded for a 
project period of 60 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
City or township governments
State controlled institutions of higher education
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education For-profit organization other 
than small businesses
Small businesses

    Additional Information on Eligibility: Collaborative efforts and 
interdisciplinary approaches are acceptable. Applications from 
collaborations must identify a primary applicant responsible for 
administering the grants.
    Non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community 
organizations are elgible to apply. 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.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

    The grantee must provide at least 10 percent 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 
$800,000 per budget period must include a match of at least $88,889 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 an $800,000 grant:

$800,000 (Federal share)
divided by .90 (100%-10%)
equals $888,889 (total project cost including match)
minus $800,000 (Federal share)
equals $88,889 (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 and 
failure to provide the required amount will result in a disallowance of 
unmatched Federal funds.

3. Other (If Applicable)

    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.
    Applications that exceed the $800,000 per budget period ceiling 
will be considered non-responsive and will not be eligible for funding 
under this announcement.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

    ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, (866) 796-1591.

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.
    Each application must contain the following items in the order 
listed:

[[Page 35906]]

    1. 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, e-mail 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 in the funding opportunity 
announcement.
    In Item 11 of Form 424, identify the single priority area 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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 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 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 application.
    If applicable, applicants must include a completed SPOC 
certification (Single Point of Contact) with the date of the SPOC 
contact entered in line 16, page 1 of the Form 424.
    Assurances: 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 
cooperative agreement requirements:
     The applicant will have the project fully functioning 
within 90 days of the notification of the award.
     The applicant will participate in any evaluation or 
technical assistance effort supported by ACYF.
     The applicant will submit all required semi-annual and 
final Financial Status Reports (SF269) and Program Performance Reports 
in a timely manner, in hard-copy and electronic formats (preferably MS 
WORD and PDF) as negotiated with the Federal Project Officer.
     The Resource Center Project Director or one key staff 
member will attend the following meetings in Washington, DC: A meeting 
with the Federal Project Officer and other ACYF staff within 60 days of 
receiving the award; two meetings annually, for one to two days each, 
with Children's Bureau staff and other training and technical 
assistance partners to plan a national training and technical 
assistance strategy; one meeting annually to participate in a 
Children's Bureau grantee meeting with the purpose of disseminating 
knowledge gained from work with State agencies and courts around child 
welfare issues.
     In situations where the applicant's organizational 
position on a particular policy and/or practice might differ from the 
Federal position, the Federal position will be used to guide the 
Resource Center activity and will be reflected in all public statements 
and publications of the Resource Center.
     The applicant will enter into a Cooperative Agreement with 
the Children's Bureau.
     The Resource Center will work in partnership with the 
Children's Bureau and the ACF Regional Offices by providing technical 
assistance to States that have needs identified through one of ACF's 
review processes.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the 
other six National Resource Centers and AdoptUSKids.
     The Resource Center will work with the Training and 
Technical Assistance Coordination Committee, which will be composed of 
Federal staff from the Children's Bureau and Regional Offices and which 
will provide direction to the strategic development of the training and 
technical assistance network.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the CB 
Clearinghouses and other members of the training and technical 
assistance network funded by the Children's Bureau in providing 
training and technical assistance.
     The Resource Center will work directly with the National 
Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement (NCWRCOI), 
which will serve as a single point of entry for States and Tribes to 
request onsite training and technical assistance to ensure a 
coordinated and immediate response.
     The Resource Center will provide evaluation data to the 
NCWRCOI that addresses both process and outcomes to evaluate the 
results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
    The Office for Human Research Protections of the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services provides Web site 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.
    In implementing their projects, grantees are expected to comply 
with all applicable administrative regulations regarding extent or 
types of costs. Applicable HHS regulations can be found in 45 CFR part 
74 or 92.
    4. Project Abstract/Summary (one page maximum). Clearly mark this 
page with the applicant name as shown on item 5 of the Form 424, 
identify the competitive grant priority area 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. It should describe the 
objectives of the project, the approach to be used and the results or 
benefits expected.
    5. Project Description for Evaluation. Applicants should organize 
their project description according to the Evaluation Criteria 
described in this priority area announcement providing information that 
addresses all the components.
    6. Proof of non-profit status. Any non-profit organization 
submitting an application must submit proof of its non-profit status in 
its application at the time of submission. Any of the following 
constitutes acceptable proof of such status:
    a. A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the 
Internal

[[Page 35907]]

Revenue Services' (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 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.
    7. 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.
    8. 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.
    9. Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount of 
the non-Federal share of project costs.
    10. The application limit is 75 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) and following 
the guidance provided. The application must be signed by an individual 
authorized to act for the applicant organization 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 
the section titled Deadline. 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 priority area 
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 priority 
area. The package must be clearly labeled for the specific priority 
area 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 application copies (not 
originals) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified 
in the application budget. The copies may include summary salary 
information.
    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.''
    Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on preparing the 
project summary/abstract and the full project description.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. 
eastern standard time (e.s.t.) on August 24, 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.s.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

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           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
                                                              www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm.
2. SF424A..........................  Per required form.....  May be found at http://      See application due
                                                              www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm.
3.a. SF424B........................  Per required form.....  May be found at http://      See application due
                                                              www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm.
3.b. Certification regarding         Per required form.....  May be found at http://      See application due
 lobbying.                                                    www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm.

