Foa_Content_of_HHS-2024-ACL-AOA-LRSP-0065.pdf

Administration for Community Living

Administration on Aging

Lifespan Respite Care Program: Advancing the Recruitment, Training and Retention of Respite Care Providers

HHS-2024-ACL-AOA-LRSP-0065

09/05/2024

Table of Contents Executive Summary

Additional Overview Content/Executive Summary

I. Funding Opportunity Description

II. Award Information

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

3. Responsiveness and Screening Criteria

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to Request Application Package

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

Letter of Intent

Project Narrative

Summary/Abstract

Problem Statement

Goals and Objectives

Proposed Intervention

Special Target Populations and Organizations

Outcomes

Project Management

Evaluation

Dissemination

Organizational Capability

Equity Experience of Project Team

3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM)

4. Submission Dates and Times

5. Intergovernmental Review

6. Funding Restrictions

7. Other Submission Requirements

V. Application Review Information

1. Criteria

2. Review and Selection Process

3. Anticipated Announcement Award Date

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

3. Reporting

4. FFATA and FSRS Reporting

VII. Agency Contacts

VIII. Other Information

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

Appendix

Instructions for Completing Required Forms

Budget Narrative/Justification- Sample Format

Instructions for Completing the Project Summary/ Abstract

General Information

Summary

Administrative Policies

FOA History

Information Collection

Award Information

Eligibility Information

Key Dates

Additional Information

ACL Center:

Administration on Aging Funding Opportunity Title:

Lifespan Respite Care Program: Advancing the Recruitment, Training and Retention of Respite Care Providers Funding Opportunity Number:

HHS-2024-ACL-AOA-LRSP-0065

Primary CFDA Number:

93.072 Due Date for Letter of Intent:

08/15/2024 Due Date for Applications:

09/05/2024

Date for Informational Conference Call:

Applications that fail to meet the application due date will not be reviewed and will receive no further consideration. You are strongly encouraged to submit your application a minimum of 3-5 days prior to the application closing date. Do not wait until the last day in the event you encounter technical difficulties, either on your end or, with https://www.grants.gov. Grants.gov can take up to 48 hours to notify you of a successful submission.

Executive Summary

Additional Overview Content/Executive Summary The U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL), Administration on Aging (AoA), is providing this competitive grant opportunity to eligible entities for implementing special projects under the authority granted in Section 2903 of the Lifespan Respite Care Act of 2006 (P.L. 109- 442). These special projects will complement the work of the ACL-funded Lifespan Respite Technical Assistance and Resource Center (TARC) awarded to the ARCH National Respite and Resource Center. The special project described in this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is expected to concentrate on advancing the use of the recently developed National Respite Care Provider Training (NRCPT), first developed under the 2020 Lifespan Respite Care Special Projects grant (#90LRSP0001).

Through this NOFO, ACL/AoA plans to award one (1) Cooperative Agreement in the amount of up to $1,250,000 for a three-year, fully-funded project with a single 36-month budget.

The successful application will reflect a collaborative approach among a consortium of organizations working in a well-defined partnership, with one entity acting as the fiduciary and programmatic lead. The successful applicant, and any partners, should expect considerable involvement of the ACL/AoA Federal Program Officer responsible for the Lifespan Respite Care Program in all aspects of the design and implementation of the activities outlined below. The applicant must possess direct, in-house experience and expertise to lead the project and carry out the desired activities described in this NOFO.

Grantees are required to match 25% of the total project’s costs from non-federal cash and/or in-kind resources.

I. Funding Opportunity Description Like many countries, the United States is experiencing a serious crisis in the direct care workforce. Direct Care Workers are also known as Direct Service Workers (DSW) or Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and may include home health aides, home care workers, certified nursing assistants, personal or residential care assistants and respite providers, etc. Many people with disabilities and older adults and their family caregivers are unable to access the services they need to live in the community, including respite services, because there are not enough trained providers. ACL is committed to finding solutions to this crisis and has committed significant resources in a variety of areas to help address it.

In 2020, ACL funded the first Lifespan Respite Special Projects to Strengthen Program Development, Implementation and Sustainability (#90LRSP0001) to focus on several critical areas of respite service delivery, including the need for a cadre of well-trained, competent respite https://www.grants.gov/ https://archrespite.org/ta-center-for-respite/ https://archrespite.org/ta-center-for-respite/ https://archrespite.org/ https://archrespite.org/ https://archrespite.org/library/national-respite-care-provider-training-and-replication-toolkit/ https://archrespite.org/library/national-respite-care-provider-training-and-replication-toolkit/ care providers. The ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center (ARCH), the ACL-funded technical assistance resource center for the Lifespan Respite Care Program, in collaboration with the National Academy for State Health Policy and the Respite Care Association of Wisconsin field tested and evaluated a competency-based online respite provider training curriculum for entry-level respite providers. That effort resulted in the development and roll out of the National Respite Care Provider Training (NRCPT).

