22-444-80-1269-01 Juvenile Justice System Improvement Notice of Funding Opportunity

Summary Information

1. Program Description
   1. Program Summary
      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 (JJDPA). 
        
        • Deinstitutionalization of Status Offenders (DSO)
        • Adult Jail and Lock-Up Removal (Jail Removal)
        • "Sight and Sound" Separation
        • Address Racial and Ethnic Disparities (RED)
      • (See Appendix A: Core Requirements of the Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention)
      • Illinois policy-makers require accurate, timely, and relevant data to guide critical decisions regarding state law and policy, resource allocation, and system performance. Due to the structure of the state's justice and human services system, however, no one agency or entity is responsible for providing data, information, research or analysis to juvenile justice stakeholders. Nor is any one agency or entity responsible for pursuing data-system integration or overall systemic performance. The IJJC seeks to ensure that juvenile justice system stakeholders can and do make informed decisions regarding effective policy, practice, resource allocations and programs by funding the following types of programs, research and initiatives:
        1. Research and analysis regarding emerging juvenile justice issues;
        2. Research and development of policy and practice recommendations on issues of priority for the IJJC and other stakeholders;
        3. Publication and dissemination of reports, recommendations, and relevant data;
        4. Programs and initiatives to improve data sharing, data systems, research capacity and other systemic improvement efforts; and
        5. Training and technical assistance to juvenile justice policy-makers and practitioners.
        6. Programs and initiatives to standardize and improve care and treatment in the juvenile justice system, including programs to improve screening, assessment, treatment, case management and case coordination for juvenile justice system involved youth.
        7. Programs, policies and practices that ensure that Illinois maintains compliance with the core requirements of the JJDP Act, including: 1) deinstitutionalization of status offenders; 2) jail removal; 3) separation of juvenile and adult offenders in confinement; and 4) reduction of Racial and Ethnic Disparities (RED) with the juvenile justice system.
   2. Funding Priorities
      Juvenile Justice Systems Improvement grants are specifically awarded to programs, research and other initiatives to examine issues or improve practices, policies or procedures on a juvenile justice system-wide basis. Applicants will maintain the JMIS statewide data system; JMIS is a web-based data system which collects individual reports on the admission of every youth to any of the state's secure (county-operated) detention centers.
      In addition, the applicant shall be in alignment with the Core Values and Principles of the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission (Appendix B) which are as follows:
      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.
      5. Ensure that racial and ethnic disparities are examined and reduced at all phases of the justice system.
   3. Required Services and Programming
      1. Juvenile Monitoring Information System (JMIS)
         1. The applicant will maintain the state's sole source of statewide secure detention information. This system, called JMIS, is a web-based data system which collects individual reports on the admission of every youth to any of the state's secure (county-operated) detention centers. The Commission relies upon JMIS to maintain compliance with the JJDPA and to analyze the use of secure detention in Illinois. JMIS maintains data on the race and ethnicity of all youth entering detention, enabling data analysis regarding racial and ethnic disparities (RED) in the use of detention.
         2. The applicant will provide training and technical assistance to state and local practitioners on the use of the JMIS system.
         3. The applicant will analyze the detention data and produce an annual detention report.
         4. The applicant will provide other detention data and reports as requested by the Commission and DHS.
      2. Transfer of Youth to adult court
         1. In 2016, the Illinois General Assembly passed P.A. 99-0258, significantly scaling back the trial of youth as adults in adult criminal court. The Act recognizes the need for current and complete statewide data regarding transfers and related court actions and required the Commission to develop the standards, confidentiality protocols, format and data depository for these reports. The applicant will serve as the data depository for transfers of youth to adult court.
         2. The applicant will provide training and technical assistance to counties on submitting county transfer data.
         3. The applicant will analyze the transfer data and produce an annual transfer report.
         4. The applicant will provide transfer data and other transfer reports as requested by the Commission and DHS.
      3. Racial and Ethnic Disparities (RED)
         1. One of the core requirements of the JJDPA is to address Racial and Ethnic Disparities (RED). The applicant will be responsible for the annual collection, analysis and reporting of RED data for the five decision points required by OJJDP.
