Source: http://www.dol.gov/vets/grants/grant2/main.htm
Timestamp: 2013-05-25 04:22:05
Document Index: 227362193

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 2021', '§ 5', 'ART 1', 'ART 2', 'art 93', 'art 95', 'art 96', 'art 97', 'art 98', 'art 99', 'arts 30', 'art\n667', 'art 97']

VETS - Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Project
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Billing Code 4510-79-M DEPARTMENT OF
LABOR Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Project
Competitive Grants for FY 2002 Billing Code 4510-79-M DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of the Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment
and Training Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program Competitive
Grants for FY 2002 AGENCY: Office of the Assistant
Secretary for Veterans' Employment and Training, Labor. ACTION: Notice of availability of funds and
solicitation for grant applications (SGA) for Homeless Veterans' Reintegration
Programs (SGA 02-09) SUMMARY: All applicants for grant funds should
read this notice in its entirety. The U.S. Department of Labor, Veterans'
Employment and Training Service (VETS), announces a grant competition for
Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Programs (HVRP) authorized under the Homeless
Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act of 2001. This notice contains all of the
necessary information and forms needed to apply for grant funding. Such
programs will assist eligible veterans who are homeless by providing
employment, training and support services assistance. Under this solicitation,
VETS anticipates that up to $1.5 million will be available for grant awards in
Program Year (PY) 2002 and expects to award up to eleven grants. The HVRP
programs are designed to be flexible in addressing the universal as well as
local or regional problems barring homeless veterans from the workforce. The
program in PY 2002 will continue to strengthen the provision of comprehensive
services through a case management approach, the attainment of supportive
service resources for homeless veterans entering the labor force, and
strategies for employment and retention. This notice describes the background, application process,
description of program activities, evaluation criteria, and reporting
requirements for this SGA. The information and forms contained in the
Supplementary Information Section constitute the official application package.
All necessary information and forms needed to apply for grant funding are
included. FORMS OR AMENDMENTS: If another copy of a
Standard form is needed, go online to
amendments to this Solicitation (Please reference SGA 02-09), all applicants
must register their name and address with the Grant Officer at the following
address: U. S. Department of Labor, Procurement Services Center, Room
N-5416, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW. Washington, DC 20210. CLOSING DATE: Applications are to be submitted,
including those hand delivered, to the address below by no later than 4:45
p.m., Eastern Standard Time, (Insert date 30 days after a publication date in
the Federal Register). ADDRESSES: Applications must be directed to the
U.S. Department of Labor, Procurement Services Center, Attention: Cassandra
Willis, Reference SGA 02-09, Room N-5416, 200 Constitution
Avenue, NW. Washington, DC 20210. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
All applicants are advised that U.S. mail delivery in the
Washington, DC area has been erratic due to the recent concerns involving
anthrax contamination. All applicants must take this into consideration when
preparing to meet the application deadline. It is recommended that you
confirm receipt of your application by contacting Cassandra Willis, U.S.
Department of Labor, Procurement Services Center, telephone (202) 693-4570,
prior to the closing deadline. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION HOMELESS VETERANS' REINTEGRATION PROGRAM
SOLICITATION PURPOSE The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Veterans' Employment and
Training Service (VETS) is requesting grant applications for the provision of
employment and training services in accordance with the Homeless Veterans
Reintegration Program at section 5 of the Homeless Veterans Comprehensive
Assistance Act of 2001 (HVCAA), Pub. L. No. 107-95 (2001). These instructions
contain general program information, requirements, and forms for application
for funds to operate a Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program (HVRP). BACKGROUND Section 5 of the Homeless Veterans' Comprehensive Assistance Act
of 2001 amended the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Programs at 38 U.S.C.