Given the success of the NRCPT in the states where it was piloted and the initial promise it demonstrates as an effective tool for the recruitment, training, and retention of respite care workers, ACL is interested in taking the NRCPT to the next level in a variety of areas. This NOFO seeks to accomplish that goal as described below.

The initiative supports and advances President Biden’s Executive Order on Increasing Access to High-Quality Care and Supporting Caregivers, signed April 18, 2023. This executive order directs federal agencies to take more than 50 actions including those that could expand access to home and community-based services; grow and strengthen the direct care workforce; support family caregivers; and more — giving us a unique opportunity to transform our long-term care systems and mitigate the challenges faced by family, kin, and tribal caregivers.

Desired Goal and Anticipated Outcomes

The goal of this project is to strengthen and advance the recently developed National Respite Care Provider Training (NRCPT). ACL anticipates achieving, at a minimum, the following broad outcomes as a result of this project:

1. Enhanced awareness and usage of the NRCPT.

2. Improved retention of respite providers.

3. Streamlined access for caregivers to trained respite providers.

Priority Areas and Desired Activities

Over the course of the three-year project, ACL expects several key areas of focus will be addressed. Applicants to this NOFO should describe their approaches for undertaking the following activities in support of ACL’s overall goal and objectives:

1. Support greater uptake and use of the NRCPT in new and emerging respite service delivery areas (e.g., states and local communities), nationwide. The NRCPT was field tested in ten pilot states across the U.S. The NRCPT includes a competency-based and enhanced entry-level respite provider training curriculum and a specialized recruitment campaign. Applicants should describe how they will support increased use of the NRCPT in more states, allowing for further refinement and enhancements to the program, as needs are identified.

2. Develop and test approaches for connecting trained providers to family caregivers and those they support, across the age and disability spectrum (e.g., respite and provider registries or similarly accessible modalities). Ensuring the availability of a cadre of trained respite providers is an important step in meeting the service needs of family caregivers. However, it is critical that there be effective pathways for connecting the available respite providers to the families that need them. In this regard, ACL wishes to see the development and testing of possible approaches for fostering effective connections between respite providers and the families needing their assistance.

https://www.nashp.org/the-raise-family-caregiver-resource-and-dissemination-center/respite-care/ https://respitecarewi.org/ https://respitecarewi.org/ https://archrespite.org/provider-resources/provider-training-resources/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/04/18/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-announces-most-sweeping-set-of-executive-actions-to-improve-care-in-history/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/04/18/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-announces-most-sweeping-set-of-executive-actions-to-improve-care-in-history/ https://archrespite.org/provider-resources/provider-training-resources/

3. Develop, test, and implement methods for retaining respite providers, including opportunities for career advancement and upward mobility. Recruiting and training of respite providers are two critical steps in ensuring the availability of well-trained respite providers. Retaining them and ensuring they are supported along a career path is equally as important. Applicants should propose how they would develop and test approaches for ensuring the retention of respite workers once they are trained and in the workforce. Additionally, ensuring opportunities for career advancement and upward mobility within the workforces should also be top of mind and considered as part of this project.

4. Adapt the NRCPT for use among limited English-speaking populations, for whom career options are often limited. According to PHI, the direct care workforce, which includes those that provide respite services, is primarily composed of women and people of color, many of whom are lower income and face barriers to education and work in other fields or settings. Approximately one in four direct care workers (26 percent) was born outside the United States, with a range from 21 percent of nursing assistants and residential care aides to 31 percent of home care workers. Additionally, this field often relies heavily on immigrants to fill positions. PHI also noted that approximately one in four direct care workers (26 percent) was born outside the United States. Where opportunities are identified, ACL desires that this project identify and undertake additional opportunities to adapt the NRCPT for use among diverse, limited English-speaking populations, other than Spanish-speaking individuals, for whom the training has already been translated.

5. Develop a framework for establishing a base of evidence for the effectiveness of the NRCPT. ACL has a long history of supporting the development and use of evidence-based/informed approaches across a variety of program areas to achieve its mission and goals. In this regard, ACL wishes to explore the degree to which establishing a base of evidence for the NRCPT is feasible and possible. To that end, applicants should describe their approach to employing the findings from the current evaluation of the NRCPT and determining the extent to which the establishment of feasible and possible steps may be needed to accomplish that aim.