            • Arrests
            • Diversion
            • Detention
            • Incarceration
            • Transfer
         2. The applicant will provide technical assistance to entities on submitting RED data.
         3. The applicant will analyze the RED data and produce an annual, culturally responsive analysis of RED data to be submitted to OJJDP.
         4. The applicant will provide RED data and other RED data reports as requested by the Commission and DHS.
      4. Training and Technical Assistance
         In addition to the Training and Technical Assistance listed above, the applicant will provide:
         • Training and technical assistance to probation departments on evidence-based policy and practice as directed by the Commission, including training on principles of culturally appropriate research and evaluation.
         • Technical assistance / training events to state and county stakeholders including but not limited to the IJJC, Juvenile Justice Councils (JJC) and Juvenile Justice Youth Serving Programs (JJYSP) funded by the IJJC.
         • Detailed reports of technical assistance activities to the JJCs and JJYSPs
      5. Other Commission Requirements
         1. Using a culturally responsive, racially equity lens, the applicant will conduct data analysis, research and other assistance to help fulfill the Commission's research and reporting obligations.
         2. The applicant will coordinate of data projects across agencies as requested, including but not limited to the annual RED compliance report and the OJJDP Compliance Monitoring report.
         3. The applicant will prepare data reports, research reports and other analyses upon request.
   4. Performance Measures
      Each quarter, successful applicants will submit a periodic performance report (PPR), which includes the following performance measures. At the end of the year, successful applicants will also submit a cumulative report.
      1. Submission of required annual application plan and budget.
      2. Percentage of Periodic Financial Reports submitted on time with accurate information, in the format prescribed by the Department. The Periodic Financial Reports must be submitted no later than the 30th of each month for the preceding month by email. At the end of the fiscal year, providers will also submit a cumulative report.
      3. Percentage of timely and accurate additional performance data submitted as directed by the Department and in a format prescribed by the Department.
      4. Provider will ensure that all statewide Juvenile Detention Centers will participate in JMIS data entry.
      5. Provider will administer training and technical assistance to Detention Staff and other user agencies.
      6. When requested, Provider will complete Ad Hoc reports using JMIS data.
      7. When requested Provider will present JMIS data at meetings.
      8. Provider will submit one calendar year detention report to the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission.
      9. Provider will ensure that all Illinois Counties report Juvenile Transfer Data on an annual basis.
      10. Provider will submit one calendar year Transfer report to the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission
      11. Provider will administer training and technical assistance to IL Counties and SAO's regarding transfer data.
      12. Provider will administer training and technical assistance to Juvenile Justice Councils funded by the IJJC.
      13. Provider will attend meetings to review detention standards with stakeholders.
      14. Provider will lead the annual collection, analysis and reporting of statewide RED data for the five decision points. 
   5. Performance Standards
      1. Submission of required annual application plan and budget.
      2. Percentage of Periodic Financial Reports submitted on time with accurate information, in the format prescribed by the Department. The Periodic Financial Reports must be submitted no later than the 30th of each month for the preceding month by email. At the end of the fiscal year, providers will also submit a cumulative report. (acceptable: 80%)
      3. Percentage of timely and accurate additional performance data submitted as directed by the Department and in a format prescribed by the Department. (acceptable: 80%)
      4. Provider will ensure that all statewide Juvenile Detention Centers will participate in JMIS data entry. (acceptable: 16 Juvenile Detention Centers)
      5. Provider will administer training and technical assistance to Detention Staff and other user agencies. (acceptable: respond to up to eight training and technical assistance requests)
      6. When requested, Provider will complete Ad Hoc reports using JMIS data. (acceptable: 3 requests)
      7. When requested Provider will present JMIS data at meetings. (acceptable: 3 requests)
      8. Provider will submit one calendar year detention report to the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission. (acceptable: 1 report)
      9. Provider will ensure that all Illinois Counties report Juvenile Transfer Data on an annual basis. (acceptable: 102 Counties)
      10. Provider will submit one calendar year Transfer report to the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission (acceptable: 1 report)
      11. Provider will administer training and technical assistance to IL Counties and SAO's regarding transfer data. (acceptable: respond to up to 5 training and technical assistance requests)
      12. Provider will administer training and technical assistance to Juvenile Justice Councils funded by the IJJC. (acceptable: provide training and technical assistance requests to four councils.)
