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The Department Homeland Security (DHS)
Notice Funding Opportunity (NOFO) 2017 Citizenship and Assimilation Grant Program
Citizenship Instruction and Naturalization Application Services
NOTE: you are going apply for this funding opportunity and have not obtained Data
Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number and/or are not currently registered the
System for Award Management (SAM), please take immediate action obtain DUNS
Number, applicable, and then register immediately SAM. may take four weeks
more after you submit your SAM registration before your registration active SAM
well additional hours for Grants.gov recognize your information. The process
for obtaining DUNS number and registering SAM available from Grants.gov at:
http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/register.html. Detailed information regarding DUNS and
SAM processes are provided Section this NOFO under subsection; Content and
Form Application Submission.
Program Description
Issued
U.S. Department Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration
Services (USCIS), Office Citizenship
Catalog Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number
97.010
CFDA Title
Citizenship Education and Training
Notice Funding Opportunity Title 2017 Citizenship and Assimilation Grant Program: Citizenship Instruction and
Naturalization Application Services
NOFO Number
DHS-17-CIS-010-002
Authorizing Authority for Program
Section 404 the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2017 (Pub. 115-31),
Division Title
Appropriation Authority for Program
Section 404 the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2017 (Pub. 115-31),
Division Title
Program Type
New
Program Overview, Objectives, and Priorities
The Office Citizenship (OoC), within U.S. Citizenship and Immigration
Services (USCIS), Department Homeland Security (DHS), charged with
promoting instruction and training the rights and responsibilities citizenship.
USCIS recognizes that naturalization important milestone the civic
assimilation immigrants. Naturalization requirements, such knowledge
English and U.S. history and civics, encourage civic learning and build strong
foundation upon which immigrants can fully assimilate into society. Through
preparing for naturalization, immigrants will gain the tools become successful
citizens and assimilate into our society and meet their responsibilities United
States citizens.
The goal the Citizenship and Assimilation Grant Program expand the
availability high quality citizenship preparation services for lawful permanent
residents communities across the nation and provide opportunities for lawful
permanent residents gain the knowledge and training necessary promote
their assimilation into the fabric American society. Additional activities that
support this goal include developing, identifying, and sharing promising practices citizenship preparation;; increasing the use and access technology
citizenship preparation programs; working with local libraries which serve
vital resource for immigrant communities; and incorporating strategies foster
welcoming communities part the citizenship and civic assimilation process.
Request for Proposals fiscal year (FY) 2017, total approximately $9,000,000 federal funding
available for eligible organizations provide direct citizenship preparation
services lawful permanent residents through this funding opportunity. USCIS
anticipates awarding approximately grants $250,000 each.
Proposed citizenship preparation activities must include the following two
components:
Note, another approximately $1,000,000 federal funding available through funding opportunity DHS-17-CIS010-001. Under that program, USCIS anticipates awarding grants $100,000 each. Citizenship instruction prepare lawful permanent residents for the
naturalization test and interview. Program design must include:
Instruction U.S. history and government for test preparation and the
promotion civic assimilation;
Activities that promote civic and linguistic assimilation;
English Second Language (ESL) instruction reading, writing,
and speaking;
Instruction the naturalization process and eligibility interview;
The use nationally normed standardized test English
proficiency place and assess progress all students enrolled under
this program. least 80% post tested students must demonstrate
education gains evidenced increased standardized test scores;
The use standardized civics test provided USCIS
measure the acquisition information leading test preparedness
and immigrant assimilation;
The use current adult citizenship textbook that aligns with the skill
level the students the class;
The provision least hours citizenship instruction over 815 week class cycle with managed enrollment least 200 students
the National Reporting System for Adult Education (NRS) low beginning high intermediate level; and
The use citizenship teachers who have least one year
experience teaching ESL adults and who: Hold degree TESOL; and/or Hold TESOL certification from state licensing agency; and/or Have substantial experience TESOL instruction classroom
setting for program that utilizes structured curriculum.
Grant-funded classes must integrate instruction U.S. history and
government; ESL instruction reading, writing, and speaking; and
instruction the naturalization process and eligibility interview. For more
detailed information the content and competencies that applicants must
address grant-funded classes, please review the Guide the Adult
Citizenship Education Content Standards and Foundation Skills found here:
http://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/USCIS/Office%20of%20Citizenship/
Citizenship%20Resource%20Center%20Site/Publications/M-1121.pdf
Grant-funded programs must also incorporate civic assimilation learning
activities into instruction. The intent this requirement encourage
students extend knowledge acquisition beyond traditional classroom
instruction through opportunities experience and navigate American civic
life firsthand and through in-depth learning activities. Applicants are
encouraged draw upon their local resources, venues, and landmarks when
conceptualizing and designing these civic assimilation learning activities. The
Office Citizenship will provide training and technical assistance needed assist grantees design and implement activities within the scope the
following categories: (1) Site-based civic assimilation activities local trips
outside the classroom sites and landmarks historical and/or cultural
significance, libraries, other local public entities, and organizations that
promote public safety, etc.; (2) Class-based civic assimilation activities
activities that may involve guest speakers such local civic leaders and
public servants provide the opportunity for student interaction and
exchange, the use multi-media and/or materials-based methods that
promote enhanced understanding key moments U.S. history and/or
the form and function local, state, and federal government; (3) Civic
participation activities that encourage students take participatory learning
beyond the classroom attending public meeting; volunteering;
participating local civic institutions; and (4) Other assimilation activities
activities that promote in-depth understanding the student role future
citizen the United States, including: the rights and responsibilities
citizenship; our shared American history; government functions, structure and
laws; geography; traditions, symbols; and holidays. These can external
in-class. Naturalization application services, within the scope the authorized
practice immigration law, support lawful permanent residents the
naturalization application and interview process. Services must include:
The provision naturalization eligibility screening;
The preparation and submission Forms N-400, Application for
Naturalization with Form G-28, Notice Entry Appearance
Attorney Accredited Representative over the two year period
performance for least 200 lawful permanent residents;
Ongoing case management;
The use U.S. Department Justice (DOJ)s Office Legal
Access Programs (OLAP) accredited representative attorney who employee the applicant organization the sub-awardee
organization. (Pro bono volunteer attorneys may used
supplement the program.) Attorneys and DOJ accredited
representatives must sign Form N-400 the preparer, submit Form G28 with each Form N-400 filed under this grant, and mail the
naturalization application package USCIS behalf the client.
The applicant must have process place refer individuals with
cases too complex for handling other naturalization application
service providers.
Services may include interview preparation, representative appearance
the naturalization interview, and filing other forms documents (such
Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions), applicable.
Services may also include subsequent preparation and filing Forms N-600
for naturalization client minor children.
Partnerships
Partnerships are encouraged. Applicants may include partnerships with other
public non-profit organizations their proposal. The principal applicant must
directly provide either citizenship instruction naturalization application
services, both. partner organization considered sub-awardee the
organization will receive portion the grant funding provide additional
complementary direct citizenship instruction naturalization application
services.
The applicant must complete Memorandum Understanding (MOU) with the
prospective sub-awardee and submit with the application. The applicant must
clearly demonstrate how will monitor the prospective sub-awardee
performance and ensure that the prospective sub-awardee complies with all grant
award conditions and data reporting requirements. The MOU will state the
minimum number students/clients whom the sub-awardee will provide
services. Prospective sub-awardees must have their own individual Data
Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number and will responsible for
financial and performance reporting. Sub-awardees must submit their reports
the primary applicant for submission DHS. the partner organization will not
receive portion the grant funds, then the partner not considered
prospective sub-awardee, and would not required complete MOU
obtain DUNS number.