§ 2021, and provides "the Secretary . . . shall conduct, directly or
through grant or contract, such programs as the Secretary determines
appropriate to provide job training, counseling, and placement services
(including job readiness and literacy and skills training) to expedite the
reintegration of homeless veterans into the labor force." In accordance with the HVCAA, the Assistant Secretary for
Veterans' Employment and Training (ASVET) is making approximately $1.5
million of the funds available to award grants for HVRPs in selected
cities in FY 2002 under this competition. The Homeless Veterans' Reintegration
Project was the first nationwide Federal program that focused on placing
homeless veterans into jobs. Both types of projects, urban and rural, in the
past have provided valuable information on approaches that work in the
different environments. III. APPLICATION PROCESS POTENTIAL JURISDICTIONS TO BE SERVED Due to the demonstration nature of the Act, the amount of
funds available, and the emphasis on establishing or strengthening existing
linkages with other recipients of funds under the HVCAA, the only potential
jurisdictions which will be served through this non-urban competition for HVRPs
in PY 2002 are the areas outside of the 75 U.S. cities largest in population
and the city of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The 75 U.S. cities largest in population
are listed in Appendix G. B. ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS Applications for funds will be accepted from State and local
workforce investment boards, local public agencies, and nonprofit
organizations, including faith-based and community organizations, which have
familiarity with the area and population to be served and can administer an
effective program. Eligible applicants will fall into one of the following
categories: State and Local Workforce Investment Boards (WIBS) as defined
in Section 111 and 117 of the Workforce Investment Act, are eligible
applicants, as well as State and local public agencies. Local public agency, meaning any public agency of a general
purpose political subdivision of a State which has the power to levy taxes and
spend funds, as well as general corporate and police powers. (This typically
refers to cities and counties). A State agency may propose in its application
to serve one or more of the potential jurisdictions located in its State. This
does not preclude a city or county agency from submitting an application to
serve its own jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to utilize, through sub-awards,
experienced public agencies, private nonprofit organizations, and private
businesses and faith-based and community organizations that have an
understanding of unemployment and the barriers to employment unique to homeless
veterans, a familiarity with the area to be served, and the capability to
effectively provide the necessary services. Also eligible to apply are private nonprofit organizations that
have operated an HVRP or similar employment and training program for the
homeless or veterans and proven a capacity to manage grants and have or will
provide the necessary linkages with other service providers. Entities
described in Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Codes that engage in
lobbying activities are not eligible to receive funds under this
announcement as Section 18 of the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995, Public
Law No. 104-65, 109 Stat. 691, prohibits the award of Federal funds to these
entities. C.	FUNDING LEVELS The total amount of funds available for this solicitation is $1.5
million. It is anticipated that up to 11 awards may be made under this
solicitation. Awards are expected to range from $125,000 to $150,000. The
Department of Labor reserves the right to negotiate the amounts to be awarded
under this competition. Please be advised that requests exceeding the $150,000
will be considered non-responsive. D.	PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE The period of performance will be for twelve (12) months from
date of award. It is expected that successful applicants will commence program
operations under this solicitation by July 1, 2002. E. SECOND-YEAR OPTION As stated in Section II of this Part, the Homeless Veterans'
Reintegration Program is authorized and codified by statute at Pub. L. No.
107-95, § 5 (2001). Should there be action by Congress to
appropriate funds for this purpose, a second-year option may be considered. The
Government does not, however, guarantee second year funding for any
awardee. Should VETS decide that an option year for funding be exercised, the
grantees' performance during the first period of operations will be taken into
consideration as follows: 1. By the end of the third quarter, the grantee must achieve at
least 75% of the twelve month total goals for Federal expenditures,
enrollments, and placements, or 2. The grantee must meet 85% of goals for Federal expenditures,
enrollments, and placements if planned activity is NOT evenly distributed in
each quarter; and 3. The Grantee is in compliance with all terms identified in the
solicitation for grant applications. All program and fiscal reports were submitted by the
established due date and may be verified for accuracy. All instructions for modifications and announcement of fund
availability will be issued at a later date. The HVRP funds for this
competition are for a maximum period of one year with a second year funding
option. The period of performance will be for twelve months from the date of
the award. VETS expects that successful applicants will commence program
operations under this solicitation on July 1, 2002. Program funds must be
expended by June 30, 2003, not including the 6-month follow up period referred
to in the budget narrative. F.	SUBMISSION OF PROPOSAL A cover letter, an original and two (2) copies of the proposal
must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Labor, Procurement Service Office,
Room N-5416, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20210. To aid with
the review of applications, USDOL also encourages Applicants to submit one
additional paper copy of the application (four total). Applicants who do not
provide additional copies will not be penalized. The proposal must
consist of two (2) separate and distinct parts: (1) one completed,
blue ink-signed original SF 424 grant application
with two (2) copies of the Technical Proposal; and two (2) copies of the Cost
Proposal. G.	ACCEPTABLE METHODS OF
SUBMISSION The grant application package must be received at the designated
place by the date and time specified or it will not be considered. Any
application received at the Office of Procurement Services after 4:45 p.m. ET,
(insert date 30 days after publication in Federal
Register), will not be considered unless it is received
before the award is made and: 1. It was sent by registered or certified mail not later than the
fifth calendar day before (insert date 30 days after publication in
Federal Register); 2. It is determined by the Government that the late receipt was
due solely to mishandling by the Government after receipt at the U.S.