      13. Provider will attend meetings to review detention standards with stakeholders. (acceptable: 2 meetings.)
      14. Provider will lead the annual collection, analysis and reporting of statewide RED data for the five decision points. (acceptable 70% of 102 counties)
   6. Authorizing statutes
      Statutory Authority: The Formula Grants Program is authorized under the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, at 34 U.S.C. §§ 11131-11133.
2. Award and Funding Information
   1. This is a competitive funding opportunity
   2. The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Illinois Department of Human Services to make an award.
   3. The Department anticipates funding enter 1 of grant award to provide this program.
   4. The Department anticipates that approximately $225,000 will be available for grants under this Notice of Funding Opportunity.
   5. This award will be funded with Title II Formula Grant Program funds awarded to the State of Illinois.
   6. This grant does require an in-kind or financial match requirement.
   7. This grant does not have limitation on indirect costs.
   8. Applications for new and existing providers will be scored with the same scoring matrix.
   9. Subject to appropriation, the grant period will begin not sooner than the grant start date and will continue through 6/30/2022
   10. The grant start date is estimated to be 7/1/2021
   11. Successful applicants under this NOFO may be eligible to receive up to two subsequent one-year grant renewals for this program. Renewals are at the discretion of the department and are based on performance.
   12. Proposed budgets must be sufficiently detailed and justified to be approved by DHS. Successful applicants will NOT receive a grant agreement until
       after their budget has been approved through the CSA system. Refer to Appendix C: CSA Budget Information for additional instructions for registering and completing budgets in the CSA system.
   13. 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 of the subcontractor.
   14. Pre-Award costs will be allowed under the following conditions:
       The applicant must:
       1. have received and accepted the Notice of State award (NOSA)
       2. have a current, approved budget in the CSA system for this award
       3. have submitted any and all requested program plan and budget revisions per the NOSA
       4. NOT incur pre-award costs prior to the acceptance date of the NOSA
       5. Refer to 2 CFR 200.209 Pre-award Costs for more information.  
   15. All funding is subject to sufficient appropriations.
3. Eligibility Information and Grant Funding Requirements
   1. Eligible Applicants
      This competitive funding opportunity is limited to applicants that meet the following requirements:
      1. Applicant is an Illinois unit of government, OR
      2. Applicant is an Illinois educational institution
   2. Pre-Qualification
      1. Applicant entities will not be eligible to apply for a grant award until they have pre-qualified through the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal, www.grants.illinois.gov Grantee Links tab. Registration and pre-qualification are required annually. During pre-qualification, 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.
      2. Applicants must be pre-qualified; therefore, applications from entities that have not pre-qualified prior to the due date of this application will NOT be reviewed and will NOT be considered for funding.
         A statement indicating the applicant has completed Pre-Qualification steps and is currently Pre-Qualified will be required with the application. (A screenshot indicating the applicant has completed Pre-Qualification steps and is currently Pre-Qualified will also be accepted). Include statement or screenshot indicating completion of Pre-qualification steps as Attachment 1: Statement of Prequalification.
      3. The following information is required to complete registration:
         1. 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.
         2. Organization's federal employer identification number (FEIN);
         3. Organization type;
         4. Illinois Secretary of State File ID (required for non-profits, for-profits and limited liability corporations);
         5. Organization's name
         6. Organization's mailing address;
         7. Organization's primary email address;
         8. Organization's primary phone number
         9. Organization's fiscal year-end date
   3. Unique entity identifier (DUNS) and System for Award Management (SAM)
      Each applicant is required to:
      1. Be registered in SAM before submitting its application; If your organization has not yet registered with SAM.gov, refer to How to register with SAM.gov
      2. Provide a valid unique entity identifier in its application; if your organization does not yet have a DUNS number refer to https://fedgov.dnb.com/webform/displayHomePage.do to request one; and
      3. Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active award or 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 and, 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
      1. The pre-award process includes a financial and administrative risk assessment utilizing an Internal Controls Questionnaire (ICQ) and a Programmatic Risk Assessment (PRA). The PRA must be completed for each separate grant for which an applicant intends to apply. 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 22 ICQ and a submitted and complete FY 22 PRA for Juvenile Justice Councils. While these are NOT required prior to submitting the application, they are required prior to the Department issuing an award. Include a statement or screenshot indicating completion or other status of the FY22 ICQ and FY22 PRA as Attachment 2: Status of FY22 ICQ and FY22 PRA.