When developing proposals, applicants should carefully consider the approaches they will take to organizing this three-year, fully funded project, including the cadence that will be used to address the above priority areas and desired activities. Additionally, applicants should feel free to identify other, related areas for consideration and development that could be considered relevant to this NOFO.

IMPORTANT: Applications will be scored, in part, on the extent to which the applicant demonstrates the expertise and capacity to undertake a project of this scope and intent. To that end, applications will be reviewed, in part, on the extent to which such expertise is demonstrated on the part of the applicant and/or attained through key partnerships on the project.

Additional Application Elements

Post-Award Workplan and Budget Finalization Period

ACL recognizes the challenges posed by a 30-day window in which to complete applications and provide a highly detailed workplan for the project. Therefore, the successful grantee will be permitted up to three (3) months post award to work with the ACL program officer to finalize https://www.phinational.org/resource/direct-care-workers-in-the-united-states-key-facts-2023/ their overall project approach, workplan and, if necessary, refine budget allocations across tasks.

The ACL program officer will work closely with grantee and relevant partners throughout this period to ensure a successful refinement of the workplan and overall budget prior to the formal launch of project activities.

National Scope and Reach

ACL expects that the grantee and any partners will be working at the national level for the entirety of the project. Projects of a local scope or those confined to a single state, region, or area of the country will not be considered for funding.

Reliance on Other Technical Assistance Efforts

Applicants and their collaborating partners will be encouraged to avail themselves of the range of technical assistance and support available to them, including (but not limited to):

• The Lifespan Respite Technical Assistance and Resource Center

• The Direct Care Workforce Technical Assistance Center

• Center on Holocaust Survivor Care/Jewish Federations Institute on Aging and Trauma

• Older Adults Equity Collaborative (OAEC)

• National Center for Advancing Person-Centered Planning and Services

• Bridging Aging and Disabilities Networks at NACDD;

• National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging;

• Resource centers for Older Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians;

Sub-grants and/or subcontracts

Provision of funding for sub-grantees or subcontracts to carry out specific activities is expected, as ACL believes this project will have a greater likelihood of success when a range of organizations or individual subject matter experts undertake the work and/or the applicant identifies a gap in expertise necessary to fully complete project goals and objectives. Applicants should describe their rationale and criteria for selecting sub-grantees/subcontractors, including their approaches for monitoring progress and ensuring successful completion of all tasks.

Accessibility and 508 Compliance Requirements

ACL requires that all information and materials developed by the grantee and partners for dissemination, regardless of method, will be fully accessible (i.e., 508-compliant), and meet the cultural and linguistic needs of the intended audience.

Project Sustainability

ACL expects to realize tangible, measurable, and sustainable outcomes from the grantee and its partners. Proposals should contain a plan for sustaining the project’s work after federal funding ends. Applicants will be scored, in part, on the extent to which a plan is included and appears feasible and likely.

Project Outcomes and Evaluation

Projects of this nature are best undertaken with clear and measurable outcomes known at the time of application along with a feasible plan for measuring the overall project’s impact.

Therefore, applicants are expected to propose outcomes that demonstrate the project’s impact https://archrespite.org/ta-center-for-respite/ https://acl.gov/programs/direct-care-workforce https://holocaustsurvivorcare.jewishfederations.org/ https://acl.gov/programs/diversity-and-cultural-competency/oaec https://ncapps.acl.gov/ https://nacdd.org/bridging-aging-and-intellectual-and-developmental-disabilities-grant-program/ https://www.sageusa.org/what-we-do/national-resource-center-on-lgbt-aging/ http://ruralhealth.und.edu/projects/nrcnaa/ http://elders.uaa.alaska.edu/ http://manoa.hawaii.edu/hakupuna/ https://www.section508.gov/create

(i.e., the change that is anticipated to occur because of the work) and a plan for conducting an evaluation of the project.

Statutory Authority The statutory authority for grants under this program announcement is contained in Title XXIX of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 201 et seq.), as amended by the Public Health Service Act P.L.109-442. (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance 93.072).

II. Award Information

Funding Instrument Type:

CA (Cooperative Agreement) Estimated Total Funding:

$1,250,000 Expected Number of Awards:

Award Ceiling:

$1,250,000 Per Project Period

Award Floor:

$950,000 Per Project Period

Length of Project Period:

Other Additional Information on Project Periods and Explanation of 'Other' 36-month project period with 36-month budget period (fully funded)

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants For FY 2024 the below guidance is provided to advance the Administration’s policy, as stated in E.O. 13985, to “pursue a comprehensive approach to advancing equity for all, including people of color and others who have been historically underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality.” This guidance is intended to begin to address inequities in HHS programs, processes, and policies that may serve as barriers to equal opportunity. By advancing equity in our NOFOs, we can “create opportunities for the improvement of communities that have been historically underserved, which benefits everyone.”