[[Page 35908]]

 
3.c. Disclosure of Lobbying          Per required form.....  May be found at http://      See application due
 Activities (SF-LLL).                                         www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm.
4. Project Summary/Abstract........  Summary of application  See instructions in this     See application due
                                      request.                funding announcement.        date.
5. Project Description.............  Responsiveness to       See instructions in this     See application due
                                      evaluation criteria.    funding announcement.        date.
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.
 
    Total application..............  See above.............  Application limit 75 pages   See application due
                                                              total including all forms    date.
                                                              and attachments. Submit
                                                              one original and two
                                                              copies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Forms
    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the additional survey located under ``Grant Related 
Documents and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant 
Applicants.''

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

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
    This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' and 45 CFR Part 100, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services 
Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own 
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance 
under covered programs.
    As of October 2003, of the most recent SPOC list, the following 
jurisdictions have elected not to participate in the Executive Order 
process. Applicants from these jurisdictions or for projects 
administered by Federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take no action 
in regard to E.O. 12372: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, 
Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, 
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, 
Oregon, Palau, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, 
Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.
    Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in 
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of 
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, 
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. All remaining 
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have 
established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should 
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the 
prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must 
submit any required material to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that 
the program office can obtain and review SPOC comments as part of the 
award process. The applicant must submit all required materials, if 
any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date 
of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item 
16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application 
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
    SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine 
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are 
requested to differentiate clearly between mere advisory comments and 
those official State process recommendations which may trigger the 
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
    When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be 
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration 
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447.
    The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions 
elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following URL: 
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html html.

5. Funding Restrictions

    Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
    Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this 
solicitation.
    Federal funds received as a result of this announcement cannot be 
paid as profit to grantees or sub-grantees, i.e., any amount in excess 
of allowable direct and indirect costs of the recipient (45 CFR 74.81).

6. Other Submission Requirements

    Submission by Mail: An applicant must provide an original 
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized 
representative and two copies. The application must be received at the 
address below by 4:30 p.m. eastern standard time on or before the 
closing date. Applications should be mailed to: ACYF Operations, The 
Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 
20002-2132.
    For Hand Delivery: Applicant must provide an original application 
with all attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two 
copies. The application must be received at the address below by 4:30 
p.m. eastern

[[Page 35909]]

standard time on or before the closing date. Applications that are hand 
delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 
Monday through Friday. Applications may be delivered to: ACYF 
Operations, The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau 118 Q Street, NE., 
Washington, DC 20002-2132. It is strongly recommended that applicants 
obtain documentation that the application was hand delivered on or 
before the closing date. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
    Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV. 2. Content and Form 
of Application Submission, for guidelines and requirements when 
submitting applications electronically.
    Electronic Address Where Applications Will Be Accepted: 
www.Grants.gov.
    Address Where Hard Copy Applications Will Be Accepted: Children's 
Bureau Grant Receipt Point, ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon 
Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132.
    ACYF will not acknowledge receipt of hard copy application 
submissions.

V. Application Review Information

    Refer to Priority Area 1, Section V. Application Review 
Information, for information on The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 
(Pub. L. 104-13) and General Instruction for Preparing Full 
Project Description.

