U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
CDC Funding Opportunity Announcement PS06-618
Announcement Type: New – Type 1
Funding Opportunity Number: PS08-812
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number: 93.118
Key Dates:
Application Deadline: June 20, 2008
Executive Summary: In September 2006, through Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) PS06-618, “Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Prevention Projects for Young Men of Color Who Have Sex with Men and Young Transgender Persons of Color,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) awarded funds to community based organizations (CBOs) to deliver the program model Many Men, Many Voices (3MV) http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/topics/prev_prog/AHP/resources/guidelines/pdf/pro_guidance_many.pdf to young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners. CDC will make competitive awards to up to six of the CBOs funded under PS06-618 to participate in an outcome monitoring project that will assess changes in clients’ self-reported HIV risk behaviors and use of health services after they have received 3MV. Participating CBOs will be able to use information collected through this project to improve their implementation of 3MV and better serve their clients.
Authority: This program is authorized under sections 317(k)(2) and 318 of the Public Health Service Act, [42 U.S.C. Sections 247 b(k)(2) and 247c], as amended.
Background: Through FOA PS06-618, HHS/CDC awarded funds to community based organizations (CBOs) to deliver the program model 3MV to young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners. All CBOs funded to deliver 3MV under FOA PS06-618 are required to collect and report standardized agency, program, intervention, and client level data, as specified in HHS/CDC’s Program Evaluation and Monitoring System (PEMS). PEMS is a national data reporting system comprised of a standardized set of HIV prevention data variables, secure web based software for data entry and management, and a range of data collection training and software implementation support services. Collection and reporting of the PEMS data set is required by health departments and CBOs funded through HHS/CDC HIV prevention cooperative agreements. PEMS data variables include agency information, program plan information, client level demographics, behavioral characteristics, and health service utilization. (Note: While CBOs can maintain client records with identifying information using the PEMS software, no identifying information related to individual clients is submitted to HHS/CDC.) These data are intended to be collected before, during, and after delivery of the program model to determine whether clients’ risk behaviors change during and after delivery and to quantify clients’ risk behaviors change during and after delivery and to monitor clients’ health service utilization during and after intervention delivery. This outcome monitoring project will provide support to CBOs to collect this same client level information at two follow up data collection points (three months and six months) after the scheduled completion of 3MV and to conduct an analysis of this information to determine if these changes were sustained over time and what factors were related to these changes. This will provide useful information to participating CBOs to help them monitor and improve their 3MV program.
Purpose: The purpose of the program is to assess and improve the performance of HHS/CDC funded CBOs delivering 3MV to young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners by monitoring changes in clients’ self-reported HIV transmission risk behaviors, and to quantify clients’ use of health services after receiving 3MV. This program addresses the “Healthy People 2010” focus area(s) of HIV.
Measurable outcomes of the program will be in alignment with the following performance goal for HHS/CDC’s National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP): decrease the number of persons at high risk for acquiring or transmitting HIV infection. For this project, this goal will be limited to decreasing the number of persons at risk for acquiring or transmitting HIV infection at the participating CBOs.
This announcement is only for non research activities supported by HHS/CDC. If research is proposed, the application will not be reviewed. For the definition of research, please see the HHS/CDC Web site at the following Internet address: http://www.cdc.gov/od/science/regs/hrpp/researchDefinition.htm.
Activities:
Awardee activities for this program are as follows:
General Activities
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Collaborate closely with HHS/CDC on the implementation of required activities.Phase 1 – Start up (September 1, 2008 - November 30, 2008)
Phase 2 – Data Collection (December 1, 2008 - May 31, 2011)
·
Obtain contact information for locating and collecting follow up data from clients participating in this outcome monitoring project (Note: This contact information is for CBO use only and will not be shared with HHS/CDC).
Phase 3 Data Analysis and Reporting (June 1, 2011 - August 31, 2011)
In a cooperative agreement, HHS/CDC staff are substantially involved in the program activities, above and beyond routine grant monitoring.
HHS/CDC activities for this program are as follows:
Type of Award: Cooperative Agreement
HHS/CDC’s involvement in this program is listed in the Activities Section above.
