Foa_Content_of_CDC-RFA-CK21-2102.pdf

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases

Strengthening Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) prevention and control in Arizona tribal lands

CDC-RFA-CK21-2102

Application Due Date will be submitted as: date based on the value specified for Due Date for

Applications

Table of Contents A. Funding Opportunity Description

B. Award Information

C. Eligibility Information

D. Application and Submission Information

E. Review and Selection Process

F. Award Administration Information

G. Agency Contacts

H. Other Information

I. Glossary

Part I. Overview Applicants must go to the synopsis page of this announcement at www.grants.gov and click on the "Subscribe" button link to ensure they receive notifications of any changes to CDC-RFA- CK21-2102. Applicants also must provide an e-mail address to www.grants.gov to receive notifications of changes.

A. Federal Agency Name:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) / Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) B. Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Title:

Strengthening Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) prevention and control in Arizona tribal lands C. Announcement Type: New - Type 1:

This announcement is only for non-research activities supported by CDC. If research is proposed, the application will not be considered. For this purpose, research is defined at https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2007-title42-vol1/pdf/CFR-2007-title42-vol1-sec52- 2.pdf. Guidance on how CDC interprets the definition of research in the context of public health can be found at https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/regulations-and-policy/regulations/45-cfr- 46/index.html (See section 45 CFR 46.102(d)).

D. Agency Notice of Funding Opportunity Number:

CDC-RFA-CK21-2102

E. Assistance Listings Number:

93.772 F. Dates:

1. Due Date for Letter of Intent (LOI):

The LOI date will generate once the Synopsis is published if Days or a Date are entered.

https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2007-title42-vol1/pdf/CFR-2007-title42-vol1-sec52-2.pdf https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2007-title42-vol1/pdf/CFR-2007-title42-vol1-sec52-2.pdf https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/regulations-and-policy/regulations/45-cfr-46/index.html https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/regulations-and-policy/regulations/45-cfr-46/index.html

2. Due Date for Applications:

Application Due Date will be submitted as: date based on the value specified for Due Date for Applications 11:59 p.m. U.S. Eastern Standard Time, at www.grants.gov.

3. Due Date for Informational Conference Call:

March 24, 2021 4:00 pm EST https://cdc.zoomgov.com/j/1601031435?pwd=bDkrV25uSGI0YlBqcmVESHNZeVdaZz09 Passcode: 2k#s8!BK Or iPhone one-tap :

US: +16692545252,,1601031435#,,,,,,0#,,15572266# or +16692161590,,1601031435#,,,,,,0#,,15572266# Or Telephone:

Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):

US: +1 669 254 5252 or +1 669 216 1590 or +1 646 828 7666 or +1 551 285 1373 Webinar ID: 160 103 1435 Passcode: 15572266

G. Executive Summary:

1. Summary Paragraph This NOFO support’s CDC’s mission to protect America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S. Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a life-threatening tickborne disease which is impacting Arizona tribal communities at epidemic rates. Incidence of RMSF in certain tribal communities is more than 150 times higher than the national average.

Prevention of RMSF requires collaboration of human, animal, and environmental health partners.

While key prevention practices have been successfully identified, sustainable prevention programs have not been attained in many communities due to a lack of training, resources, and infrastructure. Building tribal capacity for RMSF prevention requires development of services and infrastructure relating to animal wellness, vector control, education, and outreach for American Indian (AI) populations in Arizona.

Specific strategies and outcomes may include, but are not limited to:

1. Improve dissemination of proven RMSF prevention practices to AI communities in Arizona

2. Increase community understanding of RMSF and how it can be prevented

3. Conduct an evaluation of current RMSF programs

4. Increase the availability and utilization of public health resources such as vector control and animal control to support sustainable RMSF prevention

The award will be provided annually for a possible period of 3 years. Recipients are expected to complete prevention activities and measure the impact of efforts on RMSF indicators over the period of performance. Groundwork for the development of sustainable RMSF prevention programs should already be started before the end of the award.

a. Eligible Applicants:

Single

b. Funding Instrument Type:

CA (Cooperative Agreement) https://www.grants.gov/ https://cdc.zoomgov.com/j/1601031435?pwd=bDkrV25uSGI0YlBqcmVESHNZeVdaZz09

c. Approximate Number of Awards

d. Total Period of Performance Funding:

$ 1,800,000

e. Average One Year Award Amount:

$ 58,000 Awards may vary $10,000-350,000 depending on disease burden in the area, and quality of the application

f. Total Period of Performance Length:

g. Estimated Award Date:

August 01, 2021

h. Cost Sharing and / or Matching Requirements:

No Cost sharing or matching funds are not required for this program. Although no statutory matching requirement for this NOFO exists, leveraging other resources and related ongoing efforts to promote sustainability is strongly encouraged. Sources for cost sharing or matching include complementary foundation funding, other US government funding sources, including programs supported by HHS or other agencies (e.g., Department of Agriculture, Department of Education, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Transportation, Environmental Protection Agency, US Park Service) and other funding sources.