Specific Evaluation Criteria

    The following criteria will be used to review and evaluate each 
application under this Priority Area. 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 applicant demonstrates a clear and 
thorough understanding of the need for providing coordinated training 
and technical assistance to public and private child welfare agencies 
responsible for serving the target population(s), and the goals of the 
applicable legislative mandates.
    (2)The extent to which the training and technical assistance 
objectives of the project will effectively build the capacity of State, 
and local public and private agencies to support effective efforts to 
develop, operate, expand, and enhance initiatives improving outcomes 
for children, youth and families served by these agencies.
    (3)The extent to which the proposed project will produce 
significant results and benefits, and a high level of customer 
satisfaction on the part of agencies served and their State and local 
constituents.
Criterion 2. Approach
    In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be 
considered: (50 points)
    (1) The extent to which there is a reasonable timeline for 
implementing the proposed project, including the activities to be 
conducted in chronological order, showing a reasonable schedule of 
accomplishments and target dates and the factors that may accelerate or 
decelerate the work.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant provides a workable plan of 
action. The extent to which this plan relates to the stated objectives 
and scope of the project and reflects the intent of the applicable 
legislative mandates.
    (3) The extent to which the applicant describes sound strategies 
for providing technical assistance and effectively building the 
capacity of State, and local public and private agencies to fulfill the 
legislative mandates for the target population effectively. The extent 
to which the applicant presents a sound plan for effectively and 
efficiently providing technical assistance to the agencies in the early 
identification and follow-up of children for whom adoptive placement is 
the plan, and for distributing effective models for increasing the rate 
of adoptive placements of children with special needs who are legally 
free for adoption, including a focus on children over age eight, and 
siblings, and for providing post-adoption services.
    (4) The extent to which the applicant proposes to implement 
effective strategies to help child welfare and adoption agencies 
develop an innovative and exemplary adoption program; effective 
planning, collaboration, and implementation methods; effective service 
development strategies; effective practice techniques; useful resources 
such as training curricula and educational materials; and rigorous 
research and program evaluation components.
    (5) The extent to which the applicant describes a sound plan to 
help child welfare and adoption agencies improve services to 
underrepresented and over-represented populations, particularly 
minority families and children in care. The extent to which effective 
techniques would be used in assessing factors which impede the delivery 
of culturally appropriate services and strategies to assist agencies in 
reducing these factors. The extent to which the Resource Center's 
services, program activities, and materials developed are provided in a 
manner that is racially and culturally sensitive to the population(s) 
being served while being inclusive of a range of adoption resources. 
The extent to which there is a sound approach to develop a national 
network of professionals in the adoption field to serve as consultants 
to individuals and agencies that are requesting assistance to ensure 
that their services are appropriate for racially and culturally diverse 
target populations.
    (6) The extent to which there is a sound plan for assisting 
agencies in developing adoption practices which are consistent with the 
anti-discriminatory placement and recruitment provisions of the 
Multiethnic Placement Act (MEPA), the Inter-Ethnic Adoption Provisions 
(IEP), and the interjurisdictional provisions of ASFA.
    (7) The extent to which the applicant will effectively coordinate 
its activities with other National Resource Centers, AdoptUSKids, 
Clearinghouses, other members of the training and technical assistance 
network funded by the Children's Bureau, and the Training and Technical 
Assistance Coordination Committee made up of Federal staff from the 
Children's Bureau and Regional Offices.
    (8) The extent to which the applicant describes a sound plan for 
conducting or providing partial financial support for a two to three 
day national conference for State adoption specialists that also 
includes foster care managers and state staff involved in child welfare 
programs.
    (9) The extent to which the applicant describes a sound plan for 
providing financial support and coordination for the National 
Association of State Adoption Programs (NASAP), in accordance with the 
requirements of this funding announcement.
    (10) The extent to which the applicant will collaborate effectively 
with the National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational 
Improvement in assessing training and technical assistance needs and 
developing and implementing a T/TA work plan in response to requests 
from States and Tribes for on-site training and technical assistance.
    (11) The extent to which the applicant will provide appropriate 
process and outcome evaluation data to the

[[Page 35910]]

NCWRCOI, so it can evaluate the results and benefits of the technical 
assistance provided.

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 (including experience on the national level) in: (1) 
Identifying the training and technical assistance needs of an agency or 
organization; (2) developing or participating in the development of a 
plan to meet those needs; (3) designing, developing and delivering 
training and technical assistance including recruiting, assigning, and 
deploying staff with appropriate experience; (4) developing evaluation 
strategies and providing technical assistance on evaluation 
methodologies, (5) designing, developing, delivering and evaluating 
training materials, (6) establishing effective working partnerships 
with other agencies and organizations; and (7) administering, 
developing, implementing, managing, and evaluating similar projects. 
The extent to which each participating organization (including partners 
and/or subcontractors) possesses the organizational capability to 
fulfill their assigned roles and functions effectively (if the 
application involves partnering and/or subcontracting with other 
agencies/organizations).
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's project director and key 
project staff possess sufficient relevant knowledge, experience and 
capabilities to implement and manage a project of this size, scope and 
complexity effectively. The extent to which the role, responsibilities 
and time commitments of each proposed project staff position, including 
consultants, subcontractors and/or partners, are clearly defined and 
appropriate to the successful implementation of the proposed project. 
The extent to which the author of this proposal will be closely 
involved throughout the implementation of the proposed project.
    (3) The extent to which there is a sound management plan for 
achieving the objectives of the proposed project on time and within 
budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, timelines and 
milestones for accomplishing project tasks and ensuring quality. The 
extent to which the plan clearly defines the role and responsibilities 
of the lead agency. The extent to which the plan clearly describes the 
effective management and coordination of activities carried out by any 
partners, subcontractors and consultants (if appropriate). 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 costs of the proposed project are 
reasonable, in view of the activities to be conducted and expected 
results and benefits.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's fiscal controls and 
accounting procedures would ensure prudent use, proper and timely 
disbursement and accurate accounting of funds received under this 
program announcement.

