Juvenile Justice Councils (26-444-80-1270-01) Notice of Funding Opportunity

Summary Information

1. - Basic Information (CSFA Data Section)

Items 1(A) - 1(E) are in the CSFA Data Table Below:

Awarding Agency Name (1-A)	Illinois Department of Human Services
Agency Division Name	Department of Human Services; Office of Community and Positive Youth Development; FCS Bureau of Youth Intervention Services
Agency Contact	Kristen Marshall DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov
Announcement Type (1-C)	Competitive  Initial Announcement
Funding Opportunity Title (1-B)	Juvenile Justice Councils (JJC)
Funding Opportunity Number (1-D)	26-444-80-1270-01
Application Posting Date	Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Application Closing Date	Monday, September 29, 2025 by 12:00pm (Noon)
Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA) Number	444-80-1270
Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA) Name	Juvenile Justice Councils (JJC)
Assistance Listing Number(s) (1-E)	16.540
Awarding Source	These awards will be funded with Federal (Title II) Funds.
Estimated Total Program Funding Amount	$80,000.00
Anticipated Number of Awards	1
Award Range	NA
Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement?	Cost sharing or matching is allowed but is not required.
Indirect Costs Allowed?	Indirect Costs are allowed
Restrictions on Indirect Costs?	Indirect Cost Rate must be approved.
Technical Assistance Session Offered	No
NOFO/Application Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)	Submit questions to: DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov   Due date for submitting questions: 09/22/2025 FAQs will be updated frequently, and a final, complete list will be posted to the IDHS website on 9/24/2025.

1. - Basic Information Continued - Section F through I

6. Funding Details
   1. Total Amount of Funding
      1. The Department expects to award approximately $80,000.00.  
      2. The source of funding for this program is Federal funds
   2. Number of Grant Awards
      1. The Department anticipates funding approximately one grant award to provide this program
   3. Expected Dollar Amount of Individual Grant Awards
      1. The Department anticipates that the dollar amount of individual awards will be $80,000.00.
   4. Average amount of Funding per Grant Award on average in previous years.
      1. Average funding amount for this grant award program in previous years was NA.
   5. Renewal or Supplementation of Existing Projects Eligibility.
      1. Applications for renewal or supplementation of existing projects are not eligible to compete with applications for new State awards
      2. Successful applicants under this NOFO may be eligible to receive one subsequent one-year grant renewals for this program. Renewals are at the discretion of the Department and are based on sufficient appropriation and performance criteria including, but not limited to:
         1. Grantee has performed satisfactorily during the previous reporting period
         2. All required reports have been submitted on time, unless a written exception has been provided by the Division/Department
         3. No outstanding issues are present (e.g., in good standing with all pre-qualification requirements and no outstanding corrective action, etc.)
   6. Sub-Recipient Agreements 
      1. Sub-Recipient Agreement(s) and budgets must be pre-approved by the Department and on file with the Department.  Sub-recipients are subject to all provisions of this Agreement. The successful applicant Agency shall retain sole responsibility  for the performance and monitoring of the sub-recipient.
   7. Funding restrictions
      1. Pre-Award Costs
         1. Pre-Award costs are not allowable for this award. 
         2. IDHS grants are governed by 2 CFR. Part 200, Subpart E-Cost Principles. Principles and 30 ILCS 708 which include information on allowable costs, audit requirements, and financial records.
      2. Indirect Costs
         1. Indirect Costs may be applied to this grant award.
         2. An organization must have a negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA) with the State of Illinois, A Federal NICRA, or elect to use the 15% de minimis rate (some programs funded with federal dollars are still subject to the 10% de minimis rate) to be reimbursed for any indirect costs within a program. All State of Illinois grantees also have the option to select "no rate" and not claim any indirect costs. Awardees must select an indirect cost election in the Grantee Portal on an annual basis. Note - The election for "no rate" and "de minimis" continue indefinitely once initially selected until a new election is made. All State of Illinois grantees receiving awards from Illinois grant making agencies must substantiate or elect an indirect cost rate for their organization. Grantees that wish to negotiate a rate with the State of Illinois will start their election process in the Grantee Portal and the case will then be sent to the Crowe Resource Management Program (CRMP) to begin negotiation. Please click on the Centralized Indirect Cost Rate System (ICRES) to begin the indirect cost rate election process and obtain access to resources and points of contact to assist your organization in completing this process.
   8. The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Illinois Department of Human Services to make an award
7. Key Dates
   1. Application Posting Date:  August 27, 2025. 
   2. The Department must receive the Full Application: Due on September 29, 20205 at 12:00pm (Noon) CST. 
   3. Anticipated Award Date October 15, 2025. 
   4. Anticipated Start Dates and Periods of Performance for new grant awards.
      1. Subject to appropriation, the grant period will begin no sooner than October 15, 2025 and will continue through June 30, 2026. 
8. Executive Summary: 
   Title II Juvenile Justice Council grants are specifically awarded to local juvenile justice councils to implement programs, policies and practices that improve the effectiveness of local juvenile justice systems, reduce unnecessary juvenile justice system involvement and/or analyze and reduce Racial and Ethnic Disparities (RED) in each council's local system. Because this model of local governance, collaboration and data-driven decision-making has proven effective, the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission is allocating funding to support local juvenile justice councils and the development of data-driven, collaborative local juvenile justice plans which guide future system improvement efforts.
   The Illinois Juvenile Court Act provides that each county or group of counties may establish a local juvenile justice council [705 ILCS 405/6-12]. The purpose of this council, according to the Act, is "to provide a forum for the development of a community based interagency assessment of the local juvenile justice system, to develop a county juvenile justice plan for the prevention of juvenile delinquency, and to make recommendations to the county board, or county boards, for more effectively utilizing existing community resources in dealing with juveniles who are found to be involved in crime, or who are truant or have been suspended or expelled from school." Through juvenile justice councils, the Act prescribes a response to juveniles in conflict with the law that is comprehensive, driven by data and analysis, and collaborative across all systems that touch these youth.
   As embodied in the Juvenile Court Act, Juvenile Justice Councils provide a structure to ensure that local jurisdictions respond to youth in conflict with the law in a manner which is data-driven, strategic, and focused on serving youth, families and communities in the most effective ways possible. Unfortunately, very few jurisdictions in Illinois have developed councils that operate in the manner envisioned in the Act. In some communities, youth become involved in the juvenile justice system unnecessarily because alternatives do not exist or are not embedded within the system decision-making process. Because the needs and resources are different in each community in Illinois, a one-size-fits-all approach is not likely to be very effective. (Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act) Reauthorization 2018 (JJDPA).
   Local councils are in the best position to craft solutions that meet the local community's needs and take into account local resources. Empowering and supporting local juvenile justice councils can also stem the tide of racial and ethnic disparity in the juvenile justice system at the front door and help ensure that no youth enters the juvenile justice system unnecessarily. Such local ownership is the best way to ensure more effective long-term programming and sustained systemic change. This, in turn, will reduce the costs associated with incarcerating youth in correctional facilities, reduce rates of recidivism, reduce the number of crime victims, and ultimately create safer communities in Illinois.
   Juvenile Justice Youth Serving Programs: The federal Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) provides funding directly to states through its Title II Formula Grants Program (Title II) to support state and local delinquency prevention, intervention efforts and juvenile justice system improvements. These funds are used to help states implement comprehensive state juvenile justice plans based on detailed studies of needs in their jurisdictions. State Advisory Groups, comprised of members appointed by the governor, set priorities for funded activities.
   The State Advisory Group for Illinois, the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission (IJJC), administers the Title II funds. These funds support a broad range of juvenile justice activities at the state and local level that are designed to improve the juvenile justice system through the development of more effective education, training, research, prevention, diversion, treatment, and rehabilitation programs in the area of juvenile delinquency. These programs or projects can be designed to be developed, implemented and evaluated directly or through grants and contracts with public and private agencies. Title II also funds state and local activities designed to ensure and maintain the state's compliance with the Core Requirements of the JJDPA.
   • • Deinstitutionalization of Status Offenders (DSO)
     • Adult Jail and Lock-Up Removal (Jail Removal)
     • "Sight and Sound" Separation
     • Address Racial and Ethnic Disparities (RED)
   • In some communities, youth become involved in the juvenile justice system unnecessarily because alternatives do not exist or are not embedded within the system decision-making process. Because the needs and resources are different in each community in Illinois, a one-size-fits-all approach is not likely to be very effective.
     Local juvenile justice systems and community-based providers are in prime position to craft solutions and develop youth serving programs that meet the local community's needs and take into account local resources. Empowering and supporting local youth programming can also stem the tide of racial and ethnic disparity in the juvenile justice system at the front door and help ensure that no youth enters the juvenile justice system unnecessarily. Investing in local communities will reduce the costs associated with incarcerating youth in correctional facilities, reduce rates of recidivism, reduce the number of crime victims, and ultimately create safer communities in Illinois.
     Juvenile Justice Councils shall be in alignment with the Core Values and Principles of the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission.
9.  Agency Contact Information.
   1. If you have questions about this NOFO, please contact Kristen Marshall, DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov  
   2. A frequently asked Question and Answer page is posted on the DHS website: Juvenile Justice Councils - Appendices and Questions & Answers. Questions submitted up to 5 business days prior to the end of the NOFO posting period, will be posted on the website.
10. Indirect Costs  (for more information, refer to Indirect Costs)

