[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 108 (Tuesday, June 7, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 33165-33177]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-11279]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families


Administration for Native Americans; Grants and Cooperative 
Agreements; Notice of Availability

    Funding Opportunity Title: Environmental Mitigation.
    Announcement Type: Initial.
    Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ANA-NM-0019.
    CFDA Number: 93.582.

[[Page 33166]]

    Due Date for Applications: 07/08/2005.
    Executive Summary:
    The Administration for Native Americans (ANA), within the 
Administration for Children and Families (ACF), announces the 
availability of funds to eligible applicants to mitigate environmental 
impacts on Indian lands due to Department of Defense (DOD) activities 
on Formerly Used Defense Sites (FUDS). Financial assistance is provided 
utilizing the competitive process in accordance with the Native 
Americans Programs Act of 1974, as amended.
    Program Areas of Interest are projects that ANA considers 
supportive to Native American communities for the purpose of FUDS 
environmental activities. Although eligibility for funding is not 
restricted to projects of the type listed in this program announcement, 
these Program Areas of Interest are ones which ANA sees as particularly 
beneficial to the development of an environmental mitigation project.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

    The Administration for Native Americans (ANA), within the 
Administration for Children and Families, announces the availability of 
financial assistance for new community-based projects under the 
competitive area: Environmental Mitigation. This announcement contains 
information on financial assistance from the Environmental Mitigation 
Program, authorized under Section 8094A of the Department of Defense 
Appropriation Act, Public Law 103-139 and Public Law 103-335 (the Act). 
The Congress has recognized that DOD activities may have caused 
environmental impacts on Indian lands. For this specific purpose, 
Indian lands are defined as all lands of American Indian Tribes and 
Alaska Native Villages. Accordingly, the Congress has taken steps to 
help those affected begin to mitigate environmental impacts from DOD 
activities by assisting them in the planning, development and 
implementation of programs for such mitigation.
    The Environmental Mitigation program began through a program 
announcement published on December 29, 1993 as a response to the 
Department of Defense Appropriations Act, Public Law 103-139, which was 
enacted on November 11, 1993. This program continues under Public Law 
103-335 (Act), enacted on September 30, 1994. Section 809 4-A of the 
Act states that of the funds appropriated to the Department of Defense 
(DOD) for Operations and Maintenance Defense-Wide, not less than 
$8,000,000 shall be made available until expended to provide for the 
mitigation of environmental impacts, including training and technical 
assistance to tribes, related administrative support, the gathering of 
information, documenting of environmental damage, and developing a 
system for prioritizing of mitigation, on Indian lands resulting from 
Department of Defense activities.
    Achieving compliance with Federal environmental protection 
legislation is the driving force behind all Federal clean-up 
activities. The following is a list of major Federal environmental 
legislation that should be recognized in a regulatory review of all 
Federal, state and local regulatory requirements which could have major 
impacts in the design of mitigation strategies:
     Indian Environmental General Assistance Program Act of 
1992;
     Clean Air Act (CAA);
     Clean Water Act (CWA);
     Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA);
     Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 
(SMCRA);
     Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 
(MPRSA);
     Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA);
     Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act 
(FIFRA);
     Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 (NWPA);
     Comprehensive Environmental Resource Conservation and 
Liability Act (CERCLA or Superfund);
     Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA);
     Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments of 1984 (HSWA);
     National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA).
    Other Federal legislation that should be included in the regulatory 
review and that should be of assistance are the tribal specific 
legislative acts, such as:
     American Indian Religious Freedom Act;
     National Historic Preservation Act of 1991.
     Indian Environmental Regulatory Enhancement Act of 1990; 
Other regulatory considerations could involve applicable tribal, 
village, state and local laws, codes, ordinances, standards, etc., 
which should also be reviewed to assist in planning, the mitigation 
design, and development of the comprehensive mitigation strategy.
    In this announcement, ANA encourages Native American tribes to 
develop their own plans and technical capabilities and access the 
necessary financial and technical resources in order to assess, plan, 
develop and implement projects to mitigate any impacts caused by DOD 
activities.
ANA Administrative Policies
    Applicants must comply with the following Administrative Policies:
     An application from a Tribe, Alaska Native Village or 
Native American organization must be from the governing body.
     A non-profit organization submitting an application must 
submit proof of its non-profit status at the time of submission. The 
non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing: (1) 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; or (2) a copy of the currently valid IRS tax exemption 
certificate; or (3) 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 none of the net 
earnings accrue to any private shareholders or individuals; or (4) a 
certified copy of the organization's certificate of incorporation or 
similar document that clearly establishes non-profit status; or (5) 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.
     If the applicant, other than a tribe or an Alaska Native 
Village government, is proposing a project benefiting Native Americans, 
Alaska Natives, or both, it must provide assurance that its duly 
elected or appointed board of directors is representative of the 
community to be served. Applicants must provide information that at 
least a majority of the individuals serving on a non-profit applicant's 
board fall into one or more of the following categories: (1) a current 
or past member of the community to be served; (2) a prospective 
participant or beneficiary of the project to be funded; or (3) have a 
cultural relationship with the community be to served.
     Applicants must describe how the proposed project 
objectives and activities relate to a locally determined strategy.
     ANA will review proposed projects to ensure applicants 
have considered all resources available to the community to support the 
project.
     Proposed projects must present a strategy to overcome the 
challenges that hinder movement toward self-sufficiency in the 
community.
     All funded applications will be reviewed to ensure that 
the applicant has provided a positive statement to give credit to ANA 
on all materials developed using ANA funds.

[[Page 33167]]