Based on statutory requirements in Section 2903 of the Lifespan Respite Care Act, as amended, under Title XXIX of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C 300ii-2), awards may only be made to public or private nonprofit entities.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

Cost Sharing / Matching Requirement:

Yes For awards that do not require matching or cost sharing by statute, recipients are not expected to provide cost sharing or matching. However, recipients are allowed to voluntarily propose a commitment of non-federal resources. If an applicant decides to voluntarily contribute non-federal resources towards project costs and the costs are accepted by ACL, the non-federal resources will be included in the approved project budget. The applicant will be held accountable for all proposed non-federal resources as shown in the Notice of Award (NOA). A recipient's failure to meet the voluntary amount of non-federal resources that was accepted by ACL as part of the approved project costs and that was identified in the approved budget in the NOA, may result in the disallowance of federal funds. Recipients will be required to report these funds in the Federal Financial Reports.

This funding opportunity will be administered as a Cooperative Agreement. As such, the successful applicant should expect substantial ACL involvement in grant activities as appropriate or requested, including reviewing products for compliance with federal grant rules and participating in planning and training activities, which will be determined by the needs and priorities of the grantee and ACL. The terms and conditions for this cooperative agreement are as follows and will be incorporated by reference in the Notice of Award (NOA).

The ACL will carry out the following activities for the cooperative agreement:

• Perform the day-to-day federal responsibilities of grants management while working with the grantee to ensure all requirements for the grant are met.

• Assist the grantee’s project leadership and partners in understanding the policy concerns and/or priorities of ACL by conducting periodic briefings and by carrying out ongoing consultations.

• Work cooperatively with the grantee to clarify the programmatic and budgetary issues to be addressed by the project.

• Provide guidance to the grantee, as necessary, in making sub-awards (i.e., subgrants/contracts) as permitted in this funding opportunity announcement.

• Provide guidance to the grantee on the provision of technical support and associated tasks related to the fulfillment of the goals and objectives of this grant.

• Review and provide technical advice to the grantee on all work products and other project deliverables and processes.

• Provide consultation to the grantee in identifying emerging issues as they relate to the goals and objectives of this grant program.

• Work with the grantee on the development and implementation of evaluation and quality assurance systems to ensure that performance is measured, and continuous improvement occurs.

• Attend and participate in major project events as appropriate.

The grantee will execute the responsibilities of the cooperative agreement, as listed below:

• Fulfill all requirements of the grant initiative as detailed in this program announcement.

• Immediately inform, and collaborate with, the ACL on any in-scope modification of the work plan.

• In collaboration with the ACL program officer, successfully complete a Post-Award Workplan and Budget Finalization Period, not to exceed three (3) months

• Participate in (at least) monthly meetings with the ACL program officer, and/or the other grantees and partners to this initiative (more frequent meetings will be expected during the post-award project planning and alignment period);

• Provide drafts of all press releases and social media announcements prior to release;

• Provide preliminary and other working drafts of all products and deliverables to the ACL program officer for review;

• Ensure that all materials and products are fully accessible and developed in accordance with 508 compliance standards;

• Prior to dissemination, provide final drafts of all products and deliverables to the ACL program officer for accessibility and 508-compliance review and remediate any issues identified;

• As appropriate, collaborate with ACL on the identification and selection of steering committee members, if established, and any subject matter experts/advisory consultants to the project;

• Evaluate the impact of overall project activities and ensure quality assurance systems are in place.

• Share information with ACL, national and local organizations, and other entities as appropriate.

• Report semi-annually on project accomplishments, challenges, and progress towards measurable objectives.

• Work with the ACL program officer to assess the performance results reported semiannually and jointly develop strategies to address those areas requiring improvement.

ACL will assist the grantee in understanding the strategic goals and objectives, policy perspectives, and priorities of the ACL Administrator/Assistant Secretary for Aging and the Department of Health and Human Services, by sharing such information by way of email, conference calls, briefings, memos, and other consultations. The ACL program officer will provide technical assistance and guidance on issues related to grant management and implementation, including the execution of the cooperative agreement. The program officer will also share information with the grantee about other federally sponsored projects and activities relevant to activities funded under this announcement. Once a cooperative agreement is in place, requests to modify or amend it or the work plan may be made by ACL or the awardee at any time. Modifications and/or amendments of the Cooperative Agreement or work plan shall be effective upon the mutual agreement of both parties, except where ACL is authorized under the Terms and Conditions of award, 45 CFR Part 74 or 92, or other applicable regulation or statute to make unilateral amendments. When an award is issued, the cooperative agreement terms and conditions from the program announcement are incorporated into the Notice of Award by reference.