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. 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.
    Available Funds: Applicants should note that grants to be awarded 
under this program announcement are subject to the availability of 
funds. The size of the actual awards will vary. 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 later competitions.

Priority Area 7--National Resource Center for Youth Development

    Purpose: The purpose of this Cooperative Agreement is to provide 
financial support for training and technical assistance to promote the 
purposes of the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program(CFCIP) 
and the Education and Training Vouchers (ETV) Program, and to achieve 
the goals of safety, permanency and well-being for youth in the child 
welfare system. This training and technical assistance is intended to 
build the capacity of public

[[Page 35911]]

and private, non-profit child welfare and youth-serving agencies to:
    (1) Foster an understanding, appreciation, and knowledge of 
positive youth development in order to be effective in improving 
outcomes for older children and youth in the child welfare system;
    (2) Facilitate and assist efforts of State, local, Tribal, public, 
and private agencies in the coordinated planning and development of a 
range of services and supports for youth in the child welfare system 
and those transitioning to self-sufficiency;
    (3) Actively engage in conducting regular and ongoing needs 
assessments that will be used to identify unmet needs and which also 
incorporates findings from other statewide and local needs assessment 
processes;
    (4) Demonstrate a commitment to meaningful stakeholder involvement, 
especially current and former foster care youth and those members of 
other underrepresented or underserved groups;
    (5) Provide on-site technical assistance, training and consultation 
to State and Tribal child welfare and youth-serving agencies;
    (6) Plan and implement two annual national conferences: Pathways to 
Adulthood and Foster Youth Leadership.
    (7) Support States and localities in their Program Improvement 
Plans resulting from Child and Family Service Reviews;
    (8) Coordinate with the Children's Bureau, ACF Regional Offices, 
and State and Tribal agencies in the development of the annual 
technical assistance and training strategy;
    (9) Process all on-site T/TA requests through the single point of 
entry established by the NCWRCOI, which will involve the Regional 
Office staff, the appropriate NRCs or AdoptUSKids, and Children's 
Bureau staff as needed, as well as any other critical stakeholder, to 
facilitate an assessment of T/TA needs and a coordinated and immediate 
response that avoids delays or duplication of effort;
    (10) Participate in twice-a-year team meetings of the Training and 
Technical Assistance Network funded by the Children's Bureau, and the 
Training and Technical Assistance Coordination Committee;
    (11) Collaborate with other ACYF Resource Centers, other agencies 
in the Department of Health and Human Services and other agents of the 
Children's Bureau to strengthen TA efforts, avoid duplication and 
manage resources effectively;
    (12) Provide information and cooperation needed by the NCWRCOI as 
it manages, maintains and updates to improve functionality, when 
needed, the web-based tracking system for training and technical 
assistance requests developed for the Children's Bureau to track NRCs 
responses to T/TA requests from State, local, Tribal and other publicly 
supported child welfare agencies; and
    (13) Provide data needed by the NCWRCOI to evaluate the results and 
benefits of the technical assistance provided by the National Resource 
Center.
    Expected outcomes include the enhanced capacity of each State 
agency to:
    (1) Develop, support, and maintain a range of services and supports 
to assist youth in making a smoother transition to adulthood and to 
reduce the likelihood of continued dependency on the adult social 
welfare system through a focus on positive youth development;
    (2) Conduct interagency needs assessments of required services;
    (3) Facilitate CFCIP and ETV program and policy development;
    (4) Coordinate the delivery of independent living and transitional 
support services;
    (5) Promote the meaningful participation of stakeholders, including 
youth in the design, implementation and evaluation of funded services; 
and
    (6) Enhance the capacity of the State Independent Living agency to 
become more active participants in their State's Child and Family 
Services Review/ Program Improvement Planning processes.
    This Resource Center is expected to train and assist State agencies 
and youth-serving organizations to establish effective interagency 
cooperation and collaboration that involves all stakeholders, including 
youth, and promotes public-private partnerships in the coordination of 
IL and transition support for foster youth programs. Training and 
technical assistance needs will be identified by agency staff in 
collaboration with the Training and Technical Assistance Coordination 
Committee, the National Resource Center for Organizational Improvement 
and ACYF Central and Regional Office personnel, and coordinated with 
other ongoing national training and technical assistance efforts. The 
Resource Center will also be actively involved with identifying other 
training and technical assistance needs and resources based on their 
work with the other youth-serving organizations, including ACYF's 
Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB) and their activities http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/fysb/ . Training outcomes should be achieved 
through a combination of strategies, including on-site training, on and 
off-site technical assistance, and consultation with all appropriate 
stakeholder groups.