Federal Award Information
Award Amounts, Important Dates, and Extensions
Available Funding for the NOFO:
Approximately $9,000,000
Projected Number Awards:
Period Performance: months (comprising two one-year budget
periods)
Applicants may request no-cost extension order complete all project activities. The
request must submitted days prior the expiration the performance period.
Requests for extensions are subject approval DHS. See Section Additional
Information Extension.
Projected Period Performance Start Date(s):
Projected Period Performance End Date(s):
9/30/2019
Funding Instrument:
10/01/2017
Grant
Eligibility Information
Eligible Applicants
The following entities are eligible apply this announcement:
City township governments
County governments
Independent school districts
Native American tribal government (Federally recognized)
Native American tribal organizations, other than Federally recognized
tribal governments
Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) IRS status, other than institutions higher
education
Private institutions higher education
Public and State controlled institutions higher education
Special district governments
State governments
Eligibility Criteria eligible for this program, applicants and sub-awardees must meet the below
requirements. Applicants and any proposed sub-awardees must organizations with
public non-profit status; the time application, applicants and/or any sub-awardees that
propose provide citizenship instruction must have least one
year experience the past three years providing direct service
citizenship instruction classroom setting that follows
curriculum. Applicants and/or any sub-awardees that propose
provide naturalization application services must have least one
year experience the past three years providing naturalization
application services within the authorized practice immigration
law clients, and must the time application: recognized the U.S. Department Justice (DOJ)s Office
Legal Access Programs (OLAP) and employ least one DOJ
accredited representative employee with experience providing clients
with naturalization representation; Have least one attorney staff paid employee with experience
providing clients with naturalization representation.
Not Eligible
For-profit law firms and attorneys private practice are not eligible receive
funding under this funding opportunity. (See the Glossary for the definitions
representation and employee.
Current awardees and sub-awardees under the 2016 Citizenship and
Integration Grant Program (funding opportunity DHS-16-CIS-010-001
DHS-16-CIS-010-002) are not eligible receive funding under this funding
opportunity. Applicants the 2017 Citizenship and Integration Grant
Program: Citizenship Instruction (funding opportunity DHS-17-CIS-010-001)
are not eligible apply this program. DHS determines any point during the review process that application
does not meet these eligibility requirements, the application will removed
from further consideration.
Non-Responsive Applications
Your application will deemed non-responsive if: Form SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance missing. Form SF-424A Budget missing. Form SF-424B Assurances Non-Construction Programs missing. The applicant Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) not
registered with the System for Award Management (SAM). The application does not include either Budget Narrative Budget
Table. The Project Abstract missing. The Project Narrative missing.
Maintenance Effort (MOE)
There MOE requirement for this program. Requests for funds under this
announcement shall not used take the place activities described the
application that are currently supported with other funding. Also, grant funds shall
not used support activities that are normal part the organization
operations.
Cost Share Match
There cost share requirement for this program. However, projects that
supplement government funding are encouraged and may receive favorable
consideration. Applicants should clearly identify which budget items are
supported federal grant funding and which are supported in-kind
contributions and/or other funding sources, along with estimate the value
these non-federal funding sources.
Application and Submission Information
Key Dates and Times
Date Posted Grants.Gov:
07/25/2017
Application Submission Deadline:
08/06/2017 11:59:59 p.m. EDT
Anticipated Funding Selection Date:
09/21/2017
Anticipated Award Date:
09/28/2017
NOTE: The application must received Grants.gov the date and time listed above. application received after the deadline, will not considered. Applicants will
receive confirmation from Grants.gov once the application successfully submitted.
All applications are time stamped the Grants.gov system when submitted and
recipients are notified accordingly. The federal office will download all applications that
are received the deadline date and time indicated the NOFO.
Other Key Dates
Event
Suggested Deadline For Completion
Obtaining DUNS Number
Four weeks before actual submission
deadline
Obtaining valid EIN
Four weeks before actual submission
deadline
Updating SAM registration
Four weeks before actual submission
deadline
One week before actual submission
deadline
Starting application Grants.gov
Address Request Application Package
Application forms and instructions are available Grants.gov. access these materials, http://www.grants.gov select Applicants then Apply for Grants, order
obtain the application package select Download Grant Application Package. Enter the
CFDA and/or the funding opportunity number located the cover this NOFO, select
Download Package, and then follow the prompts download the application package.
Applications will processed through the Grants.gov portal. you experience
difficulties accessing information have any questions, please call Grants.gov customer
support 1-800-518-4726.
The Telephone Device for the Deaf (TDD) and/or Federal Information Relay Service
(FIRS) number available for this Announcement is: 1-800-518-4726 (Grants.gov Help
Desk). request hardcopy the full NOFO, please email fax request to:
Jacqueline Greely
Grants Officer
Jacqueline.Greely@HQ.DHS.GOV
Fax: 202-447-5600
Content and Form Application Submission
Applicants must submit all required forms and required documents listed this section.
See the Grants.gov Applicant User Guide for instructions how attach forms and
documents. Applicant should ensure that the final submitted application package includes
all required forms and documents. Applicants should avoid the use special characters
attachment file names.
REQUIRED FORMS
Complete the required forms accordance with the application instructions
Grants.gov. submitting any information that deemed proprietary, privileged
confidential commercial financial, please denote the beginning and ending such
information with asterisks (***).
http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/applicant-faqs/grant-application-faqs.html Form SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance
This form must completed within the application package Grants.gov. You must
download and install Adobe Reader order view this form. Applicants are only
required complete fields which are highlighted. Form SF-424A Budget
This form must completed within the application package Grants.gov. You must
download and install Adobe Reader order view this form. Applicants are only
required complete fields which are highlighted. Provide budget amounts object
class (personnel, fringe benefits, travel, etc.). Include second year budget amounts
Section Funds may requested long the item and amount are necessary
perform the proposed work and are not precluded the cost principles program
funding restrictions. Certifications/Assurances
These forms must completed within the application package Grants.gov. You
must download and install Adobe Reader order view these forms. Applicants
must submit: Form SF-424B Assurances Non-Construction Programs; and Certification Regarding Lobbying. paragraph two the certification
applies, then complete and submit the SF-LLL Disclosure Lobbying
which provided optional form the application package. signing and submitting application under this announcement, the applicant
providing: Certification Regarding Drug-Free Workplace Requirements;
Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters
Primary Covered Transactions; and Certification that the applicant not delinquent any federal debt.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS Project Abstract single-spaced page maximum)
Provide the information below separate document, suitable for public
dissemination. The project abstract must not include any proprietary/confidential
information. Attach the Project Abstract the application package.
See the Grants.gov Applicant User Guide for instructions how attach forms and documents. The
Attachment Section begins page the Applicant User Guide
General Information Organization legal name Organization legal address (Number and street, city, state, zip code) Head the organization (Name, title, address, phone number, email address)
Authorized official, the person the organization authorized sign and
receive award (Name, title, address, phone number, email address) Grant project manager, the person who will manage operations the grant
project and will serve USCIS primary point contact (Name, title,
address, phone number, email address)
Type organization (e.g., community/faith-based organization, public
school, adult education program, public library, etc.)