Department of Labor at the address indicated; or 3. It was sent by U.S. Postal Service Express Mail Next Day
Service-Post Office to Addressee, not later than 5:00 p.m. at the place of
mailing two (2) working days, excluding weekends and Federal holidays, prior to
Register). The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of
a late application sent by registered or certified mail is the U.S. Postal
Service postmark on the envelope or wrapper and on the original receipt from
the U.S. Postal Service. If the postmark is not legible, an application
received after the above closing time and date shall be processed as if mailed
late. "Postmark" means a printed, stamped or otherwise placed impression
(not a postage meter machine impression) that is readily identifiable
without further action as having been applied and affixed by an employee of the
U.S. Postal Service on the date of mailing. Therefore applicants should request
that the postal clerk place a legible hand cancellation "bull's-eye" postmark
on both the receipt and the envelope or wrapper. The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of
a late application sent by U.S. Postal Service Express Mail Next Day
Service-Post Office to Addressee is the date entered by the Post Office
receiving clerk on the "Express Mail Next Day Service-Post Office to Addressee"
label and the postmark on the envelope or wrapper and on the original receipt
from the U.S. Postal Service. "Postmark" has the same meaning as defined above.
Therefore, applicants should request that the postal clerk place a legible hand
cancellation "bull's-eye" postmark on both the receipt and the envelope or
wrapper. The only acceptable evidence to establish the time of receipt at
the U.S. Department of Labor is the date/time stamp of the Procurement Services
Center on the application wrapper or other documentary evidence or receipt
maintained by that office. Applications sent by other delivery services, such
as Federal Express, UPS, etc., will also be accepted. All applicants are advised that U.S. mail delivery in the
preparing to meet the application deadline, as you assume the risk for ensuring
a timely submission; that is, if, because of these mail problems, the
Department does not receive an application or receives it too late to give
proper consideration, even if it was timely mailed, the Department is not
required to consider the application. H.	REQUIRED CONTENT There are four program activities that all
applications must contain to be found technically acceptable under this SGA.
These activities are: - Pre-Enrollment Assessments; - Employment Development Plans for all clients; - Case Management - Job Placement and job retention follow-up (at 90 and 180 days)
after individual enters employment. The proposal will consist of two (2) separate and distinct parts,
a Technical proposal and a Cost Proposal: PART 1 - THE TECHNICAL PROPOSAL will consist of
a narrative proposal that demonstrates: the applicant's knowledge of the need
for this particular grant program; an understanding of the services and
activities proposed to obtain successful outcomes for the homeless veterans
served; and the capability to accomplish the expected outcomes of the proposed
project design. The technical proposal will consist of a narrative not to
exceed fifteen (15) pages double-spaced, font size no less than
11pt. and typewritten on one side of the paper only. [The applicant
must complete the forms, i.e. Quarterly Technical Performance Goals chart
provided in the SGA.] 1. The proposal should include an outreach component. It
is recommended that the applicants coordinate these activities through veteran
service providers and community-based and faith-based organizations who have
experience working and serving the veteran population. This requirement can be
modified to allow the project to utilize veterans in other positions where
there is direct client contact if extensive outreach is not needed, such as
intake, counseling, peer coaching, and follow up. This requirement applies to
projects funded under this solicitation. 2. Projects will be required to show linkages with other
programs and services which provide support to homeless veterans.
Coordination with the Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists
and Local Veterans' Employment Representatives (LVER) in the jurisdiction is
required. 3. Projects will be "employment focused". The services
provided will be directed toward (a)increasing the employability of homeless
veterans through training or arranging for the provision of services which will
enable them to work; and (b) matching homeless veterans with potential
employers. The following format is strongly recommended: Need for the project: the applicant must identify the
geographical area to be served and provide an estimate of the number of
homeless veterans and their needs, poverty and unemployment rates in the area,
the gaps in the local community infrastructure that contribute to the
employment and other barriers faced by the targeted veterans, and how the
project would respond to these needs. Include the outlook for job opportunities
in the service area. 2. Approach or strategy to increase employment and job retention:
Applicants must be responsive to the Rating Criteria contained in Section VIII
and address all of the rating factors as thoroughly as possible in the
narrative. The applicant must: (a) provide the length of training, the training
curriculum and how the training will enhance the eligible veterans' employment
opportunities within that geographical area; (b) describe the specific
supportive, employment and training services to be provided under this grant
and the sequence or flow of such services - flow charts may be provided; (c)
provide a plan for follow up to address retention after 90 and 180 days with
participants who entered employment. (See discussion on results in Section VI.
D.); and (d) include the required chart of proposed performance goals and
planned expenditures listed in Appendix D. 3. Linkages with other providers of employment and training
services to the homeless veterans: Describe the linkages this program will have
with other providers of services to homeless veterans outside of the HVRP
grant; include a description of the relationship with other employment and
training programs such as Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program (DVOP), the Local
Veterans' Employment Representatives (LVER) program, and programs under the
Workforce Investment Act; and list the type of services provided by each. Note
the type of agreement in place, if applicable. Linkages with the workforce
development system [including State Employment Security Agencies (State
Workforce Agencies)] must be delineated. Describe any linkages with any other
resources and/or other programs for Homeless veterans. Indicate how the program
will be coordinated with any efforts for the homeless that are conducted by
agencies in the community. 4. Linkages with other federal agencies: Describe any program and
resource linkages with Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD),
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and Department of Veterans
Affairs (DVA) for the homeless, to include the Compensated Work Therapy (CWT)
and Per Diem programs. Indicate how the applicant will coordinate with any
"continuum of care" efforts for the homeless among agencies in the community.
5. Proposed supportive service strategy for veterans: Describe
how supportive service resources for veterans will be obtained and used. If
resources are provided by other sources or linkages, such as Federal, State,
local or faith-based and community programs, the applicant must fully explain
the use of these resources and why they are necessary. 6. Organizational capability in providing required program
activities: The applicant's relevant current or prior experience in operating
employment and training programs should be clearly described. The applicant
must provide information showing outcomes of all past programs in terms of
enrollments and placements. An applicant which has operated a HVRP or other
Homeless Veterans' Employment and Training (HVET) program, JTPA IV-C program,
or VWIP program, must include final or most recent technical performance
reports. For those applicants with no prior grant experience, a summary
narrative of program experience and employment and training performance
outcomes is required. The applicant must also provide evidence of key staff
capability. 7. Proposed housing strategy for homeless veterans: Describe how
housing resources for homeless veterans will be obtained or accessed. These
resources should be from linkages or sources other than the HVRP grant such as
HUD, HHS, community housing resources, DVA leasing, or other programs. The
applicant must explain whether HVRP resources will be used and why this is
necessary. Nonprofit organizations must submit evidence of satisfactory
financial management capability, which must include recent financial and/or
audit statements. (This information is subject to verification by the government -
Veterans' Employment and Training Service reserves the right to have a
representative within each State provide programmatic and fiscal information
about applicants and forward those findings to the National Office during the
review of the applications). Note: Resumes, charts, standard forms, transmittal letters, and
letters of support are not included in the page count. [If provided include
these documents as attachments to the technical proposal.] PART 2 - COST PROPOSAL must contain: (1) the
Standard Form (SF) 424, "Application for Federal Assistance", (2) the Standard
Form (SF) 424A "Budget Information Sheet" in Appendix B, and (3) a detailed
cost break out of each line item on the Budget Information Sheet. Please label
this page or pages the "Budget Narrative" and ensure that costs reported on the
SF 424A correspond accurately with the Budget Narrative. In addition to the
cost proposal the applicants must include the Assurance and Certification
signature page, Appendix C. Copies of all required forms with instructions for
completion are provided as appendices to this SGA. The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance number for this
program is 17.805. It must be entered on the SF 424, Block 10. IV. BUDGET NARRATIVE INFORMATION As an attachment to the Budget Information Sheet (SF 424A), the
applicant must provide, at a minimum, and on separate sheet(s), the following
information: A. A breakout of all personnel costs by position, title, salary
rates, and percent of time of each position to be devoted to the proposed
project (including sub-awardees); B. An explanation and breakout of extraordinary fringe benefit
rates and associated charges (i.e., rates exceeding 35% of salaries and
wages); C. An explanation of the purpose and composition of, and method
used to derive the costs of each of the following: travel, equipment, supplies,
sub-awards/ contracts, and any other costs. The applicant must include costs of
any required travel described in this Solicitation. Mileage charges will not
exceed 36.5 cents per mile; D. A plan, which includes all associated costs, for retaining
participant information pertinent to a longitudinal follow up survey, six (6)
months after the program performance period ends; E. Description/specification of and justification for equipment
purchases, if any. Tangible, non-expendable, personal property having a useful
life of more than one year and a unit acquisition cost of $5,000 or more per
unit must be specifically identified; and F. Identification of all sources of leveraged or matching funds
and an explanation of the derivation of the value of matching/in-kind services.
If resources/matching funds and/or the value of in-kind contributions are made
available please show in Section B of the Budget Information Sheet. V. PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY To be eligible for participation under HVRP, an individual must
be homeless and a veteran defined as follows: A. The term "homeless or homeless individual" includes persons
who 1ack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. It also includes
persons whose primary nighttime residence is either a supervised public or
private shelter designed to provide temporary living accommodations; an
institution that provides a temporary residence for individuals intended to be
institutionalized; or a private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as,
a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings. (Reference 42 U.S.C. section
11302 (a)). B. The term "veteran" means a person who served in the active
military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom
under conditions other than dishonorable. [Reference 38 U.S.C. Section
101(2)] VI. PROJECT SUMMARY A.	PROGRAM CONCEPT AND
EMPHASIS The HVRP grants under Section 5 of the Homeless Veterans
Comprehensive Assistance Act of 2001 are intended to address two
objectives: (1) to provide services to assist in reintegrating homeless
veterans into meaningful employment within the labor force; and (2) to
stimulate the development of effective service delivery systems that will
address the complex problems facing homeless veterans. These programs are designed to be flexible in addressing the
universal as well as local or regional problems barring homeless veterans from
the workforce. The program in PY 2002 will continue to strengthen the
development of effective service delivery systems, to provide comprehensive
services through a case management approach that will address the complex
problems facing eligible veterans trying to transition into gainful employment,
and improve strategies for employment and retention. B. SCOPE OF PROGRAM DESIGN The project design must provide for the following services: - Outreach, intake, assessment, counseling to the degree
practical and employment services. Outreach must be provided at shelters, day
centers, soup kitchens, VA medical centers, and other programs for the
homeless. Program staff providing outreach services should be a veteran who has
experience in dealing with, and an understanding of the needs of the
homeless. Coordination with veterans' services programs and organizations
such as: - Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists, Local
Veterans' Employment Representatives (LVERs) in the State Employment
Security/Job Service Agencies (SESAs) or in the newly instituted workforce
development system's One-Stop Centers, and Veterans' Workforce Investment
Programs (VWIPs); - Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) services, including its
Health Care for Homeless Veterans, Domiciliary, and other programs, including
those offering transitional housing; and - Veteran service organizations such as The American Legion,
Disabled American Veterans, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Veterans of
America, and the American Veterans (AMVETS); Referral to necessary treatment services, rehabilitative
services, and counseling including, but not limited to: - Alcohol and drug; - Medical; - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; - Mental Health; - Coordinating with MHAA Title VI programs for health care for
the homeless [health care programs under the HVCAA]; Referral to housing assistance provided by, for example: - Local shelters; - Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) food and
shelter programs; - Transitional housing programs and single room occupancy housing
programs funded under MHAA Title IV [and under the HVCAA]; - Permanent housing programs for the handicapped homeless funded
under MHAA Title IV [and under the HVCAA]; - Department of Veterans' Affairs programs that provide for
leasing or sale of acquired homes to homeless providers; and - Transitional housing leased by HVRP funds (HVRP funds cannot be
used to purchase housing or vehicles); Employment and training services such as: - Basic skills instruction; - Basic literacy instruction; - Remedial education activities; - Job search activities, including job search workshops; - Job counseling; - Job preparatory training, including resume writing and
interviewing skills; - Subsidized trial employment (Work Experience); - On-the-Job Training; - Classroom Training; - Job placement in unsubsidized employment; - Placement follow up services; and - Services provided under WIA Program Titles. C. RESULTS-ORIENTED MODEL No model is mandatory, but the applicant must design a program
that is responsive to local needs, and will carry out the objectives of the
program to successfully reintegrate homeless veterans into the workforce. With the advent of implementing the Government Performance and
Results Act (GPRA), Congress and the public are looking for program results
rather than program processes. While entering employment is a viable outcome,
it will be necessary to measure results over a longer term (retention) to
determine the success of programs. The following program discussion must be
considered in a program model. The first phase of activity must consist of the
level of outreach that is necessary to reach eligible veterans. Such outreach
will also include establishing contact with other agencies that encounter
homeless veterans. Once the eligible participants have been identified, an
assessment must be made of their abilities, interests and needs. In some cases,
these participants may require referrals to services such as social
rehabilitation, drug or alcohol treatment or a temporary shelter before they
can be enrolled into core training. When the individual is stabilized, the
assessment should focus on the employability of the individual and their
enrollment into the program. A determination should be made as to whether they
would benefit from pre-employment preparation such as resume writing, job
search workshops, related counseling and case management, and initial entry
into the job market through temporary jobs, sheltered work environments, or
entry into classroom or on-the-job training. Such services should also be noted
in an Employability Development Plan so that successful completion of the plan
may be monitored by the staff. Entry into full-time employment or a specific
job training program should follow, in keeping with the objective of HVRP to
bring the participant closer to self-sufficiency. Supportive services may
assist the participant at this stage or even earlier. Job development is a
crucial part of the employability process. Wherever possible, DVOP and LVER
staff must be utilized for job development and placement activities for
veterans who are ready to enter employment or who are in need of
intensive case management services. Many of these staff members have received
training in case management at the National Veterans' Training Institute and
have a priority of focus, assisting those most at a disadvantage in the labor
market. VETS urges working hand-in-hand with DVOP/LVER staff to achieve
economies of resources. The following program discussion emphasizes that follow up is an
integral program component. Follow up to determine whether the veteran is in
the same or similar job at the 90 and 180 day period after entering employment
is required. It is important that the grantee maintain contact with the
veterans after placement to assure that employment related problems are
addressed. The 90 and 180 day follow up is fundamental to assessing the
results of the program success. Grantees need to budget for this activity
so that follow up can and will occur for those placed at or near the end of the
grant performance period. Such results will be reported in the final technical
performance report. Retention of records will be reflected in the Special Grant
Provisions to be provided at the time of any award. VII. RELATED HVRP PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
ACTIVITIES Community Awareness Activities In order to promote linkages between the program and local
service providers (and thereby eliminate gaps or duplication in services and
enhance provision of assistance to participants), the grantee must provide
project orientation and/or service awareness activities that it determines are
the most feasible for the types of providers listed below. Project orientation
workshops conducted by grantees have been an effective means of sharing
information and revealing the availability of other services; they are
encouraged but not mandatory. Rather, the grantee will have the flexibility to
attend service provider meetings, seminars, conferences, outstation staff,
develop individual service contracts, and involve other agencies in program
planning. This list is not exhaustive. The grantee will be responsible for
providing appropriate awareness, information sharing, and orientation
activities to the following: A. Providers of hands-on services to
the homeless veteran, such as shelter and soup-kitchen operators, to make
them fully aware of services available to homeless veterans to make them
job-ready and place them in jobs. B. Federal, State and local entitlement services such as
the Social Security Administration (SSA), Department of Veterans' Affairs
(DVA), State Employment Security Agencies (SESAs) and their local Job Service
offices, One-Stop Centers (which integrate WIA, labor exchange, and other
employment and social services), detoxification facilities, etc., to
familiarize them with the nature and needs of homeless veterans. C. Civic and private sector groups, and especially
veterans' service and community-based (including faith-based organizations), to
describe homeless veterans and their needs. D. Stand Down Support A "Stand Down" as it relates to homeless veterans is an event
held in a locality usually for three days where services are provided to
homeless veterans along with shelter, meals, clothing, and medical attention.
This type of event is mostly volunteer effort, which is organized within a
community and brings service providers together such as the DVA, Disabled
Veterans Outreach Program Specialists, Local Veterans' Employment
Representatives from the State Employment Service Agencies, veteran service
organization, military personnel, civic leaders, and a variety of other
interested persons and organizations. Many services are provided on-site with
referrals also made for continued assistance after the event. This can often be
the catalyst that enables the homeless veterans to get back into mainstream
society. The Department of Labor has supported replication of this event. Many
such events have been held throughout the nation. In areas where an HVRP is operating, the grantees are encouraged
to participate fully and offer their services for any planned Stand Down event.
Towards this end, up to $5,000 of the currently requested HVRP grant funds may
be used to supplement the Stand Down effort where funds are not otherwise
available, and should be reflected in the budget and budget narrative. VIII. RATING CRITERIA FOR AWARD Applications will be reviewed by a DOL panel using the point
scoring system specified below. Applications will be ranked based on the score
assigned by the panel after careful evaluation by each panel member. The
ranking will be the primary basis to identify applicants as potential grantees.
Although the Government reserves the right to award on the basis of the initial
proposal submissions, the Government may establish a competitive range, based
upon the proposal evaluation, for the purpose of selecting qualified
applicants. The panel's conclusions are advisory in nature and not binding on
the Grant Officer. The government reserves the right to ask for clarification
or hold discussions, but is not obligated to do so. The Government further
reserves the right to select applicants out of rank order if such a selection
would, in its opinion, result in the most effective and appropriate combination
of funding, program and administrative costs e.g., cost per enrollment and
placement, demonstration models, and geographical service areas. While points
will not be assessed for cost issues, cost per entered employment will be given
serious consideration in the selecting of awards. The Grant Officer's
determination for award under SGA 02-09 is the final agency action. The
submission of the same proposal from any prior year HVRP or Homeless Veterans'
Employment and Training (HVET) competition does not guarantee an award under
this Solicitation. Panel Review Criteria A. Need for the Project: 15 points The applicant will document the extent of need for this project,
as demonstrated by: (1) the potential number or concentration of homeless
individuals and homeless veterans in the proposed project area relative to
other similar areas of jurisdiction; (2) the high rates of poverty and/or
unemployment in the proposed project area as determined by the census or other
surveys; and (3) the extent of gaps in the local infrastructure to effectively
address the employment barriers that characterize the target population. Overall Strategy to Increase Employment and Retention:
40 points The application must include a description of the proposed
approach to providing comprehensive employment and training services, including
job training, job development, any employer commitments to hire, placement, and
post placement follow up services. Applicants must address their intent to
target occupations in expanding industries, rather than declining industries.
The supportive services to be provided as part of the strategy of promoting job
readiness and job retention must be indicated. The applicant must identify the
local human resources and sources of training to be used for participants. A
description of the relationship, if any, with other employment and training
programs such as SESAs (DVOP and LVER Programs), VWIP, other WIA programs, and
Workforce Investment or Development Boards or entities where in place, must be
presented. Applicant must indicate how the activities will be tailored or
responsive to the needs of homeless veterans. A participant flow chart may be
used to show the sequence and mix of services. Note: The applicant MUST complete the chart of proposed program
outcomes to include participants served, entered employment/placements and job
retention. (See Appendix D) Of the 40 points possible in the strategy to
increase employment and retention, 10 points will be awarded to grant proposals
that plan on a six month employment retention rate of 50 percent, or 15 points
will be awarded to proposals that show a six month employment retention rate of
70 percent. C. Quality and Extent of Linkages with Other Providers of
Services to the Homeless and to Veterans: 10 points The application must provide information on the quality and
extent of the linkages this program will have with other providers of services
to benefit the homeless veterans in the local community outside of the HVRP
grant. For each service, the applicant must specify who the provider is, the
source of funding (if known), and the type of linkages/referral system
established or proposed. [Describe, to the extent possible, how the project
would fit into the community's continuum of care approach to respond to
homelessness and any linkages to HUD, HHS or DVA programs or resources to
benefit the proposed program.] D. Demonstrated Capability in Providing Required Program
Services: 20 points The applicant must describe its relevant prior experience in
operating employment and training programs and providing services to
participants similar to that which is proposed under this solicitation.
Specific outcomes achieved by the applicant must be described in terms of
clients placed in jobs, etc. The applicant must also address its capability and
ability for timely startup of the program. The applicant should delineate its
staff capability and ability to manage the financial aspects of a grant
program, including a recent (within the last 12 months), financial statement or
audit if available. Final or most recent technical reports for other relevant
programs must be submitted if applicable. Because prior grant experience is not
a requirement for this grant, some applicants may not have any technical
reports to submit. B. Quality of Overall Housing Strategy: 15
points The application must demonstrate how the applicant proposes to
obtain or access housing resources for veterans in the program and entering the
labor force. This discussion should specify the provisions made to access
temporary, transitional, and permanent housing for participants through
community resources, HUD, DVA lease, or other means. HVRP funds will not be
used to purchase housing or vehicles. Applicants can expect that the cost proposal will be
reviewed for allowability, allocation of costs, and reasonableness of placement
and enrollment costs. IX.	POST AWARD CONFERENCE A post-award conference will be held for those grantees awarded
PY 2002 HVRP funds from the competition. It is expected to be held in August or
September 2002. Up to two grantee representatives must be present; a fiscal and
a program representative is recommended. The site of the Post-Award conference
has not yet been determined, for planning and budgeting purposes, please plan
on five days and use Washington, DC as the conference location. The conference
will focus on providing information and assistance on reporting, record
keeping, and grant requirements, and also include best practices from past
projects. Costs associated with attending this conference for up to two grantee
representatives will be allowed as long as they were incurred in accordance
with Federal travel regulations. Such costs must be charged as administrative
costs and reflected in the proposed budget. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS The grantee will submit the reports and documents listed
below: A. FINANCIAL REPORTS The grantee must report outlays, program income, and other
financial information on a quarterly basis using SF 269A, Financial Status
Report, Short Form. This form will cite the assigned grant number and be
submitted to the appropriate State Director for Veterans' Employment and
Training (DVET) no later than 30 days after the ending date of each Federal
fiscal quarter (i.e., October 30, January 30, April 30 and July 30) during the
grant period. B. PROGRAM REPORTS Grantees must submit a Quarterly Technical Performance Report 30
days after the end of each Federal fiscal quarter to the DVET that contains the
following: 1. a comparison of actual accomplishments to established goals
for the reporting period and any findings related to monitoring efforts; 2. An explanation for variances of plus or minus 15% of planned
program and/or expenditure goals, to include: (i) identification of corrective
action which will be taken to meet the planned goals, and (ii) a timetable for
accomplishment of the corrective action. C. 90 DAYS REPORT PACKAGE The grantee must submit no later than 90 days after the grant
expiration date a final report containing the following: 1. Financial Status Report (SF-269A) (copy to be provided
following grant awards) 2. Technical Performance Report - (Program Goals) 3. Narrative Report identifying - (a)
