Summary Information
|
|
Awarding Agency Name |
Illinois Department of Human Services |
Awarding Division Name |
Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery |
Agency Contact |
Jim Wilkerson.
jim.wilkerson@Illinois.gov.
(217)-785-9449
|
Announcement Type |
Initial, Competitive, Grant |
Funding Opportunity Title |
Gambling Disorder Services Training |
Funding Opportunity Number |
23-444-26-2850-01 |
Application Posting Date |
March 14, 2022 |
Application Closing Date |
April 15, 2022 |
Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA) Number |
444-26-2850 |
Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA) Popular Name |
Gambling Disorder Training |
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number(s) |
N/A |
Award Funding Source |
State |
Estimated Total Program Funding |
$1,000,000 |
Anticipated Number of Awards |
1 |
Award Range |
$750,000-$1,000,000 |
Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement |
No |
Indirect Costs Allowed |
Yes |
Restrictions on Indirect Costs |
No |
Technical Assistance Session |
Session Offered: No |
A. Program Description
1. Program Summary
Full Description
The Illinois Department of Human Services/Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (IDHS/SUPR) through this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is seeking a provider to provide training and supervision services to Illinois counselors on gambling disorders and treatment. Applicants will have trainers experienced in gambling treatment to provide a 30-hour certification training, screening and assessment training, general treatment and disorder training, an annual summit, and monthly clinical supervision. In SFY23, the Department anticipates the availability of approximately $1,000,000 in total funding for applicant and any training subgrantees. The grant period will begin July 1, 2022 and will end on June 30, 2023, with the option to renew for an additional two full years, if funding is available. The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Illinois Department of Human Services to make an award. Services may not be provided until a contract is fully executed by the Department.
Program Exhibit Language
Terms |
Definitions |
1800GAMBLER: |
The current IDHS/SUPR gambling hotline which provides crisis counseling and information to gamblers and others requesting assistance via phone call, text, or chat. |
American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Criteria: |
The ASAM Criteria is a comprehensive set of guidelines for placement, continued stay, transfer, or discharge of patients with addiction and co-occurring conditions. Formerly known as the ASAM patient placement criteria. |
At-risk gamblers: |
People who engaged in gambling in the past month and had at least 1 or more adverse consequences due to gambling. |
Co-Occurring Disorder: |
The existence of multiple primary conditions or chronic diseases. People with substance use disorders are at particular risk for developing more primary conditions or chronic diseases. |
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM): |
The standardized manual published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) in 1952 to classify mental disorders in the United States. The 5th edition of the DSM was published in 2013. |
Gam-Anon: |
A fellowship in which families and friends of compulsive gamblers learn effective ways to cope with the gambling problem by seeking help for themselves and gaining serenity and peace of mind. |
Gamblers Anonymous (GA): |
An international program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous and the 12-step program. Members support each other in the recovery process from problem gambling. |
Gambling Disorder (GD): |
Defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), 5th Edition (Section 312.31) as: Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. |
Health Disparities: |
Preventable differences in the burden of disease, injury, violence, or opportunities to achieve optimal health that are experienced by socially disadvantaged populations. |
International Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC): |
International certification of gambling counselors and mentors. |
Lottery: |
A game of chance where tokens, keys, or other objects are sold. Of these items only one is the winner. The winner is usually selected randomly by a drawing. |
National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): |
A national organization founded in 1972 that advocates for comprehensive policy and programs for those affected by problem gambling. |
Outreach: |
Engagement with the community by providers to raise awareness, educate, and screen individuals for gambling issues and potential gambling disorder. |
Problem and Compulsive Gambling Certified Counselor (PCGC): |
Encompasses problematic gambling behavior that is characterized by a preoccupation with gambling, negative consequences due to gambling behavior, gambling-related disruptions in relationships and occupational responsibilities. |
Quality Improvement (QI): |
Systematic and continuous actions that lead to measurable improvement in health care services and the health status of targeted patient groups. |
Video Gaming: |
Electronic games, typically poker, keno, blackjack or slots, played on a video screen for money. |
Weknowthefeeling.org: |
The current IDHS/SUPR gambling treatment and information dissemination website. |
2. Funding Priorities or Focus Areas
The IDHS/SUPR is seeking organizations with a history coordinating and managing training and/or educational events within the State of Illinois or a state similar in size and population. Organizations with a gambling treatment focus and familiarity with gambling services are preferred. Services must be available statewide either virtually or in-person (hybrid approaches are also acceptable). Monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting of service metrics will be required.
3. Authorizing Statutes or Regulations
The purpose of this NOFO is to make an award to an organization to assist the IDHS/SUPR in addressing its expressed goals around serving persons, and their families, in need of intervention and treatment services and who are diagnosed or may be diagnosed with a co-occurring disorder of substance use and gambling or with a gambling only disorder pursuant to all relevant parts of the Substance Use Disorder Act (20 ILCS 301/5), Illinois Lottery Law (20 ILCS 1605/10.7), Illinois Gambling Act (230 ILCS 10/1), the Riverboat Gambling Act (230 ILCS 10) and all other applicable administrative rules and regulations.
4. Scope of Services
The provider will ensure the statewide provision of training services that accomplish the deliverables noted below. Primarily the provider will develop and implement a training plan that includes a 30-hour gambling disorder training that meets the requirements for state and national certification, an annual gambling summit, and monthly clinical supervision.