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement.
    Description of Federal Substantial Involvement With Cooperative 
Agreement: Each National Child Welfare Resource Center will operate 
under a cooperative agreement. A cooperative agreement is a specific 
method of awarding Federal assistance in which substantial Federal 
involvement is anticipated. A cooperative agreement clearly defines the 
respective responsibilities of the Children's Bureau and the grantee 
prior to the award. The Children's Bureau anticipates that agency 
involvement will produce programmatic benefits to the recipient 
otherwise unavailable to them for carrying out the project. The 
involvement and collaboration includes Children's Bureau review and 
approval of planning stages of the activities before implementation 
phases may begin; Children's Bureau involvement in the establishment of 
policies and procedures that maximize open competition, and rigorous 
and impartial development, review and funding of sub-grant or sub-grant 
activities, if applicable; and Children's Bureau and recipient joint 
collaboration in the performance of key programmatic activities (i.e., 
strategic planning, implementation, information technology 
enhancements, training and technical assistance, publications or 
products, and evaluation). Close monitoring by the Children's Bureau of 
the requirements stated in this announcement that limit the grantee's 
discretion with respect to scope of services offered, organizational 
structure and management processes, coupled with close Children's 
Bureau monitoring during performance may, in order to ensure compliance 
with the intent of this funding, exceed those Federal stewardship 
responsibilities customary for grant activities.
    Anticipated Total Program Funding: The anticipated total for the 
award under this priority area in FY2004 is $800,000.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: It is anticipated that one project 
will be funded.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: The award amount will not 
exceed $800,000 in the first budget period. An application received 
that exceeds the upper value of the dollar

[[Page 35912]]

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: $800,000 per budget period.
    Project Periods for Awards: This grant will be awarded for a 
project period of 60 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
City or township governments
State controlled institutions of higher education
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than 
institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
For-profit organization other than small businesses
Small businesses
    Additional Information on Eligibility Collaborative efforts and 
interdisciplinary approaches are acceptable. Applications from 
collaborations must identify a primary applicant responsible for 
administering the grants.
    Non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community 
organizations are elgible to apply. 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.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

    The grantee must provide at least 10 percent 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 
$800,000 per budget period must include a match of at least $88,889 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 an $800,000 grant:

$800,000 (Federal share)
divided by .90 (100%-10%)
equals $888,889 (total project cost including match)
minus $800,000 (Federal share)
equals $88,889 (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 and 
failure to provide the required amount will result in a disallowance of 
unmatched Federal funds.

3. Other (If Applicable)

    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.
    Applications that exceed the $800,000 per budget period ceiling 
will be considered non-responsive and will not be eligible for funding 
under this announcement.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

    ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, (866) 796-1591.

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

[[Page 35913]]

     You must search for the downloadable application package 
by the CFDA number.
    Each application must contain the following items in the order 
listed:
    1. 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, e-mail 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 in the funding opportunity 
announcement.
    In Item 11 of Form 424, identify the single priority area 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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 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 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 application.
    If applicable, applicants must include a completed SPOC 
certification (Single Point of Contact) with the date of the SPOC 
contact entered in line 16, page 1 of the Form 424.
    Assurances: 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 
cooperative agreement requirements:
     The applicant will have the project fully functioning 
within 90 days of the notification of the award.
     The applicant will participate in any evaluation or 
technical assistance effort supported by ACYF.
     The applicant will submit all required semi-annual and 
final Financial Status Reports (SF269) and Program Performance Reports 
in a timely manner, in hard-copy and electronic formats (preferably MS 
WORD and PDF) as negotiated with the Federal Project Officer.
     The Resource Center Project Director or one key staff 
member will attend the following meetings in Washington, DC: A meeting 
with the Federal Project Officer and other ACYF staff within 60 days of 
receiving the award; two meetings annually, for one to two days each, 
with Children's Bureau staff and other training and technical 
assistance partners to plan a national training and technical 
assistance strategy; one meeting annually to participate in a 
Children's Bureau grantee meeting with the purpose of disseminating 
knowledge gained from work with State agencies and courts around child 
welfare issues.
     In situations where the applicant's organizational 
position on a particular policy and/or practice might differ from the 
Federal position, the Federal position will be used to guide the 
Resource Center activity and will be reflected in all public statements 
and publications of the Resource Center.
     The applicant will enter into a Cooperative Agreement with 
the Children's Bureau.
     The Resource Center will work in partnership with the 
Children's Bureau and the ACF Regional Offices by providing technical 
assistance to States that have needs identified through one of ACF's 
review processes.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the 
other six National Resource Centers and AdoptUSKids.
     The Resource Center will work with the Training and 
Technical Assistance Coordination Committee, which will be composed of 
Federal staff from the Children's Bureau and Regional Offices and which 
will provide direction to the strategic development of the training and 
technical assistance network.
     The Resource Center will work collaboratively with the CB 
Clearinghouses and other members of the training and technical 
assistance network funded by the Children's Bureau in providing 
training and technical assistance.
     The Resource Center will work directly with the National 
Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement (NCWRCOI), 
which will serve as a single point of entry for States and Tribes to 
request onsite training and technical assistance to ensure a 
coordinated and immediate response.
     The Resource Center will provide evaluation data to the 
NCWRCOI that addresses both process and outcomes to evaluate the 
results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
    The Office for Human Research Protections of the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services provides Web site 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.
    In implementing their projects, grantees are expected to comply 
with all applicable administrative regulations regarding extent or 
types of costs. Applicable HHS regulations can be found in 45 CFR part 
74 or 92.
    4. Project Abstract/Summary (one page maximum). Clearly mark this 
page with the applicant name as shown on item 5 of the Form 424, 
identify the competitive grant priority area 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. It should describe the 
objectives of the project, the approach to be used and the results or 
benefits expected.
    5. Project Description for Evaluation. Applicants should organize 
their project description according to the Evaluation Criteria 
described in this priority area announcement providing information that 
addresses all the components.
    6. Proof of non-profit status. Any non-profit organization 
submitting an application must submit proof of its non-profit status in 
its application at the