     ANA will not accept applications from tribal components 
that are tribally authorized divisions unless the ANA application 
includes a tribal resolution.
     ANA will only accept one application per eligible entity. 
The first application received by ANA shall be the application 
considered for competition unless ANA is notified in writing which 
application should be considered for competitive review.
     An applicant can have only one active ANA Environmental 
Mitigation grant operating at any given time.
     ANA funds short-term projects, not programs. Projects must 
have definitive goals and objectives that will be achieved by the end 
of the project period. All projects funded by ANA must be completed, or 
self-sustaining, or supported by other than ANA funding at the end of 
the project period.
     ANA reviews the quarterly and annual reports of grantees 
to determine if the grantee is meeting its goals, objectives and 
activities identified in the OWP.
     Applications from National and Regional organizations must 
clearly demonstrate a need for the project, explain how the project 
originated, and discuss the community-based delivery strategy of the 
project, identify and describe the intended beneficiaries, describe and 
relate the actual project benefits to the community and organization, 
and describe a community-based delivery system. National and Regional 
organizations must describe their membership, define how the 
organization operates, and demonstrate Native community and/or Tribal 
government support for the project. The type of community to be served 
will determine the type of documentation necessary to support the 
project.
Definitions
     Program specific terms and concepts are defined and should be used 
as a guide in writing and submitting the proposed project. The funding 
for allowable projects in this program announcement is based on the 
following definitions:
    Authorized Representative: The person or person(s) authorized by 
Tribal or Organizational resolution to execute documents and other 
actions required by outside agencies.
    Budget Period: The interval of time into which the project period 
is divided for budgetary or funding purposes, and for which a grant is 
made. A budget period usually lasts one year in a multi-year project 
period.
    Community: A group of people residing in the same geographic area 
that can apply their own cultural and socio-economic values in 
implementing ANA's program objectives and goals. In discussing the 
applicant's community, the following information must be provided: (1) 
A description of the population segment within the community to be 
served or impacted; (2) the size of the community; (3) geographic 
description or location, including the boundaries of the community; (4) 
demographic data on the target population; and (5) the relationship of 
the community to any larger group or tribe.
    Community Involvement: How the community participated in the 
development of the proposed project, how the community will be involved 
during the project implementation and after the project is completed. 
Evidence of community involvement can include, but is not limited to, 
certified petitions, public meeting minutes, surveys, needs 
assessments, newsletters, special meetings, public Council meetings, 
public committee meetings, public hearings, and annual meetings with 
representatives from the community.
    Completed Project: A project funded by ANA is finished, or self-
sustaining, or funded by other than ANA funds, and the results and 
outcomes are achieved by the end of the project period.
    Consortium--Tribe/Village: A group of Tribes or Villages that join 
together either for long-term purposes or for the purpose of an ANA 
project.
    Construction: The initial building of a facility.
    Core Administration: Salaries and other expenses for those 
functions that support the applicant's organization as a whole or for 
purposes that are unrelated to the actual management or implementation 
of the ANA project.
    Equipment: Tangible, non-expendable personal property, including 
exempt property, charged directly to the award having a useful life of 
more than one year and an acquisition cost of $5,000 or more per unit. 
However, consistent with recipient policy, lower limits may be 
established.
    Impact Indicators: Measurement descriptions used to identify the 
outcomes or results of the project. Outcomes or results must be 
quantifiable, measurable, verifiable and related to the outcome of the 
project to determine that the project has achieved its desired 
objective and can be independently verified through ANA monitoring and 
evaluation.
    Indian Land: All lands used by American Indian tribes and Alaska 
Native Villages.
    In-kind Contributions: In-kind contributions are property or 
services which benefit a Federally assisted project or program and 
which are contributed by the grantee, non-Federal third parties without 
charge to the grantee, or a cost-type contractor under the grant 
agreement. Any proposed in-kind match must meet the applicable 
requirements found in 45 CFR part 74 and part 92.
    Letter of Commitment: A third party statement to document the 
intent to provide specific in-kind contributions or cash to support the 
applicant. The Letter of Commitment must state the dollar amount (if 
applicable), the length of time the commitment will be honored, and the 
conditions under which the organization will support the proposed ANA 
project. If a dollar amount is included, the amount must be based on 
market and historical rates charged and paid. The resources to be 
committed may be human, natural, physical, or financial, and may 
include other Federal and non-Federal resources. Statements about 
resources which have been committed to support a proposed project made 
in the application without supporting documentation will be 
disregarded.
    Minor Renovation or Alteration: Work required to change the 
interior arrangements or other physical characteristics of an existing 
facility, or install equipment so that it may be more effectively used 
for the project. Minor alteration and renovation may include work 
referred to as improvements, conversion, rehabilitation, remodeling, or 
modernization, but is distinguished from construction and major 
renovations. A minor alteration and or renovation must be incidental 
and essential for the project (``incidental'' meaning the total 
alteration and renovation budget must not exceed the lesser of $150,000 
or 25 percent of total direct costs approved for the entire project 
period.).
    Multi-purpose Organization: A community-based corporation whose 
charter specifies that the community designates the Board of Directors 
and/or officers of the organization through an elective procedure and 
that the organization functions in several different areas of concern 
to the members of the local Native American community. These areas are 
specified in the by-laws and/or policies adopted by the organization.
    Objective(s): Specific outcomes or results to be achieved within 
the proposed project period that are specified in the Objective Work 
Plan. Completion of objectives must result in specific, measurable 
outcomes that would benefit the community and directly contribute to 
the achievement

[[Page 33168]]

of the stated community goals. Applicants should relate their proposed 
project objectives to outcomes that support the community's long-range 
goals. Objectives are an important component of Criterion III and are 
the foundation for the Objective Work Plans.
    Objective Work Plan (OWP): The project plan the applicant will use 
in meeting the results and benefits expected for the project. The 
results and benefits are directly related to the Impact Indicators. The 
OWP provides detailed descriptions of how, when, where, by whom and why 
activities are proposed for the project and is complemented and 
condensed in the Objective Work Plan. ANA will require separate OWPs 
for each year of the project. (Form OMB 0980-0204 exp. 10/31/
06)
    Partnerships: Agreements between two or more parties that will 
support the development and implementation of the proposed project. 
Partnerships include other community-based organizations or 
associations, Tribes, Federal and State agencies and private or non-
profit organizations, which may include faith-based organizations.
    Real Property: Land, including land improvements, structures, and 
appurtenances thereto, excluding movable machinery and equipment.
    Resolution: Applicants are required to include a current signed and 
dated Resolution (a formal decision voted on by the official governing 
body) in support of the project for the entire project period. The 
Resolution should indicate who is authorized to sign documents and 
negotiate on behalf of the Tribe or organization. The Resolution should 
indicate that the community was involved in the project planning 
process, and indicate the specific dollar amount of any non-Federal 
matching funds (if applicable).
    Sustainable Project: A sustainable project is an ongoing program or 
service that can be maintained without additional ANA funds.
    Self-Sufficiency: The ability to generate resources to meet a 
community's needs in a sustainable manner. A community's progress 
toward self-sufficiency is based on its efforts to plan, organize, and 
direct resources in a comprehensive manner that is consistent with its 
established long-range goals. For a community to be self-sufficient, it 
must have local access to, control of, and coordination of services and 
programs that safeguard the health, well-being, and culture of the 
people that reside and work in the community.
    Total Approved Project Costs: The sum of the Federal request and 
the non-Federal share.