5. Deliverables
A. General Deliverables
- Ensure the implementation of statewide training program including but not limited to: a 30-hour certification training, screening and assessment training, general treatment and disorder training, an annual summit, and monthly clinical supervision which meets state and national certification requirements.
- Coordinate and monitor the gambling training activities either directly or via subcontracts with a qualified IDHS/SUPR approved vendor(s). Communicate and collaborate training activities with marketing provider and clinical providers.
- Administer IDHS/SUPR approved subcontracts with organizations or individuals selected to assist with meeting the goals and objectives of this NOFO. 4. Gather information about gambling disorder from all parties aligned via contractual relations and other sources at their disposal for the expressed purpose of making suggestions to IDHS/SUPR about ways of improving the service delivery system throughout the state.4. Will ensure that a report is completed for each call and/or virtual message received.
- Identify a staff person who will act as coordinator of the gambling training program. This person will serve as the liaison between IDHS/SUPR, and intervention, treatment, and recovery support providers. This person will be the primary point of contact for information regarding project implementation and outcomes.
- Communicate and collaborate on gambling training program requirements with marketing provider, hotline provider, gambling needs assessment provider, and clinical providers.
- Ensure that a report is completed for each training session which includes participant satisfaction with the training and material absorption/application. Will enter training information into agreed upon database(s) or learning management system.
- Utilize a comprehensive directory of gambling treatment and related recovery support services and resources that are available to train attendees (i.e., Gamblers Anonymous, Gam-Anon, Weknowthefeeling.org, state funded organizations, other resources as needed). This directory will likely be based upon existing statewide and local directories and will be published on the public facing website.
- Provide training according to policies and procedures outlining the confidentiality of service recipients' protected health information according to State and Federal laws and regulations.
- Provide IDHS/SUPR with monthly training reports so that project monitoring and evaluation can take place, based on metrics communicated by IDHS/SUPR.
- Participate with IDHS/SUPR in the development and implementation of quality improvement processes for the gambling training program.
- Solicit feedback from attendees regarding program services and make programmatic adjustments as necessary for quality improvement. A summary of feedback received, and specific action(s) taken as a result will be included in the monthly reports.
- Communicate and collaborate training activities with marketing and clinical providers.
- Seek innovative tools and techniques to accomplish the objectives of IDHS/SUPR regarding gambling disorder services and training. Implementation of innovative tools and techniques shall include research into the effectiveness of such items via approved third-parties.
B. Training Program
- Design the statewide gambling training program which will include but is not limited too: screening and assessment instruments for gambling disorder that have been approved by IDHS/SUPR; treatment models and resources for gambling disorder; co-occurring disorders and integrated treatment methodologies; suicide screening; links to other resources, data and statistics on gambling disorder, gaming, internet gambling, and sports betting.
- Development of the 30-hour training includes creation of on-line content which will be made available to providers in a virtual or hybrid training format. Training must allow attendees to obtain state and national certification for gambling disorder treatment.
- Maintain training content in accordance with current evidence-based practices and standards. Seek to enhance evidence-based practices and standards where they may be dated or not in alignment with current practice.
- Attain and maintain accreditation for training programs by relevant accrediting bodies.
- Work with clinical providers and hotline provider to ensure staff complete the appropriate training program.
- Provide services according to a written code of ethics, to be based on standards outlined by the relevant accrediting bodies and other professional groups that address gambling disorder issues.
- Develop learning collaboratives around key dilemmas and/or problems identified by the clinical providers that result in structures and processes to manage the dilemmas and/or solve the problems.
- Develop both introductory and advanced trainings on dilemma and problem solutions that can be posted online for ease of access. These trainings will include a follow-up mechanism should individuals have questions or require coaching on a particular structure or process.
- Work with IDHS/SUPR to develop implementation packages for clinical providers that identify year one, years two through three, and long-term structures and processes to establish a successful gambling disorder treatment program.
6. Performance Measures
- Provider will be expected to operate the training system statewide.
- Provider will be expected to achieve outcomes as defined in this NOFO (see Performance Standards).
- Provider will develop and implement an online/in-person/hybrid 30-hour training program that meets state and national certification requirements.
- Provider will collaborate with clinical providers to develop an annual summit that provides cutting edge gambling disorder training.
- Provider will provide monthly supervision by a Board Approved Clinical Consultant (BACC).
- Other performance measures to be identified by provider in collaboration with IDHS/SUPR as part of the application process.
7. Performance Standards
A. Provide to IDHS/SUPR the following documents as proof of program performance and accountability:
- Copies of all subcontracts identifying the duties and responsibilities of the subgrantees.
- Monthly reports documenting the activities related to the gambling hotline and website This information can be included in the reports required in #C in this section.
- Four (4) Quarterly reports corresponding to the four quarters of the fiscal year in action on the activities and progress being made towards the provision of hotline intervention services.
B. Provide an annual report that summarizes and evaluates the activities and efforts of the program plan. The report is due 30 days after the end of the fiscal year.
C. Submit monthly documentation for 100% of all deliverables submitted for reimbursement within 30 days of the end of each month.