[[Page 35914]]

time of submission. Any of the following constitutes acceptable proof 
of such status:
    a. A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the 
Internal Revenue Services' (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 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.
    7. 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.
    8. 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.
    9. Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount of 
the non-Federal share of project costs.
    10. The application limit is 75 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) and following 
the guidance provided. The application must be signed by an individual 
authorized to act for the applicant organization 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. 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 priority area 
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 priority 
area. The package must be clearly labeled for the specific priority 
area 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 application copies (not 
originals) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified 
in the application budget. The copies may include summary salary 
information.
    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.''
    Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on preparing the 
project summary/abstract and the full project description.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. 
eastern standard time (e.s.t.) on August 24, 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.s.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

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           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
                                                              www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm
2. SF424A..........................  Per required form       May be found at http://      See application due
                                                              www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm
3.a. SF424B........................  Per required form       May be found at http://      See application due
                                                              www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm

[[Page 35915]]

 
3.b. Certification regarding         Per required form       May be found at http://      See application due
 lobbying.                                                    www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm
3.c. Disclosure of Lobbying          Per required form       May be found at http://      See application due
 Activities (SF-LLL).                                         www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm
4. Project Summary/Abstract........  Summary of application  See instructions in this     See application due
                                      request.                funding announcement.        date.
5. Project Description.............  Responsiveness to       See instructions in this     See application due
                                      evaluation criteria.    funding announcement.        date.
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.
                                    -------------------------
    Total application..............  See above.............  Application limit 75 pages   See application due
                                                              total including all forms    date.
                                                              and attachments. Submit
                                                              one original and two
                                                              copies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Forms

    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the additional survey located under ``Grant Related 
Documents and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant 
Applicants.''

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

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
    This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs'', and 45 CFR Part 100, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services 
Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own 
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance 
under covered programs.
    As of October 2003, of the most recent SPOC list, the following 
jurisdictions have elected not to participate in the Executive Order 
process. Applicants from these jurisdictions or for projects 
administered by Federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take no action 
in regard to E.O. 12372: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, 
Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, 
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, 
Oregon, Palau, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, 
Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.
    Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in 
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of 
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, 
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. All remaining 
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have 
established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should 
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the 
prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must 
submit any required material to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that 
the program office can obtain and review SPOC comments as part of the 
award process. The applicant must submit all required materials, if 
any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date 
of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item 
16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a) (2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application 
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
    SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine 
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are 
requested to differentiate clearly between mere advisory comments and 
those official State process recommendations which may trigger the 
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
    When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be 
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration 
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447.
    The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions 
elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following URL: 
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

5. Funding Restrictions

    Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
    Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this 
solicitation.
    Federal funds received as a result of this announcement cannot be 
paid as profit to grantees or sub-grantees, i.e., any amount in excess 
of allowable direct and indirect costs of the recipient (45 CFR 74.81).

6. Other Submission Requirements

    Submission by Mail: An applicant must provide an original 
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized 
representative and two copies. The application must be received at the 
address below by 4:30 p.m. eastern standard time on or before the 
closing date. Applications should be mailed to: ACYF Operations, The 
Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 
20002-2132.