3. Responsiveness and Screening Criteria

Application Responsiveness Criteria

Applications that fail to meet each of the following responsiveness criteria described below will not be reviewed and will receive no further consideration:

• The applicant proposes a project of national scope and reach.

Application Screening Criteria Application Screening Criteria In order for an application to be reviewed, it must meet the following screening requirements:

• Applications must be submitted electronically to: http://www.grants.gov by 11:59 p.m., Eastern Time, by the due date listed in Section IV.3 Submission Dates and Times.

• The Project Narrative section of the Application must be double-spaced, on 8 ½” x 11” plain white paper with 1” margins on both sides, and a font size of not less than 11 point.

• The Project Narrative must not exceed 25 pages. NOTE: The Project Work Plan, MOU/MOA, Letters of Commitment, and Vitae of Key Project Personnel are not counted as part of the Project Narrative for purposes of the 25-page limit.

Unsuccessful submissions will require authenticated verification from http://www.grants.gov indicating whether system problems existed at the time of your submission. For example, the applicant is required to provide an http://www.grants.gov submission error notification and/or tracking number to substantiate missing the application deadline.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to Request Application Package Application materials can be obtained from https://www.grants.gov or https://www.acl.gov/grants/applying-grants.

Please note, ACL requires applications for all announcements to be submitted electronically through http://www.grants.gov in Workspace. Grants.gov Workspace is the standard way for organizations and individuals to apply for federal grants in Grants.gov. An overview and training on Grants.gov Workspace can be found here at:

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/workspace-overview.html

The Grants.gov registration process can take several days. If your organization is not currently registered, please begin this process immediately. For assistance with https://www.grants.gov, please contact them at support@grants.gov or 800-518-4726 between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Eastern Time.

• At the https://www.grants.gov website, you will find information about submitting an application electronically through the site, including the hours of operation. ACL strongly recommends that you do not wait until the application due date to begin the application process because of the time involved to complete the registration process.

• All applicants must have a UEI and be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM, www.sam.gov) and maintain an active SAM registration until the application process is complete, and should a grant be made, throughout the life of the award. Effective June 11, 2018, when registering or renewing your https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.acl.gov/grants/applying-grants http://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/workspace-overview.html https://www.grants.gov/ mailto:support@grants.gov https://www.grants.gov/ registration, you must submit a notarized letter appointing the authorized Entity Administrator. Please be sure to read the FAQs located at www.sam.gov to learn more. Applicants should allot sufficient time prior to the application deadline to finalize a new, or renew an existing registration. This action should allow you time to resolve any issues that may arise. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in your inability to submit your application or receive an award. Maintain documentation (with dates) of your efforts to register or renew at least two weeks before the deadline. See the SAM Quick Guide for Grantees at:

SAM.GOV Quick Start Guide for Financial Assistance Registrations.

Note: Once your SAM registration is active, allow 24 to 48 hours for the information to be available in Grants.gov before you can submit an application through Grants.gov. This action should allow you time to resolve any issues that may arise. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in your inability to submit your application or receive an award.

1.

• Note: Failure to submit the correct EIN Suffix can lead to delays in identifying your organization and access to funding in the Payment Management System.

• Effective October 1, 2010, HHS requires all entities that plan to apply for and ultimately receive federal grant funds from any HHS Operating/Staff Division (OPDIV/STAFFDIV) or receive subawards directly from the recipients of those grant funds to:

2. Register in SAM prior to submitting an application or plan;

3. Maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active award or an application or plan under consideration by an OPDIV; and

4. Provide its UEI number in each application or plan to submit to the OPDIV.

Additionally, all first-tier subaward recipients must have a UEI number at the time the subaward is made.

• The Federal Government will transition from the DUNS Number to the New

Unique Entity Identifier. As of April of 2022, the federal government stopped using the DUNS number to uniquely identify entities. At that point, entities doing business with the federal government will use a Unique Entity Identifier (SAM) created in SAM.gov. It is entered on the SF-424. It is a unique, nine-digit identification number, which provides unique identifiers of single business entities.

• You must submit all documents electronically, including all information included on the SF424 and all necessary assurances and certifications. In accordance with the Federal Government’s efforts to reduce reporting burden for recipients of federal financial assistance, the general certification and representation requirements contained in the Standard Form 424B (SF-424B) – Assurances – Non-Construction Programs, and the Standard Form 424D (SF-424D) – Assurances – Construction Programs, have been standardized federal-wide.