B. Funding Information
- This is a competitive funding opportunity.
- The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Illinois Department of Human Services to make an award.
- The source of funding for this program is gambling tax revenue funds.
- The Department anticipates the availability of approximately $1,000,000 (total funding for NOFO) and funding #1 grant awards to provide this program. It is anticipated that grant awards will be $1,000,000.
- Subject to appropriation, the grant period will begin no sooner than July 1, 2022 and will continue through June 30, 2023.
- Applications for renewal or supplementation of existing projects are not eligible to compete with applications for new State awards.
- Successful applicants under this NOFO may be eligible to receive two subsequent one-year grant renewals for this program. Renewals are at the discretion of the Department and are based on performance and sufficient appropriation.
- Proposed budgets must be sufficiently detailed and justified to be approved by IDHS. Successful applicants will NOT receive a grant agreement until after their budget has been approved through the Community Service Agreement tracking system (CSA) system.
- Subcontractor Agreement(s) and budgets must be pre-approved by the Department and on file with the Department. Subcontractors are subject to all provisions of this Agreement. The successful applicant Agency shall retain sole responsibility for the performance and monitoring of the subcontractor.
C. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
This competitive funding opportunity is limited to applicants that meet the following requirements:
- The applicant has met the Prequalification and Mandatory Requirements listed in this funding opportunity.
2. Prequalification
Applicant entities will not be eligible to apply for a grant award until they have prequalified through the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal, grants.illinois.gov Grantee Links tab. Registration and prequalification are required annually. During prequalification, verifications are performed including a check of federal Debarred and Suspended status on the Illinois Stop Payment List and good standing with the Secretary of State. An automated email notification is sent to the entity alerting them of "qualified" status or providing information about how to remediate a negative verification (e.g., inactive DUNS, not in good standing with the Secretary of State). A federal Debarred and Suspended status cannot be remediated.
For assistance navigating government application prequalification procedure, refer to IDHS GATA Prequalification Assistance.
Applicants must be prequalified; therefore, applications from entities that have not prequalified prior to the due date of this application will NOT be reviewed and will NOT be considered for funding.
The following information is required to complete registration:
- Organization's Dun & Bradstreet number (DUNS); For additional information on DUNS, refer to Section Unique Entity Identifier (DUNS number) and System for Award Management (SAM) below.
- Organization's Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN);
- Organization type;
- Illinois Secretary of State File ID (required for non-profits, for-profits and limited liability corporations);
- Organization's name
- Organization's mailing address;
- Organization's primary email address;
- Organization's primary phone number
- Organization's fiscal year-end date
3. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI replaced DUNS April 2022) and System for Award Management (SAM)
Each applicant is required to:
- Be registered in SAM.gov before submitting its application. Provide a valid unique entity identifier in its application; if your organization does not yet have a EIU/DUNS, request one
- Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active award, an application ,or plan under consideration by the Department
The Department may not make an award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable unique entity identifier and SAM requirements. If an applicant has not fully complied with the requirements by the time the Department is ready to make an award, the Department may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive an award and use that determination as a basis for making an award to another applicant.
4. Pre-Award Requirements
The pre-award process includes a financial and administrative risk assessment utilizing an Internal Controls Questionnaire (ICQ) which is completed for the organization. The Department may NOT issue a Notice of Award or a Grant Agreement to any applicant that does not have a submitted and approved FY 23 ICQ. While these are NOT required prior to submitting the application, they are required prior to the Department issuing an award.
Applicants that have not completed an ICQ for the grant award year at the time of application will be contacted by the Department to complete these pre-award requirements.
These grantee pre-award requirements are mandated by Federal Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200) and the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA). Grantees must complete these requirements prior to receiving a grant award from the State of Illinois.
Letter of Intent Requested
A letter of intent is requested to allow SUPR staff to estimate the potential review workload and plan the review. The letter is not required, is not binding, and does not enter into the review of a subsequent application.
Applicants are requested to submit a letter of intent on or before April 1, 2022 and should include the following:
- Number and title of this funding opportunity
- A few sentences describing the proposed project
- Agency Name and a contact name, email address and telephone number(s)
- The letter of intent should be sent to: DHS.GrantApp@Illinois.Gov
- The Agency, Opportunity Number and the label "LOI" (letter of intent) must be in the subject line. Specifically, the subject line must be:
Your Organization Name, 23-444-26-2850-01, LOI, Jim Wilkerson
5. Registration in CSA
The CSA Tracking System is the system the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) utilizes for approving budgets and issuing grant awards. It is strongly recommended that if an applicant entity is not already registered in the CSA Tracking System, they should begin the registration as soon as possible so they may submit a signed budget in CSA. While registration in CSA is not part of the prequalification process, successful applicants will NOT be issued an award without a fully approved budget in the CSA System.
6. State and Federal Laws and Regulations
The agency awarded funds through this NOFO must agree to comply with all applicable provisions of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to nondiscrimination, sexual harassment and equal employment opportunity including, but not limited to: The Illinois Human Rights Act (775 ILCS 5/1-101 et seq.), The Public Works Employment Discrimination Act (775 ILCS 10/1 et seq.), The United States Civil Rights Act of 1964 (as amended) (42 USC 2000a-and 2000H-6), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 USC 794), The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 USC 12101 et seq.), and The Age Discrimination Act (42 USC 6101 et seq.).