2. - Eligibility

3. - Program Description

1. Required Information:
   1. The federal Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) provides funding directly to states through its Title II Formula Grants Program (Title II) to support state and local delinquency prevention, intervention efforts and juvenile justice system improvements. These funds are used to help states implement comprehensive state juvenile justice plans based on detailed studies of needs in their jurisdictions. State Advisory Groups, comprised of members appointed by the governor, set priorities for funded activities.
      The State Advisory Group for Illinois, the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission (IJJC), administers the Title II funds. These funds support a broad range of juvenile justice activities at the state and local level that are designed to improve the juvenile justice system through the development of more effective education, training, research, prevention, diversion, treatment, and rehabilitation programs in juvenile delinquency. These programs or projects can be designed to be developed, implemented and evaluated directly or through grants and contracts with public and private agencies. Title II also funds state and local activities designed to ensure and maintain the state's compliance with the Core Requirements of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act Reauthorization 2018 (JJDPA).
      • Deinstitutionalization of Status Offenders (DSO)
      • Adult Jail and Lock-Up Removal (Jail Removal)
      • "Sight and Sound" Separation
      • Address Racial and Ethnic Disparities (RED)
      1. The Illinois Juvenile Court Act provides that each county or group of counties may establish a local juvenile justice council (JJC) [705 ILCS 405/6-12]. The purpose of this council, according to the Act, is "to provide a forum for the development of a community based interagency assessment of the local juvenile justice system, to develop a county juvenile justice plan for the prevention of juvenile delinquency, and to make recommendations to the county board, or county boards, for more effectively utilizing existing community resources in dealing with juveniles who are found to be involved in crime, or who are truant or have been suspended or expelled from school." Through juvenile justice councils, the Act prescribes a response to juveniles in conflict with the law that is comprehensive, driven by data and analysis, and collaborative across all systems that touch these youth.
         Title II Juvenile Justice Council grants are specifically awarded to local juvenile justice councils to implement policies and practices that improve the effectiveness of local juvenile justice systems, reduce unnecessary juvenile justice system involvement and analyze and reduce Racial and Ethnic Disparities (R/ED) in each council's local system.
         Because this model of local governance, collaboration and data-driven decision-making has proven effective, the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission is allocating funding to support local juvenile justice councils and the development of data-driven, collaborative local juvenile justice plans which guide future system improvement efforts. As embodied in the Juvenile Court Act, Juvenile Justice Councils provide a structure to ensure that local jurisdictions respond to youth in conflict with the law in a manner which is data-driven, strategic, and focused on serving youth, families and communities in the most effective ways possible. Unfortunately, very few jurisdictions in Illinois have developed councils that operate in the manner envisioned in the Act. In some communities, youth become involved in the juvenile justice system unnecessarily because alternatives do not exist or are not embedded within the system decision-making process. Because the needs and resources are different in each community in Illinois, a one-size-fits-all approach is not likely to be very effective.
         Local councils are in the best position to craft solutions that meet the local community's needs and consider local resources. Empowering and supporting local juvenile justice councils can also stem the tide of racial and ethnic disparity in the juvenile justice system at the front door and help ensure that no youth enters the juvenile justice system unnecessarily. Such local ownership is the best way to ensure more effective long-term programming and sustained systemic change. This, in turn, will reduce the costs associated with incarcerating youth in correctional facilities, reduce rates of recidivism, reduce the number of crime victims, and ultimately create safer communities in Illinois.
         The goal of the Juvenile Justice Councils program is to support local juvenile justice councils in developing and implementing programs, policies and practices that:
         • Ensure that youth do not enter Illinois' juvenile justice system unnecessarily;
         • Ensure that youth who do enter the juvenile justice system receive developmentally appropriate, individualized support and services;
         • Ensure that youth leave the justice system with positive outcomes, which in turn enhance public safety;
         • Ensure that Illinois maintains full compliance with the core requirements of the re-authorized federal JJDP Act;
         • Ensure that racial and ethnic disparities are examined and reduced at all phases of the justice system
      2. Once successful applicants are in place and have developed plans to address the above issue areas, the IJJC may consider providing additional funding to JJCs to support their plans with a special focus on activities to address JJDPA compliance with the core requirements of the re-authorized JJDPA.
         Juvenile Justice Councils bring together local justice system leaders, community members, youth, families, service providers, educators and other stakeholders to develop strategies to prevent and address juvenile delinquency effectively and efficiently. Because councils are in the best position to create solutions that meet the local community's needs and take into account local resources, the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission is allocating funding to support the work of councils, the development of data-driven, collaborative local juvenile justice plans, and the development and implementation of evidence-based and evidence-informed policies and practices which guide future system improvement efforts, all with a racial equity lens.
         Juvenile Justice Councils shall be in alignment with the Core Values and Principles of the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission.
   2. Funding Priorities
      It is the intention of the NOFO to fund one well qualified Juvenile Justice Council grant in Lake County, Illinois.
   3. Goals and objectives of the Program.
      1. Councils must demonstrate their willingness to analyze juvenile delinquency and needs within their jurisdiction, engage stakeholders to create a plan to address identified needs, and to implement policies and practices that address one or more challenging issues that have been identified. Examples of potential challenging issues include, but are not limited to:
         • Racial and Ethnic Disparities
         • Weapons charges
         • Innovative deflection or diversion strategies
         • Domestic battery / family conflict
         • Carjacking charges
         • Youth violence
         • Problematic sexual behavior
         • Special populations: LGBTQ youth, Girls, Emerging Adults
         • Young Children in Detention
      2. The IJJC strongly emphasizes the use of data and evidence in policymaking and program development; therefore, IJJC encourages the use of evidence-based and evidence-informed programs and practices to address these issues. IJJC strongly encourages the use of research and data that points to racial disparities and the need to address them. The use of equity and racial justice research and data should be used when conducting these analyses.
         • Evidence-based practices are approaches to prevention or treatment that are validated by some form of documented scientific evidence. For more information and resources on evidence-based programs or practices for juvenile justice and youth prevention, interventions, and reentry programs, refer to the Model Programs Guide | Home | Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (ojp.gov).
         • Evidence-based programs use a defined curriculum or set of services that, when implemented with fidelity as a whole, has been validated by some form of scientific evidence.
         • Evidence-informed practices use the best available research and practice knowledge to guide program design and implementation. This informed practice allows for innovation while incorporating the lessons learned from the existing research literature. Ideally, evidence-based and evidence-informed programs and practices should be responsive to families' cultural backgrounds, community values, and individual preferences.
   4. Program Deliverables (Required Services and Programming)
      The Provider shall provide services in accordance with all relevant statutes, rules and the JJDPA. Provider program responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