Part II. Full Text A. Funding Opportunity Description

1. Background

a. Overview

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announces a funding opportunity to build capacity to prevent and control Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) on tribal lands of Arizona.[1] RMSF is a life-threatening tickborne disease. An ongoing epidemic of RMSF affects tribal lands in Arizona with nearly 500 cases and 28 deaths since 2003—a case fatality rate 15 times higher than that national rate.[2]

Epidemics in Arizona tribal communities are perpetuated by large populations of brown dog ticks and free-roaming dog populations, and thus require targeted and unique tick control tactics. Effective control strategies have been identified through evidence-based research with tribal, federal, state, and private partners in an innovative project called the RMSF Rodeo. This project demonstrated that integrated pest management techniques including use of long-acting tick collars on dogs and environmental pesticide, could effectively reduce the number of ticks on dogs, in the environment, and more importantly, reduce the incidence of RMSF in tribal communities. Cases in the project area were reduced by 43%. While these effective techniques have been identified and successfully implemented, they require fundamental infrastructure in vector control and animal control, which are often lacking in tribal communities.

CDC is committed to supporting and improving public health at all levels: state, tribal, local and territorial. As a federal agency, CDC recognizes its special obligations to, and http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0112368&type=printable unique relationship with, the AI population, and is committed to fulfilling its critical role in assuring that AI communities establish a safer and healthier environment for their members.

For the purpose of this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO), strengthening tribal programs refers to improved prevention practices, service delivery, quality control, and program evaluation in program areas relating to animal wellness, vector control, education, and outreach for AI populations in Arizona. Applicants are expected to achieve outcomes from the following: increased dissemination or process improvement of proven interventions for RMSF prevention efforts, development and evaluation of locally-minded RMSF communications plan, RMSF program evaluation or increased availability of RMSF support services such as vector control and animal control to strengthen sustainable RMSF prevention programs.

[1] Throughout this NOFO, “tribe” refers to federally recognized tribal governments – Federally Recognized Tribal Governments – Indian tribes with whom the federal government maintains an official government-to-government relationship; usually established by a federal treaty, statute, executive order, court order, or a Federal Administrative Action. The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) maintains and regularly publishes the list of federally recognized Indian tribes.

US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Tribal Consultation Policy, section 17 (Revised 12/2010)

[2] Tribal lands refers to federal Indian reservations – A federal Indian reservation is an area of land reserved for a tribe or tribes under treaty or other agreement with the United States, executive order, or federal statute or administrative action as permanent tribal homelands, and where the federal government holds title to the land in trust on behalf of the tribe.

b. Statutory Authorities This program is authorized under Public Health Service Act 317(k)(2), as amended [42 U.S.C.

section 247b(k)(2)].

c. Healthy People 2030 Healthy People 2030 provides national health objectives for improving the health of Americans by encouraging cross-sector collaboration, guiding individuals toward informed health decisions and measuring the impact of prevention activities. This program addresses the Healthy People 2030 aim to reduce rates of infectious diseases, eliminate health disparities, achieve health equity, and attain health literacy to improve the health and well-being of all.

d. Other National Public Health Priorities and Strategies This NOFO supports one of CDC’s strategic goals to use science and innovation to prevent, detect and respond to public health threats. Reducing RMSF is one of measures of success identified by CDC leadership: Reduce by 75% cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever in US tribal communities.

This NOFO further aligns with the new National Public Health Framework for the Prevention and Control of Vector-Borne Diseases in Humans, which calls for the dissemination and support of effective public health and vector control products, tools, and programs to prevent, detect, diagnose, and respond to vector-borne disease threats.

file://cdc.gov/private/L131/isj3/NCEZID/FTE/RMSF/FOA/DINR_NOFO_RMSFCapacitybuilding%20FY2021_Draft_11-29-2020.docx#_ftnref1 http://www.hhs.gov/iea/tribal/tribalconsultation/hhs-consultation-policy.pdf file://cdc.gov/private/L131/isj3/NCEZID/FTE/RMSF/FOA/DINR_NOFO_RMSFCapacitybuilding%20FY2021_Draft_11-29-2020.docx#_ftnref2 https://health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/infectious-disease https://health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/infectious-disease https://www.cdc.gov/about/organization/strategic-framework/index.html https://www.cdc.gov/about/organization/strategic-framework/index.html https://www.cdc.gov/ncezid/dvbd/framework.html https://www.cdc.gov/ncezid/dvbd/framework.html

e. Relevant Work This NOFO complements the approach of other CDC programs to strengthen public health capacity in Indian Country to improve the health and wellness of American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations (e.g., CDC’s Good Health and Wellness in Indian Country program to address chronic disease and the FY2018 NOFO Tribal Public Health Capacity Building and Quality Improvement). This NOFO also complements the CSTLTS capacity building NOFO funded starting in 2018 which supports one tribal program in building RMSF prevention capacity. This additional NOFO will provide further opportunity to other impacted tribal communities and provide opportunities to evaluate program efficacy.