7. Cost Sharing or Match Requirements
Providers are not required to participate in cost sharing or provide match.
8. Indirect Cost Rate
Indirect Cost Requirements and Restrictions
In order to charge indirect costs to this grant, the applicant organization must have a Federal or State annually negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA) or must elect to use the De Minimis Rate.
Every organization that receives a state award must make an indirect cost rate proposal or election in the State of Illinois Grantee Portal, Centralized Indirect Cost Rate Election System, including organizations that are choosing not to claim payment for indirect costs.
Indirect Cost Rate Election:
- Federally Negotiated Rate. Organizations that receive direct federal funding may have an indirect cost rate that was negotiated with the Federal Cognizant Agency. Illinois will accept the federally negotiated rate. The organization must provide a copy of the federal NICRA and submit an Indirect Cost Rate Proposal in the Crowe Activity Review System (CARS).
- State Negotiated Rate. The organization must negotiate an indirect cost rate with the State of Illinois by completing an indirect cost rate proposal in the CARS system if they do not have a Federally Negotiated Rate and would like to negotiate a rate with the State of Illinois.
- De Minimis Rate. An organization may elect a De Minimis rate of 10% of modified total direct cost (MTDC)**. Once established, the De Minimis rate may be used indefinitely. If programs elect to use the De Minimis rate, it is critical that program budgets accurately calculate the MTDC base. Please see the regulation below and note the exclusions to MTDC.
**2 CFR § 200.68 Modified Total Direct Cost (MTDC). MTDC means all direct salaries and wages, applicable fringe benefits, materials and supplies, services, travel, and subawards and subcontracts up to the first $25,000 of each subaward or subcontract (regardless of the period of performance of the subawards and subcontracts under the award). MTDC excludes equipment, capital expenditures, charges for patient care, rental costs, tuition remission, scholarships and fellowships, participant support costs and the portion of each subaward and subcontract in excess of $25,000. Other items may only be excluded when necessary to avoid a serious inequity in the distribution of indirect costs, and with the approval of the cognizant agency for indirect costs.
- "No Rate": Grantees have discretion not to claim payment for indirect costs. Grantees that elect not to claim indirect costs cannot be reimbursed for indirect costs. The organization must record an election of "No Indirect Costs" into the Indirect Cost Rate Election System.
- Crowe Activity Review System (CARS). CARS will allow your organization to document your already established federally approved indirect cost rate, or complete an indirect cost rate proposal (see State Negotiated Rate above). Submission requirements are located on page 2 of the Uniform Budget Template as well as 2 CFR 200 Appendices IV, V & VII.
Organizations which have not previously made an indirect cost rate election must submit an election (and indirect cost rate proposal, if necessary) immediately and no later than 3 months after receiving an award notification. If the organizations elects to submit a Federally Negotiated Rate or a State Negotiated Rate they will receive an invitation to submit their proposal in the CARS system.
Organizations that have previously established an indirect cost rate election and would like to continue with a Federal or State Negotiated Rate must submit a new indirect cost rate election immediately and no later than 6 months after the close of their organization's fiscal year.
Organizations that do not make a submission inside the CARS system within the required timeframes will not be allowed to claim indirect cost reimbursement.
9. Other Requirements (if applicable)
Not Applicable.
10. Grant Fund Use Requirements
All applicants will use grant funds according to the guidelines, conditions, and parameters set forth in this funding notice and in compliance with federal statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of any applicable federal awards.
Please refer to 2 CFR 200 - Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, PART 200 Subpart E - Cost Principles to determine the appropriateness of costs.
- Allowable costs are those that are necessary and reasonable based on the activity(ies) contained in the Scope of Work, are justified in the Budget Narrative, and are allowable under Subpart E of 2 CFR 200. It is expected that administrative costs, both direct and indirect, will represent a small portion of the overall program budget. Any budget deemed to include inappropriate or excessive administrative costs will not be approved. Program budgets and narratives must detail how all proposed expenditures are necessary for program implementation.
-
Unallowable costs: Please refer to 2 CFR 200 - Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, PART 200 Subpart E - Cost Principles to determine the appropriateness of costs. In addition, and specific to this grant, the following costs will be unallowable without specific prior written approval from IDHS:
- Entertainment costs, except where specific costs that might otherwise be considered entertainment have a programmatic purpose and are authorized in the approved budget (2 CFR 200.438)
- Capital expenditures for general purpose equipment, including any vehicle regardless of cost, buildings, and land (2 CFR 200.439)
- Capital expenditures for improvements to land, buildings, or equipment which materially increase their value or useful life (2 CFR 200.439)
- Food, and other goods or services for personal use of the grantee's employees, contractors, or consultants of the grantee unless authorized as per diem under the State of Illinois Governor's Travel Control Board (2 CFR 200.445).
- Deposits for items, services, or space
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Simplified Acquisition Threshold: Potential grantees under this funding announcement may receive an award in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold, currently $250,000 (Refer to 2 CFR 200 Section 200.88). Therefore, the grantee must be aware of the following regarding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold as it will be applicable to any qualifying subaward:
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That the grantee agency, prior to making a subaward with a total amount of funds greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, is required to review and consider any information about the applicant that is in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM (currently FAPIIS) (see 41 U.S.C. 2313);
- That an applicant, at its option, may review information in the designated integrity and performance systems accessible through SAM and comment on any information about itself that the awarding agency previously entered and is currently in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM;
- That the awarding agency will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to the other information in the designated integrity and performance system, in making a judgment about the applicant's integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as described in §200.205 awarding agency review of risk posed by applicants.
11. Post Award Requirements of Applicant
Successful applicants agree to provide program services as described throughout this Funding Notice.
Start Date: Applicants must be in a position to begin offering services on July 1, 2022.
- Technology: Agencies awarded funds through this funding notice should have a computer that meets the following minimum specifications for the purpose of utilizing any required IDHS web-based reporting system and the receipt/submission of electronic program and fiscal information:
- Internet access, preferably high-speed
- Email capability
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Adobe Reader
The purchase of this technology would be an allowable expenditure under the grant and may be budgeted for as part of this application.
- Site Visits: The applicant agrees to participate in site visits/quality reviews as requested by the Department.
- COVID Policies and Procedures: Provider organizations shall have written COVID policies and procedures that align with current guidelines put forth by the local Health Department, the Illinois Department of Public Health and/or the Center for Disease Control.
- Sectarian Issue: Provider organizations may not expend federal or state funds for sectarian instruction, worship, prayer, or to proselytize. If the Provider organization is a faith-based or a religious organization that offers such activities, these activities shall be voluntary for the individuals receiving services and offered separately from the program.
- Hiring and Employment Policy: It is the policy of the Department to encourage cultural diversity in the work environment and to promote employment opportunities through its programs. The Department philosophy is that the program workforce should appropriately reflect the populations to be served, with special attention given to hiring individuals indigenous to those communities. Consistent with Department policy, whenever a position becomes available, funded programs are encouraged to consider TANF clients for employment, contingent upon their qualifications in the areas of education and work experience.
- Publication of Studies, Reports or other Program Products: The applicant agrees that products produced for the Department under this award, including, but not limited to research reports, data, analyses, and policy recommendations are the property of the Department and will not be published or distributed except as prescribed by the Department.
D. Application and Submission Information
1. Address to Request Application Package
Application materials are provided throughout this announcement. Appendices will be made available in user/printer friendly format and may be found on the Illinois Department of Human Services web site. Additional copies may be obtained by contacting the Department at the email address below.
Each applicant must have access to the internet. The Department's web site will contain information regarding the NOFO and materials necessary for submission. Questions and answers will also be posted on the Department's website as described later in this announcement. It is the responsibility of each applicant to monitor that web site and comply with any instructions or requirements relating to the NOFO.
Program Email Address: jim.wilkerson@Illinois.gov
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance
The Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance is a three-page document used to formalize organization's request to apply for funding. The document requires the signature and email address of the organization's authorized representative. This email address will be used for official communication between the Department and the applicant organization for matters regarding this application
Program Narrative
IMPORTANT: The program (proposal) narrative makes up the bulk of your application. Please provide a complete response to the following sections. If the program narrative is missing from your application packet, your application will receive a score of zero points and your agency will not meet the criteria to receive a grant under this notice of funding opportunity.
Proposal Narrative Content
IDHS is working to counteract systemic racism and inequity, and to prioritize and maximize diversity within the department and throughout its service provision process. This work involves addressing existing institutionalized inequities, aiming to create transformation, operationalizing equity, and racial justice. It also focuses on the creation of a culture of inclusivity for all regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or ability.
If the applicant believes that the subject has been adequately addressed in another part of the application narrative, then provide the cross-reference to the appropriate part of the narrative. If a cross-reference is not included in the section, the reviewer will only consider content contained within that specific section. The narrative portion must follow the page maximums where prescribed and must be organized in the format outlined below.
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Program Plan and Narrative (10 pages maximum) - The program narrative at a minimum must include the categories to be evaluated in the merit review process:
a. Need (30 points): The purpose of this section is to describe the characteristics of the persons who will be served through the proposed services.
- Describe how your organization provides training that address known issues of health disparities that allow people to live lives of meaning and purpose. Describe how the organization will consider cultural norms and differences in the provision of training.
- Describe how organizational and interpersonal bias are addressed in your organization through language and action.
- Describe unique considerations for serving adults, youth, persons with gambling disorder, and persons with co-occurring substance use disorders in this environment. Include how the program will train on working with potentially suicidal individuals that will help to reduce suicide rates among the populations served.
- Describe how the organization will provide clinical supervision to counselors.
b. Capacity (30 points): The purpose of this section is for the applicant to provide a description of the organization's experience and qualifications generally, and specific to the provision of the proposed services.
- Describe the organizations history, mission, purpose, vision, values, goals, and achievements especially as they relate to gambling services.
- Provide a description of the full array of services provided by your organization. Provide information about existing contracts for programs of similar scope, including location, funder, persons served, reported metrics and outcomes, and years in operation. Be sure to emphasize experience managing a statewide training system within the State of Illinois or similar state.
- Describe what resources and other skills relevant to this NOFO, the applicant lacks and how will the applicant acquire the resources and skills. If the applicant will deliver services via subcontracts, then describe the results of such business relationships and how goals and objectives were accomplished.
- Include a description of the staff members that will be responsible for the delivery of the gambling training and supervision including their educational background, years of experience, gambling related certifications and training (ex. state 30-hour gambling training, PCGC, ICGC), and other relevant information. Describe the applicants plans to maintain and enhance its staff's knowledge, skill, and abilities over time related to gambling disorder services, suicide prevention, culturally diverse service provision, implicit bias, racial equity, and other key areas.
- Describe your organization's policy and approach to adherence to best practices and awareness of emerging trends in service delivery.
c. Quality (10 points):
- Describe your capacity and commitment to collect and report the service and performance data specified in this NOFO. Do you collect data manually or have a monitoring system that collects data or other electronic collection mechanisms?
- Describe how you have shared information (measures and results) with other vendors and stakeholders for planning, service provision and evaluation purposes.
- Describe measurable data you will collect and outcomes you will report monthly.
- Describe your experience in designing and implementing quality improvement activities to improve the provision of services.
d. Other (30 points): Provide the following information regarding the proposed services that will be delivered in the identified geographic service area(s).
- Describe in this section the overall approach to managing and monitoring the contract and how you intend to ensure that management objectives and contract deliverables are accomplished. Description should encompass approaches to management of a statewide gambling disorder training system. Include the unique features and characteristics of how the organization will approach the delivery of the services identified in this NOFO that sets them apart from other applicants.
- Include the location of facilities and provide consideration of the utilization and ability to operate a remote workforce, and whether full remote work will impact any aspect of operations. Include the learning management system, equipment, and telecom platforms that will be used.
- Describe the organization's experience with and ability to provide learning collaboratives. Include an explanation of how the learning collaboratives will be identified and managed, and materials will be developed out of the collaboratives.
- Indicate how your organization will seek accreditation for its training system and whether you plan to be affiliated with any local, state, or national organizations to assure adherence to best practices and awareness of emerging trends in service delivery.
i. The budget and narrative must tie fiscal activity to program objectives and deliverables and demonstrates that all proposed costs are:
- Reasonable and necessary
- Allocable, and
- Allowable as defined by program regulatory requirements and the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200), as applicable.
ii. The applicant must submit a budget using the appropriate IDHS designated template/system (presently CSA).
Not Applicable.
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Electronic and Other submission addresses:
- Email: DHS.GrantApp@Illinois.Gov
- Email Subject line: Your Organization Name, 23-444-26-2850-01, Form Name, Jim Wilkerson
- US Postal Address: Applications will not be accepted by mail
- CSA website
- Other: Not Applicable
3. Unique Entity Identifiers (DUNS Number and SAM Registration)
Each applicant (unless the applicant is an individual or Federal or State awarding agency that is exempt from those requirements under 2 CFR § 25.110(b) or (c), or has an exception approved by the Federal or State awarding agency under 2 CFR § 25.110(d)) is required to:
- Be registered in SAM.gov before the application due date. "How To Register in SAM" reference tool.
- Provide a valid unique entity identifier (DUNS number) in its application; and
- Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active Federal, Federal pass-through or State award or an application or plan under consideration by a Federal or State awarding agency.
- For more information, refer to Section C: Eligibility Information and Grant Funding Applications that fail to meet the criteria described in Section C: Eligibility Information and Grant Funding will not be scored and/or considered for funding.
4. Application Submission Dates and Times
Applications must be received electronically. Submit the completed grant proposal according to the subject line and file naming instructions detailed in D. Applications will be reviewed starting April 18, 2022. Applications must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 15, 2022. No applications will be considered after April 15, 2022 for SFY2023. The application will be date and time-stamped upon receipt via email. The Department will not accept applications submitted by mail, overnight mail, diskette, or by fax machine. If you have trouble emailing the document due to the file size, please utilize the CMS File Transfer Utility. Please follow the instructions to attach your application. Remember to include the subject line and file naming instructions detailed in D.
Encrypted emails will not be accepted.
To be considered, proposals must be emailed by the designated date and time indicated in this NOFO. For your records, please keep a copy of your email submission with the date and time the application was submitted along with the email address to which it was sent. The deadline will be strictly enforced. In the event of a dispute, the applicant bears the burden of proof that the proposal was received on date and time and to the email address listed in D. If the due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or Federal or State holiday, the reporting package is due the next business day.
Intergovernmental Review
This funding opportunity is NOT subject to Executive Order 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs."
Funding Restrictions
The applicant must develop a budget consistent with program requirements.
5. Other Submission Requirements
Not Applicable.
E. Application Review Information
All competitive grant applications are subject to merit-based review.
1. Criteria and Weighting of Each Criteria
Applications that fail to meet the criteria described in Section C "Eligibility Information" will not be scored and/or considered for funding. The application criteria to be reviewed and scored are found under each category in this announcement in Section D. Scoring will be on a 100-point scale. Scoring will not be the sole award criteria.
All applicants / applications determined to be non-compliant or otherwise determined to be disqualified from consideration will be notified in writing, by email, upon determination. This email will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application and will identify the reason for disqualification.
2. Review and Selection Process
As described in the Criteria section above, evaluation of the application will be done by April 18, 2022. The numerical score may not be the sole award criterion. The Department reserves the right to consider other factors such as: geographical distribution, demonstrated need, and agency past performance as a state grantee, etc. While the recommendation of the review panel will be a key factor in the funding decision, the Department maintains final authority over funding decisions and considers the findings of the reviewers to be non-binding recommendations. Any internal documentation used in scoring or awarding of grants shall not be considered public information.
In the event of a tie with insufficient funding for all tied applications, the Department may choose to elect one of the following options:
- Apply one or more of the additional factors for consideration described above to prioritize the applications; or
- Partially fund each of the tied applications or
- Not fund any of the tied applications.
The Department reserves the right to negotiate with successful applicants to adjust award amounts, targets, deliverables, etc.
3. Merit-Based Review Appeal Process
Competitive grant appeals are limited to the evaluation process. Evaluation scores may not be protested. Only the evaluation process is subject to appeal and shall be reviewed by IDHS' Appeal Review Officer (ARO).
Submission of Appeal
Appeals submission IDHS contact information:
- Name of Agency contact for appeals: Jim Wilkerson
- Email of Agency contact for appeals: DHS.GrantApp@Illinois.Gov
- Email Subject Line: Your Organization Name, 23-444-26-2850-01, Appeal, Jim Wilkerson
An appeal must be submitted in writing to appeals submission IDHS contact listed above, who will send to the IDHS Appeal Review Officer (ARO) for consideration.
- An appeal must be received within 14 calendar days after the date that the grant award notice has been published.
- The written appeal shall include at a minimum the following:
- Name and address of the appealing party;
- Identification of the grant; and
- Statement of reasons for the appeal.
- Supporting documentation, if applicable
Response to Appeal
IDHS will acknowledge receipt of an appeal within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date the appeal was received.
- IDHS will respond to the appeal within 60 days or supply a written explanation to the appealing party as to why additional time is required.
- The appealing party must supply any additional information requested by IDHS within the time period set in the request.
Resolution
The ARO shall make a recommendation to the Agency Head or designee as expeditiously as possible after receiving all relevant, requested information.
- In determining the appropriate recommendation, the ARO shall consider the integrity of the competitive grant process and the impact of the recommendation on the State Agency.
- The Agency will resolve the appeal by means of written determination.
- The determination shall include, but not be limited to:
- Review of the appeal;
- Appeal determination; and
- Rationale for the determination.
4. Simplified Acquisition Threshold - Federal Awards
Potential grantees under this funding announcement may receive an award in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold, currently $250,000 (Refer to 2 CFR 200 Section 200.88). Therefore, the grantee is subject to Simplified Acquisition Threshold. Refer to Section C. 8. Grant Funds Use Requirements for more information.
F. Award Administration Information
1. State Award Notices
Applicants recommended for funding under this NOFO following the above review and selection process will receive a Notice of State Award (NOSA). The NOSA shall include:
- Grant award amount
- The terms and conditions of the award
- Specific conditions, if any, assigned to the applicant based on the fiscal and administrative (ICQ) and merit-based review.
Note: The Department cannot issue a NOSA until the successful applicant has an approved budget entered into CSA. The applicant shall receive the NOSA through the Grantee Portal. The NOSA must be signed by the grants officer (or equivalent). This signature effectively accepts the state award amount and all conditions set forth within the notice. This signed NOSA is the document authorizing the Department to proceed with issuing an agreement. The Agency signed NOSA must be remitted to the Department as instructed in the notice.
The notice is not an authorization to begin performance (to the extent that it allows charging to State awards of pre-award costs at the non- State entity's own risk).
A written Notice of Denial shall be sent to the applicants not receiving the award.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
The agency awarded funds shall provide services as set forth in the IDHS grant agreement and shall act in accordance with all state and federal statutes and administrative rules applicable to the provision of the services.
To review a sample of the FY2023 IDHS Uniform Grant Agreement.
The agency awarded funds through this Funding Notice must further agree to comply with all applicable provisions of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to nondiscrimination, sexual harassment and equal employment opportunity including, but not limited to: The Illinois Human Rights Act (775 ILCS 5/1-101 et seq.), The Public Works Employment Discrimination Act (775 ILCS 10/1 et seq.), The United States Civil Rights Act of 1964 (as amended) (42 USC 2000a-and 2000H-6), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 USC 794), The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 USC 12101 et seq.), and The Age Discrimination Act (42 USC 6101 et seq.). Additional terms and conditions may apply.
3. Reporting
Upon execution of the grant agreement, reporting shall be in accordance with the requirements set forth in the Uniform Grant Agreement and related Exhibits which includes, but is not limited to the following:
- Time Period for Required Periodic Financial Reports. Grantee shall submit financial reports to Grantor pursuant to Paragraph 13.1 of the Uniform Grant Agreement and reports must be submitted no later than 15 days after the quarter ends.
- Time Period for Close-out Reports. Grantee shall submit a Close-out Report pursuant to Paragraph 13.2 of the Uniform Grant Agreement and no later than 15 days after this Agreement's end of the period of performance or termination.
- Time Period for Required Periodic Performance Reports. Grantee shall submit Performance Reports to Grantor pursuant to Paragraph 14.1 of the Uniform Grant Agreement and such reports must be submitted no later than 30 days after the quarter ends.
- Time Period for Close-out Performance Reports. Grantee agrees to submit a Close-out Performance Report, pursuant to Paragraph 14.2 of the Uniform Grant Agreement and no later than 30 days after this Agreement's end of the period of performance or termination.
- Other Unique Programmatic Reporting Requirements: Additional annual performance data may be collected as directed by the Department and in a format prescribed by the Department.
4. Payment Terms
It is the policy of the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) that this policy complies with 2 CFR 200.302, 2 CFR 200.305, 31 CFR 205 (procedures implementing Cash Management Improvement Act and Treasury-State Agreement (TSA)), and 44 Ill. Admin. Code 7000.120 (GOMB Adoption of Supplemental Rules for Grant Payment Methods). Three different award payment method exist, namely Advance Payment, Reimbursement, and Working Capital Advance. Each is discussed below:
Advance Payment Method (Advance and Reconcile)
- An initial payment will be processed in an amount equal to the first two months' cash requirements as reflected in the Advance Payment Requirements Forecast (Cash Budget) Form submitted with the Grantee's application. The initial payment will be processed upon execution of the grantee's Uniform Grant Agreement.
- Grantees must submit monthly invoices in the format and method prescribed in the Grantee's executed Uniform Grant Agreement. The first invoice is due within 15 days after the first month of the Award's term. Invoices must include only allowable incurred costs that have been paid by the Grantee. For programs that have Grantee matching requirements, allowable costs are only reimbursable when matching costs have also been incurred.
- Subsequent monthly payments will be based on each monthly invoice submitted by Grantee to Grantor, and will be adjusted up or down, based on a comparison of actual cumulative expenditures to cumulative advance payments, to date.
- Grantees that do not expend all advance payment amounts by the end of the Award term or that are unable to demonstrate that all incurred costs were necessary, reasonable, allowable, or allocable as approved in their respective budget, must return the funds within 45 days..
- Grantees may be required to submit supporting documentation for their requests at the request of and in a manner prescribed by the Grantor.
- Failure to abide by advance payment governance requirements may result in grantee losing their right to advance payments.
Reimbursement Method
- IDHS will disburse payments to Grantee based on actual allowable costs incurred as reported in the monthly financial invoice submitted for the respective month, as described below.
- Grantees must submit monthly invoices in a format prescribed by Grantor. Invoices must include all allowable incurred costs for the first and each subsequent month of operations until the end of the Award term. Invoices must be submitted on or before the 15th calendar day following the end of each monthly invoice period. As practicable, Grantor shall process payment within 30 calendar days after receipt of the invoice, unless the State awarding agency reasonably believes the request to be improper.
- Grantees may be required to submit supporting documentation for their requests at the request of and in a manner prescribed by the Grantor.
Working Capital Advance Method
- IDHS Grant Program Managers will advance working capital payments to the grantee to cover their estimated disbursement needs for an initial period not to exceed two months of grant expenses. Startup costs may be approved if determined by IDHS Grant Program Managers to be allowable.
- Grantees must submit monthly invoices for each of the one or two months covered by the Working Capital Advance in the format and method prescribed by the Grantor. The first invoice is due 15 calendar days after the first month of the Award term. Invoices must include only allowable incurred costs that have been paid by the grantee. For grant programs that have grantee matching requirements, allowable costs are only reimbursable when matching costs have also been incurred.
- Grantees may be required to submit supporting documentation for their requests at the request of and in a manner prescribed by the Grantor.
- Working Capital Advance Payments are limited to a single occurrence per grant term.
- Following the initial working capital advance payment, grantees will be paid via advance or reimbursement method as appropriate.
Additional Advance Payments
Additional working capital advance payments may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Such requests must be made in writing, may require supporting documentation and must be approved by IDHS Executive Staff.
Payment Forms
- Grants Invoice Template
- Advance Payment Request Cash Budget Form (IL444-4985)
G. State Awarding Agency Contact(s)
If you have questions about this NOFO, please contact Jim Wilkerson, jim.wilkerson@illinois.gov, 217-785-9449
H. Pre-Award Costs
Pre-Award Costs are allowed subject to the discretion, review, and prior approval of the IDHS Budget Committee. Pre-Award Costs must be identified as such in the IDHS Uniform Grant Budget Narrative. Pre-award costs are not allowable.
I. Other Information, if applicable
Questions and Answers: If you have questions related to this NOFO, please send them via email to: DHS.GrantApp@Illinois.Gov, Your Organization Name, 23-444-26-2842-01, Jim Wilkerson in the subject line of the email.
Questions and Answers
Important Dates For this NOFO
What? |
When? |
Who? / Where? |
Subject Line |
Letter of Intent |
April 1, 2022 |
DHS.GrantApp@Illinois.Gov |
Your Organization Name, 23-444-26-2850-01, LOI, Jim Wilkerson |
Questions Submitted |
April 1, 2022 |
DHS.GrantApp@Illinois.Gov |
Your Organization Name, 23-444-26-2850-01, Question, Jim Wilkerson |
Proposals Due |
Last application will be accepted no later than April 15, 2022 at 5:00 pm. |
DHS.GrantApp@Illinois.Gov |
Your Organization Name, 23-444-26-2850-01, Grant Application, Jim Wilkerson |
J. Mandatory Forms