      1. Juvenile Justice Council
         The applicant will create or maintain a local juvenile justice council with the capacity to meet the statutory requirements for a local juvenile justice council, pursuant to 705 ILCS 405/6-12, within the first quarter of and throughout the grant period. The Council will consist of the statutorily required membership and additional members required by the IJJC, including (but not limited to) representatives designated by the following county officers:
         1. The Sheriff
         2. The State's Attorney
         3. The Public Defender
         4. The Chief Probation Officer
         5. The Chief Judge
         6. Each County Board within the area of the council
            The applicant will appoint additional council members from the community as necessary to fulfill the statutory duties and purpose of the juvenile justice council, such as parents and youth impacted by the local juvenile justice system, members of the faith community, law enforcement, local schools, business leaders and local service providers such as CCBYS. Diversity makeup of the Council should also be taken into consideration.
            Councils should assess the makeup of the Council to ensure that additional members reflect the community served and reflect the communities most impacted by the juvenile justice system. The applicant will convene at least one council meeting within the first 3 months of the grant period and at least monthly throughout the grant period. A minimum of one part-time staff person must be identified to coordinate and manage the work of the Council.
      2. Analysis of juvenile delinquency problems and needs:
         The applicant will produce or update a local data scan to analyze juvenile delinquency problems and needs. The purpose of a local data scan is to provide all members of the council with objective, detailed information about the number and characteristics of youth who are in contact with the local juvenile justice system and how those youth progress through that system. The council should utilize this shared data to identify and prioritize opportunities to strengthen local policy and practice and to identify challenging issues. The data scan will include data regarding the prevalence and characteristics of youth at key juvenile justice decision points:
         1. Arrest
         2. Diversion
         3. Detention (Can be provided to the local JJC by the IJJC)
         4. Commitments to DJJ (Can be provided to the local JJC by the IJJC)
         5. Transfer to Adult Court (Can be provided to the local JJC by the IJJC)
            Data and analysis will include the race and ethnicity of youth at each decision point, using local (municipal or county) or state-level data resources. This data scan will be made available to council members and to the IJJC. Councils currently receiving IJJC funding are required to submit their current data scan and analysis of juvenile delinquency problems and needs as part of this application.
      3. Comprehensive System Map:
         The purpose of a system map is to provide all council members with objective, detailed information on how the local juvenile justice system currently functions, and where there may be opportunities to strengthen local policy, practice and programs. The applicant will produce or update a comprehensive system map which illustrates and describes the key juvenile justice decision points and decision-making criteria at each decision point of the local juvenile justice system. This local system map will be made available to council members and to the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission. Councils currently receiving IJJC funding are required to submit their current comprehensive system map as part of this application.
      4. County Juvenile Justice Plan
         The applicant will complete a current county juvenile justice plan, as described in the Illinois Juvenile Court Act, which details the local policy, practice and programs which address the needs and issues identified in the Analysis of juvenile delinquency problems and needs and advance one or more of the IJJC goals set forward below:
         1. Ensure that youth do not enter Illinois' juvenile justice system unnecessarily;
         2. Ensure that youth who do enter the juvenile justice system receive developmentally appropriate, individualized support and services;
         3. Ensure that youth leave the justice system with positive outcomes, which in turn enhance public safety;
         4. Ensure that Illinois maintains full compliance with the core requirements of the federal JJDP Act.
            Councils are required to submit the data and cite the data source which was used to determine the needs and issues addressed in their plan. Councils are required to submit their current or anticipated county juvenile justice plan as part of this application. Local juvenile justice plans utilize the data scan and system maps developed by the council to highlight the strengths of the local juvenile justice system and to determine where improvements in local policy and practice are needed. The plan documents how the council will develop or enhance policies to divert youth and families from the justice system while maintaining public safety, intervene effectively with youth who do become involved in the justice system and ensure that youth can successfully exit the juvenile justice system.
            Based on the County Juvenile Justice plan, Councils must identify the challenging issue(s) they are proposing to address.
      5. Racial and Ethnic Disparities (R/ED) Reduction Plan
         Councils will ensure that racial and ethnic disparities (R/ED) are examined and reduced at all phases of the juvenile justice system. As part of the county juvenile justice plan, council must analyze R/ED data and submit a plan describing the strategies, programs, policies and other efforts the Council will implement and support to reduce rates of R/ED.
      6. Youth Member:
         The Applicant agrees to identify and appoint a youth member to serve as a member of the IJJC Youth Advisory Board. The IJJC Youth Advisory Board will meet quarterly and will provide input into the IJJC three-year plan. Experience with the Juvenile Justice System is strongly preferred.
   5. Performance Measures and Standards
      Each quarter, successful applicants will submit a periodic performance report (PPR), which includes reporting progress/status regarding the following performance measures. At the end of the year, successful applicants will also submit a cumulative report.
      1. Performance Measures
         1. Number of Juvenile Justice Council Meetings convened;
         2. Number (total) of council members;
         3. Number of statutorily-required council members participating at least once per quarter;
         4. Number of juvenile justice decision points for which data is reported, disaggregated by gender, race and ethnicity;
         5. Number and type of policies and practices that have been enhanced, developed and implemented by the Council, based on and supported by local data;
         6. Number of challenging issues identified and addressed by the Council;
         7. Specific R/ED goal(s); Each Council will be required to propose at least one performance measure based on their R/ED reduction plan. If council is funded under this award, the RED performance measure(s) will be finalized with input from the Department;
         8. Number of Youth identified and appointed to the youth advisory board;
         9. Percentage of DHS required reports completed and submitted accurately and on time;
      2. Performance Standards
         1. Number of Juvenile Justice Council Meetings convened; (minimum acceptable: six meetings)
         2. Number (total) of council members; (minimum acceptable: eight council members)
         3. Number of statutorily-required council members participating at least once per quarter; (minimum acceptable: six council members)
         4. Number of juvenile justice decision points for which data is reported, disaggregated by gender, race and ethnicity; (minimum acceptable: five decision points; Council provides written plan to obtain data for any missing decision points)
         5. Number and type of policies and practices that have been enhanced, developed and implemented by the Council, based on and supported by local data; (minimum acceptable: three)
         6. Number of challenging issues identified and addressed by the Council; (minimum acceptable: one)
         7. Specific R/ED goal(s); Each Council will be required to propose at least one performance measure based on their R/ED reduction plan. If council is funded under this award, the RED performance measure(s) will be finalized with input from the Department; (minimum acceptable: one performance measure)
         8. Number of Youth identified and appointed to the youth advisory board; (minimum acceptable: one youth member)
         9. Percentage of DHS required reports completed and submitted accurately and on time; (minimum acceptable: 80% of reports) 
   6. Authorizing statutes
      Statutory Authority: The Formula Grants Program is authorized under the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act Reauthorization 2018 (JJDPA).