Project description (200 words less)
Provide brief summary the following:
The organization experience providing ESL instruction immigrants and
number years providing services;
The organization experience providing citizenship instruction
immigrants and number years providing services; description the immigrant community, including most common
countries origin that the organization will serve; and
Proposed grant project activities and outcomes.
Annual Organizational Budget
Total federal funding requested (Up $250,000)
10. Total federal funding allocated for citizenship instructor salaries
11. Total federal funding allocated for administrative costs
12.
Applicant total in-kind contribution (if applicable)
13.
Geographic area/community where services will provided
14.
Congressional district (based the legal address the applicant
organization)
15.
Number full-time equivalents (FTEs)
Indicate the number intended grant- funded FTEs.
16.
17.
Fees charged for citizenship instruction (if applicable)
Fees charged for naturalization application services (if applicable)
18. your organization proposed sub-awardee DOJ recognized? (yes/no)
19. DOJ Accredited Representative employee(s) attorney employee(s)
providing naturalization representation (name and title)
20. Are all program sites compliance with the Americans with Disabilities
Act?
21. List any grants received the applicant the past three years focused
adult education services immigrants.
Name Grant
Grantor
Period
Performance
Total Award
Amount
Proposed Citizenship Class Structure
22. Class cycle table: Provide the information below for each class type
following the example.
Class
Title and
Instructor
Proficiency
Level
e.g.,
High
Citizenship beginning
Morning
(Instructor Pat Jones)
Hours
per
class
Textbook, list
Times Weeks
author, edition
per
per class
and any
week
cycle
supplementary
resources used
Citizenship
Textbook
Jones, 2017 and
USCIS lesson
plans from USCIS
website
Total
hours
per class
cycle
Times
Location
offered over class
two year
period
performance
ABC
Family
Center
NOTE:
Applicants must offer least hours citizenship instruction over 8-15 week
class cycle for students the NRS low beginning high intermediate level.
23. Number total citizenship instruction hours offered over the twoyear period
24. Approximate number students enrolled per class
25. Other education services offered (tutoring, study groups, etc.)
26. the textbook free students? no, how much charged?
27. Nationally normed standardized assessment test(s) English language
proficiency for student placement and assessment progress
Sub-Awardee Organization (if applicable)
28. Sub-awardee organization legal name
29. Sub-awardee organization point contact (Name, title, address, phone
number and email address)
30. the sub-awardee non-profit public organization? not, the
sub-awardee not eligible receive funding.
31. Sub-awardee type organization (e.g., community/faith-based organization,
public school, adult education program, public library, etc.)
32. Services proposed sub-awardee organization
33. Total funds allocated for the sub-awardee Project Narrative (15 double-spaced page maximum)
Provide response for each item the chart below following the order listed. Items
5.a. 5.c. below are the mandatory headings that must included the Project
Narrative. The items and attachments listed each section are required, and any item attachment that omitted will result points deducted.
Format Requirements
You must follow the order specified below, using the required three headings: Citizenship Instruction Program Naturalization Application Services Program Integration Services
Include the title Project Narrative the top the first page.
Ensure that the application can printed single-sided paper.
Use double-spacing.
Font size must least point, preferably Times New Roman font.
Margins must least one (1) inch the top, bottom, left and right the paper.
Project narrative pages must numbered XX. not include any marks from the Track Changes tool your word processing
program.
Attach the completed Project Narrative the application package.
Project Narrative Items Citizenship Instruction Program
Experience and Community Need
Describe:
Your organization and, applicable, sub-awardee recent experience providing
ESL instruction. Indicate dates, total years experience, the number students
enrolled ESL the past year and any previous years.
Your organization and, applicable, sub-awardee recent experience providing
citizenship instruction. Indicate dates, total years experience, the number lawful
permanent residents served the past year and any previous years, and, available,
the naturalization test pass rate for program participants.
The particular lawful permanent resident population(s) that you serve with
citizenship instruction and ESL instruction.
The need for citizenship instruction among the lawful permanent resident population
that you serve, including whether there are wait lists for citizenship instruction and/or
ESL instruction your organization. Indicate whether there are other citizenship and
ESL instruction service providers your area.
Feasible Enrollment Goals
Explain how the proposed number students served under the grant-funded program feasible based your organization experience, past performance, and the proposed budget.
Indicate how many additional students will served under the grant-funded program that
would not otherwise have been served. Please reference your program goals table
attachment.
Program Administration
Describe:
The outreach plan raise awareness services and recruit students.
Intake procedures, including how the organization will verify and document that only
lawful permanent residents will receive services funded through this funding
opportunity.
The orientation process for new students.
Plans for student retention, including whether there are any known barriers student
attendance (e.g., transportation, childcare, student tuition, etc.) and solutions retain
students.
How the organization will manage enrollment, including whether students are
permitted enroll current classes after the start class cycle (and so, for how
long into the cycle) and how the organization will accommodate students who desire
classes after the registration period has closed.
Curriculum
Describe the curriculum for the program. You may reference the information provided
the Class Table the Project Abstract. Provide the following information:
Curriculum objectives. description the comprehensive citizenship education services provided
students and how the proposed class structure meets the needs the lawful permanent
resident community. you propose offer multi-level class, describe how the
different levels will managed the classroom, including how volunteers will
used. Discuss classroom activities that you will employ promote civic and linguistic
assimilation.
The use materials for citizenship instruction, including the name, year, and edition the textbook(s) that will provided students for each class level. Include other
materials used, such planned use any USCIS educational resources and any
educational software, equipment, innovative learning tools. description the assessment process, including the specific nationally normed
standardized test test(s) that will used for the program assess English language
proficiency when and how assessments are used, and the staff responsible for
administering the test. Discuss your organization experience administering the
proposed standardized test(s). addition, please discuss non-standardized assessments
(e.g. quizzes, unit tests, etc.) that are used monitor student learning during the course
for each class level. you have existing ESL program, describe how you will coordinate services
between the broader ESL program and the grant-funded citizenship classes. sure
include information the coordination assessment data, referrals, curriculum, and
other relevant information.
For guidance developing citizenship curriculum, please review the Guide the Adult Citizenship Education
Content Standards and Foundation Skills.
The standardized tests that the Department Education has determined suitable assess English language
proficiency listed Federal Register Notice Tests Determined Suitable for Use the National Reporting
System for Adult Education. See 48304 (August 12, 2015).
Personnel
Describe the staffing structure for the proposed citizenship instruction program.
Provide list key personnel for the program. Key personnel include the grant
project manager(s) and teacher(s).
For each person, provide the following information, preferably table format:
Name, indicate the position vacant. the position vacant, target
start date;
Title and brief position description;
Whether the position paid volunteer;
FTE charged the grant; and
Relevant experience, qualifications and training. Note that this grant must
include least one paid teacher position. The applicant must demonstrate
that the teacher has least one year experience teaching ESL adults classroom setting for program that has structured curriculum, and Holds degree TESOL, and/or Holds TESOL certification from state licensing agency; and/or Has substantial experience TESOL instruction classroom
setting for program that has structured curriculum.
See below for sample staff table.