2. CDC Project Description

a. Approach Bold indicates period of performance outcome.

CDC-RFA-CK21-2102 Logic Model: Strengthening Rocky Mountain spotted fever prevention and control in Arizona Tribal communities Bold indicates period of performance outcome Funding recipients are expected to address at least one of the activities listed below.

Activities Short-term outcomes (end of year 1-2)

Intermediate outcomes (year 3)

Long-term outcomes

1. Implement and adapt evidence-based interventions to reduce Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF)

a. Tailor RMSF prevention strategies for your tribal community, or

b. Conduct process improvement for current RMSF prevention strategies to make more resource efficient.

Adoption of

RMSF

prevention practices within the tribal community.

Improved collection, maintenance and interpretation of RMSF data.

More efficient targeting of RMSF prevention efforts using data-driven approach.

Increased effectiveness, efficiency and impact of RMSF prevention.

Implemented policies to support programs and services for RMSF prevention.

2. Develop, disseminate, and evaluate locally-minded communications plan for RMSF with culturally appropriate messaging.

Increased awareness of

RMSF

prevention messaging across tribal demographics.

Increased understanding of RMSF among tribal members and how it can be prevented.

3. Strengthen RMSF support services and partnerships (such as animal control, vector control or environmental management) in tribal communities (by training, equipping tribal program or utilizing contracted services).

Developed new partnerships to support

RMSF

prevention services.

Increased utilization of vector control, animal control, and/or environmental health services by tribal communities to support RMSF prevention.

Implemented policies to support programs and services for RMSF prevention.

Improved RMSF prevention operations to support the health of tribal communities.

Reduce hospitalizations and death from RMSF.

Development of sustainable public health programs for the prevention of RMSF in tribal communities.

https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/tribal/factsheet.htm https://www.cdc.gov/tribal/cooperative-agreements/tribal-capacity-building-OT18-1803.html

i. Purpose The purpose of this NOFO is to provide resources to tribal nations impacted by Rocky Mountain spotted fever in Arizona. These resources will support the development and maintenance of RMSF prevention and control programs within their communities by increasing use of evidence-based interventions, developing improved communications products, strengthening RMSF support services like animal control and vector control services within the community, enhancing tracking of key progress indicators, and by providing support to evaluate the use of current RMSF prevention programs.

ii. Outcomes The program is expected to demonstrate measurable progress towards addressing the short-term and intermediate outcomes that appear in bold in the NOFO logic model. Indicators that quantify these outcomes are described in the section entitled CDC Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategy. Funding recipients are expected to address at least one of the activities listed in the logic model. Expected outcomes by activity include:

Implement and adapt evidence-based interventions to reduce RMSF

Adoption of RMSF prevention practices within the tribal community (short-term) Improved collection, maintenance and interpretation of RMSF data (short-term) More efficient targeting of RMSF prevention efforts using data-driven approach

(intermediate) Increased effectiveness, efficiency and impact of RMSF prevention (intermediate)

Develop, disseminate, and evaluate locally-minded communications plan for RMSF with culturally appropriate messaging

Increased awareness of RMSF prevention messaging across tribal demographics (short-term)

Increased understanding of RMSF among tribal members and how it can be prevented (intermediate)

Strengthen RMSF support services and partnerships (such as animal control, vector control or environmental management) in tribal communities (by training or equipping tribal program or utilizing contracted services)

Developed new partnerships to support RMSF prevention services (short-term) Increased utilization of vector control, animal control, and/or environmental health services by tribal communities to support RMSF prevention (intermediate)

Following the period of performance, all program activities supported through this NOFO are intended to improve RMSF prevention operations for tribal communities. Increased and improved prevention will in turn reduce hospitalizations and deaths from RMSF and help support sustainable public health programs for impacted tribal communities.

iii. Strategies and Activities Within the Project Narrative, applicants must clearly identify and address one or more of the following activities.

1. Implement and adapt evidence-based interventions to reduce RMSF by either:

a. Tailoring proven RMSF prevention strategies for your tribal community; or

b. Conducting process improvement for current RMSF prevention strategies to make programs more resource efficient.

Activities may involve, but are not limited to, testing of different tick control products and evaluation of product dissemination (for example in targeted vs. community-wide strategies or prioritization of highly impacted communities). In order to fulfill this activity, recipients should develop an evaluation plan to assess the impact of RMSF control strategies and track best practices. Within the period of performance tribes should collect baseline information and compare to improved or new interventions. Recipients may further consider a formal evaluation of a current program which could include not only service utilization and disease outcome measures, but also key informant interviews about the value of the program. If cost-efficacy is a priority for the tribe, then reporting should include summary of cost of intervention per case averted or other similar measure.