4. - Application Contents and Format.

1. Content and Format Requirements 
   1. Content and Form of Application Submission
      1. Pre-applications, letters of intent, or white papers are not required.
      2. Required Content of Application
         1. Applications must include the required documents and demonstrate that the program eligibility requirements have been met. The Department will not contact applicants for missing items listed below. Applicants that do not include all the following documents will be considered substantially incomplete and will not be considered for funding. 
      3. Proposal Narrative Content and Attachments
         1. Program Narrative: IMPORTANT: The program (proposal) narrative makes up the bulk of the 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 significantly reduced score the applicant organization will not meet the criteria to receive a grant under this notice of funding opportunity.
         2. Proposal Narrative Sections: Please provide a complete response to the following sections. 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. 
            1. Executive Summary (10 points) (Included in the page limits)
               The JJC Executive Summary (available as an appendix; request from DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov) will serve multiple purposes. First, as a scored portion of this application and secondly, for successful applicants it will serve as a stand-alone document that may be shared with various state-level stakeholders and others requesting a brief overview of each funded project. Therefore, applicants should be concise and direct in their description.
               Applicants must complete the Executive Summary (available as an appendix) and include it at the beginning of your program narrative. Each of the following items must be answered/responded to on the Executive Summary Form:
               1. List the name, address, FEIN, county, and website (if any) of applicant entity.
               2. List name, phone number, and email address for the organization's authorized representative and for the contact person for this application.
               3. Indicate funding amount requested under this proposal.
               4. Indicate if this is a new or existing council. If existing, indicate the # of years council has been in existence.
               5. Describe the geographic area the Council will cover
               6. List relevant major accomplishments and outcomes of the council.
               7. Briefly describe your proposed activities and anticipated outcome(s) of the required program services. (Refer to Section A.3: Required Services and Programming)
               8. Identify the challenging issue(s) Council is planning to address and the Evidence Based Practice the Council is planning to implement or enhance.
               9. Identify the applicant entity that will be responsible for managing this grant. Further indicate which entity (applicant or other) will be responsible for each of the following: managing the council; supervision of grant-funded staff, fiscal management of grant funds, quarterly reporting, etc. If other than applicant entity - please identify the entity and provide justification.
               10. Applicant must respond to the following mandatory requirements:
                   1. Program start date. (Indicate date you anticipate beginning services)
                   2. Statement of commitment to the Core Values and Principles of the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission
                   3. Statement of Equity and Racial Justice Commitment: (provide a clear statement of commitment to operating with a racial equity lens when proving programming and creating or updating policies.)
            2. Capacity-Agency Qualifications/Organizational Capacity (30 points)
               The purpose of this section is for the applicant to present an accurate picture of their ability to implement this program as outlined in this NOFO. The applicant must demonstrate evidence of linguistic and cultural competence throughout. Information in this section should include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
               1. Overview: Give a brief overview of the applicant entity, outlining its primary programs and services offered. Describe how the existing or proposed council's mission statement and goals align with the purpose of this funding opportunity
               2. Experience:
                  1. Describe the applicant entity's experience providing each of the service areas under Section A.3: Required Services and Programming.
                  2. Describe relevant major accomplishments and outcomes of those efforts.
                  3. Describe any experience applicant has had managing collaborative projects.
                  4. Describe any experience applicant council has had making data-informed decisions. Provide examples.
                  5. Describe the applicant's experience managing state and/or federal grants.
               3. Fiscal Capacity: This section will be scored based on the thoroughness of the responses and on the level of capacity. The purpose of this section is intended to gauge the level of financial technical assistance that may needed to support the applicant.
                  1. Organization:
                     1. Describe your agency accounting policies and systems/software used. Can your system track expenses by program area?
                     2. Describe your agency's experience creating budgets, applying cost allocation principles, etc.
                     3. What is the amount of your organization's overall budget? Overall budget includes all programs, administration, etc.; include this grant request/amount.
                  2. Program specific:
                     1. What is your budget for this program? If you anticipate additional sources of funding for this program besides this grant request/amount, please provide the sources/amounts.
                     2. Identify staff who will be responsible for completing and submitting financial reports to IDHS. Describe staff member's experience and/or credentials, if applicable. If your organization is contracting with an entity to manage fiscal responsibilities for this grant, provide name of the entity. Please explain your internal controls to ensure separation of duties related to approving invoices, accounting entries and payment authorizations for expenditures.
               4. Reminder to submit the fiscal Internal Controls Questionnaire (ICQ). 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 25 ICQ. The ICQ can be accessed through the Illinois GATA Grantee Portal. The completed ICQ will not impact your application score. Applicant is strongly encouraged to submit the ICQ prior to the application due date.
               5. Agency Readiness:
                  Provide a description of the applicant agency's readiness for service provision commencing on the contract start date, taking particular note of the following:
                  1. Staffing: Describe the applicant agency's plan for staffing to carry out and execute this program.
                     1. Complete the Program Contact Information Form (available as an Appendix; request from DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov) and include it as Attachment A2.
                     2. Include an organizational chart of the applicant organization, showing where the program and its staff will be placed. If subcontractors will be used, include the relationship with those organizations in the chart. Please include this as Attachment A3: Organizational Chart.
                     3. A minimum part-time Juvenile Justice Council Coordinator is required. If applicant council is proposing to use grant funds awarded under this NOFO or other funds, indicate the name of the Coordinator (if known), whether the position will be full or part-time, where the position will be housed, how funded and who will supervise the Coordinator. Submit a job description and resume for the Juvenile Justice Council Coordinator position as Attachment A4: Job Descriptions/Resumes.
                  2. Implementation Timeline: Applicants will submit an Implementation Timeline as Attachment A5, which will include program milestones, hiring staff, training, start dates, etc. For each deliverable:
                     1. Indicate the staff who will be responsible to ensure each deliverable is completed.
                     2. The estimated time per week spent on each deliverable.
                     3. For each deliverable, Record implementation dates, dates deliverables will be accomplished, etc.
               6. Juvenile Justice Council Structure
                  1. Describe the process by which council recruits and engages members. Describe the existing or anticipated level and type of participation by council members. Identify at least one member from each county office that is statutorily required:
                     1. The Sheriff
                     2. The State's Attorney
                     3. The Public Defender
                     4. The Chief Probation Officer
                     5. Each County Board within the area of the council
                  2. Include a complete Council member roster, identifying the entity represented, in your application as Attachment P1: Juvenile Justice Council Roster.
                  3. If applicant is an existing council; attach meeting minutes from the previous fiscal year to your application as Attachment P2: JJC Meeting Minutes.
                  4. Describe major achievements and accomplishments of existing councils. Proposals for new councils should describe anticipated achievements.
                  5. Describe the make-up of your council, including youth membership. Makeup can include, but is not limited to: race, gender, geography, background, etc.
               7. Collaboration:
                  Describe experience that the applicant has with collaborative efforts with other entities in the field of juvenile justice. Describe applicant's role in that collaboration. Describe relevant major accomplishments and outcomes of those collaborative efforts.
               8. Trauma-Informed Status:
                  Applicants must demonstrate an ongoing commitment to develop trauma informed capacity. Please describe current and planned capacity building activities designed to obtain or maintain Trauma Informed status.
               9. Subrecipients: If the applicant plans to use a Subrecipient to deliver services related to this program
                  1. Describe the role and responsibilities of the sub-contractor.
                  2. Describe how the applicant agency will monitor and evaluate the Subrecipient.
                  3. Include the following for each subrecipient:
                     • Attachment S1 Program Contact Information Form (available as an Appendix)
                     • Attachment S2 Subrecipient Budget (Use the IDHS: Uniform Grant Budget Template (state.il.us)
                     • Attachment S3 Subrecipient Agreement (The Subrecipient Agreement is generated by the applicant agency outlining the scope of work/deliverables the subrecipient will be completing for this program.)
                     • Attachment S4 Subrecipient Agency Federal Form W-9 (Rev. October 2018) (irs.gov)Attachment S5 Subrecipient Agency approved NICRA if indirect costs are included and Subrecipient Agency has a current approved Federal or State NICRA
                     • Attachment S5 Subrecipient Agency approved NICRA if indirect costs are included and Subrecipient Agency has a current approved Federal or State NICRA
                     • Attachment S6 Subrecipient signed Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure.pdf
            3. Need-Description of Need (15 points)
               The purpose of this section is to provide a clear and accurate picture of the need for a juvenile justice council within the targeted community and how the proposed council will help address these needs. It is necessary for the applicant to demonstrate that it has a thorough knowledge and understanding of the needs of their community and the youth involved in the juvenile justice system. Describe how the council plans to address the needs of the community and youth based on the identified need.
            4. Quality-Description of Program Design and Services (35 points)
               The purpose of this section(s) is for the applicant to provide a comprehensive, clear, and accurate picture of its intended program design. The applicant must demonstrate evidence of linguistic and cultural competence throughout. The proposal must address each of the following components in the order below:
               1. Analysis of juvenile delinquency problems and needs: New councils should describe how your council will conduct an analysis of juvenile delinquency problems and needs using data regarding the prevalence and characteristics of youth at each key juvenile-justice decision point:
                  1. Arrest
                  2. Diversion
                  3. Detention (Can be provided to the local JJC by the IJJC)
                  4. Commitments to DJJ (Can be provided to the local JJC by the IJJC)
                  5. Transfer to Adult Court (Can be provided to the local JJC by the IJJC)
                     Councils currently receiving IJJC funding will describe the process by which the above data was analyzed; including who was involved in the analysis and what types of questions were asked and answered through the analysis. Describe how the analysis of juvenile delinquency problems and needs help determine council priorities, including the challenging issue(s) the Council is proposing to address. Attach the data, the data source and resulting analysis as Attachment P3: Analysis of Juvenile Delinquency Problems and Needs.
                     