      2. Applicants that have not completed an FY22 ICQ and/or an FY22 PRA at the time of application will be contacted by the Department to complete these Pre-Award requirements.
      3. 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.
   5. Registration in CSA
      1. The CSA Tracking System is where the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) expects all applicant entities to enter their GATA Budget information. It is also where IDHS staff will review and take action on the proposed budget.
      2. 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 by the application due date. For instructions on registering in CSA, refer to How to Register in CSA
      3. When submitting an application, the applicant entity's proposed budget must be entered into the CSA system. The completed budget must be electronically signed and submitted in the CSA system, and a printed copy of the signed and submitted budget must be included with the application. To do this, the following is required: at a minimum, the applicant agency's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or equivalent, or the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or equivalent must be registered in the CSA system to electronically sign the required budget documents prior to submission. Refer to Process for Adding GATA Budget Signoff Authority
      4. 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. Furthermore, if the Uniform Grant Budget is not entered, signed and submitted in the CSA system by the application due date and time, ZERO points will be awarded for the Budget Narrative. Refer to Section D: Application and Submission Information, Budget for more information.
      5. It may take several days to complete the registration process so do not wait until the application due date to begin the process. For more information about registering and submitting a budget in the CSA system, refer to Appendix C: CSA Budget Information
   6. Mandatory Requirements of Applicant/Application
      The Mandatory Requirements are essential items that must be met by the Applicant. If any Mandatory Requirement is not met, the responding Applicant's entire proposal will not be considered. If all responding applicants fail to meet a particular mandatory requirement, that mandatory requirement may, at the sole discretion of the State, be removed from the Mandatory Requirements so the evaluation process may continue. However, this does not obligate DHS to make an award to any applicant that fails to meet all mandatory requirements.
      1. The selected applicant must propose to begin to provide services immediately upon contract start date. The applicant must provide a timeline demonstrating when it will begin to provide services as part of this application. (Refer to Section D. 2. Content and Form of Application Submission; f. Attachments)
      2. The applicant must provide a clear statement of commitment to the Core Values and Principles of the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission, included in Appendix B: Core Values and Principles of the IJJC. Applicant must also provide a clear statement of commitment to operating with a racial equity lens when proving training, technical assistance, programming and creating or updating policies. The applicant statements of commitment must be included in the Executive Summary section of the application.
   7. Cost Sharing or Match Requirements
      Providers are not required to provide in-kind and/or financial match. However, if a successful applicant proposes a voluntary match amount and the budget is approved, the total match amount incorporated into the approved budget becomes mandatory and subject to audit.
   8. 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.
      1. Allowable 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. Funding allocated under these grants is intended to provide direct services to youth. 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.
      2. 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 DHS:
         1. 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)
         2. Capital expenditures for general purpose equipment, including any vehicle regardless of cost, buildings, and land (2 CFR 200.439)
         3. Capital expenditures for improvements to land, buildings, or equipment which materially increase their value or useful life (2 CFR 200.439)
         4. 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).
         5. Deposits for items, services, or space
      3. Limitation of Use
         Limitation of Use of Award funds for Employee Compensation: With respect to any award over $250,000, recipients may not use federal funds to pay total cash compensation to any employee that exceeds 110% of the maximum annual salary payable to a member of the Federal Government's Senior Executive Service (SES) at an agency with a Certified SES Performance Appraisal System for that year. A salary table is available at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management website: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/salary-tables/pdf/2021/ES.pdf
      4. 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 Crowe Activity Review System (CARS), including organizations that are choosing not to claim payment for indirect costs.