2. Develop, disseminate and evaluate locally-minded RMSF communications plan with culturally appropriate messaging. If this activity is selected a copy of the communications plan should be completed within the first budget period and should outline or describe target audiences, provide example messages or communications products, and annual report should include the number of recipients reached for each of the newly developed products. The ultimate goal of this activity is to both develop the communications plan and complete and report on an evaluation of new messaging. The impact of improved communication should be documented through use of a pre-post survey or focus group evaluation to show changes in understanding. An assessment in changed knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, or practices should be completed within the period of performance.

3. Strengthen RMSF support services (such as animal control, vector control or environmental management) in tribal communities (by training, equipping tribal program or utilizing contracted services). Improved service offering can be completed by training or equipping local resources in environmental management or vector control or by offering contracted services for items such as waste management, vector control, veterinary services, etc. Whenever possible, sustainability past the period of performance should be kept in mind, thus there is an emphasis on building partnerships and increasing local capacity. If this activity is selected recipients will be expected to collect and analyze data on service utilization and impact on disease incidence. If any local policies are developed or implemented to support service utilization (for instance animal control ordinances requiring animals to be spayed or neutered) summaries of policies should be provided in annual reports with a discussion of the intended impact on RMSF services.

1. Collaborations

a. With other CDC programs and CDC-funded organizations:

Recipients are encouraged, but not required to collaborate with CDC’s offices of Center for State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Support or National Center for Environmental Health.

b. With organizations not funded by CDC:

RMSF is a multidisciplinary problem requiring a coalition of support. Collaboration with state, federal, tribal and local government agencies and relevant public health organizations and non-profit partners is strongly encouraged, but not required. Specific collaborations are at the discretion of the tribal program, but may include the Arizona Department of Health Services, Indian Health Service, tribal epidemiology centers or Urban Indian Health Centers, county health departments, local universities, non-profit partners with interest in vector control, human health or animal wellness. Although not required, the strongest applications will include evidence of relevant partnerships (for example, list of coalition partners, or copies of MOU/MOA/letter of support). Formalized collaborations under an MOU/MOA/letter of support are not required for the purposes of this funding opportunity and are at the discretion of the tribe. If included in your application, please combine relevant coalition lists/MOU/MOA/letters of support as one pdf labeled “External partnerships” in www.grants.gov. Subsequent MOUs/MOAs developed following the award which directly relate to the activities in the recipient work plan should be shared with the project officer.

2. Target Populations RMSF causes premature death and disability in tribal communities at a rate greatly exceeding the national average, targeted efforts to prevent RMSF in these communities aims to eliminate health disparity in RMSF morbidity and mortality. Outcomes of the NOFO should benefit tribal members living in communities which have recently reported RMSF cases. Within the background section of the project narrative, applicants must clearly identify how the proposed plans, capacity building or quality improvements will reduce the impact of RMSF within their tribal community.

a. Health Disparities Rocky Mountain spotted fever is deeply intertwined with social determinants of health. Many impacted communities are in rural locations with limited resources for sanitation, animal wellness, and vector control services. Lack of certain health resources, including veterinary support for spay and neuter, animal control and strong infrastructure for waste management place communities at increased risk for tick proliferation, and thus Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

iv. Funding Strategy Awards may vary from $10,000-$350,000 each year depending on disease burden in the area, and quality of the application. Applicants must provide evidence of disease burden within their tribal community. Evidence of disease burden can simply be an email from the state health department reporting the number of cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever reported within the last 5 years (2015-2020).

Initial awards may be weighted based on disease burden during 2015-2020:

Tribes reporting 1-10 cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) are eligible for $10,000- $50,000:

Hopi Navajo Nation (NN) Gila River Indian Community (GRIC)

Tribes reporting 11-30 cases of RMSF are eligible for $20,000-$100,000:

Tohono O’odham Nation (TON) http://www.grants.gov/

Tribes reporting greater than 30 cases of RMSF are eligible for $50,000-$350,000:

White Mountain Apache Tribe (WMAT) San Carlos Apache Tribe (SCAT)

Evidence of disease burden should be named “RMSF Disease Burden” and uploaded as a pdf at www.grants.gov.

Funds received as part of this NOFO can be used to complement other federally funded RMSF prevention activities but budget items (including equipment, salaries, and contract) should not duplicate currently funded requests. to avoid redundancy applicants must disclose any other federal funds from the current fiscal year that have been received or applied specifically for RMSF prevention. NOFO activities should be distinctly different from those funded by other federal or private funding opportunities.

b. Evaluation and Performance Measurement

i. CDC Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategy

ii. Applicant Evaluation and Performance Measurement Plan Applicants must provide an evaluation and performance measurement plan that demonstrates how the recipient will fulfill the requirements described in the CDC Evaluation and Performance Measurement and Project Description sections of this NOFO. At a minimum, the plan must describe:

How the applicant will collect the performance measures, respond to the evaluation questions, and use evaluation findings for continuous program quality improvement.

How key program partners will participate in the evaluation and performance measurement planning processes.

Available data sources, feasibility of collecting appropriate evaluation and performance data, and other relevant data information (e.g., performance measures proposed by the applicant)

Plans for updating the Data Management Plan (DMP) as new pertinent information becomes available. If applicable, throughout the lifecycle of the project. Updates to DMP should be provided in annual progress reports. The DMP should provide a description of the data that will be produced using these NOFO funds; access to data;

data standards ensuring released data have documentation describing methods of collection, what the data represent, and data limitations; and archival and long-term data preservation plans. For more information about CDC’s policy on the DMP, see https://www.cdc.gov/grants/additionalrequirements/ar-25.html.

Where the applicant chooses to, or is expected to, take on specific evaluation studies, the applicant should be directed to:

Describe the type of evaluations (i.e., process, outcome, or both).

Describe key evaluation questions to be addressed by these evaluations.

Describe other information (e.g., measures, data sources).

https://www.cdc.gov/grants/additionalrequirements/ar-25.html

Recipients will be required to submit a more detailed Evaluation and Performance Measurement plan, including a DMP, if applicable, within the first 6 months of award, as described in the Reporting Section of this NOFO.

c. Organizational Capacity of Recipients to Implement the Approach Applicants must describe their organizational capacity to carry out the activities, strategies, performance measures, and evaluation requirements as outlined in the NOFO.

General capacity:

All applicants must describe their organizational capacity to carry out CDC program requirements and meet the period of performance outcomes. Day-to-day responsibilities for key tasks, such as project leadership, monitoring of the project's ongoing progress, preparation of reports, program evaluation, and communication with partners and CDC, should be outlined.

Applicants must provide evidence of the following:

Adequate staffing or staffing plans to carry out activities in the workplan. Provide organizational chart and CV/resume of program staff supporting project. Label files as "CVs/Resumes" or "Organizational Charts" and upload as separate pdfs at www.grants.gov.

Experience with program planning, management and evaluation if program evaluation is selected as a strategic goal. Note within the general capacity section staff name (and include their CV) with program planning, monitoring or evaluation. If this skill set is not available prior to application, describe how the tribe will obtain this experience or request technical assistance to obtain it.

Full capacity to manage required procurement efforts, including the ability to write and award subcontracts

Applicants must demonstrate willingness and capacity to share lessons learned with other recipients and tribes throughout Indian Country and with CDC.

Federally recognized AI/AN tribal nations will additionally need to demonstrate support from the tribe by providing an official letter from official tribal leaders, or a tribal resolution.

Official email correspondence from elected leaders will be accepted. File should be named "Tribal Support” and uploaded as a PDF at www.grants.gov.

d. Work Plan Work plans for applicants must include, at a minimum, the following:

Identification of the following for which the applicant is applying:

One or more of the three activities within the logic model

List at least 2 short term and 1 long term outcome as is appropriate for the tribal project (can be modified from those listed in the logic model if needed)

A descriptive detailed Year 1 plan with SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound) strategies and activities to support achievement of the outcomes chosen. These activities must align with the cooperative agreement's logic model and should have appropriate performance measures or milestones for accomplishing tasks. More information about developing SMART strategies is available at Develop Smart Objectives.

A high-level three-year work plan that addresses how progress will continue Intended outcomes for the first year of the period of performance and how they will be measured Program strategies to be used during the first year of the period of performance Mechanisms to address selected program strategies Timeline for the first year of the period of performance

A sample work plan template is provided below. Applicants are required to include all of the elements listed within the sample work plan. CDC will provide feedback and technical assistance to recipients to finalize the work plan activities post-award.

In this format, the table would be completed for each period of performance outcome. If a particular activity leads to multiple outcomes, it should be described under each outcome measure.

Period of Performance Outcome:

[from Outcomes section and/or logic model]

Outcome Measure:

[from Evaluation and Performance Measurement section]

Strategies and Activities

Process Measure [from Evaluation and Performance Measurement section]

Responsible Position / Party

Completion Date

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

e. CDC Monitoring and Accountability Approach Monitoring activities include routine and ongoing communication between CDC and recipients, site visits, and recipient reporting (including work plans, performance, and financial reporting).

Consistent with applicable grants regulations and policies, CDC expects the following to be included in post-award monitoring for grants and cooperative agreements:

Tracking recipient progress in achieving the desired outcomes.

Ensuring the adequacy of recipient systems that underlie and generate data reports.

Creating an environment that fosters integrity in program performance and results.

Monitoring may also include the following activities deemed necessary to monitor the award:

https://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/evaluation_resources/guides/writing-smart-objectives.htm

Ensuring that work plans are feasible based on the budget and consistent with the intent of the award.

Ensuring that recipients are performing at a sufficient level to achieve outcomes within stated timeframes.

Working with recipients on adjusting the work plan based on achievement of outcomes, evaluation results and changing budgets.

Monitoring performance measures (both programmatic and financial) to assure satisfactory performance levels.

Monitoring and reporting activities that assist grants management staff (e.g., grants management officers and specialists, and project officers) in the identification, notification, and management of high-risk recipients.

Conference calls between CDC and the recipients will include discussion of project updates, technical assistance needs and discussion about overcoming project barriers. Conference call frequency will be determined by the CDC project officer and the recipient following the award.

Under a cooperative agreement, CDC is responsible for normal oversight and monitoring activities. Examples of normal oversight and monitoring activities are listed below:

1. Organize an orientation meeting with the recipient for a briefing on applicable U.S.

Government and HHS/CDC expectations, regulations, and key management requirements, as well as report formats and contents. The orientation could include meetings with staff from CDC.

2. Review and approve recipient's annual work plan and detailed budget.

3. Review and approve the recipient's monitoring and evaluation plan, including for compliance with the strategic information guidance.

4. Meet on a regular basis with the recipient to assess expenditures in relation to approved work plan and modify plans as necessary.

5. Meet on a quarterly basis with the recipient to assess quarterly technical and financial progress reports and modify plans as necessary.

6. Meet on an annual basis with the recipient to review annual progress report for each U.S.

Government Fiscal Year, and to review annual work plans and budgets for the subsequent year.

7. Provide technical oversight for all activities under this award.

B. Award Information

1. Funding Instrument Type:

CA (Cooperative Agreement) CDC's substantial involvement in this program appears in the CDC Program Support to Recipients Section.

2. Award Mechanism:

U50

In cooperation with State or local government or other health-related organization, to perform special investigations of communicable diseases and other preventable health conditions, or to evaluate special methods of preventing disease or controlling health conditions.

3. Fiscal Year:

4. Approximate Total Fiscal Year Funding:

$ 350,000

5. Total Period of Performance Funding:

$ 1,800,000 This amount is subject to the availability of funds.

Estimated Total Funding:

$ 1,800,000

6. Total Period of Performance Length:

year(s)

7. Expected Number of Awards:

8. Approximate Average Award:

$ 58,000 Per Budget Period

Awards may vary $10,000-350,000 depending on disease burden in the area, and quality of the application

9. Award Ceiling:

$ 350,000 Per Budget Period

This amount is subject to the availability of funds.

10. Award Floor:

$ 10,000 Per Budget Period

11. Estimated Award Date:

August 01, 2021

12. Budget Period Length:

12 month(s)

Throughout the project period, CDC will continue the award based on the availability of funds, the evidence of satisfactory progress by the recipient (as documented in required reports), and the determination that continued funding is in the best interest of the federal government. The total number of years for which federal support has been approved (project period) will be shown in the “Notice of Award.” This information does not constitute a commitment by the federal government to fund the entire period. The total period of performance comprises the initial competitive segment and any subsequent non-competitive continuation award(s).

13. Direct Assistance Direct Assistance (DA) is not available through this NOFO.

If you are successful and receive a Notice of Award, in accepting the award, you agree that the award and any activities thereunder are subject to all provisions of 45 CFR part 75, currently in effect or implemented during the period of the award, other Department regulations and policies in effect at the time of the award, and applicable statutory provisions.

C. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants Eligibility Category:

07 (Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized))

2. Additional Information on Eligibility This NOFO targets the development of RMSF prevention programs in areas in which brown dog tick transmitted RMSF has been observed. To date, this disease pattern has only been reported in six of tribal communities in Arizona and parts of northern Mexico. Only the six tribal communities in Arizona with reported cases of RMSF during 2015-2020 will be eligible to apply for this cooperative agreement; this includes the White Mountain Apache Tribe (WMAT), San Carlos Apache Tribe (SCAT), Gila River Indian Community (GRIC), Navajo Nation (NN), Hopi Tribe and Tohono O'odham Nation (TON).

3. Justification for Less than Maximum Competition This NOFO targets the development of RMSF prevention programs in areas in which brown dog tick transmitted RMSF has been observed. To date, this disease pattern has only been reported in six of tribal communities in Arizona and parts of northern Mexico. Only the six tribal communities in Arizona with reported cases of RMSF during 2015-2020 will be eligible to apply for this cooperative agreement; this includes the White Mountain Apache Tribe (WMAT), San Carlos Apache Tribe (SCAT), Gila River Indian Community (GRIC), Navajo Nation (NN), Hopi Tribe and Tohono O'odham Nation (TON). Funding will be based on applicant RMSF disease incidence in order to better support program priorities.

American Indian tribal governments are uniquely qualified to perform the programmatic activities for this project because:

Funding these applicants directly (rather than through state or local health departments or tribal organizations) allows maximum opportunity for public health action at the tribal level and builds a direct partnership between the tribe and CDC.

Tribes are uniquely positioned to make decisions, oversee and direct programs, and support the health and wellness of their communities with the direct support and authority of the tribal governing body.

Initiatives and improvements may be more likely to be sustained when they begin as tribal initiatives rather than those from nontribal or regional sources. In addition, tribes are most acutely aware of infrastructure limitations and the unique workings of local programs to help ensure programs are designed and maintained as appropriate for their tribal community.

The following provides more detail on specific issues:

A. Brown dog tick transmitted Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a unique issue to certain tribal communities in Arizona and requires a targeted approach to prevention and control. RMSF is a life-threatening tickborne disease. While RMSF is reported across the country, epidemic rates of RMSF have been reported on tribal lands in Arizona with nearly 500 cases and 28 deaths since 2003. The vast majority of cases, and all RMSF deaths have been reported form the six tribal communities listed above. Investigations in these areas have pointed to disease transmission by the brown dog tick. Epidemics of RMSF in Arizona tribal communities are uniquely driven by free roaming dogs carrying brown dog ticks. This unique pattern requires targeted tick control which is different from prevention effort used elsewhere in the country. Effective control strategies have been identified through evidence-based research with tribal, federal, state, and private partners in an innovative project called the RMSF Rodeo (https://academic.oup.com/trstmh/article/114/4/293/5670897). This project demonstrated that specific integrated pest management techniques targeting dogs and homes can effectively reduce the number of ticks on dogs, in the environment, and more importantly, reduced the incidence of RMSF in tribal communities.

B. Tribal public health disparities and cultural sensitivity may be best and most effectively addressed by tribes directly. AI/AN are disproportionately affected by certain medical conditions including RMSF. The observed disparity results from unique disease transmission patterns, social and environmental risk factors, and insufficient resources for prevention. Tribal governments have a unique understanding of these factors and will ensure that programs build on available resources and that all interventions are culturally appropriate and locally minded.

Despite the need, tribes are currently ineligible to receive direct funding through some of CDC’s largest infrastructure/capacity building grant programs. Tribal public health systems often lack the functional capacity to eliminate health disparities among Native persons due to a lack of vital infrastructure to accomplish critical public health work. Yet, tribes are not eligible for CDC’s largest infrastructure/capacity building grant programs like the Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity and Emerging Infections Program which are available to state and local health departments. The provision of technical assistance through state health departments subverts tribal sovereignty and the health priorities of the states may not always align with the health priorities designated by tribes through their tribal epidemiology centers. Funding tribes directly (instead of through state, local or tribal organizations) will ensure that all funds are utilized according to individual tribal needs. This approach will also enable CDC to provide technical support to the grantees and ensure their success in meeting programmatic goals for the best possible public health outcome. Lastly, funding tribal governments will enable CDC to directly work with tribes to measure their progress in achieving programmatic goals provide direct support in using scientifically-supported public health strategies for RMSF prevention.

4. Cost Sharing or Matching Cost Sharing / Matching Requirement:

No Cost sharing or matching funds are not required for this program. Although no statutory matching requirement for this NOFO exists, leveraging other resources and related ongoing efforts to promote sustainability is strongly encouraged. Sources for cost sharing or matching include complementary foundation funding, other US government funding sources, including programs supported by HHS or other agencies (e.g., Department of Agriculture, Department of Education, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Transportation, Environmental Protection Agency, US Park Service) and other funding sources.

5. Maintenance of Effort Maintenance of effort is not required for this program.

D. Application and Submission Information

1. Required Registrations An organization must be registered at the three following locations before it can submit an application for funding at www.grants.gov.

a. Data Universal Numbering System:

All applicant organizations must obtain a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number. A DUNS number is a unique nine-digit identification number provided by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). It will be used as the Universal Identifier when applying for federal awards or cooperative agreements.

The applicant organization may request a DUNS number by telephone at 1-866-705-5711 (toll free) or internet at http:// fedgov.dnb. com/ webform/ displayHomePage.do. The DUNS number will be provided at no charge.

If funds are awarded to an applicant organization that includes sub-recipients, those sub-recipients must provide their DUNS numbers before accepting any funds.

b. System for Award Management (SAM):

The SAM is the primary registrant database for the federal government and the repository into which an entity must submit information required to conduct business as a recipient. All applicant organizations must register with SAM, and will be assigned a SAM number. All information relevant to the SAM number must be current at all times during which the applicant has an application under consideration for funding by CDC. If an award is made, the SAM information must be maintained until a final financial report is submitted or the final payment is received, whichever is later. The SAM registration process can require 10 or more business days, and registration must be renewed annually. Additional information about registration procedures may be found at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/.

c. Grants.gov:

The first step in submitting an application online is registering your organization https://www.grants.gov/ http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform/displayHomePage.do https://www.sam.gov/SAM/ https://grants.gov/ at www.grants.gov, the official HHS E-grant Web site. Registration information is located at the "Applicant Registration" option at www.grants.gov.

All applicant organizations must register at www.grants.gov. The one-time registration process usually takes not more than five days to complete. Applicants should start the registration process as early as possible.

Step

System Requirements Duration Follow Up

Data Universal Number System

(DUNS)

1. Click on http:// fedgov.dnb.com/ webform

2. Select Begin DUNS search/request process

3. Select your country or territory and follow the instructions to obtain your DUNS 9-digit #

4. Request appropriate staff member(s) to obtain DUNS number, verify & update information under DUNS number

1-2 Business Days

To confirm that you have been issued a new DUNS number check online at (http:// fedgov.dnb.com/ webform) or call 1-866-705-

System for Award Management

(SAM)

formerly Central Contractor Registration

(CCR)

1. Retrieve organizations DUNS number

2. Go to https://www.sam.gov/SAM/ and designate an E-Biz POC (note CCR username will not work in SAM and you will need to have an active SAM account before you can register on grants.gov)

3-5 Business Days but up to 2 weeks and must be renewed once a year

For SAM Customer Service Contact https://fs d.gov/ fsd-gov/ home.do Calls: 86 6-606-8220

3 Grants.gov

1. Set up an individual account in Grants.gov using organization new DUNS number to become an authorized organization representative

(AOR)

2. Once the account is set up the E-BIZ POC will be notified via email

3. Log into grants.gov using the password the E-BIZ POC received and create new password

4. This authorizes the AOR to submit applications on behalf of the organization

Same day but can take 8 weeks to be fully registered and approved in the system (note, applicants MUST obtain a DUNS number and SAM account before applying on grants.gov)

Register early!

Log into grants.gov and check AOR status until it shows you have been approved https://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform https://www.sam.gov/SAM/ https://fsd.gov/fsd-gov/home.do https://fsd.gov/fsd-gov/home.do https://fsd.gov/fsd-gov/home.do

2. Request Application Package Applicants may access the application package at www.grants.gov.

3. Application Package Applicants must download the SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance, package associated with this notice of funding opportunity at www.grants.gov.

4. Submission Dates and Times If the application is not submitted by the deadline published in the NOFO, it will not be processed. Office of Grants Services (OGS) personnel will notify the applicant that their application did not meet the deadline. The applicant must receive pre-approval to submit a paper application (see Other Submission Requirements section for additional details). If the applicant is authorized to submit a paper application, it must be received by the deadline provided by OGS.

a. Letter of Intent Deadline (must be emailed or postmarked by)

Number Of Days from Publication N/A

The LOI date will generate once the Synopsis is published if Days or a Date are entered.

b. Application Deadline

Due Date for Applications 05/14/2021

Application Due Date will be submitted as: date based on the value specified for Due Date for Applications 11:59 pm U.S. Eastern Standard Time, at www.grants.gov. If Grants.gov is inoperable and cannot receive applications, and circumstances preclude advance notification of an extension, then applications must be submitted by the first business day on which grants.gov operations resume.

Due Date for Information Conference Call March 24, 2021 4:00 pm EST https://cdc.zoomgov.com/j/1601031435?pwd=bDkrV25uSGI0YlBqcmVESHNZeVdaZz09 Passcode: 2k#s8!BK Or iPhone one-tap :

US: +16692545252,,1601031435#,,,,,,0#,,15572266# or +16692161590,,1601031435#,,,,,,0#,,15572266# Or Telephone:

Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):

US: +1 669 254 5252 or +1 669 216 1590 or +1 646 828 7666 or +1 551 285 1373 Webinar ID: 160 103 1435 Passcode: 15572266

5. CDC Assurances and Certifications All applicants are required to sign and submit “Assurances and Certifications” documents indicated at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/ grantassurances/ (S(mj444mxct51lnrv1hljjjmaa)) /Homepage.aspx.

Applicants may follow either of the following processes:

https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://cdc.zoomgov.com/j/1601031435?pwd=bDkrV25uSGI0YlBqcmVESHNZeVdaZz09 http://wwwn.cdc.gov/grantassurances/(S(mj444mxct51lnrv1hljjjmaa))/Homepage.aspx http://wwwn.cdc.gov/grantassurances/(S(mj444mxct51lnrv1hljjjmaa))/Homepage.aspx

Complete the applicable assurances and certifications with each application submission, name the file “Assurances and Certifications” and upload it as a PDF file with at www.grants.gov

Complete the applicable assurances and certifications and submit them directly to CDC on an annual basis at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/ grantassurances/ (S(mj444mxct51lnrv1hljjjmaa))/ Homepage.aspx

Assurances and certifications submitted directly to CDC will be kept on file for one year and will apply to all applications submitted to CDC by the applicant within one year of the submission date.

Risk Assessment Questionnaire Requirement

CDC is required to conduct pre-award risk assessments to determine the risk an applicant poses to meeting federal programmatic and administrative requirements by taking into account issues such as financial instability, insufficient management systems, non-compliance with award conditions, the charging of unallowable costs, and inexperience. The risk assessment will include an evaluation of the applicant’s CDC Risk Questionnaire, located at https://www.cdc.gov/grants/documents/PPMR-G-CDC-Risk-Questionnaire.pdf, as well as a review of the applicant’s history in all available systems; including OMB-designated repositories of government-wide eligibility and financial integrity systems (see 45 CFR 75.205(a)), and other sources of historical information.