                     If the council does not have access and ability to report data at the decision points listed above, clearly describe applicant council's plan to establish access to those points. All applicants (new and existing councils) must include a timeline for accessing and reporting data as Attachment P4: Timeline to Access and Report Data.
               2. Comprehensive system map: Describe how your council has produced or will produce a comprehensive system map that illustrates and describes the key decision points and decision- making criteria at each decision point of the local juvenile justice system. Demonstrate how this system map assisted in developing the county juvenile justice plan. Describe who was involved in the mapping process and include a timeline for completion. Councils must submit their comprehensive system map as Attachment P5: Local Council System Map. Describe the process by which you will ensure that the comprehensive system map is current and reflects any changes within the system that may have occurred since the original system map was created.
               3. County Juvenile Justice Plan:
                  1. Describe how your council has developed or will develop a county juvenile justice plan, as described in the Illinois Juvenile Court Act. The plan must address the needs and issues identified in the Analysis of juvenile delinquency problems and needs and advance one or more of the IJJC goals set forward below:
                     1. Ensure that youth do not enter Illinois' juvenile justice system unnecessarily;
                     2. Ensure that youth who do enter the juvenile justice system receive developmentally appropriate, individualized support and services;
                     3. Ensure that youth leave the justice system with positive outcomes, which in turn enhance public safety;
                     4. Ensure that Illinois maintains full compliance with the core requirements of the federal JJDP Act. The county juvenile justice plan will:
                  2. Outline current local policies, practice and programs aimed at reducing and improving youth's involvement with the juvenile justice system.
                  3. Identify existing gaps or needs. Gaps include examining programs, policies and practices.
                  4. Clearly identify the plan's priorities as decided by the council; including the challenging issues Council is planning to address. Describe the data elements and analysis by which priorities were chosen.
                  5. Development of R/ED Reduction Plan
                     1. Describe how applicant council will address R/ED.
                     2. Describe applicant's experience and efforts regarding reduction of R/ ED; list major achievements and accomplishments
                     3. Describe any community support or other community efforts to reduce R/ED.
                     4. Describe any anticipated obstacles to creating and implementing a successful R/ED plan.
                     5. Describe the anticipated impact applicant council's R/ED reduction plan will have on reducing disparities in your community.
                     6. Include your county's R/ED plan in your application as Attachment P6: Racial and Ethnic Disparity Reduction Plan. If the Racial and Ethnic Disparity Reduction Plan is not included, up to 20 points will be deducted from the overall score.
                     7. Identify who was/will be involved in the planning process and how the County Juvenile Justice plan has been or will be adopted or approved.
                     8. Identify how the County Juvenile Justice plan was/will be implemented.
                     9. Describe the anticipated outcome(s) of the County Juvenile Justice plan.
                     10. Include your county's juvenile justice plan in your application as Attachment P7: County Juvenile Justice Plan.
                         NOTE: Once successful applicants are in place and have developed plans to address the above issue areas, the IJJC may consider providing additional funding to JJCs to support their plans with a special focus on activities to address JJDPA compliance with the core requirements of the re-authorized JJDPA.
               4. Challenging Issue: Applicant must identify the challenging issue(s) Council is planning to address.
                  1. Describe how the issue was chosen; include the data that demonstrates that this is a challenging issue within the applicant's local jurisdiction.
                  2. Describe how the issue will be addressed and whether Council will utilize an evidence-based or evidence-informed program or practice to address it.
                     1. If proposing to use an evidence-based program or practice, fully describe the program or practice, its application to the targeted population and the implementation plan. Include an implementation timeframe on your organization's Implementation Timeline (Attachment A5).
                     2. If applicant is proposing to use an innovative, evidence-informed program or practice, fully describe the program or practice, how it was or will be developed and the implementation plan. Include an implementation timeframe on your organization's Implementation Timeline (Attachment A5).
               5. Evaluation: Describe the process that will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed council activities, specifically around the challenging issue(s).
                  1. Provide at least three and no more than eight measurable objectives and dates of expected completion specific to your proposed activities. These should include process and outcome measures. (See Section 3. i. E. 1. "Performance Measures") If applicant is selected for funding, applicant will work with the Department to finalize measurable objectives that will be included in your contract deliverables.
                  2. Describe how you will evaluate your program against your anticipated outcomes.
                  3. Describe any assessments that will be used to evaluate your activities and outcomes, including risk/needs assessments, youth/family satisfaction surveys, evaluation of trainings, etc.
                  4. Describe your ability to collect recidivism and victimization data for youth who have exited the program.
      4. Budget and Budget Narrative (10 Points)  
         1. Budget Narrative: All program narratives must include a Budget Narrative for the grant period October 15, 2025 to June 30, 2026, in addition to the Budget entered in CSA. In this section of the program (proposal) narrative, provide a detailed Budget Narrative of the items allocated within your proposed budget. Identify the source of those funds and detail how the specified resources and personnel are being allocated to ensure the tasks, activities, goals, and objectives described in your proposal will be implemented. If you plan to use additional state or federal funds, or other funds to support the program, please also describe how these additional funds will be utilized to implement the program
         2. Applicants must enter a budget electronically in the CSA system (Refer to IDHS: CSA Tracking System (state.il.us). The Budget entered into the CSA system will include a narrative or detailed description/justification for each line in the budget and will describe why each expenditure is necessary for program implementation and how you arrived at the particular amount. Please include cost allocations as necessary. This narrative must also clearly identify indirect costs, direct program costs, direct administrative costs, and match within each line item as appropriate. The Budget (including MTDC base exclusions as appropriate) should clearly describe how the specified resources and personnel have been allocated for the tasks and activities described in your plan.
         3. The Budget must be electronically signed and submitted in the CSA system. The Budget must be signed by the Provider's Chief Executive Officer and/or Chief Financial Officer.
         4. IMPORTANT: Please be sure the budget status in CSA says "GATA Budget signed and submitted to program review." This status will appear after the budget is electronically signed by the agency CEO or CFO and submitted to IDHS. See IDHS CSA Tracking System webpage for additional information on CSA at IDHS: CSA Tracking System (state.il.us)
         5. The budget and narrative must tie fiscal activity to program objectives and deliverables and demonstrate that all proposed costs are:
            1. Reasonable and necessary
            2. Allocable, and
            3. Allowable as defined herein and by program regulatory requirements and the Uniform Guidance (2CFR 200), as applicable.
         6. A PDF copy of the budget should be included in the application as Attachment A6: Applicant Uniform Grant Budget. This should be printed from the CSA system.
         7. Successful applicants will NOT receive a grant agreement until after their budget has been submitted and approved through the CSA system.
         8. If indirect costs are included in the budget, the applicant must submit a copy of their organization's approved NICRA as Attachment A7: Applicant NICRA
         9. Subrecipients
            1. If you plan to use subrecipients, indicate amount of funds to be provided to the subrecipients; include a budget narrative describing how subrecipient will use funds.
            2. Subrecipient budgets must be pre-approved, and therefore must be submitted with this application. Subrecipient budgets should NOT be submitted in the CSA system. Instead, Subrecipient budgets should be completed using a PDF form of the IDHS: Uniform Grant Budget Template (state.il.us). This PDF template should only be used for Subrecipient budgets.
      5. Required Forms
         1. 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. 
         2. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure - The grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure is a required for all grant award programs. The document requires agencies to identify actual or potential conflicts of interest. The form must be signed by a representative of the organization.
         3. The applicant must submit Form W-9 (Rev. March 2024) as Attachment A8: Applicant W-9
      6. Required Format
         1. The narrative portion must follow the page maximums where prescribed and must be organized in the format outlined or points may be deducted.
         2. The department may determine that an applicant is not qualified if they have not complied to requirements and use that determination as a basis to award to another applicant.
         3. A frequently asked Question and Answer page is posted on the DHS website. Questions submitted up to xx business days prior to the end of the NOFO posting period, will be posted on the website.
         4. The total application may not exceed 20 pages, single-spaced. The application Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance, executive summary, checklist, attachments, letters of intent and Uniform Budget are not included in the page limitation.
         5. All applications must be typed on 8 1/2 x 11-inch paper using 12-point type and at 100% magnification. With the exception of letterhead and stationery for letters of support (not required), the entire proposal should be typed in black ink on white paper. The program narrative must be typed single-spaced, on one side of the page with 1-inch margins on all sides.
         6. The complete application must be compiled as described below in a single PDF document and electronically submitted to DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov by the deadline.
         7. Applications must be submitted electronically as detailed below in Section 5 Submission Requirements and Deadlines.
         8. The Uniform Grant Budget must be signed and submitted to Program Review in CSA.