Award Mechanism: U65
Fiscal Year Funds: 2008
Approximate Current Fiscal Year Funding: $ 600,000
Approximate Total Project Period Funding: $ 1.8 million (This amount is an estimate, and is subject to availability of funds.) This amount includes both Direct and Indirect costs.
Approximate Number of Awards: Up to six (6)
Approximate Average Award: $ 100,000 (This amount is for the first 12 month budget period, and includes both direct and indirect costs.)
Floor of Individual Award Range: $75,000
Ceiling of Individual Award Range: $125,000 (This ceiling is for the first 12 month budget period, and includes both direct and indirect costs.)
Anticipated Award Date: July 1, 2008
Budget Period Length: Twelve
Project Period Length: Three (3) years
Throughout the project period, HHS/CDC’s commitment to continuation of awards will be conditioned on the availability of funds, 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.
III.1. Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants that can apply for this funding opportunity are listed below:
CBOs that (1) are funded under CDC FOA PS06-618 to deliver 3MV to young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and (2) are not receiving supplements to their FOA PS06-618 award to conduct evaluation—including funding for either the Innovative Interventions Project or the Adopting and Demonstrating the Adaptation of Prevention Techniques (ADAPT) project.
Eligibility for this outcome monitoring project is limited to CBOs funded under FOA PS06-618, because the purpose of the project is specifically to assess and improve the performance of these CBOs. These CBOs have already entered into a cooperative agreement with HHS/CDC that requires them to conduct certain activities necessary to participate in this project, such as implementing 3MV with fidelity according to HHS/CDC guidelines and collecting and submitting data through PEMS. CBOs participating in the Innovative Interventions Project or ADAPT are not eligible because they are already receiving funds from HHS/CDC for evaluation.
III.2. Cost Sharing or Matching
Cost sharing or matching funds are not required for this program.
III.3. Other
If a funding amount greater than the ceiling of the award range is requested, the application will be considered non responsive and will not be entered into the review process. The applicant will be notified that the application did not meet the submission requirements.
Special Requirements:
If the application is incomplete or non responsive to the special requirements listed in this section, it will not be entered into the review process. The applicant will be notified the application did not meet submission requirements.
·
Targeting 3MV primarily to young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners·
Delivering all nine of the following core elements of 3MV: (1) enhance self-esteem related to racial identity and sexual behavior; (2) educate clients about HIV risk and sensitize to personal risk; (3) educate clients about interactions between HIV and other sexually transmitted disease and sensitize to personal risk; (4) develop risk reduction strategies; (5) build a menu of behavioral options for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases risk reduction, including those that one can act on individually and those that require partner involvement; (6) train in risk reduction behavioral skills; (7) enhance self-efficacy related to behavioral skills; (8) train in partner communication and negotiation; and (9) provide social support and relapse prevention.·
The capacity to enroll at least 200 non-duplicated young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners into the outcome monitoring project over a 24 month time period, and to follow up with at least 160 of these clients at three and six months to collect behavioral and service utilization level data.·
Having quality assurance plans, policies, and procedures in place for delivering 3MV with fidelity·
All staff conducting 3MV have received training in the delivery of 3MV.IV.1. Address to Request Application Package
To apply for this funding opportunity use the application forms package posted in Grants.gov.
Electronic Submission:
HHS/CDC requires the applicant to submit the application electronically by utilizing the forms and instructions posted for this announcement on www.Grants.gov, the official Federal agency wide Egrant Web site.
Registering the applicant’s organization through www.Grants.gov is the first step in submitting applications online. Registration information is located in the “Get Registered” screen of www.Grants.gov. While application submission through www.Grants.gov is optional, HHS\CDC strongly encourage applicants to use this online tool.
Please visit www.Grants.gov at least 30 days prior to filing the applicant’s application to become familiar with the registration and submission processes. Under “Get Registered,” the one time registration process will take three to five days to complete; however, as part of the Grants.gov registration process, registering the applicant’s organization with the Central Contractor Registry (CCR) annually, could take an additional one to two days to complete. HHS\CDC suggest submitting electronic applications prior to the closing date so if difficulties are encountered, applicants can submit a hard copy of the application prior to the deadline.
If access to the Internet is not available, or if there is difficulty accessing the forms on line, contact the HHS/CDC Procurement and Grants Office Technical Information Management Section (PGO TIMS) staff at 770 488 2700 and the application forms can be mailed.
IV.2. Content and Form of Submission
Application:
A Project Abstract must be submitted with the application forms. All electronic project abstracts must be uploaded in a PDF file format when submitting via Grants.gov. The abstract must be submitted in the following format, if submitting a paper application:
The Project Abstract must contain a summary of the proposed activity suitable for dissemination to the public. It should be a self-contained description of the project and should contain a statement of objectives and methods to be employed. It should be informative to other persons working in the same or related fields and in so far as possible understandable to a technically literate lay reader. This Abstract must not include any proprietary/confidential information.
A project narrative must be submitted with the application forms. All electronic narratives must be uploaded in a PDF file format when submitting via Grants.gov. The narrative must be submitted in the following format, if submitting a paper application:
The narrative should address activities to be conducted over the entire project period and must include the following items in the order listed:
1.
Documentation of Eligibility (not to exceed one page).Please provide a brief explanation of how the applicant’s agency meets each of the eligibility requirements listed in section “III. Eligibility Information.” Supporting documentation, which is required, should be placed immediately behind this page and will not be counted toward the narrative page limit. This section should include the following:
2. Abstract (not to exceed two pages)
Please provide a brief summary of the applicant’s application for this announcement, including the following:
a. Implementation of 3MV: Brief overview of the applicant’s agency’s implementation of 3MV, including the primary target population b. Plan for this Outcome Monitoring Project: Brief overview of the applicant’s agency’s plan for this project, including recruitment strategies and methods to collect data c. Staffing Plan for this Outcome Monitoring Project d. Organizational History and Experience: Brief overview of the applicant’s agency’s experience delivering 3MV and conducting monitoring and evaluation3. Implementation of 3MV (not to exceed nine pages)
Please describe the applicant’s agency’s implementation of 3MV addressing the questions listed below.
a. What is the applicant’s agency’s intended primary target population for 3MV (for example age, race/ethnicity, sex or gender, HIV risk, HIV status, geographic location)?
b. What is the pool from which applicants are recruiting individuals into 3MV?
c. What methods or strategies does the applicant’s agency use to recruit individuals into 3MV (for example, incentives, participation in other programs at the agency)?
d. What are the applicant’s agency’s eligibility criteria for client participation in 3MV?
e. How have applicants incorporated the nine core elements into the delivery of 3MV? (See “IV.2. Content and Form of Submission,” “Documentation of Eligibility” for the nine core elements.)
f. Have applicants adapted and tailored 3MV for the applicant’s program? If so, explain how and the applicant’s rationale for doing so. (Note: As defined in the Procedural Guidance, adaptation is delivering the program model or intervention to a different population or in a different venue than the one in which efficacy was originally demonstrated; tailoring is changing the program model or intervention to deliver a new message, at a new time, or in a different manner than was originally described. Adaptation involves changes in who receives a program model or intervention and where it is delivered, while tailoring leads to changes in what is delivered, what is addressed, and how the message is conveyed.)
g. How often is the applicant’s agency delivering a new cycle of 3MV (for example, once per week, twice per month), and how many individuals receive 3MV each time a cycle is delivered?
h. How is the applicant’s agency currently monitoring and evaluating 3MV, including (1) collecting data on demographics, behavioral risk, and health service utilization from individuals enrolled in 3MV; and (2) implementing and using PEMS to monitor and evaluate 3MV?
i. How is the applicant’s agency currently conducting quality assurance for the delivery of 3MV to ensure the intervention is being delivered with fidelity? The applicant’s response should demonstrate how applicants will be able to continue a quality assurance plan for ensuring the delivery of 3MV with fidelity throughout the outcome monitoring project.
j. How is the applicant’s agency currently maintaining client records and managing program data related to 3MV, including assuring client confidentiality and adherence to policies and practices for data security and Web based reporting, as required for PEMS?