Priority Area 1

Environmental Mitigation
    Description: The purpose of Environmental Mitigation projects is to 
conduct the research and planning needed to identify environmental 
impacts to Indian lands caused by DOD activities on or near Indian 
lands and to plan for remedial investigations to determine and carry 
out a preliminary assessment of these problems. Mitigation projects 
should result in adequately detailed documentation of the problems and 
sources of help in solving them to provide a useful basis for examining 
alternative mitigation approaches.
    Program Areas of Interest are:
     Projects that identify the disruption of subsistence 
activities due to contamination of the food chain and/or the 
development of a remediation plan to address subsistence contamination.
     Projects to conduct a comprehensive environmental 
assessment.
     Projects to conduct site inspections and remedial 
investigation to identify problems and causes related to DOD 
activities.
     Projects that identify approaches and methodologies to be 
undertaken in mitigation activities.
     Projects to develop a mitigation strategy plan to address 
problem areas identified such as: land use restoration, clean-up 
processes, and the resources necessary to implement clean-up actions. 
The plan should include: technical assistance and management expertise 
required; protocols for environmental assessments; cost estimates of 
short- and long-term mitigation activities; estimate of impacts of 
short-term and/or long-term approaches; and, cultural, economic and 
human health-risk impacts.

II. Award Information

    Funding Instrument Type: Grant.
    Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $1,200,000.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: 8 to 10.
    Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards Per Budget Period: 125,000.
    Floor on Amount of Individual Awards Per Budget Period: $50,000.
    Average Projected Award Amount Per Budget Period: $100,000.
    Length of Project Periods: 12-month project and budget period.
    Applicants that exceed the ceiling amount will be considered non-
responsive and will not be considered for competition.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

    Native American Tribal governments (Federally recognized)
    Native American Tribal organizations (other than Federally 
recognized Tribal governments)
    Additional Information on Eligibility:
     Federally Recognized Indian Tribes;
     Incorporated non-Federally recognized and State-recognized 
Indian Tribes;
     Alaska Native Villages, as defined in the Alaska Native 
Claims Settlement Act (ANSCA) and/or non-profit Village consortia;
     Non-profit Alaska Native Regional Corporations/
Associations with Village-specific projects;
     Non-profit Native organizations in Alaska with Village-
specific projects;
     Other Tribal or Village organizations or consortia of 
Indian Tribes; and
     Tribal governing bodies (Indian Reorganization Act or 
Traditional Councils) as recognized by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
    Please refer to Section I. Funding Opportunity Description to 
review general ANA Administrative Policies and Section IV.5 Funding 
Restrictions.

2. Cost Sharing/Matching

    No.

3. Other

    All applicants must have a Dun & Bradstreet number. On June 27, 
2003 the Office of Management and Budget published in the Federal 
Register a new Federal policy applicable to all Federal grant 
applicants. The policy requires Federal grant applicants to provide a 
Dun & 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 
on-line at http://www.dnb.com.

[[Page 33169]]

    Non-profit organizations applying for funding are required to 
submit proof of their non-profit status. Proof of non-profit status is 
any one of the following:
     A 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.
     A copy of a currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate.
     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 
earning accrue to any private shareholders or individuals.
     A certified copy of the organization's certificate of 
incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes non-profit 
status.
     Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately above 
for a State or national parent organization and a statement signed by 
the parent organization that the applicant organization is a local non-
profit affiliate.
    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents 
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,'' 
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at: 
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Disqualification Factors
    Applications that exceed the ceiling amount will be considered non-
responsive and will not be considered for funding under this 
announcement.
    Any application that fails to satisfy the deadline requirements 
referenced in Section IV.3 will be considered non-responsive and will 
not be considered for funding under this announcement.
    Applications that do not include a current signed and dated 
Resolution (a formal decision voted on by the official governing body) 
in support of the project for the entire project period will be 
considered non-responsive and will not be considered for competition.
    If the applicant is not a Tribe or Alaska Native Village 
government, applications that do not include proof that a majority of 
the governing board of directors is representative of the community to 
be served will be considered non-responsive and will not be considered 
for competition.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

    Region I: AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, 
MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, 
TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, W.VA
    Native American Management Services, Inc., 6858 Old Dominion Drive, 
Suite 302, McLean, VA 22101, Phone: 888-221-9686, Fax: 703-821-3680, 
Rondelle Clay, Project Manager, Email: [email protected], URL: 
www.anaeastern.org.
    Region II: AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY.
    ACKCO, INC., 1326 N. Central, Suite 208, Phoenix, Arizona 85004, 
Toll Free: 800-525-2859, Direct: 602-253-9211, Fax 602-253-9135, Theron 
Wauneka, Project Manager, Email: [email protected], URL: 
www.anawestern.org.
    Region III: Alaska
    Native American Management Services, Inc., 11723 Old Glenn Highway, 
Suite 201, Eagle River, Alaska 99577, Toll Free 877-770-6230, Direct: 
907-694-5711, Fax 907-694-5775, P.J. Bell, Project Manager, E-Mail: 
[email protected], URL: www.anaalaska.org.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

    Please refer to Section I. Funding Opportunity Description, to 
review general ANA Administrative Policies and Section IV.5 Funding 
Restrictions.
    Application Submission: Each application should include one signed 
original and two additional copies of the complete application are 
required. The original copy must include all required forms, 
certifications, assurances, and appendices, contain an original 
signature by an authorized representative, and be submitted unbound. 
The two additional copies of the complete application must include all 
required forms, certifications, assurances, and appendices and must 
also be submitted unbound. Applicants have the option of omitting from 
the application copies (not the original) specific salary rates or 
amounts for individuals specified in the application budget. A complete 
application for assistance under this Program Announcements consists of 
Three Parts. Part One includes the SF 424, other required government 
forms, and other required documentation. Part Two of the application is 
the project narrative. This section of the application may not exceed 
40 pages, the line-item budgets, budget justifications and the OWP form 
(OMB Control Number 0980-0204 exp 10/31/06) will be exempt from the 
page limitation. Part Three of the application is the Appendix. This 
section of the application may not exceed 20 pages (the exception to 
this 20-page limit applies only to projects that require, if relevant 
to the project, a Business Plan or any Third-Party Agreements).
    Electronic Submission: While ACF does have the capability to 
receive program announcement applications electronically through 
Grants.gov, electronic submission of applications will not be available 
for this particular announcement. There are required application 
form(s) specific to ANA that have not yet received clearance from 
Grants.gov. While electronic submission of applications may be 
available in the next fiscal year for this program, no electronic 
submission of applications will be accepted for this announcement this 
year as they would be missing those required ANA forms and be 
considered incomplete.
    Organization and Preparation of Application: Due to the intensity 
and pace of the application review and evaluation process, ANA strongly 
recommends applicants organize, label, and insert required information 
in accordance with Part One, Part Two and Part Three as presented in 
the table below. ANA strongly suggests applicants label the application 
for ease of reviewing. The application must begin with the information 
requested in Part One of the chart in the prescribed order. Utilizing 
this format will insure all information submitted to support an 
applicant's request for funding is thoroughly reviewed. Submitting 
information in this format will assist the panel reviewer in locating 
and evaluating the information. Deviation from this suggested format 
will reduce the applicant's ability to receive maximum points, which 
are directly related to ANA's funding review decisions.
    ANA Application Format: ANA requires all applications to be labeled 
in compliance with the format provided in the program announcement. 
This format applies to all applicants submitting applications for 
funding. All pages submitted (including government forms, 
certifications and assurances) must be numbered consecutively (for 
example, the first page of the application is the SF 424 and must be 
labeled as page one). The paper size shall be 8.5 x 11 inches, line 
spacing shall be a space and a half (1.5 line spacing), printed only on 
one side, and have a half-inch margin on all sides of the paper. (Note: 
the 1.5 line spacing does not apply to the Project

[[Page 33170]]

Abstract Form, Appendices, the Table of Contents, the Objective Work 
Plans, and the Budget.) The font size shall be 12-point and the font 
type shall be Times New Roman.
    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents 
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,'' 
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at: 
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Standard Forms and Certifications
    The project description should include all the information 
requirements described in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in 
the program announcement under Section V Application Review 
Information. In addition to the project description, the applicant 
needs to complete all the standard forms required for making 
applications for awards under this announcement.
    Applicants seeking financial assistance under this announcement 
must file the Standard Form (SF) 424, Application for Federal 
Assistance; SF 424A, Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs; SF 
424B, Assurances--Non-Construction Programs. The forms may be 
reproduced for use in submitting applications. Applicants must sign and 
return the standard forms with their application.
    Applicants must furnish prior to award an executed copy of the 
Standard Form LLL, Certification Regarding Lobbying, 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, if 
applicable, with their applications (approved by the Office of 
Management and Budget under control number 0348-0046). Applicants must 
sign and return the certification with their application.
    Applicants must also understand they will be held accountable for 
the smoking prohibition included within Public Law 103-227, Title XII 
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (also known as the PRO-KIDS Act of 1994). A 
copy of the Federal Register notice which implements the smoking 
prohibition is included with forms. By signing and submitting the 
application, applicants are providing the certification and need not 
mail back the certification with the application.
    Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their 
compliance with all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By 
signing and submitting the applications, applicants are providing the 
certification and need not mail back the certification form. Complete 
the standard forms and the associated certifications and assurances 
based on the instructions on the forms. The forms and certifications 
may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
    Those organizations required to provide proof of non-profit status, 
please refer to Section III.3.
    Please see Section V.1, for instructions on preparing the full 
project description.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    Due Date for Applications: 07/08/2005.
    Explanation of Due Dates:
    The closing date for receipt of applications is referenced above. 
Applications received after 4:30 p.m. eastern time on the closing date 
will be classified as late.
    Deadline: Applications shall be considered as meeting an announced 
deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time and date 
referenced in Section IV.6. Applicants are responsible for ensuring 
applications are mailed or submitted electronically well in advance of 
the application due date.
    Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other 
representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers 
shall be considered as meeting an announced deadline if they are 
received on or before the deadline date, between the hours of 8 a.m. 
and 4:30 p.m., eastern time, at the address referenced in Section 
IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays).
    ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by facsimile. 
Therefore, applications transmitted to ACF by fax will not be accepted 
regardless of date or time of submission and time of receipt.
    Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will not be 
provided to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier 
services, or by hand delivery. However, applicants will receive an 
electronic acknowledgement for applications that are submitted via 
http://www.Grants.gov.
    Late Applications: Applications that do not meet the criteria above 
are considered late applications. ACF shall notify each late applicant 
that its application will not be considered in the current competition.
    Any application received after 4:30 p.m. eastern time on the 
deadline date will not be considered for competition.
    Applicants using express/overnight mail services should allow two 
working days prior to the deadline date for receipt of applications. 
Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail services do not 
always deliver as agreed.
    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, or in other rare 
cases. A determination to extend or waive deadline requirements rests 
with the Chief Grants Management Officer.
Checklist
    You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your 
application package.

                              Part One.--Federal Forms and Other Required Documents
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        What to submit           Required content            Required form or format             When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table of Contents.............  See Section IV...  Applicant must include a table of contents  By application
                                                    that accurately identifies the page         due date.
                                                    number and where the information can be
                                                    located. Table of Contents does not count
                                                    against application page limit.
SF424.........................  See Section IV...  http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/        By application
                                                    forms.htm.                                  due date.
SF424A........................  See Section IV...  http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/        By application
                                                    forms.htm.                                  due date.
SF424B........................  See Section IV...  http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/        By application
                                                    forms.htm.                                  due date.
Proof of Non-Profit Status....  See Section III..  As described in this announcement under     By award date.
                                                    Section III ``Additional Information on
                                                    Eligibility''.

[[Page 33171]]