5. -  Submission Requirements and Deadlines.

1. Address to Request Application Package.
   1. Actions Needed Prior to Applying:
      1. The complete application package (this Notice of Funding Opportunity, including links to required forms) is available through the Illinois Catalog of Financial Assistance and the IDHS Grants Website Page located: IDHS: Grant Funded Programs
      2. Each Applicant must have access to the internet. The Department's website 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 in this announcement (section 1 - Alpha section I). It is the responsibility of each applicant to monitor the website and comply with any instructions or requirements related to the NOFO.
2. Unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov). This subsection must state the requirements for unique entity identifiers and registration in SAM.gov. It must include the following:
   1. Each applicant must:
      1. Be registered in SAM.gov before submitting its application;
      2. Provide a valid unique entity identifier in its application; and
      3. Continue to maintain an active registration in SAM.gov with current information at all times during which it has an active award or an application or plan under consideration.
      4. The Department may not make an award until applicant has fully complied to all UEI and SAM requirements
      5. The department may determine that an applicant is not qualified if they have not complied to requirements and use that determination as a basis to award to another applicant.
   2. If individuals are eligible to apply, they are exempt from this requirement under 2 CFR 25.110(b).
   3. If the agency exempts any applicants from this requirement under 2 CFR 25.110(c) or (d), a statement to that effect.
3. Submission Instructions. This subsection addresses how the applicant will submit the application. It must include the following: Actions needed prior to applying:
   1. Applicants must be registered with the State of Illinois and Pre-qualified in the GATA portal prior to applying for Illinois awards. Instructions for creating an account and registering are located at the following link: Illinois GATA Grantee Portal. Additionally, detailed instructions for registration and prequalification requirements, including the expected amount of time for completion are located here: Grant Applicant Pre-Qualification and Pre-Award Requirements
   2. The methods for submitting the application:
      1. Applicants must electronically submit the complete application including all required narratives and attachments in the prescribed order: The entire application, including attachments, must be sequentially page numbered and compiled in the order specified below. 
         1.  Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance pdf must include the signature and email address of the organization's authorized representative, and the proposed budget must be signed and submitted to Program Review in CSA.
         2. Program Narrative and Attachments:
            1. Executive Summary - available as an Appendix
            2. Capacity - Agency Qualifications/Organizational Capacity
            3. Need - Description of Need
            4. Quality - Description of Program Design and Services
            5. Budget Narrative
            6. Attachments to your application:
               • Attachment A1 NOFO Checklist (available as an appendix)
               • Attachment A2 Program Contact Information (available as an appendix)
               • Attachment A3 Organizational Chart
               • Attachment A4 Job Description(s)/Resume(s)
               • Attachment A5 Implementation Timeline
               • Attachment A6 PDF copy of Applicant's FY26 9-Month CSA Budget and * Budget Narrative
               • Attachment A7 Applicant Federal Form W-9 (Rev. March 2024)
               • Attachment A8 Applicant NICRA (if applicable)
               • Attachment A9 Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure
                 Additional Program Attachments
               • Attachment P1 Juvenile Justice Council Roster
               • Attachment P2 IJJC Meeting Minutes
               • Attachment P3 Analysis of Juvenile Delinquency Problems and Needs
               • Attachment P4 Timeline to Access and Report Data 
               • Attachment P5 Local Council System Map
               • Attachment P6 Racial and Ethnic Disparity Reduction Plan Plan
               • Attachment P7 Council Juvenile Justice Plan
                 Subrecipient Attachments
                 (If subrecipients will be used, include the following Attachments for each subrecipient)
               • Attachment S1 Program Contact Information (available as an appendix)
               • Attachment S2 Subrecipient Budget (Use the IDHS: Uniform Grant Budget Template)
               • Attachment S3 Subrecipient Agreement (This is an applicant-generated form)
               • Attachment S4 Subrecipient Organization Federal Form W-9 (Rev. March 2024) and IRS determination letter
               • Attachment S5 Subrecipient Organization approved NICRA (if applicable) 
               • Attachment S6 Subrecipient Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure.pdf
         3. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure.pdf
         4. Budget (entered into the CSA system as described in section (4)(A)) 
      2. Applications must be sent electronically to DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov. The application will be electronically time-stamped upon receipt. The Department will ONLY accept applications submitted by electronic mail sent to DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov.  Include the following in the subject line: NOFO number and your agency name. Application submissions or delivery to any other email address or contact, including other IDHS offices or employees, will not be considered for review or funding. Applications will not be accepted if received by fax machine, hard copy, disk, or thumb drive.
      3. Applicants are required to notify the Department within 48 hours of the deadline, if they did not receive an email notifying them that their application was received. If the applicant does not receive an email and does not notify the Department within 48 hours, their application will be considered a late submission and will NOT be reviewed or scored. The applicant will NOT have the right to protest the submission/receipt of their application to the Department after the 48 hours. In the event of a dispute the applicant bears the burden of proof that the application was received on time at the email location listed above (and that the budget was submitted into the CSA system on time).
   3. If you are experiencing system problems or technical difficulties submitting your application, you may contact:
      1. Name: Kristen Marshall
      2. Email: DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov  
4. Submission Dates and Times. 
   1. Full applications are due on the following date September 29, 2025 at the following time 12:00pm (Noon)(CST).
   2. Missed Deadlines:
      1. Applications received after the due date and time will not be considered for review or funding. All applicants/applications determined to be non-compliant or otherwise determined to be disqualified from consideration will be separately 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. For your records, please keep a copy of your 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.
      3. IMPORTANT: It is strongly recommended that the applicant not wait until the last minute to submit an application in case they experience technical difficulties with the submission process. Applicants should keep copies of all documentation that that may prove their application was submitted to the correct location and that it was received by IDHS on or before the deadline. Applicants should also maintain all electronic documentation, including screen shots, email correspondence, help desk ticket numbers, etc. that would document any unforeseen difficulties the applicant may have encountered regarding the timely submission of the application.
5. Intergovernmental Review.
   1. This funding opportunity is NOT subject to Executive Order 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs".