         CARS URL: https://solutions.crowe.com/CARS/StateofIllinoisGOMB/Login.aspx  
         1. Indirect Cost Rate Election:
            1. 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. (Refer to Section D. Application and Submission Information, 4. Other Submission Requirements for a list of required attachments)
            2. 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 Federally Negotiated Rate or elect to use the De Minimis Rate.
            3. De Minimis Rate. An organization that has never received a Federal or State Negotiated Rate may elect a de Minimis rate of 10% of modified total direct cost (MTDC). Once established, the de Minimis rate may be used indefinitely. The State of Illinois must verify the calculation of the MTDC annually in order to accept the de Minimis rate. 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.
            4. "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 CARS.
         2. Crowe Activity Review System (CARS).
            CARS will allow your organization to document your already established federally approved indirect cost rate, complete an indirect cost rate proposal (see State Negotiated Rate above), elect to charge the De Minimis rate (10%) of modified total direct costs (MTDC), or select that no reimbursement of indirect costs will be requested. 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 or invitation to the CARS system. 
            Organizations that have previously established an indirect cost rate election must submit a new indirect cost rate election immediately and no later than 6 months after the close of their organization's fiscal year. 
            Every organization must make an indirect cost rate election in CARS even if the organization is choosing De Minimis Rate or "no rate". Organizations that do not make an election or submission inside the CARS system within the required timeframes will not be allowed to claim indirect cost reimbursement. 
            For more information, see https://www.illinois.gov/sites/GATA/Pages/default.aspx
      5. Administrative Costs
         It is expected that administrative costs, both direct and indirect, will represent a small portion of the overall program budget. Program budgets and narratives will detail how all proposed expenditures are directly necessary for program implementation and will distinguish between Indirect/Direct Administrative and Direct Program expenses. Any budget deemed to include inappropriate or excessive administrative costs will not be approved. At no time may the approved NICRA be exceeded under this agreement. Documentation will be required to verify the approved NICRA.
      6. 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 2CFR200 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 sub award:
         1. That the grantee agency, prior to making a sub-award 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);
         2. 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;
         3. 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.
   9. Post Award Requirements of Applicant
      Successful Applicants agree to provide program services as described throughout this Funding Notice.
      1. Start Date: The provider will be required to begin to provide services immediately upon contract start date.
      2. Technology: Agencies awarded funds through this funding notice must have a computer that meets the following minimum specifications for the purpose of utilizing any required DHS web-based reporting system and the receipt/submission of electronic program and fiscal information:
         1. Internet access, preferably high-speed
         2. Email capability
         3. Microsoft Excel
         4. Microsoft Word
         5. Adobe Reader
      3. Trauma Informed: The provider must demonstrate a commitment to learn, understand and address the effects of trauma on juvenile justice-involved youth. Provider will infuse trauma-informed principles into its policies and practices. Training and technical assistance will be made available to successful applicants to achieve/maintain this status.
      4. Collaboration with local Family and Community Resource Centers (FCRCs): Providers will maintain a collaborative working relationship with the local IDHS FCRCs. This will include outreach to FCRCs to develop awareness of this program, recruit potential participants, and participating in local FCRCs' service provider meetings as requested.
      5. Collaboration with the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission: Providers are expected to collaborate and partner with the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission (IJJC) and relevant juvenile justice agencies-including but not limited to the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, the Administrative Office of Illinois Courts, and local juvenile court systems and probation departments-to develop innovative system improvement strategies, research initiatives, and data collection and analyses plans aimed at achieving the system improvement goals of the IJJC. Providers are expected to work with the IJJC to ensure compliance with the Core Requirements of the Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP.) Refer to Appendix A.
      6. Program Evaluation Reporting Requirements: Providers will be required to participate in evaluation efforts as directed by the Department and/or its subcontractor(s) and collect and report data accordingly.  All program evaluations efforts will use a culturally responsive, equity lens. The Provider will submit Performance Measures data required by OJJDP on or before November 1st of each year for the preceding period of October 1 - September 30. Data will be submitted in the format prescribed by the Department and IJJC. Providers will be required to report quarterly regarding program performance measures and outcomes. Providers will be required to participate in a Department directed Performance and Standards Assessment reviews. A year-end program and performance measures and outcomes report will also be required. Additional data and information may be requested throughout the year as determined by the Department.
      7. Training and Technical Assistance: Programs must agree to receive consultation and technical assistance from authorized representatives of the Department. The program and collaborating partners will be required to be in attendance at site visits. Programs will be required to attend regular meetings and training as provided by the Department or a subcontractor of the Department. Programs should budget accordingly (at least quarterly).
      8. Site Visits: The Applicant agrees to participate in site visits as requested by the Department and agrees that program and collaborating partners may attend such site visits.
      9. Presentations: The Applicant will be available as requested by the Department to present information regarding service deliverables, provide data updates, or to answer questions arising from the Applicant's work.
      10. 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.
      11. 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.
      12. Background Checks: Background checks are required for all program staff and volunteers who have the potential for contact with youth under 18. These background checks must be completed in advance of individuals working directly with youth. Such individuals will authorize such checks in writing and submit to fingerprinting when required. The agency shall retain the signed form authorizing the background check. All background check information, including the signed authorizing forms shall be maintained separately in a confidential file, apart from the employee's personnel records. Funded programs will be required to have a written protocol in place detailing the requirement for background checks; evidence of their completion; the protocol for reviewing and making determinations regarding results; etc. In no case shall a Person who has been indicated as the perpetrator of any of the child abuse/neglect allegations identified in 89 Ill. Adm. Code Section 385.50(a) be deemed fit for service that allows access to children.
      13. Child Abuse/Neglect Reporting Mandate: Per the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act (ANCRA, 325 ILCS 5/4), mandated reporters are professionals who may work with children in the course of their professional duties. Mandated reporters are required to report suspected child maltreatment immediately when they have "reasonable cause to believe that a child known to them in their professional or official capacity may be an abused or neglected child" (ANCRA Sec.4). This is done by calling the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Hotline at 1-800-252-2873 or 1-800-25ABUSE. Programs funded through this grant opportunity must review ANCRA and, where appropriate, have a written protocol for identifying and reporting suspected child maltreatment.
      14. 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.
      15. 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.).
   10. Other, if applicable
       Publication of Studies, Reports or other Program Products: The Applicant agrees that products produced for the Department/IJJC with Title II funds, including, but not limited to research reports, data, analyses and policy recommendations are the property of the Department/IJJC and will not be published or distributed except as prescribed by the Department/IJJC.
       Unless otherwise provided in the approved Program Plan, the Applicant agrees not to publish, release or otherwise disseminate data in any form without the prior written permission of the Department/IJJC. If such permission is granted, the Applicant agrees to submit to the Department/IJJC six copies of all reports and proposed publications resulting from this Agreement a minimum of 30 calendar days prior to public release; any publications (written, visual or sound), excluding press releases, newsletters and issue analyses, shall contain the following statement: "Prepared under grants(s) from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office of Justice Programs, United States Department of Justice. Points of view or opinions in the document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the United States Department of Justice, the Illinois Department of Human Services or the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission.
4. 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. 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.
      Email Address: DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov
      Subject Line: JJC 444-80-1269-01 Request
      Phone Number: 217.557.2943
   2. 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. The Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance is available as Appendix D and must be included at the beginning of this application. (Refer to 4. Other Submission Requirements in this section for a full order of application contents.
   3. Content and Form of Application Submission
      Proposal Narrative Content
      Applicants must submit a plan that contains the information outlined below. Each section must begin on a new page and have a heading that corresponds to the headings listed below after each section number. The total application may not exceed 20 pages, single-spaced. The Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance, checklist, attachments, letters of intent and Uniform Budget are not included in the page limitation. 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. If an applicant receives an award through this NOFO the proposal will become the local program plan and budget unless revisions are required. The application/plan will be the basis for monitoring compliance by DHS. 
      Failure to provide an application in the format detailed throughout this section will result in the loss of points - also, refer to Section D; 4. Other Submission Requirements.