k. How is the applicant’s agency currently staffing 3MV? The applicant’s response to this question should address staffing for the following: (1) delivery of 3MV; (2) any monitoring and evaluation currently being conducted on 3MV; (3) any quality assurance activities currently being conducted on 3MV; and (4) maintaining client records and managing program data related to 3MV, including assuring client confidentiality and adhering to policies and practices for data security and Web based reporting, as required for PEMS.
l. How is the applicant’s organization currently training staff on the following: (1) delivering 3MV and related skills, such as group facilitation; (2) PEMS data collection requirements; (3) conducting quality assurance for 3MV; and (4) maintaining client records and managing program data related to 3MV, including assurance of client confidentiality and adherence to policies and practices for data security and Web based reporting, as required for PEMS?
m. When (provide month/day/year) did the applicant’s agency begin full implementation of 3MV (that is, staff fully trained, quality assurance plan developed, consistent delivery, process monitoring data collected)?
4. Plan for this Outcome Monitoring Project (not to exceed five pages)
Please answer the questions listed below regarding the applicant’s agency’s plan for the outcome monitoring project to be funded under this announcement:
a. How will the applicant’s agency manage the daily procedures of this outcome monitoring project to ensure that all required activities are performed, all deadlines are met, and quality assurance plans, policies, and procedures are upheld?
b. What are the applicant’s agency’s objectives for this outcome monitoring project? At a minimum, provide quantitative objectives for each of the following: (1) the number of individuals who will be enrolled into the outcome monitoring project during a 24 month time period, and (2) the proportion of these individuals participating in this outcome monitoring project who will be located and will provide behavioral risk and health service utilization data at three and six months after receiving 3MV.
c. What strategies will the applicant’s agency use to recruit young (age 24 years and younger) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (aged 24 years and younger) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners enrolled in 3MV to participate in this outcome monitoring project? (Note: include eligibility criteria and screening methods.)
d. What methods (for example, interview, self-administered questionnaire) will the applicant’s agency use to collect individual level data before and after the delivery of 3MV on demographics, HIV related behavioral risks, and health service utilization (that is, other HIV related services received) from young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners participating in this outcome monitoring project?
e. What methods will the applicant’s agency use to obtain contact information for locating and collecting follow up data on clients participating in this outcome monitoring project?
f.
For this outcome monitoring project, what strategies (for example, telephone contact, return to specific localities, outreach, incentives) will the applicant’s agency use to collect individual level follow up data at three and six months after completion of the intervention on behavioral risks and health service utilization from clients?g.
For this outcome monitoring project, how will the applicant’s agency collect data on the delivery of 3MV, including quantitative data required by PEMS (for example, number of individuals participating in each session) and qualitative data, such as (1) how closely the delivery of 3MV follows relevant protocols, policies and procedures; (2) difficulties encountered with the delivery of 3MV; and (3) circumstances and context of the delivery of 3MV (for example, programmatic and organizational characteristics)? Examples of methods that might be used for collecting qualitative data include staff reports, semi-structured interviews with staff, minutes of staff meetings, or progress reports.h.
For this outcome monitoring project, how will the applicant’s agency collect qualitative dataon: (1) strategies (for example, telephone contact, return to specific localities, incentives) used to collect follow up behavioral risk and health service utilization data; and (2) successes and barriers encountered during the course of this outcome monitoring project (for example, difficulty locating clients who are young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners)? Examples of methods that might be used for collecting qualitative data include staff reports, semi-structured interviews with staff, minutes of staff meetings, or progress reports.
i.
How will the applicant’s agency use the quantitative and qualitative data collected in this outcome monitoring project to assess and improve the applicant’s agency’s performance in delivering 3MV?
5. Staffing Plan for this Outcome Monitoring Project (not to exceed three pages)
How does the applicant’s agency propose to staff the outcome monitoring project for which applicants are applying under this announcement? The applicant’s response to this question should address staffing for all activities related to the successful implementation of this project.