6. - Application Review Information.

7. - Award Notices.

1. This section must address what a successful applicant can expect to receive following selection. 
   1. State Award Notices
      1. Applicants recommended for funding under this NOFO following the review and selection process will receive a Notice of State Award (NOSA). The NOSA shall include:
         1. Grant award amoun
         2. The terms and conditions of the awar
         3. Specific conditions, if any, assigned to the applicant based on the fiscal and administrative risk assessment (ICQ), programmatic risk assessments (PRA), and the Merit Review
      2. The applicant shall receive the NOSA through the Illinois GATA 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. The 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.  
      3. The notice is not an authorization to begin performance (to the extent that it allows charging to State awards of pre-award costs; pre-award costs are incurred at the non-State entities own risk unless they have received written prior approval to begin performance)
      4. The authorizing document to begin performance is the fully executed Uniform Grant Agreement (UGA) signed by the grants officer, or equivalent. This is the official document that obligates funds. The UGA is sent to the non-State entity via the CSA system. The non-State entity will print and sign the signature page of the UGA and return signature page to DHS.OCA.SignaturePages@illinois.gov.  A final signed copy of the UGA will be provided to the non-State entity via an upload into the CSA Tracking system. Note: The Department cannot issue an Agreement until the successful applicant has an approved budget entered into the CSA system
      5. Applicants who are not eligible due to registration or pre-qualification issues, or late applications will receive a Notice of Ineligibility prior to the Merit Based Review.
      6. Applicants who are not selected to receive an award following the Merit Review process will receive a Notice of Denial/Non Selection.

8. - Post-Award Requirements and Administration.

1. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
   1. 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.
   2. Sample of the current Sample of an IDHS Uniform Grant Agreement.
   3. Payment Terms:
      1. 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 the 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 methods exist, namely Advance Payment, Reimbursement, and Working Capital Advance.
2. Reporting
   1. Reporting upon execution of the grant agreement shall be in accordance with the requirements set forth in the UGA and related exhibits which include but is not limited to the following:
      1. Periodic Financial Reports submitted electronically in accordance with instructions in the UGA no more frequent than quarterly and no less frequent than annually, unless unusual circumstances exist
      2. Periodic Programmatic Reports submitted electronically in accordance with instructions in the UGA no more frequent than quarterly and no less frequent than annually, unless unusual circumstances exist
      3. Close-out Performance Reports and Financial Reports as instructed in the UGA
      4. Other Unique Programmatic Reporting Requirements: additional annual performance data may be collected as directed by the Department and in the format prescribed by the Department.
      5. If the State share of any State award may include more than $500,000 over the period of performance applicants are also subject to the reporting requirements reflected in Appendix XII to 2 CFR 200. Noncompliance with any of the identified reports may lead to being placed on the Illinois Stop-Payment List

9. - Other Information - Optional

1. Point of Contact
   Name:  Kristen Marshall
   Email Address:  DHS.YouthServiceInfo@illinois.gov
2. Questions and Answers 
   If you have questions relating to this NOFO, please send them via email to: DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov with "JJC NOFO" in the subject line of the email. Beginning 48 hours after the NOFO is posted, questions with their respective answers will be posted on the IDHS website: Juvenile Justice Councils - Appendices and Questions & Answers. Questions and answers will be updated frequently as new questions are received. Applicants are responsible for checking frequently as the responses provided may have an impact on their ability to submit a responsive application. Only written answers posted on the website will be considered valid and official.
   The final deadline to submit any written questions regarding this Funding Notice will be 9/22/2025. The Final listing of Q&A will be posted by End of Day on 9/24/25.
3. Other information, if applicable
   There will not be a Technical Assistance Conference for this NOFO.
4. Mandatory Forms 
   1. Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance (pdf)
   2. Proposal Narrative
   3. Uniform Grant Budget in CSA
   4. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure