Instructions for Completing the Project Summary_Abstract.docx

Instructions for Completing the Project Summary/Abstract

All applications for grant funding must include a Summary/Abstract that concisely describes the proposed project. It should be written for the general public.

To ensure uniformity, limit the length to 265 words or less, on a single page with a font size of not less than 11, doubled-spaced.

The abstract must include the project’s goal(s), objectives, overall approach (including target population and significant partnerships), anticipated outcomes, products, and duration. The following are very simple descriptions of these terms, and a sample Compendium abstract.

Goal(s) – broad, overall purpose, usually in a mission statement, i.e. what you want to do, where you want to be.

Objective(s) – narrow, more specific, identifiable or measurable steps toward a goal. Part of the planning process or sequence (the “how”) to attain the goal(s).

Outcomes - measurable results of a project. Positive benefits or negative changes, or measurable characteristics that occur as a result of an organization’s or program’s activities. (Outcomes are the end-point)

Products – materials, deliverables.

A model abstract/summary is provided below:

The Delaware Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD), in partnership with the Delaware Lifespan Respite Care Network (DLRCN) and key stakeholders will, in the course of this two-year project, expand and maintain a statewide coordinated lifespan respite system that builds on the infrastructure currently in place. The goal of this project is to improve the delivery and quality of respite services available to families across age and disability spectrums by expanding and coordinating existing respite systems in Delaware. The objectives are: 1) to improve lifespan respite infrastructure; 2) to improve the provision of information and awareness about respite service; 3) to streamline access to respite services through the Delaware ADRC; 4) to increase availability of respite services. Anticipated outcomes include: 1) families and caregivers of all ages and disabilities will have greater options for choosing a respite provider; 2) providers will demonstrate increased ability to provide specialized respite care; 3) families will have streamlined access to information and satisfaction with respite services; 4) respite care will be provided using a variety of existing funding sources and 5) a sustainability plan will be developed to support the project in the future. The expected products are marketing and outreach materials, caregiver training, respite worker training, a Respite Online searchable database, two new Caregiver Resource Centers (CRC), an annual Respite Summit, a respite voucher program and 24/7 telephone information and referral services.