Sample Staff Table
Name
Mary
Brown
Title and Position
Description
Education Program
Coordinator
manages adult
education programs
Paid
Volunteer
FTE
charged
grant
Paid
0.5 FTE
Relevant experience,
qualifications and
training
TESOL degree, years experience
program manager,
years experience
teaching ESL applicable, explain how volunteers will used for the citizenship instruction
program. Describe their roles and responsibilities, the training they will receive, and
the reporting structure. Volunteers must managed paid lead teacher paid
education program coordinator. your organization has only one teacher staff the time application, please
describe your organization contingency plan for the provision citizenship
instruction the event staff turnover. Naturalization Application Services Program
Experience and Community Need
Describe:
Your organization and, applicable, sub-awardee recent experience providing
naturalization application services within the authorized practice immigration
law. Indicate dates, total years experience, whether the services were provided
attorneys U.S. Department Justice (DOJ)s Office Legal Access Programs
(OLAP) accredited representatives, and the number lawful permanent residents
served the past year and any previous years.
Program achievements, including the organization record submitting successful
naturalization applications.
The particular lawful permanent resident population(s) that you serve with
naturalization application services.
The need for naturalization application services among the lawful permanent
resident population that you serve, including whether there are wait lists for services.
Indicate whether there are other naturalization application service providers your
area.
Feasible Naturalization Application Services Goals
Explain how the proposed number naturalization clients served under the grantfunded program feasible based your organization experience, past performance, and the
proposed budget.
Indicate how many naturalization applications you intend file the next two years
with this grant funding that otherwise would not have been filed. Please reference your
program goals table attachment.
Program Administration
Describe:
The coordinated outreach plan raise awareness services and recruit clients.
Intake procedures, including how the organization and sub-awardee (if applicable) will
verify and document that only lawful permanent residents will receive services funded
through this funding opportunity, and who conducts intake.
Service Delivery and Case Management
Describe:
The naturalization application services provided, including the forms filed behalf
clients.
The naturalization eligibility screening process and who will determine clients
eligibility for naturalization.
How your organization handles complex cases.
The support provided clients throughout the application process (i.e., from intake
until the oath ceremony).
How your organization prepares clients for the naturalization interview.
How your organization keeps clients informed their case status.
Any plans use grant funds hold group application workshops, and so, the
process for following with those clients about their cases.
Personnel
Describe the staffing structure for the proposed naturalization application services
program. Provide list key personnel for the program. Key personnel include the
project manager(s), the DOJ accredited representative(s) and/or attorney(s), and any
additional case workers. For each person, provide the following information,
preferably table format:
Name, indicate the position vacant. the position vacant, provide
separate position description and target start date;
Title and brief position description;
Whether the position paid volunteer;
FTE charged the grant;
Relevant experience, qualifications and training. For the DOJ accredited
representative(s) and/or attorney(s), indicate the level experience providing
naturalization application services; and
Indicate who will sign Form N-400 the preparer and who will enter their
appearance Attorney DOJ accredited representative signing Form G-28
connection with all naturalization applications filed under this grant.
See below for sample staff table.
Sample Staff Table
Name
Jim
Smith
Title and Position
Description
Paid
Volunteer
DOJ accredited
Paid
representative
provides immigration
legal services clients
FTE
charged grant
0.3 FTE
Relevant experience,
qualifications and
training
Accredited for years, years experience with
naturalization application
services your organization has only one staff member that DOJ accredited attorney,
please describe your organization contingency plan for the provision
naturalization application services the event staff turnover. You may use grant
funds cover costs associated with the DOJ accreditation additional staff members. applicable, explain how volunteers will used for the naturalization application
services program. Describe their qualifications, roles and responsibilities, the training
they will receive, and the reporting structure. Integration Services
Describe:
The plan provide integrated citizenship preparation services that lawful
permanent residents are aware the full range grant-funded services and can easily
access both types services. Indicate who will coordinate both components the
grant program and ensure that outreach, intake, and services are conducted
integrated manner.
The referral process between the citizenship instruction provider and the
naturalization application services provider.
Plans for coordinated data collection system, including how the organization and
sub- awardee (if applicable) will track and report services provided and whether
students and clients naturalize. Explain the system used for tracking data. sub-awardee proposed, describe the applicant history working with the subawardee organization. Describe the applicant plan for managing the sub-awardee
performance and maintaining frequent communication with the sub-awardee. Project Narrative Attachments
NOTE: The attachments will not count toward the page limit for the Project Narrative.
These items should attached the application package. Provide copy the curriculum described the project narrative. The
curriculum must include: course abstract that explains how the three areas citizenship
instruction (instruction U.S. history and government; ESL instruction reading, writing, and speaking; and instruction the naturalization
process and eligibility interview) are integrated with one another (150
200 words max). course learning objectives. scope and sequence that outlines the order which the content will
delivered, how long each topic/lesson/unit will covered. NOTE: The
scope and sequence must align with the course structure outlined the
project abstract. schedule for assessments (both nationally normed, standardized test
required for placement and post testing, and any non-standardized inclass assessments),
descriptions corresponding materials for each class. Provide sample non-standardized assessments (e.g. quizzes, unit tests, etc.)
that are used monitor student learning during the course for each class level. Provide sample lesson plans for each class level. Provide sample the types handouts activities students will doing
for each class level. Attach sum and/or position descriptions (if the position vacant) for all key
personnel, including any volunteer teachers that will lead classroom instruction
under the grant. sum must include all relevant job experience, education, and
licensure accreditation with corresponding dates. Organizational chart for the applicant and any proposed sub-awardee(s). you propose sub-awardee, the applicant must include signed Memorandum Understanding (MOU) between the organizations required attachment
the grant application. The MOU should include the responsibilities expected
each party, performance expectations, plans for maintaining communication, and
the payment and/or reimbursement process for the sub-awardee(s). The MOU
should signed both parties and dated. Program Goals
Provide the following goals for grant-funded services table format. Include the
total number over the two-year period, well breakdown quarter. There are
eight quarters over the two year performance period, and each quarter three months
long.
Program Goal Chart
Goal Total Number newlyenrolled (non-duplicated) lawful
permanent residents enroll
citizenship instruction classes
(Minimum 200 total) Percentage enrolled students
who post-test (Minimum 80%) Percentage post-tested
students demonstrating measurable
educational gains (Minimum
80%) Number lawful permanent
residents for whom your
organization will provide
naturalization eligibility screening Number lawful permanent
residents for whom your
organization will prepare and
submit Form N-400 and Form G-28
(Minimum 200 total) Number lawful permanent
residents pass the naturalization
test after receiving services from
your organization Number lawful permanent
residents naturalize after
receiving services from your
organization USCIS Quarterly Feedback Report (Current Past Grant Recipients Only) USCIS awarded your organization with Citizenship and Integration Grant
anytime 2012-2015, please provide copy the most recent quarterly
feedback report.
Note: This example 2015 USCIS feedback report. Budget Table and Narrative
When proposing costs for this grant program, ensure that the budget shows
reasonable balance costs between the citizenship instruction program and the
naturalization application services program. sub-awardee proposed, applicants must provide separate sub-awardee budget
narrative and table following the same format and with the same level detail that the applicant (i.e., Object Class Category/Cost Classification). Each subawardee budget and supporting detail should separate from the applicant budget
narrative. any fees are proposed that will result program income, show the budget how
this income will used.
Budget Table
Provide your budget request table format. Include all budget categories, listed the budget narrative section. Under each category, list the line items requested. See
sample table below. Note: This sample table shows the Personnel category only.
Applicants must provide information all budget categories.
The Budget Table may provided either the same document the budget
narrative, attached the application package.