For each existing staff member who will be assigned to work on this project, describe the following:
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Proposed role in this project·
Qualifications for performing this role·
Amount of time the staff member will spend on this project·
Other responsibilities not related to this project·
Amount of time that will be spent on other responsibilities, including training that supports this projectFor new staff members, who will be recruited to work on this project, describe the following:
·
Positions applicants will recruit for, the proposed role of these positions in this project, and when these positions will be staffed·
Qualifications applicants will seek for each position·
How much time each staff member in these positions will spend on this project·
Other responsibilities not related to this project for staff members in these positions·
Amount of time that will be spent on these other responsibilities·
Training that will be required for each staff member
6. Organizational History and Experience (not to exceed three pages)
Please summarize the applicant’s agency’s history and experience relevant to this project, addressing the questions listed below.
a. Does the applicant’s agency have experience delivering 3MV, other than with current funding from PS06-618? If so, please provide details, including the timeframe.
b. What is the applicant’s agency’s past experience with the following: (1) planning, managing, and conducting program monitoring and evaluation; (2) collecting quantitative data for program monitoring and evaluation; (3) collecting qualitative data for program monitoring and evaluation; (4) analyzing quantitative and qualitative data for program monitoring and evaluation; (5) maintaining client records and managing data for program activities (including maintaining client confidentiality and data security); and (6) conducting quality assurance for program activities?
7. Additional Required Information (This will not count toward the narrative page limit.)
Please provide copies of the following as appendices:
·
The applicant’s agency’s first year process and outcome objectives for 3MV·
A flow diagram illustrating the applicant’s agency’s delivery of 3MV·
The applicant’s agency’s operational policies and procedures for conducting 3MV·
Any and all data collection instruments the applicant’s agency is using for 3MV·
The applicant’s agency’s quality assurance plan and related instruments for 3MV
8. Budget for this Outcome Monitoring Project (This budget narrative will not count toward the narrative page limit.)
Please submit an itemized budget for the first fiscal year of funding and supporting justification consistent with the applicant’s proposed plan for this outcome monitoring project. Include travel costs for not more than four staff members to attend one four day training session in Atlanta during the first 3 months of the project.
Additional information may be included in the application appendices (The appendices will not be counted toward the narrative page limit.)
This additional information includes:
Additional information submitted via Grants.gov should be uploaded in a PDF file format, and should be named:
The agency or organization is required to have a Dun and Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number to apply for a grant or cooperative agreement from the Federal government. The DUNS number is a nine digit identification number, which uniquely identifies business entities. Obtaining a DUNS number is easy and there is no charge. To obtain a DUNS number, access the Dun and Bradstreet website or call 1-866 705-5711.
Additional requirements that may request submittal of additional documentation with the application are listed in section “VI.2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements.”
Application Deadline Date: June 20, 2008
Explanation of Deadlines: Applications must be received in the CDC Procurement and Grants Office by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on the deadline date.
Applications must be submitted electronically at www.Grants.gov. . Applications completed online through Grants.gov are considered formally submitted when the applicant organization’s Authorizing Organization Representative (AOR) electronically submits the application to www.Grants.gov. Electronic applications will be considered as having met the deadline if the application has been successfully submitted electronically by the applicant organization’s AOR to Grants.gov on or before the deadline date and time.
When submission of the application is done electronically through Grants.gov (http://www.grants.gov), the application will be electronically time/date stamped and a tracking number will be assigned, which will serve as receipt of submission. The AOR will receive an email notice of receipt when HHS/CDC receives the application.
This announcement is the definitive guide on LOI and application content, submission address, and deadline. It supersedes information provided in the application instructions. If the application submission does not meet the deadline above, it will not be eligible for review. The application face page will be returned by HHS/CDC with a written explanation of the reason for non acceptance. The applicant will be notified the application did not meet the submission requirements.
IV.4. Intergovernmental Review of Applications
The application is subject to Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs, as governed by Executive Order (EO) 12372. This order sets up a system for state and local governmental review of proposed federal assistance applications. Contact the state single point of contact (SPOC) as early as possible to alert the SPOC to prospective applications and to receive instructions on the State’s process. Visit the following Web address to get the current SPOC list: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html
IV.5. Funding Restrictions
Restrictions, which must be taken into account while writing the budget, are as follows:
The recommended guidance for completing a detailed justified budget can be found on the CDC Web site, at the following Internet address:
http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/budgetguide.htm.