      1. Executive Summary: (1 page maximum, 10 points)
         The Executive Summary 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. At a minimum, each of the following should be addressed in the Executive Summary:
         • List the name, address of applicant entity
         • Describe the purposes and activities the applicant is planning to undertake to address issues impacting the juvenile justice system.
         • Indicate funding amount requested under this proposal
         • Indicate applicant entity's clear statement of commitment to the Core Values and Principles of the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission (Appendix B).  Applicant must also 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: (5 pages maximum, 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. Information in this section should include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
         • Describe relevant major accomplishments and outcomes of the applicant regarding its work with the juvenile justice system.
         • Describe how the applicant's mission statement and goals align with the IJJC goals described in funding opportunity.
         • Describe any experience applicant has had managing JMIS.
         • Describe any collaboration the applicant has had with the IJJC.
         • Describe any experience managing state and/or federal grants.
         • Describe any experience applicant has had making data-informed decisions. Provide examples.
         • Describe the applicant's commitment to incorporating trauma-informed principles into its policies and practices.
         • Describe the applicant's commitment to use a racial/ethnic equity lens to provide training and technical assistance and to provide training on principles of culturally appropriate research and evaluation.
         • If applicant plans to use a Sub-Contractor to deliver services related to this program, describe how the applicant agency will monitor the Sub-Contractor. Subcontract Attachments will be described under the Budget Narrative Section.
         • Complete Appendix E: COVID Impact Questionnaire and include as Attachment 3.
      3. Need - Description of Need:  (1 page maximum, 10 points)
         The purpose of this section is to provide a clear and accurate picture of the need for proposed services a within the targeted community and how the applicant will address these needs. It is necessary for the applicant to demonstrate that it has a thorough knowledge and understanding of the needs of the youth involved in the juvenile justice system. Describe how the applicant plans to impact the juvenile justice system and meet the needs of the youth, based on the identified need.
      4. Quality - Description of Program Design and Services: (10 pages maximum, 40 points)
         The purpose of this section 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. At a minimum, the proposal must address each of the following components in the order below:
         • Describe how your agency will implement the required services.
         • For each service/deliverable: 
           • Describe what activities that will be undertaken to provide the service./deliverable.
           • Identify the person/position who will have primary responsibility for that activity.
           • Identify the amount of time anticipated to provide the service/deliverable. (For example, TTAS to the counties/detention centers will require 10 hours per week.)
         • Describe the anticipated impact the provided service/deliverable will have.
         • Describe how the applicant will provide training on principles of culturally appropriate research and evaluation.
         • Include resume(s) or job description(s) of the persons who will be primarily providing data management, training and technical assistance, developing reports, etc.as Attachment 4: Resume/Job Description
         • Include a Timeline demonstrating when services will be provided, including completion dates for the Detention and Transfer reports, statewide data reports for the Title II application, etc., as Attachment 5: Implementation Timeline.
         • If applicant plans to use a Sub-Contractor to deliver services related to this program, describe the role and responsibilities of the sub-contractor. Describe how the applicant agency will evaluate the performance of the Sub-Contractor. Subcontract Attachments will be described under the Budget Narrative Section.
      5. Budget and Budget Narrative:  (2 pages maximum; 10 points)
         The budget and budget 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. 
           In this section, provide a detailed Budget Narrative of the items allocated within your proposed budget. This will include all funds budgeted for the program. 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. Illustrate the use of state or federal funds, other than grant funds, that will be used to support the program. If sub-contractors are planned, please also describe how these funds will be utilized to implement the program.
           In addition to the above narrative, budgets must be submitted electronically in the CSA system (Refer to Appendix C: CSA Budget Information for more information and a link to budget forms). The Budget entered into the CSA system will also 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. Include a PDF copy of the budget submitted in CSA as Attachment 6: Applicant Uniform Grant Budget.
           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. (Refer to Section C. Eligibility Information and Grant Funding Requirement; 5. Registration in CSA.) If indirect costs are included in the budget, a copy of the approved NICRA must be included with the Application as Attachment 7: Applicant NICRA.
           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 DHS.