Effective January 1, 2020, the updated common certification and representation requirements will be stored and maintained within SAM. Organizations or http://www.sam.gov/ https://www.fsd.gov/sys_attachment.do?sys_id=54e0016fdb3bbd90a8cb4a3913961934 individuals applying for federal financial assistance as of January 1, 2020, must validate the federally required common certifications and representations annually through SAM located at SAM.gov.

• After you electronically submit your application, you will receive an automatic acknowledgment from https://www.grants.gov that contains https://www.grants.gov tracking number. The Administration for Community Living will retrieve your application form from https://www.grants.gov.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living

Lori Stalbaum

Office of Caregiver and Supportive Services

Email: Lori.Stalbaum@acl.hhs.gov

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

Letter of Intent Due Date for Letter Of Intent 08/15/2024

08/15/2024 Applicants are requested, but not required, to submit a letter of intent to apply for this funding opportunity to assist ACL in planning for the application independent review process. The purpose of the letter of intent is to allow our staff to estimate the number of independent reviewers needed and to avoid potential conflicts of interest in the review. Letters of intent should be sent to:

Administration for Community Living

Lori Stalbaum

Office of Supportive and Caregiver Services

Email: Lori.Stalbaum@acl.hhs.gov

Project Narrative The Project Narrative must be double-spaced, on 8.5” x 11” paper with 1” margins on both sides, and a standard font size of no less than 11 point, preferably Times New Roman or Arial. You can use smaller font sizes to fill in the Standard Forms and Sample Formats. The suggested length for the Project Narrative is 25-30 pages; 30 pages is the maximum length allowed. Project Narratives that exceed 40 pages will have the additional pages removed and only the first 30 pages of the Project Narrative will be provided to the merit reviewers for funding consideration.

The Project Work Plan, Letters of Commitment, and Vitae of Key Personnel are not counted as part of the Project Narrative for purposes of the 30-page limit. All other sections noted below are included in the limit. A new requirement for all Project Narratives is a section that explains the equity experience of the project team.

The sample components of the Project Narrative counted as part of the 30-page limit include:

https://www.grants.gov https://www.grants.gov https://www.grants.gov

Summary/Abstract Problem Statement Goal(s) and Objective(s) Proposed Intervention Special Target Populations and Organizations Outcomes Project Management Evaluation Dissemination Organizational Capability Equity Experience of Project Team

Summary/Abstract This section should include a brief (265 words maximum) description of the proposed project, including: goal(s), objectives, outcomes, and products to be developed. Detailed instructions for completing the summary/abstract are included in the “Instructions for Completing the Project Summary/Abstract.”

Problem Statement This section should describe, in both quantitative and qualitative terms, the nature and scope of the problem and the proposed intervention is designed to address. This section should also include how the project will potentially impact the target populations of family caregivers being addressed.

Goals and Objectives This section should consist of a description of the project’s goal(s) and major objectives. The stated goal(s) and objectives(s) should tie directly to the priority area/option being addressed.

Unless the project involves multiple, complex interventions, we recommend you have only one overall goal.

Proposed Intervention This section should provide a clear and concise description of the intervention or approach(es) you are proposing to use to address the problem described in the “Problem Statement”. You should also describe the rationale for using the intervention or approaches being proposed, including factors such as: “lessons learned” for similar projects or initiatives; factors in the larger environment that have created the “right conditions” for the intervention or approach (e.g., existing social or economic factors that you’ll be able to take advantage of, etc.). Also note any major barriers you anticipate encountering, and how your project will be able to overcome those barriers. Be sure to describe the role and makeup of any strategic partnerships you plan to involve in implementing the intervention, including other organizations, supporters, and/or consumer groups.

Special Target Populations and Organizations This section should describe how you plan to involve organizations in a meaningful way in the planning and implementation of the proposed project. This section should also describe whether, and if so, how the proposed intervention will target disadvantaged populations, including limited-English speaking populations, those of greatest economic need and those of greatest social need. Applicants should pursue a comprehensive approach to advancing equity for all, including people of color and others who have been historically underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality.

Outcomes This section of the project narrative must clearly identify the measurable outcome(s) that will result from the project. (NOTE: ACL will not fund any project that does not include measurable outcomes). This section should also describe how the project’s findings might benefit the field at large, (e.g., how the findings could help other organizations throughout the nation to address the same or similar problems.) List measurable outcomes in the optional work plan grid (“Project Work Plan – Sample Template”) under “Measurable Outcomes” in addition to any discussion included in the narrative along with a description of how the project might benefit the field at large.