[[Page 35916]]

    For Hand Delivery: Applicant must provide an original application 
with all attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two 
copies. The application must be received at the address below by 4:30 
p.m. eastern standard time on or before the closing date. Applications 
that are hand delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 
4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applications may be delivered to: 
ACYF Operations, The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau 118 Q Street, 
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132. It is strongly recommended that 
applicants obtain documentation that the application was hand delivered 
on or before the closing date. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
    Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV. 2. Content and Form 
of Application Submission, for guidelines and requirements when 
submitting applications electronically.
    Electronic Address Where Applications Will Be Accepted: 
www.Grants.gov.
    Address Where Hard Copy Applications Will Be Accepted: Children's 
Bureau Grant Receipt Point, ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon 
Group, Inc., 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132.
    ACYF will not acknowledge receipt of hard copy application 
submissions.

V. Application Review Information

    Refer to Priority Area 1, Section V. Application Review 
Information, for information on The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 
(Pub. L. 104-13) and General Instruction for Preparing Full Project 
Description.

Specific Evaluation Criteria

    The following criteria will be used to review and evaluate each 
application under this Priority Area. 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 applicant demonstrates a clear and 
thorough understanding of the need for providing coordinated training 
and technical assistance to public and private child welfare and youth-
serving agencies responsible for serving the target population(s), and 
demonstrates a thorough understanding of the goals of the legislative 
mandates.
    (2) The extent to which the training and technical assistance 
objectives of the project will effectively build the capacity of State, 
and local public and private agencies to support effective efforts to 
develop, operate, expand, and enhance initiatives improving outcomes 
for children, youth and families served by these agencies.
    (3) The extent to which the proposed project will produce 
significant results and benefits, and a high level of customer 
satisfaction on the part of agencies served and their State and local 
constituents.
Criterion 2. Approach
    In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be 
considered: (50 points)
    (1) The extent to which there is a reasonable timeline for 
implementing the proposed project, including the activities to be 
conducted in chronological order, showing a reasonable schedule of 
accomplishments and target dates and the factors that may accelerate or 
decelerate the work.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant provides a workable plan of 
action. The extent to which this plan relates to the stated objectives 
and scope of the project and reflects the intent of the applicable 
legislative mandates.
    (3) The extent to which the applicant describes sound strategies 
for providing technical assistance and effectively building the 
capacity of State, and local public and private agencies to fulfill the 
legislative mandates for the target population effectively. The extent 
to which the applicant presents a sound plan for effectively and 
efficiently providing technical assistance to the agencies in the 
delivery of independent living and youth development services, supports 
and activities.
    (4) The extent to which the applicant proposes to implement sound 
strategies to help lead agencies effectively (1) develop a successful 
youth-focused, multi-disciplinary approach to the delivery of 
independent living and youth development services; (2) provide supports 
and activities that fulfill the legislative mandates; and (3) meet the 
objectives of the Child and Family Service Reviews. The extent to which 
the applicant would implement strategies that will enhance the agency's 
capacity to promote stakeholder involvement in the planning, 
implementation, and evaluation of funded programs.
    (5) The extent to which the applicant describes a sound plan for 
promoting: (1) Interagency collaboration and implementation of new 
procedures for blending funding streams; and (2) management improvement 
strategies that facilitate interagency coordination as mandated by the 
CFCIP legislation. The extent to which the applicant will help 
independent living programs find ways to become more active and 
effective participants in the Child and Family Service Reviews and 
Program Improvement Planning processes in their States.
    (6) The extent to which the applicant describes a sound plan for 
implementing two annual national conferences: Pathways to Adulthood and 
Foster Youth Leadership.
    (7) The extent to which the applicant will collaborate effectively 
with the National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational 
Improvement in assessing training and technical assistance needs and 
developing and implementing a T/TA work plan in response to requests 
from States and Tribes for on-site training and technical assistance.
    (8) The extent to which the applicant will effectively coordinate 
its activities with other National Resource Centers, AdoptUSKids, 
Clearinghouses, other members of the training and technical assistance 
network funded by the Children's Bureau, FYSB, and the Training and 
Technical Assistance Coordination Committee made up of Federal staff 
from the Children's Bureau and Regional Offices.
    (9) The extent to which the Resource Center's services, program 
activities, and materials will be developed and provided in a manner 
that is racially and culturally sensitive to the population(s) being 
served.
    (10) The extent to which the applicant will provide appropriate 
process and outcome evaluation data to the NCWRCOI, so it can evaluate 
the results and benefits of the technical assistance provided.
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 (including experience on the national level) in: (1) 
Identifying the training and technical assistance needs of an agency or 
organization; (2) developing or participating in the development of a 
plan to meet those needs; (3) designing, developing and delivering 
training and