Budget Narrative (Five page limit)
Attach your budget narrative (including separate budget narratives for each proposed
sub-awardee) the application package. Please limit the information provided
this section budget relevant information only.
Include costs for the first and second performance years. Separate the first
performance year costs from the second performance year costs. Show total all
requested federal grant funds. This total should match the total listed the project
abstract. Budget categories below should add this total. This total should
not include any in-kind costs. The in-kind contribution total should listed
separately.
Provide budget information the order listed below. Budget detail required for: In-Kind Costs: The dollar value non-cash donations the project. These
donations may the form space, supplies, salaries, etc. The costs should calculated the verifiable fair-market value. Personnel: Costs employee salaries and wages. For each staff person,
provide the name (if known), title, time commitment the project
percentage full-time equivalent (FTE), annual salary, and grant funded
salary. not include the costs consultants. Consultants are included
under Contractual. Fringe Benefits: Costs employee fringe benefits unless treated part
approved indirect cost rate. Provide the method used calculate the proposed
rate amount. fringe benefit has been negotiated with, approved by,
cognizant federal agency, attach copy the negotiated fringe benefit
agreement. rate agreement exists, provide breakdown the amounts
and percentages that comprise fringe benefit costs such health insurance,
FICA, retirement insurance, taxes, etc. Identify the base for allocating these
fringe benefit expenses. (Attach the agreement the application package.) Travel: Costs project-related travel employees the applicant organization
(do not include costs sub-contractor consultant travel). For each proposed
trip, provide the purpose, number travelers, travel origin and destination,
number days, and breakdown costs for airfare, lodging, meals, car rental,
and incidentals. The basis for the airfare, lodging, meals, car rental, and
incidentals must provided, such past trips, current quotations, Federal Travel
Regulations, etc. Foreign travel not permitted. The applicant must include costs
for two staff members attend mandatory two-day grant recipient orientation
training Washington, D.C. the first year the grant, and costs for
teacher/coordinator attend USCIS teacher training activities and methods
that promote linguistic and civic assimilation during the second year the grant.
Equipment: Any article nonexpendable, tangible personal property having useful life more than one year and acquisition cost which equals
exceeds the lesser (a) the capitalization level established the
organization for financial statement purposes, (b) $5,000. For each type
equipment requested, provide description the equipment, the cost per unit,
the number units, the total cost, and plan for use the project, well
use disposal the equipment after the project ends. applicant
organization that uses its own definition for equipment should provide copy its policy section its policy which includes the equipment definition.
NOTE Acquisition cost means the net invoice unit price item
equipment, including the cost any modifications, attachments, accessories,
calibration and maintenance services, auxiliary apparatus necessary
make usable for the purpose for which acquired. Ancillary charges,
such taxes, duty, protective in-transit insurance, freight, and installation
shall included excluded from acquisition cost accordance with the
organizations regular written accounting practices.
NOTE Prior the purchase equipment the amount $5,000 more per
unit cost, the Recipient must obtain the written approval from DHS. The
Recipient shall maintain annual inventory, which will include brief
description the item, serial number and amount purchase for equipment
purchased with grant funds, received under grant, and having $5,000
more per unit cost. The inventory must also identify the sub-award under
which the equipment was purchased. Maintenance and insurance will the
responsibility the Recipient. Title equipment will remain with the
Recipient until closeout when disposition will provided writing DHS
within 120 days submission final reports. Supplies: Costs all tangible personal property other than that included the
equipment category. Specify general categories supplies and their costs.
Show computations and provide other information which supports the amount
requested. Contractual: Costs all contracts for services and goods except for those that
belong under other categories such equipment, supplies, construction, etc.
Include third party evaluation contracts (if applicable) and contracts with
secondary recipient organizations.
Demonstrate that all procurement transactions will conducted manner provide, the maximum extent practical, open and free competition.
Identify proposed sub-contractor work and the cost each sub-contractor.
Provide detailed budget for each sub-contractor that expected perform
work estimated $25,000 more, 50% the total work effort,
whichever less.
Identify each planned subcontractor and its total proposed budget. Each
subcontractors budget and supporting detail should included part the
applicants budget narrative.
Provide the following information for each planned subcontract: brief
description the work subcontracted; the number quotes solicited and
received, applicable; the cost price analysis performed the applicant;
names and addresses the subcontractors tentatively selected and the basis
for their selection; e.g., unique capabilities (for sole source subcontracts), low
bidder, delivery schedule, technical competence; type contract and
estimated cost and fee profit; and, affiliation with the applicant, any.
Recipient may required make pre-award review and procurement
documents available DHS, including request for proposals invitations for
bids, independent cost estimates, etc. This may include procurements expected exceed the simplified acquisition threshold fixed USC 403(11)
(currently set $100,000) and expected awarded without competition
only one bid offer received response solicitation.
All required flow down provisions the award must included any
subcontract.
NOTE: Applicants may propose sub-contract for specific tasks, such hiring
additional citizenship instructors contractual basis. However, the
applicant must demonstrate its ability successfully manage all aspects the
grant-funded project, including financial management. Private law firms and
attorneys private practice are not eligible receive funding under this
funding opportunity. Other Direct Costs: Any other items proposed direct costs. Provide
itemized list with costs, and state the basis for each proposed item. Indirect Costs: Attach copy the latest indirect cost rate agreement
negotiated with cognizant federal agency. the applicant the process
initially developing renegotiating rate, upon notification that award will made, should immediately develop tentative indirect cost rate proposal
based its most recently completed fiscal year, accordance with the
cognizant agencys guidelines for establishing indirect cost rates, and submit the cognizant agency. Applicants awaiting approval their indirect cost
proposals may also request indirect costs. When indirect cost rate
requested, those costs included the indirect cost pool should not also
charged direct costs the award. the applicant requesting rate which less than what allowed under the program, the authorized representative
the applicant organization must submit signed acknowledgement that the
applicant accepting lower rate than allowed.
Any non-federal entity that has never received negotiated indirect cost rate
(except for those non-federal entities described Appendix VII Part 200
States and Local Government and Indian Tribe Indirect Cost Proposals,
paragraph D.1.b) may elect charge minimis rate 10% modified
total direct costs (MTDC) which may used indefinitely. described
200.403 Factors Affecting Allowability Costs, costs must consistently
charged either indirect direct costs, but may not double charged
inconsistently charged both. chosen, this methodology once elected must used consistently for all federal awards until such time non-federal
entity chooses negotiate for rate, which the non-federal entity may apply any time. For more information, see CFR Part 200.414. Documentation Non-profit and/or Public Status
The applicant and any proposed sub-awardee must provide documentation nonprofit and/or public status. Any the following constitutes acceptable proof nonprofit status: reference the applicant organization listing the Internal Revenue
Service (IRS) most recent list tax-exempt organizations described
section 501(c)(3) the IRS Code. copy currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate. statement from State taxing body, State attorney general, other
appropriate State official certifying that the applicant organization has nonprofit status and that none the net earnings accrue any private
shareholders individuals. certified copy the organization certificate incorporation similar
document that clearly establishes non-profit status.
Any the items the subparagraphs immediately above for State
national parent organization and statement signed the parent organization
that the applicant organization local non-profit affiliate. signed statement official letterhead official authorized apply for
grant funds behalf the public entity shall suffice.
Attach documentation non-profit and/or public status the application package.
Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM)
DHS participating the Grants.gov Initiative that provides the Grant
Community single site find and apply for grant funding opportunities;
therefore, applicants with electronic access are submit their applications
electronically through http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/apply-forgrants.html. Before you can apply for DHS grant grants.gov, you must have
DUNS number and must registered (SAM), and approved
Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR).
Applicants are encouraged register early. The registration process can
take four weeks more completed. Therefore, registration should
done sufficient time ensure does not impact your ability meet
required submission deadlines.
DUNS number. Instructions for obtaining DUNS number can found the
following website: http://www.grants.gov//web/grants/applicants/organizationregistration/step-1-obtain-duns-number.html. The DUNS number must
included the data entry field labeled Organizational DUNS the Standard
Forms (SF)-424 forms submitted part this application.
System for Award Management. addition having DUNS number,
applicants applying electronically through Grants.gov must register with SAM.
Step-by-step instructions for registering with SAM can found here:
http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-2register-with-sam.html. Failure register with SAM will result your
application being rejected Grants.gov during the submissions process.
Authorized Organizational Representative. The next step the registration
process creating username and password with Grants.gov become AOR.
AORs will need know the DUNS number the organization for which they
will submitting applications complete this process. Applicants must register
the individual who able make legally binding commitments for the applicant
organization the AOR; this step often missed and crucial for valid
submissions. read more detailed instructions for creating profile
Grants.gov visit: http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organizationregistration/step-3-username-password.html.
AOR Authorization. After creating profile Grants.gov, the E-Biz Point
Contact (POC), who representative from your organization listed the
contact for SAM, will receive email grant the AOR permission submit
applications behalf their organization. The E-Biz POC will then log
Grants.gov and approve individual the AOR, thereby giving him her
permission submit applications. After you have been approved AOR you
will able submit your application online. learn more about AOR
Authorization, visit: http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organizationregistration/step-4-aor-authorization.html. track AOR status, visit:
http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-5track-aor-status.html.
Electronic Signature. Applications submitted through Grants.gov constitute
submission electronically signed applications. When you submit the application
through Grants.gov, the name your AOR file will inserted into the
signature line the application. you experience difficulties accessing information have any questions please
call the Ggrants.gov customer support hotline (800) 518-4726 email
grants.gov support@grants.gov.
The Federal awarding agency may not make Federal award applicant until
the applicant has complied with all applicable DUNS and SAM requirements and, applicant has not fully complied with the requirements the time the
Federal awarding agency ready make Federal award, the Federal awarding
agency may determine that the applicant not qualified receive Federal
award and use that determination basis for making Federal award another
applicant.
Intergovernmental Review intergovernmental review may required. Applicants must contact their
State Single Point Contact (SPOC) comply with the State process under
Executive Order 12372 (see http://www.fws.gov/policy/library/rgeo12372.pdf
Name and addresses the SPOCs are maintained the Office Management
and Budget home page http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants_spoc
ensure currency.
Funding Restrictions
Eligible Funding Purposes
DHS grant funds may only used for the purposes set forth the agreement, and
must consistent with the statutory authority for the award. Grant funds may
used for the following purposes: provide services lawful permanent residents only, regardless
race, color, religion, sex, national origin. Resources support citizenship instruction, including staff salaries,
textbooks/materials, nationally normed standardized assessment tests,
software, etc. Professional development and training for staff and/or volunteers related
the provision citizenship instruction and/or naturalization application
services. Facility rental costs not exceed more than 20% the total approved
budget. Resources support naturalization application services including staff
salaries, case management systems, costs associated with DOJ recognition organizations and accreditation (or renewal) staff. This includes
training costs related DOJ recognition and accreditation. Transportation costs for students attending grant-funded classes.
Transportation funds provided students must match the students
individual transportation costs. Applicant must have system track how
transportation funds are used. Reimbursement transportation costs for volunteers participating
grant-funded activities. Volunteers may not receive general
transportation stipend. Transportation funds provided volunteers must
match the volunteers individual transportation costs. Applicants must have system track how transportation funds are used. Childcare costs assist eligible participants attend grant-funded classes. Travel costs for two staff members attend mandatory two-day grant
recipient training the Washington, D.C. area during the first year the
grant, and costs for one teacher coordinator attend USCIS teacher
training (or another professional development training with approval from
USCIS) during the second year the grant. Equipment purchases directly related the provision services. Costs associated with the use computers for citizenship instruction (e.g.,
computer equipment, internet access, etc.)
Ineligible Funding Purposes
Grant funds may not used for the following purposes: Cost-sharing matching funds for other federal grants, lobbying,
intervention federal regulatory adjudicatory proceedings. addition,
federal funds may not used sue the federal government any other
government entity. USCIS application fees. Costs organized fundraising, including financial campaigns, endowment
drives, solicitation gifts and bequests, and similar expenses incurred
solely raise capital obtain contributions. Profit/Fee not allowable except when subcontracting for routine goods
and services with commercial organizations. (Note: Applicants may charge nominal fee not exceed $50 for either program component. you
propose charge for services under the grant program, please present
justification for these fees the budget narrative, including detailed
explanation how they will used enhance the program. Program
income generated from these fees must back into the grant-funded
program.) Foreign travel. Construction costs and purchase real property under this funding
opportunity. Pre-award costs. Funding for direct reimbursement proposal development. Costs for food refreshments. Incentive items gift cards. General volunteer stipends. Living allowances for any national volunteer service program participants. Conference fees.
Management and Administration (MA) Costs
Management and Administration Costs are allowable for the grantee and any
proposed sub-awardee (if applicable). For more information allowable costs,
please see Funding Restrictions (above).
Indirect Facilities Administrative (FA) Costs
Indirect Costs are allowable for the grantee and any proposed sub-awardee (if
applicable). The applicant must attach copy the latest indirect cost rate
agreement negotiated with cognizant federal agency. the applicant the
process initially developing renegotiating rate, upon notification that
award will made, should immediately develop tentative indirect cost rate
proposal based its most recently completed fiscal year, accordance with the
cognizant agencys guidelines for establishing indirect cost rates, and submit
the cognizant agency. Applicants awaiting approval their indirect cost
proposals may also request indirect costs. When indirect cost rate requested,
those costs included the indirect cost pool should not also charged direct
costs the award. the applicant requesting rate which less than what
allowed under the program, the authorized representative the applicant
organization must submit signed acknowledgement that the applicant
accepting lower rate than allowed.
Any non-Federal entity that has never received negotiated indirect cost rate
(except for those non-federal entities described Appendix VII Part 200 States
and Local Government and Indian Tribe Indirect Cost Proposals, paragraph
D.1.b) may elect charge minimis rate 10% modified total direct costs
(MTDC) which may used indefinitely. described 200.403 Factors
Affecting Allowability Costs, costs must consistently charged either
indirect direct costs, but may not double charged inconsistently charged both. chosen, this methodology once elected must used consistently for all
federal awards until such time non-federal entity chooses negotiate for
rate, which the non-federal entity may apply any time. For more
information, see CFR Part 200.414.
Other Submission Requirements
Applications must submitted electronic format only.
Application forms and instructions are available http://www.grants.gov.
Applicants must have compatible version Adobe Reader. Adobe Reader
available from Grants.gov charge. you experience difficulties accessing information have any questions, please
call Grants.gov customer support 1-800-518-4726.
Application Review Information
Application Evaluation Criteria
Prior making Federal award, the Federal awarding agency required
U.S.C. 3321 and U.S.C. 2313 review information available through any
OMB-designated repositories government wide eligibility qualification
financial integrity information. Therefore application evaluation criteria may
include the following risk based considerations the applicant: (1) financial
stability; (2) quality management systems and ability meet management
standards; (3) history performance managing federal award; (4) reports and
findings from audits; and (5) ability effectively implement statutory, regulatory, other requirements.
DHS will use the following criteria evaluate applications deemed eligible and
responsive. Applicants can receive 100 points. Capacity Provide Comprehensive Citizenship Instruction (15 Points)
The extent which the applicant demonstrates: Recent and extensive experience providing citizenship instruction
points); Recent and extensive experience providing ESL instruction points); and The need for citizenship instruction within the lawful permanent resident
community that the applicant serves points). Quality the Citizenship Instruction Program (30 Points)
The extent which the applicant proposes high quality citizenship
instruction program meet the citizenship education needs the community,
including: Feasible citizenship instruction program goals points); Feasible and detailed outreach, intake, and student retention plans
points); High quality service delivery, curriculum, and class structure (12 points);
and Qualified and experienced personnel (12 points)
DHS requires that all applicants demonstrate experience providing
naturalization application services within the authorized practice
immigration law. Applications that fail demonstrate this will not
scored criteria and and result will deemed ineligible. Capacity Provide Comprehensive Naturalization Application Services
(15 Points)
The extent which the applicant demonstrates: Recent experience providing naturalization application services within the
authorized practice immigration law (10 points);
Please see USCIS Professional Development Guide for Adult Citizenship Educators for competencies USCIS would
expect qualified and experienced personnel demonstrate the citizenship instruction classroom. The need for naturalization application services within the lawful
permanent resident community that the applicant serves points). Quality the Naturalization Application Services Program (30 Points)
The extent which the applicant proposes high quality naturalization
application services program, including: Feasible naturalization application services program goals points); Viable outreach and intake plans points); High quality service delivery and case management (12 points); and Qualified and experienced personnel (12 points). Integration Services Points)
The extent which the applicant demonstrates plan provide integrated
citizenship preparation services particularly ensuring the accessibility
naturalization application services for enrolled citizenship instruction students. well- defined referral plan that ensures priority access for enrolled students
seeking legal services required. Cost Effectiveness and Balance Points)
The extent which the applicant proposed budget tied the delivery
programmatic services.
Review and Selection Process
DHS will conduct initial review applications determine the responsiveness the application. applicant determined ineligible (see Section
Eligibility Information) application determined non-responsive, DHS
will notify the applicant. All responsive and eligible applications will reviewed described below: DHS will assemble reviewers which may include both federal and non-federal
reviewers review the eligible applications. Reviews submitted
applications will conducted either site remote review. Teams technical reviewers will review each eligible application against the
evaluation criteria. The reviewers will assign score and provide summary
comments based the evaluation criteria identified above. application may selected for post-review quality control and possible
rescoring received significantly diverging scores and comments from
reviewers. internal review panel consisting DHS staff will review the highest
ranked applications and make final funding recommendations. The internal
review panel may take applications out rank order consideration
strategic program priorities, which are identified below. DHS may perform additional review the applicant organization and any
sub-awardees and/or its key personnel. This may include reviewing audit
reports, publicly available materials and/or government data and may have
bearing award outcome. DHS may request additional materials from the
applicant part this review, including:
The summary letter from the applicant most recent audit report; and
Documentation previous grant award completion that includes the
name the grantor, amount awarded, and whether the grant recipient
sufficiently completed the requirements the grant award (e.g.,
final close-out report, certification grant award completion, etc.) After the technical review and before making final funding decisions, DHS
will contact the highest ranking applicants seek clarification and negotiate
technical and programmatic aspects the application. This will include
negotiations the curriculum content and activities. application includes
sub-awardee that will provide additional complementary direct grant-funded
services partnership with the main applicant, DHS may request speak
with all parties included the application ensure sufficient planning and
coordination has taken place prior making award. Confidentiality and Conflict Interest. Technical and cost proposals
submitted under this NOFO will protected from unauthorized disclosure
accordance with applicable laws and regulations. DHS may use one more
support contractors the logistical processing proposals. However, funding
recommendations and final award decisions are solely the responsibility
DHS personnel.
DHS screens all technical reviewers for potential conflicts interest.
determine possible conflicts interest, DHS requires potential reviewers
complete and sign conflict interest and nondisclosure forms. DHS will keep
the names submitting institutions and individuals well the substance
the applications confidential except reviewers and DHS staff involved the
award process. DHS will destroy any unsuccessful applications after three
years following the funding decision. DHS strongly discourages, and will not consider, any materials submitted behalf the applicant (e.g., letters support) other than those materials
specifically requested this NOFO. DHS will notify all applicants electronically funding decisions. Unfunded
applicants may send written request
citizenshipgrantprogram@uscis.dhs.gov receive written summary
comments related the evaluation criteria, along with the points awarded
the application for each the evaluation criteria. DHS will send the written
summary the applicant within days the request. Additional information
beyond that described here will not provided.
Strategic Program Priorities
Based the recommendations the internal review panel, DHS may consider
the following factors when making award: Program Balance Factors, including (in descending order importance): Whether application, when balanced with other potential awards
and with existing Citizenship and Integration Grant Program
recipients, represents diverse geographic area; Whether application, when balanced with other potential awards
and existing Citizenship and Integration Grant Program recipients,
represents diverse population; Whether application, when balanced against other potential awards
with similar scores, incorporates: Use technology the citizenship instruction program that
would help immigrant students gain sufficient digital literacy
skills navigate USCIS educational resources and online
application system; and/or
ii. Cooperation with local libraries. The past performance previous Citizenship and Integration
Grant Program recipient (if applicable), including: Whether previous grant recipient achieved their core program goals
(number students enrolled, number eligibility screenings, and
number Forms N-400 filed); Whether previous grant recipient had major findings during
monitoring visit; Whether previous grant recipient was placed restricted
drawdown basis, and so, whether they were able meet the
conditions have this restriction removed; and Whether previous grant recipient demonstrated ability file
accurate and timely quarterly performance reports.
Prior making Federal award with total amount Federal share greater than
the simplified acquisition threshold, DHS required review and consider any
information about the applicant that the designated integrity and performance
system accessible through SAM (currently FAPIIS). applicant, its option, may review information the designated integrity and
performance systems accessible through SAM and comment any information
about itself that Federal awarding agency previously entered and currently
the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM.
DHS will consider any comments the applicant, addition the other
information the designated integrity and performance system, making
judgment about the applicant integrity, business ethics, and record
performance under Federal awards when completing the review risk posed
applicants described CFR 200.205 Federal awarding agency review
risk posed applicants.
Federal Award Administration Information
Notice Award
DHS issues formal award notification documents following fulfillment DHS
Congressional notifications. All DHS grants and cooperative agreements are
subject the standard DHS Award Terms and Conditions, which are attached
this package. grant award will executed DHS Grants Officer authorized obligate
DHS funding. Unsuccessful applicants will contacted well and will
encouraged apply for future grant award programs. Announcements for future
programs will listed http://www.grants.gov.
Administrative and National Policy Requirements
All successful applicants for all DHS grant and cooperative agreements are
required comply with DHS Standard Administrative Terms and Conditions,
which are available online at:
DHS Standard Terms and Conditions
The applicable DHS Standard Administrative Terms and Conditions will for
the last year specified that URL, unless the application continue award
first awarded earlier year. that event, the terms and conditions that apply
will those effect for the year which the award was originally made.
Before accepting the award the AOR should carefully read the award package for
instructions administering the grant award and the terms and conditions
associated with responsibilities under Federal Awards. Recipients must accept all
conditions this NOFO well any Special Terms and Conditions the
Notice Award receive award under this program.
Post-award program income: the event program income becomes available
the recipient post-award, the recipient responsibility notify the DHS
Grants Officer explain how that development occurred, part their request
for guidance and/or approval. The Grants Officer will review approval requests
for program income case-by-case basis; approval not automatic. Consistent
with the policy and processes outlined C.F.R. Part 200, pertinent guidance
and options, determined the type recipient and circumstances involved,
may approved the Grant Officer. approval granted, award
modification will issued with explanatory note the remarks section the
face page concerning guidance and/or options pertaining the recipient
approved request. All instances program income shall listed the progress
and financial reports.
Reporting
Federal Financial Reporting Requirements
The Federal Financial Reporting Form (FFR) available online at:
SF-425 OMB #4040-0014
Program Performance Reporting Requirements
The recipient required submit the following performance reports:
Quarterly Performance Reports must submitted the DHS Grants Officer
within days after the end each quarter. Reports are due January 30, April 30,
July 30, and October 30. Reports shall submitted via email
DHS-GrantReports@hq.dhs.gov (include the DHS grant number the subject
line the email) and citizenshipgrantprogram@uscis.dhs.gov.
Grant recipients must use the OMB-approved Performance Progress Report.
USCIS will provide guidance attachments include with the report. Grant
recipients must collect and report data each lawful permanent resident served
with grant funding, which may include:
Alien registration numbers. These numbers may used USCIS
track naturalization outcomes during and after the period performance;
Countries birth;
When specific services were provided, including student enrollments,
naturalization eligibility screenings, and Forms N-400 and G-28 filed:
Assessment data, including pre and post test scores;
Classes attended, including the number hours class;
When students and clients either passed failed the naturalization test;
and
When students and clients naturalized;
Grant recipients must also collect and report data citizenship classes provided,
which may include:
Class titles and proficiency levels;
Dates when classes are held;
The instructor teaching each class;
The number instructional hours provided per class; and
The number students enrolled per class. addition collecting this data, grant recipients must also provide quarterly
narrative reports. The narrative report may include questions the following
topics: program accomplishments, progress meeting goals, progress the subawardee organization (if applicable), challenges meeting goals, staff and/or
organizational development activities, student assessment and progress, outreach
activities, volunteer recruitment and training, staff changes, progress made
towards DOJ accreditation, and promising practices.
Monitoring
DHS, through its authorized representatives, has the right, all reasonable times, make site visits review project accomplishments and management control
systems and provide such technical assistance may required. During site
visits, DHS will review grant recipients files related the grant-funded program. part any monitoring and program evaluation activities, grant recipients must
permit DHS, upon reasonable notice, review grant-related records and
interview the organization staff and clients regarding the program, and
respond timely and accurate manner DHS requests for information relating their grant program.
Close Out Reporting Requirements
Within days after the end the period performance, after amendment
has been issued close out grant, whichever comes first, recipients must submit final FFR and final progress report detailing all accomplishments and
qualitative summary the impact those accomplishments throughout the
period performance.
The final performance report shall include cumulative quantitative data, program
accomplishments and challenges, and any promising practices related direct
service provision lawful permanent residents. applicable, inventory all construction projects that used funds from this
program has reported using the Real Property Status Report (Standard Form 429) available
http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/grants/approved_forms/sf429.pdf.
After these reports have been reviewed and approved USCIS, close-out
notice will completed close out the grant. The notice will indicate the period performance closed, list any remaining funds that will deobligated, and
address the requirement maintaining the grant records for three years from the
date the final FFR.
The recipient responsible for returning any funds that have been drawn down
but remain unliquidated recipient financial records.
DHS Awarding Agency Contact Information
Contact and Resource Information
USCIS Program Office
(Office Citizenship):
Send all questions citizenshipgrantprogram@uscis.dhs.gov.
USCIS Office Citizenship staff will respond within five (5)
business days. You may also refer list Questions and
Answers found www.uscis.gov/grants. This document will available few days after the posting this NOFO.
DHS Grants Office:
Grants Officer
Send all questions to: CISMailbox@hq.dhs.gov
Additional Information
Applicants will obtain NOFO overviews and full announcement information from the
Grants.gov website where the full NOFO posted. Applications will processed
through the Grants.gov portal.
Extensions
Applicants may request no-cost extension order complete all project activities. The
request must submitted days prior the expiration the performance period.
Requests for extensions are subject approval DHS.
Disclosure: Risk Assessment Evaluation
DHS staff will evaluate the risks the program posed each applicant, including
conducting due diligence ensure applicant ability manage federal funds. This
evaluation addition the evaluation the applicant eligibility and the quality
its application the basis the Selection Criteria, and results from this evaluation may
assist funding decisions. award made, DHS may apply special conditions that
correspond the degree risk the award. evaluating risks, DHS may consider the following:
Financial stability;
Quality management systems and ability meet the management standards
prescribed applicable OMB Guidance;
Applicant record managing previous DHS awards, cooperative agreements, procurement awards, including:
Timeliness compliance with applicable reporting requirements
Accuracy data reported
Conformance the terms and conditions previous federal awards applicable, the extent which any previously awarded amounts will
expended prior future awards
Information available through OMB-designated repositories
government-wide eligibility qualification financial integrity
information, such as: Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity
Information System (FAPIIS), Duns and SAM
Reports and findings from single audits performed under Subpart
Audit Requirements, C.F.R. Part 200 and findings and reports any
other available audits
Applicant organization annual report
Publicly available information, including information from the applicant
organizations website
Applicant ability effectively implement statutory, regulatory, other
requirements imposed award recipients. addition, organizations who have not received prior DHS Grants and Financial
Assistance Division (GFAD) awards may required complete risk assessment
questionnaire part the pre-award financial and administrative review.
Applicant Disclosure High Risk Status
Applicants are disclose they are currently designated high risk federal
awarding agency. This includes, but not limited to, any status requiring additional
oversight federal awarding agency due past programmatic, administrative
financial concerns. applicant designated high risk federal awarding
agency, should provide explanation with the application package and include the
following information:
The federal awarding agency that assigned the high risk status;
The federal awarding agency point contact for the risk status, including name,
phone number and email address;
Date the risk status designation;
Reason(s) for the risk status.
DHS seeks this information ensure appropriate federal oversight all grant
awards. The disclosure organization risk status does not disqualify from
receiving award; however additional grant oversight may required. necessary,
this information will provided the award documentation. Failure disclose high
risk status may result award termination other remedies.
Appendices
Use the Eligibility Guide determine whether you are eligible apply for
this funding opportunity. Visit http://www.uscis.gov/grants and click
2017 Eligibility Guide.
For definitions frequently used terms this NOFO, visit
http://www.uscis.gov/grants and click 2017 Glossary.
Applicants are also encouraged review the 2017 Guidance for Preparing
Your Proposal http://www.uscis.gov/grants.
Before submitting your application, use the Applicant Checklist ensure your
application complete and all required documents are included. Visit
http://www.uscis.gov/grants and click 2017 Applicant Checklist.