A “measurable outcome” is an observable end-result that describes how a particular intervention benefits the end user. It demonstrates a measurable change in functional status, mental well-being, knowledge, skill, attitude, awareness, or behavior. It can also describe a change in the degree to which consumers exercise choice over the types of services they receive, or whether they are satisfied with the way a service is delivered. Additional examples include: a change in the responsiveness or cost-effectiveness of a service delivery system; a new model of support or care that can be replicated in the ACL network; new knowledge that can contribute to the field of community living; a measurable increase in community awareness; or a measurable increase in persons receiving services. A measurable outcome is not a measurable “output”, such as: the number of clients served; the number of training sessions held; or the number of service units provided.

You should keep the focus of this section on describing what outcome(s) will be produced by the project. You should use the Evaluation section noted below to describe how the outcome(s) will be measured and reported. Your application will be scored on the clarity and nature of your proposed outcomes, not on the number of outcomes cited. It is totally appropriate for a project to have only ONE outcome that it is trying to achieve through the intervention reflected in the project’s design.

Project Management This section should include a clear delineation of the roles and responsibilities of project staff, consultants, subject matter experts, and partner organizations, and how they will contribute to achieving the project’s objectives and outcomes. It should specify who would have day-to-day responsibility for key tasks such as: leadership of project; monitoring the project’s on-going progress, (i.e., measure of performance towards the goals stated in the funding opportunity announcement and for your specific intervention/activities) preparation of reports;

communications with other partners and ACL. It should also describe the approach that will be used to monitor and track progress on the project’s tasks and objectives, including the work of sub-contractors and/or sub-grantees.

Evaluation This section should describe the specific outcomes (e.g., changes in programs, organizations, and/or communities) expected as a result of this funding as well as method(s), techniques and tools that will be used to: 1) determine whether the proposed intervention achieved its anticipated outcome(s), and 2) document the “lessons learned” – both positive and negative - from the project that will be useful to people interested in replicating the intervention, if it proves successful.

Dissemination This section should describe the method that will be used to disseminate the project’s results and findings in a timely manner and in easily understandable formats, to parties who might be interested in using the results of the project to inform practice, service delivery, program development, and/or policymaking, including and especially those parties who would be interested in replicating the project. Projects funded under this announcement will be expected to work with one another and other technical assistance efforts to ensure dissemination of all activities, products, and information.

Organizational Capability Each application should include an organizational capability statement and vitae for key project personnel. The organizational capability statement should describe how the applicant agency (or division of a larger agency which will have responsibility for this project) is organized, the nature and scope of its work and/or the capabilities it possesses. It should also include the organization’s capability to sustain some or all project activities after federal financial assistance has ended.

This description should cover the capabilities of the applicant agency not included in the program narrative, such as any current or previous relevant experience and/or the record of the project team in preparing cogent and useful reports, publications, and other products. If appropriate, include an organization chart showing the relationship of the project to the current organization. Please attach short vitae for key project staff only. Neither vitas nor an organizational chart will count towards the narrative page limit. Also include information about any contractual organization(s) that will have a significant role(s) in implementing project and achieving project goals.

Equity Experience of Project Team This section should provide a comprehensive description of the approach to and staff experience in advancing equity for all, including people of color and others who have been historically underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality will be included in this section. See the Biden/Harris Administration’s Executive Order On Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government, dated January 20, 2021 for additional information.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/20/executive-order-advancing-racial-equity-and-support-for-underserved-communities-through-the-federal-government/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/20/executive-order-advancing-racial-equity-and-support-for-underserved-communities-through-the-federal-government/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/20/executive-order-advancing-racial-equity-and-support-for-underserved-communities-through-the-federal-government/

3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) The Grants.gov registration process can take several days. If your organization is not currently registered, please begin this process immediately. For assistance with https://www.grants.gov, please contact them at support@grants.gov or 800-518-4726 between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Eastern Time.

• At the https://www.grants.gov website, you will find information about submitting an application electronically through the site, including the hours of operation. ACL strongly recommends that you do not wait until the application due date to begin the application process because of the time involved to complete the registration process.

• All applicants must have a UEI number and be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM, www.sam.gov) and maintain an active SAM registration until the application process is complete, and should a grant be made, throughout the life of the award. Effective June 11, 2018, when registering or renewing your registration, you must submit a notarized letter appointing the authorized Entity Administrator. Please be sure to read the FAQs located at www.sam.gov to learn more. Applicants should allot sufficient time prior to the application deadline to finalize a new, or renew an existing registration.

This action should allow you time to resolve any issues that may arise. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in your inability to submit your application or receive an award. Maintain documentation (with dates) of your efforts to register or renew at least two weeks before the deadline. See the SAM Quick Guide for Grantees at:

SAM.GOV Quick Start Guide for Financial Assistance Registrations.

Note: Once your SAM registration is active, allow 24 to 48 hours for the information to be available in Grants.gov before you can submit an application through Grants.gov. This action should allow you time to resolve any issues that may arise. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in your inability to submit your application or receive an award.

• Note: Failure to submit the correct EIN Suffix can lead to delays in identifying your organization and access to funding in the Payment Management System.

• Effective October 1, 2010, HHS requires all entities that plan to apply for and ultimately receive federal grant funds from any HHS Operating/Staff Division (OPDIV/STAFFDIV) or receive subawards directly from the recipients of those grant funds to:

1. Register in SAM prior to submitting an application or plan;

2. Maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active award or an application or plan under consideration by an OPDIV; and

3. Provide its UEI number in each application or plan to submit to the OPDIV.

Additionally, all first-tier subaward recipients must have a UEI number at the time the subaward is made.

• The Federal Government will transition from the DUNS Number to the New Unique Entity Identifier. As of April of 2022, the federal government stopped using the DUNS number to uniquely identify entities. At that point, entities doing business with the federal mailto:support@grants.gov https://www.fsd.gov/sys_attachment.do?sys_id=54e0016fdb3bbd90a8cb4a3913961934 government will use a Unique Entity Identifier (SAM) created in SAM.gov. They will no longer have to go to a third-party website to obtain their identifier. This transition allows the government to streamline the entity identification and validation process, making it easier and less burdensome for entities to do business with the federal government. If your entity is registered in SAM.gov today, your Unique Entity ID (SAM) has already been assigned and is viewable in SAM.gov. This includes inactive registrations. The Unique Entity ID is currently located below the DUNS Number on your entity registration record. Remember, you must be signed in to your SAM.gov account to view entity records. To learn how to view your Unique Entity ID (SAM) go to this help article.

• You must submit all documents electronically, including all information included on the SF424 and all necessary assurances and certifications. In accordance with the Federal Government’s efforts to reduce reporting burden for recipients of federal financial assistance, the general certification and representation requirements contained in the Standard Form 424B (SF-424B) – Assurances – Non-Construction Programs, and the Standard Form 424D (SF-424D) – Assurances – Construction Programs, have been standardized federal-wide. Effective January 1, 2020, the updated common certification and representation requirements will be stored and maintained within SAM.

Organizations or individuals applying for federal financial assistance as of January 1, 2020, must validate the federally required common certifications and representations annually through SAM located at SAM.gov.

• After you electronically submit your application, you will receive an automatic acknowledgment from https://www.grants.gov that contains https://www.grants.gov tracking number. The Administration for Community Living will retrieve your application form from https://www.grants.gov.

4. Submission Dates and Times Due Date for Applications 09/05/2024

09/05/2024 Date for Informational Conference Call:

Applications that fail to meet the application due date will not be reviewed and will receive no further consideration. You are strongly encouraged to submit your application a minimum of 3-5 days prior to the application closing date. Do not wait until the last day in the event you encounter technical difficulties, either on your end or, with http://www.grants.gov. Grants.gov can take up to 48 hours to notify you of a successful submission.

In addition, if you are submitting your application via Grants.gov, you must (1) be designated by your organization as an Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) and (2) register yourself with Grants.gov as an AOR. Details on these steps are outlined at the following Grants.gov web page: http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/register.html.

After you electronically submit your application, you will receive from Grants.gov an automatic notification of receipt that contains a Grants.gov tracking number. (This notification indicates receipt by Grants.gov only)

If you are experiencing problems submitting your application through Grants.gov, please contact the Grants.gov Support Desk, toll free, at 1-800-518-4726. You must obtain a Grants.gov https://www.fsd.gov/gsafsd_sp?id=gsafsd_kb_articles&sys_id=a05adbae1b59f8982fe5ed7ae54bcbba https://www.grants.gov https://www.grants.gov https://www.grants.gov http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/register.html

Support Desk Case Number and must keep a record of it.

If you are prevented from electronically submitting your application on the application deadline because of technical problems with the Grants.gov system, please contact the person listed under For Further Information Contact in section VII of this notice and provide a written explanation of the technical problem you experienced with Grants.gov, along with the Grants.gov Support Desk Case Number. ACL will contact you after a determination is made on whether your application will be accepted.

Note: We will not consider your application for further review if you failed to fully register to submit your application to Grants.gov before the application deadline or if the technical problem you experienced is unrelated to the Grants.gov system.

If for any reason (including submitting to the wrong funding opportunity number or making corrections/updates) an application is submitted more than once prior to the application due date, ACL will only accept your last validated electronic submission, under the correct funding opportunity number, prior to the Grants.gov application due date as the final and only acceptable application

Unsuccessful submissions will require authenticated verification from http://www.grants.gov indicating system problems existed at the time of your…