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technical assistance including recruiting, assigning, and deploying 
staff with appropriate experience; (4) developing evaluation strategies 
and providing technical assistance on evaluation methodologies, (5) 
designing, developing, delivering and evaluating training materials, 
(6) establishing effective working partnerships with other agencies and 
organizations; and (7) administering, developing, implementing, 
managing, and evaluating similar projects. The extent to which each 
participating organization (including partners and/or subcontractors) 
possesses the organizational capability to fulfill their assigned roles 
and functions effectively (if the application involves partnering and/
or subcontracting with other agencies/organizations.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's project director and key 
project staff possess sufficient relevant knowledge, experience and 
capabilities to implement and manage a project of this size, scope and 
complexity effectively. The extent to which the role, responsibilities 
and time commitments of each proposed project staff position, including 
consultants, subcontractors and/or partners, are clearly defined and 
appropriate to the successful implementation of the proposed project. 
The extent to which the author of this proposal will be closely 
involved throughout the implementation of the proposed project.
    (3) The extent to which there is a sound management plan for 
achieving the objectives of the proposed project on time and within 
budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, timelines and 
milestones for accomplishing project tasks and ensuring quality. The 
extent to which the plan clearly defines the role and responsibilities 
of the lead agency. The extent to which the plan clearly describes the 
effective management and coordination of activities carried out by any 
partners, subcontractors and consultants (if appropriate). 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 costs of the proposed project are 
reasonable, in view of the activities to be conducted and expected 
results and benefits.
    (2) The extent to which the applicant's fiscal controls and 
accounting procedures would ensure prudent use, proper and timely 
disbursement and accurate accounting of funds received under this 
program announcement.

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. 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.

VI. Award Administration Information

    The following Award Administration Information applies to all seven 
of the Priority Areas in this Funding Announcement.

1. Award Notices

    Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates: Applications will be 
reviewed during the summer of 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 or cooperative agreement, the 
effective date of the grant, the budget period for which initial 
support will be given, the non-Federal share to be provided, and the 
total project period for which support is contemplated. The Grants 
Management Office issues the award notice.
    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
    Conditions of the Cooperative Agreement: Each National Child 
Welfare Resource Center will operate under a cooperative agreement. A 
cooperative agreement is a specific method of awarding Federal 
assistance in which substantial Federal involvement is anticipated. A 
cooperative agreement clearly defines the respective responsibilities 
of the Children's Bureau and the grantee prior to the award. The 
Children's Bureau anticipates that agency involvement will produce 
programmatic benefits to the recipient otherwise unavailable to them 
for carrying out the project. The involvement and collaboration 
includes

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Children's Bureau review and approval of planning stages of the 
activities before implementation phases may begin; Children's Bureau 
involvement in the establishment of policies and procedures that 
maximize open competition, and rigorous and impartial development, 
review and funding of sub-grant or sub-grant activities, if applicable; 
and Children's Bureau and recipient joint collaboration in the 
performance of key programmatic activities (i.e., strategic planning, 
implementation, information technology enhancements, training and 
technical assistance, publications or products, and evaluation). Close 
monitoring by the Children's Bureau of the requirements stated in this 
announcement that limit the grantee's discretion with respect to scope 
of services offered, organizational structure and management processes, 
coupled with close Children's Bureau monitoring during performance may, 
in order to ensure compliance with the intent of this funding, exceed 
those Federal stewardship responsibilities customary for grant 
activities.
    Faith-based organizations that receive funding may not use Federal 
financial assistance, including funds, to meet any cost-sharing 
requirements or to support inherently religious activities, such as 
worship, religious instruction, or prayer.

3. Reporting

    Reporting Requirements: Programmatic Reports and Financial Reports 
are required semi-annually. All required reports must be submitted in a 
timely manner, in recommended formats (to be provided), and the final 
report must also be submitted on disk or electronically using a 
standard word-processing program.
    Within 90 days of project end date, the applicant must submit a 
copy of the final report and any program products to the National 
Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect, 330 C Street, SW., 
Washington, DC 20447. This is in addition to the standard requirement 
that the final program report must also be submitted to the Grants 
Management Specialist and the Federal Project Officer.

VII. Agency Contacts

    The following Agency Contacts Information applies to all seven of 
the Priority Areas in this Funding Announcement.

Program Office Contact

    LaChundra Thomas, 330 C St., SW., Washington, DC 20447, 202-205-
8252, [email protected].

Grants Management Office Contact

    William Wilson, 330 C St, SW., Washington, DC 20447, 202-205-8913, 
[email protected].

General

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

VIII. Other Information

    The following information applies to all seven of the Priority 
Areas in this Funding Announcement.
    Additional information about this program and its purpose can be 
located on the following Web sites: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/
; http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/fysb/.

    Dated: June 15, 2004.
Joan E. Ohl,
Commissioner, Administration on Children, Youth and Families.
[FR Doc. 04-14170 Filed 6-24-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P