IV.6. Other Submission Requirements
Application Submission Address:
Electronic Submission:
HHS/CDC strongly encourages applicants to submit applications electronically at www.Grants.gov. The application package can be downloaded from www.Grants.gov. Applicants are able to complete it off line, and then upload and submit the application via the Grants.gov Web site. Email submissions will not be accepted. If the applicant has technical difficulties in Grants.gov, customer service can be reached by Email at support@grants.gov or by phone at 1-800-518-4726 (1-800-518-GRANTS). The Customer Support Center is open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.
HHS/CDC recommends that submittal of the application to Grants.gov should be prior to the closing date to resolve any unanticipated difficulties prior to the deadline. Applicants may also submit a back up paper submission of the application. Any such paper submission must be received in accordance with the requirements for timely submission detailed in Section IV.3. of the grant announcement. The paper submission must be clearly marked: “BACK-UP FOR ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION.” The paper submission must conform to all requirements for non electronic submissions. If both electronic and back up paper submissions are received by the deadline, the electronic version will be considered the official submission.
The applicant must submit all application attachments using a PDF file format when submitting via Grants.gov. Directions for creating PDF files can be found on the Grants.gov Web site. Use of file formats other than PDF may result in the file being unreadable by staff.
V.1. Criteria
Applicants are required to provide measures of effectiveness that will demonstrate the accomplishment of the various identified objectives of the cooperative agreement. Measures of effectiveness must relate to the performance goals stated in the “Purpose” section of this announcement. Measures must be objective and quantitative and must measure the intended outcome. The measures of effectiveness must be submitted with the application and will be an element of evaluation.
The application will be evaluated against the following criteria:
1.
Documentation of Eligibility (not scored)This section of the application will be reviewed to determine eligibility for funding.
2.
Abstract (not scored)3.
Implementation of 3MV (to assess the program’s suitability for evaluation)(Section Total = 260 points)
The response should address staffing for the following: (1) delivery of 3MV; (2) any monitoring and evaluation the organization is currently conducting, exclusive of this project, on 3MV; (3) any quality assurance activities the organization is currently conducting for 3MV; and (4) maintaining client records and managing program data related to 3MV, including assuring client confidentiality and adhering to policies and practices for data security and Web based reporting, as required for PEMS. (25 points)
The response should address training related to the following: (1) delivery of 3MV, and related skills, such as group facilitation; (2) PEMS data collection requirements, including collection of demographic, behavioral risk, and health service utilization data from individuals enrolled in 3MV; (3) conducting quality assurance for 3MV; and (4) maintaining client records and managing program data related to 3MV, including assuring client confidentiality and adhering to policies and practices for data security and Web based reporting, as required for PEMS.
4. Plan for this Outcome Monitoring Project (Section Total = 365 points)
This includes the following:
(1) Required objectives:
(a)
Number of young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners, who will be recruited and enrolled in 3MV and participate in this outcome monitoring project over a 24-month time period. (35 points)(b)
Proportion of these individuals participating in this outcome monitoring project that will be located and will provide follow up behavioral risk and health service utilization data at two intervals. (35 points)(2) Other objectives.
(a) How adequate and feasible is the applicant’s plan for recruiting young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners currently enrolled in 3MV to participate in this project? (50 points)(b)
How adequate and feasible are the applicant’s proposed methods for collecting individual level data before and after the delivery of 3MV on demographics, HIV related behavioral risks, and health service utilization (that is, other HIV related services received) from high risk individuals participating in this project? (50 points) (c) How adequate and feasible are the applicant’s proposed methods for obtaining contact information for locating and collecting follow up data on high risk individuals participating in this project? (35 points) (d) How adequate and feasible is the agency’s plan for collecting follow up data at two intervals on behavioral risks and health service utilization (that is, other HIV related services received) from individuals participating in this project? (50 points) (e) How adequate and feasible is the applicant’s plan for collecting data on the delivery of 3MV, including quantitative data required by PEMS (for example, the number of clients participating in each session), and qualitative data, such as (1) how closely the delivery of 3MV follows relevant protocols, policies, and procedures; (2) difficulties encountered with the delivery of 3MV; and (3) circumstances and context of the delivery of 3MV (for example, programmatic and organizational characteristics)? (25 points) (f) How adequate and feasible is the applicant’s plan for collecting qualitative data on (1) strategies used to collect follow up behavioral risk and health service utilization data (for example, telephone contact, return to specific localities, outreach, incentives); and (2) successes and barriers encountered during the course of this project (for example, difficulty locating high risk clients)? (25 points) (g) How adequate is the applicant’s plan for using the quantitative and qualitative data collected in this project to assess and improve the applicant’s performance in delivering 3MV? (20 points)5. Staffing Plan for this Project (Section Total = 150 points)
How adequate and feasible is the agency’s staffing plan for this project? The response should address staffing for all activities necessary for the successful implementation of the project.
6. Organizational History and Experience (Section Total = 150 points)
(1) planning, managing, and conducting program monitoring and evaluation; (2) collecting quantitative data for program monitoring and evaluation; (3) collecting qualitative data for program monitoring and evaluation; (4) analyzing and using quantitative and qualitative data for program monitoring and evaluation; (5) maintaining client records and managing data for program activities (including maintaining client confidentiality and data security); and (6) conducting quality assurance for program activities
7. Additional Required Information (Section Total = 75 points)
Has the applicant provided copies of the following as appendices?
·
First year process and outcome objectives for 3MV·
A flow diagram illustrating the delivery of 3MV·
Operational policies and procedures for conducting 3MV·
Data collection instruments it is using for 3MV·
A quality assurance plan and related instruments for 3MV 8. Budget (SF 424A) and Budget Narrative for this Project (Reviewed but not scored.)There is a $125,000 upper limit for funding for the first fiscal year of funding. The budget will be reviewed to determine the extent to which the funds are reasonable, clearly justified, consistent with the intended use, and allowable. All budget categories should be itemized.
If a funding amount greater than the ceiling of the award range is requested, the application will be considered non responsive and will not be entered into the review process. The applicant will be notified that the application did not meet the submission requirements.
9. Additional Evaluation CriteriaThe highest ranked applications will be considered for a pre-decisional site visit. The following areas will be evaluated by project officers during the site visit and will not be considered during the objective review process:
a. Implementation of 3MV (60 points)
The purpose of this section is to assess the agency’s current implementation of 3MV. The score will be based on the following:
·
Is the agency delivering 3MV primarily to young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners? (5 points)·
How well has the agency incorporated the nine core elements of 3MV? (10 points)·
How appropriately has the agency adapted and tailored 3MV, if applicable? (10 points)·
How has the agency staffed 3MV (including qualifications, training, allocation of time)? (10 points)·
How appropriate and adequate are the methods or strategies used to recruit high risk individuals into 3MV? (10 points)·
Does the agency recruit a substantial number of high risk individuals into 3MV? (5 points)·
How adequately does the agency collect and manage data for 3MV, including meeting data collection requirements of PEMS? (10 points)
b. Capacity to Participate Successfully in This Project (40 points)
The purpose of this section is to assess the CBO’s capacity to effectively implement the proposed project. The score will be based on the following:
·
How extensive is the agency’s experience conducting program monitoring and evaluation? (10 points)·
Does the agency have the capacity to adequately staff the project? (10 points)·
How adequate is the agency’s capacity to recruit high risk young (up to age 24) men of color who have sex with men (YMCSM) at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners and young (up to age 24) transgender persons of color who are at high risk for HIV infection or transmission and their partners into this project? (10 points)·
How adequate is the agency’s capacity to maintain client records and manage program data? (10 points)
V.2. Review and Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed for completeness by the Procurement and Grants Office (PGO) staff and for responsiveness jointly by NCHHSTP and PGO. Incomplete applications and applications that are non responsive to the eligibility criteria will not advance through the review process. Applicants will be notified the application did not meet submission requirements.
An objective review panel will evaluate complete and responsive applications according to the criteria listed in the “V.1. Criteria” section above.
In addition, the following factors may affect the funding decision: maintaining representation in terms of target population gender, race/ethnicity, and HIV risk behavior; maintaining geographic diversity; and maintaining proportionate representation of CBOs from both Categories (A and B) of PS06-618.
CDC will provide justification for any decision to fund out of rank order.
VI.1. Award Notices
Successful applicants will receive a Notice of Award (NoA) from the CDC Procurement and Grants Office. The NoA shall be the only binding, authorizing document between the recipient and CDC. The NoA will be signed by an authorized Grants Management Officer and emailed to the program director and a hard copy mailed to the recipient fiscal officer identified in the application.
Unsuccessful applicants will receive notification of the results of the application review by mail.
VI.2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
Successful applicants must comply with the administrative requirements outlined in 45 CFR Part 74 and Part 92, as appropriate. The following additional requirements apply to this project:
Additional information on the requirements can be found on the CDC Web site at the following Internet address: http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/Addtl_Reqmnts.htm.
CDC Assurances and Certifications can be found on the CDC Web site at the following Internet address: http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/grants/foamain.shtm.
For more information on the Code of Federal Regulations, see the National Archives and Records Administration at the following Internet address: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/cfr table search.html.
VI.3. Reporting Requirements
The applicant must provide CDC with an annual interim progress report via www.grants.gov:
1. The interim progress report is due no less than 90 days before the end of the budget period. The progress report will serve as the non competing continuation application, and must contain the following elements: a. Standard Form (“SF”) 424S Form, b. SF 424A Budget Information Non Construction Programs, c. Budget Narrative, d. Indirect Cost Rate Agreement, and e. Project Narrative.
Additionally, the applicant must provide CDC with an original, plus two hard copies of the following reports:
2. Financial status report and annual progress report, no more than 90 days after the end of the budget period, andThese reports must be submitted to the attention of the Grants Management Specialist listed in the “VII. Agency Contacts” section of this announcement.
CDC encourages inquiries concerning this announcement.
For general questions, contact:
CDC Procurement and Grants Office
2920 Brandywine Road, MS E 14
Atlanta, GA 30341
Telephone: 770 488 2700
For program technical assistance, contact:
Bryce Smith, Project Officer
1600 Clifton Road, Mail Stop E 59
Telephone: (404) 639 6277
Email: bli1@cdc.gov
For financial, grants management, or budget assistance, contact:
Patricia French, Grants Management Specialist
CDC Procurement and Grants Office
2920 Brandywine Road, MS
Telephone: 404-639-8265
Email: pff6@cdc.gov
CDC Telecommunications for the hearing impaired or disabled is available at: TTY 770 488 2783.
VIII. Other Information
Other CDC funding opportunity announcements can be found on the CDC Web site, Internet address: http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/FOAs.htm.
Applicants may access the application process and other awarding documents using the Electronic Research Administration System (eRA Commons). A one time registration is required for interested institutions/organizations at http://era.nih.gov/ElectronicReceipt/preparing.htm.
Program Directors/Principal Investigators (PD/PIs) should work with their institutions/organizations to make sure they are registered in the eRA Commons.
1. Organizational/Institutional Registration in the eRA Commons
2. Project Director/Principal Investigator (PD/PI) Registration in the eRA Commons: Refer to the NIH eRA Commons System (COM) Users Guide.
Note that if a PD/PI is also an HHS peer reviewer with an Individual DUNS and CCR registration, that particular DUNS number and CCR registration are for the individual reviewer only. These are different than any DUNS number and CCR registration used by an applicant organization. Individual DUNS and CCR registration should be used only for the purposes of personal reimbursement and should not be used on any grant applications submitted to the Federal Government.
Several of the steps of the registration process could take four weeks or more. Therefore, applicants should check with their business official to determine whether their organization/institution is already registered in the eRA Commons. HHS/CDC strongly encourages applicants to register to utilize these helpful online tools when applying for funding opportunities.
CDC Home Page: http://www.cdc.gov
CDC Funding Web Page: http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/FOAs.htm
CDC Forms Web Page:
http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/grants/app_and_forms.shtm