major successes of the program; (b) obstacles encountered and actions
taken (if any) to overcome such obstacles; (c) the total combined number of
veterans placed in employment during the entire grant period; (d) the number of
veterans still employed at the end of the grant period; (e) an explanation
regarding why those veterans placed during the grant period, but not employed
at the end of the grant period, are not employed; and (f) any recommendations
to improve the program. D. SIX (6) MONTH FINAL REPORT No later than 210 days after the grant performance period ends,
the grantee must submit a follow up report containing the following: 1. Final Financial Status Report (SF-269A) 2. Final Narrative Report identifying - (a) the total combined
(directed/assisted) number of veterans placed during the entire grant period;
(b) the number of veterans still employed during follow up; (c) are the
veterans still employed at the same or similar job, if not what are the
reasons; (d) was the training received applicable to jobs held; (e) wages at
placement and during follow up period; (f) an explanation regarding why those
veterans placed during the grant, but not employed at the end of the follow up
period, are not so employed; and (g) any recommendations to improve the
program. XI. ADMINISTRATION PROVISIONS A. LIMITATION ON ADMINISTRATIVE AND INDIRECT
COSTS 1. Direct Costs for administration, plus any indirect charges
claimed. 2. Indirect costs claimed by the applicant must
be based on a federally approved rate. A copy of the negotiated, approved, and
signed indirect cost negotiation agreement must be submitted with the
application. 3. If the applicant does not presently have an approved indirect
cost rate, a proposed rate with justification may be submitted. Successful
applicants will be required to negotiate an acceptable and allowable rate with
the appropriate DOL Regional Office of Cost Determination within 90 days of
grant award. 4. Rates traceable and trackable through the State Workforce
Agency's Cost Accounting System represent an acceptable means of allocating
costs to DOL and, therefore, can be approved for use in grants to State
Workforce Agencies. B. ALLOWABLE COSTS Determinations of allowable costs will be made in accordance with
the following applicable Federal cost principles: State and local government - OMB Circular A-87 Nonprofit organizations - OMB Circular A-122 C. ADMINISTRATIVE STANDARDS AND PROVISIONS Accept as specifically provided, DOL acceptance of a proposal and
an award of federal funds to sponsor any program(s) does not provide a waiver
of any grant requirements and/or procedures. For example, the OMB circulars
require and an entity's procurement procedures must require that all
procurement transactions will be conducted, as practical, to provide open and
free competition. If a proposal identifies a specific entity to provide the
services, the DOL award does not provide the justification or basis to
sole-source the procurement, i.e., avoid competition. All grants will be subject to the following administrative
standards and provisions: 1. 29 CFR Part 93 - Lobbying. 2. 29 CFR Part 95 - Uniform Administrative Requirements for
other Non-profit Organizations, and with Commercial Organizations. 3. 29 CFR Part 96 - Federal Standards for Audit of Federally
Funded Grants, Contracts and Agreements. This rule implements, for State and
local governments and Indian tribes that receive Federal Assistance from the
DOL, Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-128 "Audits of State and
Local Governments" which was issued pursuant to the Single Audit Act of 1984,
31 U.S.C. Section 7501-7507. It also consolidates the audit requirements
currently contained throughout the DOL regulations. 4. 29 CFR Part 97 - Uniform Administrative Requirements for
Grants and Cooperative Agreements to State and Local Governments. 5. 29 CFR Part 98 - Government wide Debarment and Suspension
(Nonprocurement) and Government wide Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace
(Grants). 6. 29 CFR Part 99 - Audit Of States, Local Governments, and
Non-profit Organization. 7. Section 168(b) of WIA - Administration of Programs Please note
that Sections 181-195 may also apply. 29 CFR Parts 30, 31, 32, 33 and 34 - Equal Employment
Opportunity in Apprenticeship and Training; Nondiscrimination in
Federally-Assisted Programs of the Department of Labor, Effectuation of Title
VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; and Nondiscrimination on the Basis of
Handicap in Programs and Activities Receiving or Benefitting from Federal
Financial Assistance (Incorporated by Reference). These rules implement, for
recipients of federal assistance, non-discrimination provisions on the basis of
race, color, national origin, and handicapping condition, respectively. Appeals from non-designation will be handled under 20 CFR Part
667.260 29 CFR Part 97 - Uniform Administrative Requirements for
Grants and Cooperative Agreements to State and Local Government. Signed at Washington, DC. this ___ day of ____,
2002. Lawrence J. Kuss Grant Officer APPENDICES NOTE: These enclosures are available in PDF
formats. In order to view PDF documents you must have a PDF viewer (
or Acrobat Reader) available on your workstation. Appendix A: Application for Federal
Assistance SF Form 424 Appendix B: Budget Information
Sheet Appendix C: Assurances and Certifications
Signature Page Appendix D. Technical Performance Goals
Form Appendix E. Direct Cost Descriptions for
applicants and Sub-Applicants Appendix F. The Glossary of Terms Appendix G: List of 75 largest U. S.
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