 
Resolution....................  See Section I....  As described in this announcement under     By application
                                                    Section I ``Definitions''.                  due date.
Board of Directors              See Section I....  As described in this announcement under     By application
 Documentation.                                     Section I ``ANA Administrative Policies''.  due date.
Audit Letter..................  See Section I....  A Certified Public Accountant's             By application
                                                    ``Independent Auditors' Report on           due date.
                                                    Financial Statement.'' This is usually
                                                    only a two to three page document. (This
                                                    requirement applies only to applicants
                                                    with annual expenditures of $500,000 or
                                                    more of Federal funds). Applicant must
                                                    also include only that portion of the
                                                    audit document titled ``Supplemental
                                                    Schedule of Expenditures of Federal
                                                    Awards''.
Indirect Cost Agreement.......  See Section V....  Organizations and Tribes must submit a      By application
                                                    current indirect cost agreement (if         due date.
                                                    claiming indirect costs) that aligns with
                                                    the approved ANA project period. The
                                                    Indirect Cost Agreement must identify the
                                                    individual components and percentages
                                                    that make up the indirect cost rate.
Certification Regarding         See Section I....  May be found at: www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/  By award date.
 Maintenance of Effort.                             ofs/forms.htm.
Certification Regarding         See Section IV...  May be found at: www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/  By award date.
 Lobbying Disclosure of                             ofs/forms.htm.
 Lobbying Activities--SF LLL.
Environmental Tobacco.........  See Section IV...  May be found at: www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/  By award date.
                                                    ofs/forms.htm.
Smoke Certification...........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Part Two.--Application Review Criteria
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    Required form or format  ANA application
        What to submit           Required content     review criteria  this section may not      When to submit
                                                                 exceed 40 pages
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Criteria One (10 pts).........  See Section V....  Introduction and Project Summary/           By application
                                                    Application Format.                         due date.
                                                   Include the ANA Project Abstract form (OMB
                                                     0980-0204 exp. 10/31/06).
Criteria Two (20 pts).........  See Section V....  Need for Assistance.......................  By application
                                                                                                due date.
Criteria Three (25 pts).......  See Section V....  Project Approach..........................  By application
                                                   Include an Objective Work Plan (OWP) form    due date.
                                                    (OMB  0980-0204 exp. 10/31/06)
                                                    for each 12-month budget period.
                                                   Note: The OWP is not included in the page
                                                    count for this Part.
Criteria Four (15 pts)........  See Section V....  Organizational Capacity...................  By application
                                                                                                due date.
Criteria Five (15 pts)........  See Section V....  Project Impact/Evaluation.................  By application
                                                                                                due date.
Criteria Six (15 pts).........  See Section V....  Budget and Budget Justification/Cost        By application
                                                    Effectiveness.                              due date.
                                                   Note: The line item budget and budget
                                                    justification are not included in the
                                                    page count for this Part.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                              Part Three.--Appendix
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    Required form or format  this section may
        What to submit           Required content              not exceed 20 pages               When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Support Documentation.........  See Section V....  Part Three includes only supplemental       By application
                                                    information or required support             due date.
                                                    documentation that addresses the
                                                    applicant's capacity to carry out and
                                                    fulfill the proposed project. These items
                                                    include: letters of agreement with
                                                    cooperating entities, in-kind commitment
                                                    and support letters, business plans, and
                                                    a summary of the Third Party Agreements.
                                                    Do not include books, videotapes, studies
                                                    or published reports and articles, as
                                                    they will not be made available to the
                                                    reviewers or returned to the applicant.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Forms
    Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with 
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents 
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,'' 
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at: 
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.

[[Page 33172]]



 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           What to submit               Required content               Location               When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Survey for Private, Non-Profit       See form..............  Found in http://             By application due
 Grant Applicants.                                            www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/    date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4. Intergovernmental Review

    This program is not subject to Executive Order 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' or 45 CFR part 100, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services 
Programs and Activities''.

5. Funding Restrictions

    ANA does not fund:
     Activities in support of any foreseeable litigation 
against the United States Government that are unallowable under OMB 
Circulars A-87 and A-122.
     ANA does not fund duplicative projects or allow any one 
community or region to receive a disproportionate share of the funds 
available for award. When making decisions on awards of grants the 
agency will consider whether the project is essentially identical or 
similar, in whole or significant part, to projects in the same 
community previously funded or being funded under the same competition. 
The agency will also consider whether the grantee is already receiving 
funding for a SEDS, Language, or Environmental project from ANA. The 
agency will also take into account in making funding decisions whether 
a proposed project would require funding on indefinite or recurring 
basis. This determination will be made after it is determined whether 
the application meets the requirements for eligibility as set forth in 
45 CFR part 1336, subpart C, but before funding decisions are complete 
[See Section I. Funding Opportunity Description--ANA Administrative 
Policies regarding short-term projects].
     Projects in which a grantee would provide training and/or 
technical assistance (T/TA) to other Tribes or Native American 
organizations that are otherwise eligible to apply for ANA funding. 
However, ANA will fund T/TA requested by a grantee for its own use or 
for its members' use (as in the case of a consortium), when the T/TA is 
necessary to carry out project objectives.
     The purchase of real property or construction because 
these activities are not authorized by the Native American Programs Act 
of 1974, as amended.
     Core administration (see Definitions) functions, or other 
activities, that essentially support only the applicant's ongoing 
administrative functions and are not related to the proposed project.
     Costs associated with fund-raising, including financial 
campaigns, endowment drives, solicitation of gifts and bequests, and 
similar expenses incurred solely to raise capital or obtain 
contributions are unallowable under an ANA grant award.
     Projects originated and designed by consultants who 
provide a major role for themselves and are not members of the 
applicant organization, Tribe, or Village.
     Activities that are not responsive to Environmental 
Mitigation program goals.
     Major renovations or alterations are prohibited activities 
because these activities are not authorized under the Native American 
Programs Act of 1974 as amended. Minor alterations, as defined in this 
announcement, may be allowable.
     ANA will not fund activities by a consortium of Tribes 
that duplicate activities for which a consortium member Tribe also 
receives funding from ANA.

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. Please see Section IV.3 for an 
explanation of due dates. Applications should be mailed to:
    Attention: Tim Chappelle, U.S. Department of Health and Human 
Services, Administration for Children and Services, Office of Grants 
Management, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, 
SW., Washington, DC 20447.
    Hand Delivery: 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 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. eastern time, Monday through Friday. Applications should be 
delivered to:
    Attention: Tim Chappelle, US Department of Health and Human 
Services, Office of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary 
Grants, ACF Mail Room, Second Floor Loading Dock, Aerospace Center, 901 
D Street, SW., Washington, DC 20024.

V. Application Review Information

The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13)

    Public reporting burden for this collection of information is 
estimated to average 20 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.
1. Criteria
    The following are instructions and guidelines on how to prepare the 
``project summary/abstract'' and ``full project description'' sections 
of the application. Under the evaluation criteria section, note that 
each criterion is preceded by the generic evaluation requirement under 
the ACF Uniform Project Description (UPD).

Part I--The Project Description Overview

Purpose

    The project description provides a major means by which an 
application is evaluated and ranked to compete with other applications 
for available assistance. The project description should be concise and 
complete and should address the activity for which Federal funds are 
being requested. Supporting documents should be included where they can 
present information clearly and succinctly. In preparing your project 
description, information responsive to each of the requested evaluation 
criteria must be provided. Awarding offices use this and other 
information in making their funding recommendations. It is important, 
therefore, that this information be included in the application in a 
manner that is clear and complete.

[[Page 33173]]

General Instructions

    ACF is particularly interested in specific project descriptions 
that focus on outcomes and convey strategies for achieving intended 
performance. Project descriptions are evaluated on the basis of 
substance and measurable outcomes, not length. Extensive exhibits are 
not required. Cross-referencing should be used rather than repetition. 
Supporting information concerning activities that will not be directly 
funded by the grant or information that does not directly pertain to an 
integral part of the grant funded activity should be placed in an 
appendix. Pages should be numbered and a table of contents should be 
included for easy reference.

Introduction

    Applicants required to submit a full project description shall 
prepare the project description statement in accordance with the 
following instructions while being aware of the specified evaluation 
criteria. The text options give a broad overview of what your project 
description should include while the evaluation criteria identifies the 
measures that will be used to evaluate applications.

Project Summary/Abstract

    Provide a summary of the project description (a page or less) with 
reference to the funding request.

Objectives and Need for Assistance

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

Results or Benefits Expected

    Identify the results and benefits to be derived.
    Applicants are encouraged to describe the qualitative and 
quantitative data collected, how this data will measure progress 
towards the stated results or benefits, and how impact indicators under 
this program area can be monitored, evaluated and verified.

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.

Additional Information

    Following are requests for additional information that need to be 
included in the application:

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. If the 
applicant is a non-profit organization, submit proof of non-profit 
status in its application.
    The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing: (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 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.

Third-Party Agreements

    Provide written and signed agreements between grantees and 
subgrantees or subcontractors or other cooperating entities. These 
agreements must detail scope of work to be performed, work schedules, 
remuneration, and other terms and conditions that structure or define 
the relationship.

Budget and Budget Justification

    Provide a budget with 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. 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.

General

    Use the following guidelines for preparing the budget and budget 
justification. Both Federal and non-Federal resources shall be detailed 
and justified in the budget and narrative justification. ``Federal 
resources'' refers only to the ACF grant for which you are applying. 
``Non Federal resources'' are all other Federal and non-Federal 
resources. It is suggested that budget amounts and computations be 
presented in a columnar format: first column, object class categories; 
second column, Federal budget; next column(s), non-

[[Page 33174]]

Federal budget(s), and last column, total budget. The budget 
justification should be a narrative.

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 that belong under other categories such as equipment, 
supplies, construction, etc. Include 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.
    Justification: Demonstrate that all procurement transactions will 
be conducted in a manner to provide, to the maximum extent practical, 
open and free competition. Recipients and subrecipients, other than 
States that are required to use Part 92 procedures, must justify any 
anticipated procurement action that is expected to be awarded without 
competition and exceed the simplified acquisition threshold fixed at 41 
U.S.C. 403(11) (currently set at $100,000).
    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 (noncontractual), professional services costs, 
space and equipment rentals, printing and publication, computer use, 
training costs, such as tuition and stipends, staff development costs, 
and administrative costs.
    Justification: Provide computations, a narrative description and a 
justification for each cost under this category.

Indirect Charges

    Description: Total amount of indirect costs. This category should 
be used only when the applicant currently has an indirect cost rate 
approved by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or 
another cognizant Federal agency.
    Justification: An applicant that will charge indirect costs to the 
grant must enclose a copy of the current rate agreement. If the 
applicant organization is in the process of initially developing or 
renegotiating a rate, upon notification that an award will be made, it 
should immediately develop a tentative indirect cost rate proposal 
based on its most recently completed fiscal year, in accordance with 
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. 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.

Program Income

    Description: The estimated amount of income, if any, expected to be 
generated from this project.
    Justification: Describe the nature, source and anticipated use of 
program income in the budget or refer to the pages in the application 
which contain this information.

Federal

ANA Evaluation Criteria
    The following evaluation criteria appear in weighted descending 
order. The corresponding score values indicate the relative importance 
that ACF places on each evaluation criterion; however, applicants need 
not develop their applications precisely according to the order 
presented. Application components may be organized such that a reviewer 
will be able to follow a seamless and logical flow of information 
(i.e., from a broad overview of the project to more detailed 
information about how it will be conducted).
    In considering how applicants will carry out the responsibilities 
addressed

[[Page 33175]]

under this announcement, competing applications for financial 
assistance will be reviewed and evaluated against the following 
criteria:

Approach--25 Points

    Project Approach: The Project Approach narrative must be clear and 
concise. The narrative must include a detailed project description with 
goals and objectives. It must discuss the project strategy and 
implementation plan over the project period. The applicant must use the 
Objective Work Plan (OWP) form to identify the project objectives, time 
frames, proposed activities, results and benefits expected and criteria 
for evaluating results and benefits, as well as the individuals 
responsible for completing the objectives and performing the 
activities. Within the results and benefits section of the OWP the 
applicant must provide quantitative quarterly projections of the 
accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity. In this 
criterion, the applicant describes how the project description, 
objective(s), approach and strategy are inter-related. The applicant 
must also include the names and activities of any organizations, 
consultants, or other key individuals who will contribute to the 
project, utilizing the column for Non-Salaried Personnel to list the 
hours incurred for these activities.

Objectives and Need for Assistance--20 Points

    Need for Assistance: Applicant must show a clear relationship 
between the proposed project, the Environmental Mitigation strategy, 
and the community's long-range goals. The need for assistance must 
clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial, 
governmental, and institutional challenges and problem(s) requiring a 
solution that supports the funding request. Describe the community (see 
Definitions) to be affected by the project and the community 
involvement in the project. The applicant must describe the community's 
long-range goals, the community planning process, and how the project 
supports the community goals. Provide any existing documentation from 
preliminary site inspections that identifies problems or causes due to 
DOD activities. Include documentation that identifies contamination 
sites or instances of pathway contamination due to proximity to FUDS 
(Formerly Used Defense Sites). The applicant must describe how the 
proposed goals, objectives, and activities reflect the Environmental 
Mitigation needs of the local community. Discuss the geographic 
location of the project and where the project and grant will be 
administered. Applicant must describe how the proposed project 
objectives and activities relate to a locally determined strategy.
    The applicant must provide documentation of the community's support 
for the proposed project. Applications from regional organizations must 
clearly demonstrate a need for the project, explain how the project 
originated, identify the intended beneficiaries, describe and relate 
the actual project benefits to the community and organization, and 
describe a community-based project delivery strategy. Regional 
organizations must also identify their membership and specifically 
discuss how the organization operates and impacts Native American 
people and communities. Proposed project objectives support the 
identified need and must be measurable.

Budget and Budget Justification--15 Points

    Budget and Budget Justification/Cost Effectiveness: An applicant 
must submit an itemized budget detailing the applicant's Federal 
request. A budget justification narrative to support the line-item 
budget request must also be included. The budget must include a line-
item justification for each Object Class Category listed under Section 
B: ``Budget Categories'' on the ``Budget Information-Non Construction 
Programs'' (SF 424A) form. The line-item budget and budget 
justification narrative must include the necessary details to 
facilitate the determination of allowable costs and the relevance of 
these costs to the proposed project. A line-item budget and budget 
justification narrative should be included for any non-Federal 
resources committed to support the project (cite source of commitment).
    If an applicant plans to charge or otherwise seek credit for 
indirect costs in its ANA application, a copy of its current Indirect 
Cost Rate Agreement must be included in the application, with all costs 
broken down by category so ANA reviewers can be certain that no 
budgeted line items are included in the indirect cost pool. Applicants 
that do not submit a current Indirect Cost Rate Agreement may not be 
able to claim the Indirect Cost Rate as an allowable cost, may have the 
grant award amount reduced, or may experience a delay in grant award.
    Applicants are strongly encouraged to include sufficient funds for 
principal representatives, such as the applicant's chief financial 
officer or project director to travel to one regional ANA post-award 
grant training and technical assistance workshop. This expenditure is 
allowable for new grant recipients and optional for grantees that have 
had previous ANA grant awards, and will be negotiated upon award.
    Cost Effectiveness: This section of the criterion reflects ANA's 
concern with ensuring that the expenditure of its limited resources 
yields the greatest benefit possible in achieving environmentally sound 
and healthy Native American communities.

Results or Benefits Expected--15 Points

    Project Impact/Evaluation: In this criterion, the applicant will 
discuss the ``Impact Indicators'' (see Definitions) and the benefits 
expected as a result of this project. Impact indicators identify 
qualitative and quantitative data directly associated with the project. 
Each applicant must submit five impact indicators to support the 
applicant's project. For each impact indicator submitted the applicant 
must discuss the relevance of the impact indicators to the project, the 
method used to track the indicator and the method used to determine 
project success. Impact indicators will be reported to ANA in the 
grantee's quarterly report. The applicant must indicate a target number 
to be achieved for the impact indicators. The impact indicators may be 
selected from the suggested list below, or they may be developed for a 
specific proposed project, or the applicant may submit a combination of 
both the ANA suggested indicators and project specific indicators. The 
suggested ANA indicators are: (1) The number of sites assessed (i.e., 
contamination sites or instances of pathway contamination due to 
proximity to FUDS); (2) the type of data collected for assessment; (3) 
number of contaminants identified; (4) types of capacity building 
systems created and implemented to support environmental mitigation 
program functions; (5) identification of Tribal or Village government 
regulations, codes or ordinances that were enacted and adopted; (6) 
number of infrastructure and administrative systems, including policies 
and procedures developed and implemented.
    The applicant should discuss the project's value and long-term 
impact to the participants and the community and explain how the 
information relates to the proposed project goals, objectives and 
outcomes. Applicants should discuss and present objectives and goals to 
be achieved and evaluated at the end of each budget period or quarter 
(if applicable). Project outcomes should

[[Page 33176]]

support the identified need and should be measurable and quantifiable.

Organizational Profiles--15 Points

    Organizational Capacity: In this criterion, the application 
provides information on the management structure of the applicant and 
the organizational relationships with its cooperating partners. Include 
an organizational chart that indicates where the proposed project will 
fit in the existing structure. Demonstrates experience in the program 
area. Describe the administrative structure, and the applicant's 
ability to administer and implement a project of the proposed scope and 
its capacity to fulfill the implementation plan. Applicants are 
required to affirm that they will credit the Administration for Native 
Americans, and reference the ANA funded project on any audio, video, 
and/or printed materials developed in whole or in part with ANA funds.
    Applicants must list all current sources of Federal funding, the 
agency, purpose, amount, and provide the most recent certified signed 
audit letter for the organization to be included in Part One of the 
application. If the applicant has audit exceptions, these issues must 
be discussed in this criterion.
    Applicants must provide ``staffing and position data'' to include a 
proposed staffing pattern for the project where the applicant 
highlights the new project staff. Positions discussed in this section 
must match the positions identified in the Objective Work Plan and in 
the proposed budget. Applicant must provide a paragraph of the duties 
and skills required for the proposed staff and a paragraph on 
qualifications and experience of current staff. Full position 
descriptions are required to be submitted and included in the Appendix. 
Applicant must explain how the current and future staff will manage the 
proposed project. Brief biographies of key positions or individuals 
must be included. (Note: Applicants are strongly encouraged to give 
preference to qualified Native Americans in hiring project staff and in 
contracting services under an approved ANA grant.)
    If applicable, applicant must identify consortium membership. The 
consortium applicant must be the recipient of the funds. A consortium 
applicant must be an ``eligible entity'' as defined by this Program 
Announcement and the ANA regulations. Consortium applicants must 
include documentation (a resolution adopted pursuant to the 
organization's established procedures and signed by an authorized 
representative) from all consortium members supporting the ANA 
application. An application from a consortium must have goals and 
objectives that will create positive impacts and outcomes in the 
communities of its members. ANA will not fund activities by a 
consortium of Tribes that duplicate activities for which member Tribes 
also receive funding from ANA. The consortium application must identify 
the role and responsibility of each participating consortium member and 
a copy of the consortia legal agreement or Memoranda of Agreement to 
support the proposed project.

Introduction--Project Summary/Abstract--10 Points

    Introduction and Project Summary/Application Format: Introduction 
and Project Summary: Using the ANA Project Abstract form (OMB Control 
Number 0980-0204, exp. 10/31/06), the applicant must include: The name 
of the applicant, the project title, the Federal amount requested, the 
amount of matching funds to be provided, length of time required to 
accomplish the project, the goal of the project, a list of the project 
objectives (not activities), the estimated number of people to be 
served and the expected outcomes of the project.
    In addition to the Project Abstract form, the applicant will 
provide an introductory summary narrative that includes: An overview of 
the project, a description of the community to be served, the location 
of the identified community, a declarative statement identifying the 
need for the project, and a brief overview of the project's objectives, 
strategy and community or organizational impact.
    Application Format: Applicants are required to submit applications 
in a standard format, following the ANA requirements on application 
length, font, numbering, line spacing, etc. Please refer to Section IV 
Part 2, ``Content and Form of Application Submission'' for detailed 
formatting instructions.
2. Review and Selection Process
    No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of 
an incomplete application.
    Initial Screening: Each application submitted under an ANA program 
announcement will undergo a pre-review screening to determine: (a) 
Timeliness--the application was received by 4:30 p.m. eastern time on 
the closing date; (b) the funding request does not exceed the upper 
value of the dollar range specified; (c) the applicant has submitted a 
current signed and dated resolution from the governing body; and, (d) 
if the applicant is not a Tribe or Alaska Native Village government, 
the applicant has submitted proof of a majority of the board of 
directors is representative of the community to be served. An 
application that does not meet one of the above elements will be 
determined to be incomplete and excluded from the competitive review 
process. Applicants with incomplete applications will be notified by 
mail within 30 business days from the closing date of this program 
announcement. ANA staff cannot respond to requests for information 
regarding funding decisions prior to the official applicant 
notification. After the Commissioner has made decisions on all 
applications, unsuccessful applicants will be notified in writing 
within 90 days. The notification will include the reviewer comments. 
Applicants are not ranked based on general financial need. Applicants 
who are initially excluded from competition because of ineligibility 
may appeal the agency's decision. Applicants may also appeal an ANA 
decision that an applicant's proposed activities are ineligible for 
funding consideration. The appeals process is stated in the final rule 
published in the Federal Register on August 19, 1996 (61 FR 42817 and 
45 CFR part 1336, subpart C).
    Competitive Review Process: Applications that pass the initial ANA 
screening process will be analyzed, evaluated and rated by an 
independent review panel on the basis of the Evaluation Criteria. The 
evaluation criteria were designed to analyze and assess the quality of 
a proposed community-based project, the likelihood of its success, and 
the ability of ANA to monitor and evaluate community impact and long-
term results. The evaluation criteria and analysis are closely related 
and are wholly considered in judging the overall quality of an 
application. In addition, the evaluation criteria standardizes the 
review of each application and distributes the number of points more 
equitably. Applications will be evaluated in accordance with the 
program announcement criteria and ANA's program areas of interest. A 
determination will be made as to whether the project is an effective 
use of Federal funds.
    Application Review Criteria: Applicants will be reviewed based on 
the following criteria and points: ANA's criteria categories are 
Introduction and Project Summary/Application Format; Need for 
Assistance; Project Approach; Organizational Capacity; Project Impact/
Evaluation; and Budget and Budget Narrative/Cost Effectiveness.

[[Page 33177]]

    Application Consideration: The Commissioner's funding decision is 
based on an analysis of the application by the review panel, panel 
review scores and recommendations; an analysis by ANA staff; review of 
previous ANA grantee's past performance; comments from State and 
Federal agencies having contract and grant performance related 
information; and other interested parties. The Commissioner makes grant 
awards consistent with the purpose of the Native American Programs Act 
(NAPA), all relevant statutory and regulatory requirements, this 
program announcement, and the availability of appropriated funds. The 
Commissioner reserves the right to award more, or less, than the funds 
described or under such circumstances as may be deemed to be in the 
best interest of the Federal government. Applicants may be required to 
reduce the scope of projects based on the amount of approved award.
    Federal. Since ACF will be using non-Federal reviewers in the 
process, applicants have the option of omitting from the application 
copies (not the original) of specific salary rates or amounts for 
individuals specified in the application budget and Social Security 
numbers, if otherwise required for individuals. The copies may include 
summary salary information.
    Approved but Unfunded Applications. Applications that are approved 
but unfunded may be held over for funding in the next funding cycle, 
pending the availability of funds, for a period not to exceed one year.
3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates
    Approximately 120 days after the application due date, the 
successful applicants will be notified by mail through the issuance of 
a Financial Assistance Award document which will set forth the amount 
of funds granted, the terms and conditions of the grant, the effective 
date of the grant, the budget period for which initial support will be 
given, the non-Federal share to be provided and the total project 
period for which support is contemplated. The Financial Assistance 
Award will be signed by the Grants Officer and sent to the applicant's 
Authorizing Official. Applications not funded in this competition will 
be notified in writing.

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices

    The successful applicants will be notified through the issuance of 
a Financial Assistance Award document which sets forth the amount of 
funds granted, the terms and conditions of the grant, the effective 
date of the grant, the budget period for which initial support will be 
given, the non-Federal share to be provided (if applicable), and the 
total project period for which support is contemplated. The Financial 
Assistance Award will be signed by the Grants Officer and transmitted 
via postal mail.
    Organizations whose applications will not be funded will be 
notified in writing.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

    Grantees are subject to the requirements in 45 CFR Part 74 (non-
governmental) or 45 CFR part 92 (governmental); 45 CFR part 1336; and, 
Native American Programs Act of 1974-42 U.S.C. 2991 et seq.
    Direct Federal grants, subaward funds, or contracts under this 
Program shall not be used to support inherently religious activities 
such as religious instruction, worship, or proselytization. Therefore, 
organizations must take steps to separate, in time or location, their 
inherently religious activities from the services funded under this 
Program. Regulations pertaining to the prohibition of Federal funds for 
inherently religious activities can be found on the HHS Web site at: 
http://www.os.dhhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf.

3. Reporting Requirements

    Program Progress Reports: Quarterly
    Financial Reports: Quarterly
    Special Reporting Requirements: An original and one copy of each 
performance report and financial status report must be submitted to the 
Grants Officer. Failure to submit these reports when required will mean 
the grantee is non-compliant with the terms and conditions of the grant 
award and subject to administrative action or termination. Program 
progress reports are submitted 30 days after each quarter (3-month 
intervals) of the budget period. The final program progress report, due 
90 days after the project period end date, shall cover grantee 
performance during the entire project period. All grantees shall use 
the SF 269 (Long Form) to report the status of funds. Financial Status 
Reports are submitted 30 days after each quarter (3-month intervals) of 
the budget period. The final SF 269 report shall be due 90 days after 
the end of the project period.

VII. Agency Contacts

Program Office Contact

    ANA Applicant Help Desk, Aerospace Center, 8th Floor West, 370 
L'Enfant Promenade SW., Washington, DC 20047, Phone: 877-922-9262, E-
mail: [email protected].

Grants Management Office Contact

    Tim Chappelle, Administration for Children and Families, Office of 
Grants Management, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant 
Promenade SW., Aerospace Building 8th Floor West, Washington, DC 20447-
0002, Phone: 202-401-2344, E-mail: [email protected].

VIII. Other Information

    Notice: Beginning with FY 2006, the Administration for Children and 
Families (ACF) will no longer publish grant announcements in the 
Federal Register. Beginning October 1, 2005 applicants will be able to 
find a synopsis of all ACF grant opportunities and apply electronically 
for opportunities via: www.Grants.gov. Applicants will also be able to 
find the complete text of all ACF grant announcements on the ACF Web 
site located at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/index.html.
    Training and Technical Assistance (T&TA): All potential ANA 
applicants are eligible to receive T&TA. Prospective applicants should 
check ANA's Web site for training and technical assistance dates and 
locations, or contact the ANA Help Desk at 1-877-922-9262.
    Please reference Section IV.3 for details about acknowledgement of 
received applications.

    Dated: May 24, 2005.
Kimberly Romine,
Deputy Commissioner, Administration for Native Americans.
[FR Doc. 05-11279 Filed 6-6-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P