           If the Uniform Grant Budget is not entered, signed and submitted in the CSA system by the application due date and time, ZERO points will be awarded for the Budget Narrative section of the application. 
           Successful applicants will NOT receive a grant agreement until after their budget has been submitted and approved through the CSA system. It is critical that the budget submitted with the application is as detailed as possible. 
           Applicant must submit Federal Form W9 as Attachment 8: Applicant Federal Form W9
           Subcontractor budgets must be pre-approved, and therefore must be submitted with this application. Subcontractor budgets should NOT be submitted in the CSA system. Instead, Subcontractor budgets should be completed using a PDF form of the Uniform Budget Template available in Appendix C: CSA Budget Information. This PDF template should only be used for Subcontractor budgets. If Subcontractors will be used, also include the following:
           • Attachment 9-Program Contact Information-Subcontractor Form (Refer to Appendix F)
           • Attachment 10-Additional Subcontractor Information (Refer to Appendix G)
           • Attachment 11-Subcontractor Agreement and Budget (The Sub-Contractor Agreement is generated by the Applicant Agency and is not a Department form.)
           • Attachment 12-Copy of Federal Form W9 for the Subcontractor Agency
           • Attachment 13-Copy of approved NICRA for Subcontractor Agency if indirect costs are included and Subcontractor Agency has a current approved Federal or State NICRA
      6. Attachments to Your Application Narrative (Not included in page Limits)
         Although this section is not scored individually, points will be deducted in the above sections if these items are not included as directed. The Attachments should be labeled accordingly and placed in the order below. If any attachments are not applicable, a page labeled with the attachment number should be submitted and should include a statement explaining why the attachment was not applicable.
         Order of Attachments:
         • Attachment 1: Statement of Prequalification
         • Attachment 2: Status of ICQ/PRA
         • Attachment 3: COVID Impact Questionnaire
         • Attachment 4: Resume/Job Description
         • Attachment 5: Implementation Timeline
         • Attachment 6: Applicant Uniform Grant Budget
         • Attachment 7: Applicant NICRA
         • Attachment 8: Applicant Federal Form W9
         • Attachment 9: Program Contact Information-Subcontractor Form
         • Attachment 10: Additional Subcontractor Information
         • Attachment 11: Subcontractor Agreement and Budget
         • Attachment 12: Copy of Federal Form W9 for the Subcontractor Agency
         • Attachment 13: Copy of approved NICRA for Subcontractor Agency
   4. Application Submission Dates and Times
      1. Applicants must electronically submit the complete application including all required narratives and attachments in the prescribed order, with the signed Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance (Uniform Application) on top. The Uniform Application is available as Appendix D. Applications must be sent electronically to DHS.YouthServicesInfo@Illinois.gov and received no later than 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Wednesday, 5/19/2021
         1. The application container 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: JJC 444-80-1269-01 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. The electronic copy must be a complete single PDF file. If applicant needs assistance creating a single PDF file, please reach out to contact person listed in this NOFO.
      2. Applicants will receive a receipt confirmation email within 48 hours of receipt notifying them that their application was received and the date and time it was received. This email will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application. This receipt confirmation email is solely confirmation that the application has been received by the Department; it is not a confirmation of applicant's eligibility; pre-qualifications, etc. Refer to Section C. Eligibility Information and Grant Funding Requirements, for more information on applicant's eligibility. 
         Applicants are required to notify the Department by 12:00 PM on Wednesday, 5/26/2021 if they did NOT receive an email notifying them that their application was received. If the applicant does not receive an email and/or does not notify the Department by 5/26/2021 at noon, 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 Wednesday 5/26/2021 at noon. 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.
      3. 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.
      4. All applicants are strongly encouraged to submit the completed grant application (single PDF document) to DHS.YouthServicesInfo@Illinois.gov utilizing the CMS File Transfer Utility located at https://filet.illinois.gov/filet/PIMupload.asp. This will ensure large documents are able to cross firewalls and will provide you with a transmission receipt. Please follow the instructions to attach your application. Don't forget the subject line above.
      5. 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. 
         Note: 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 DHS 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. Other Submission Requirements
      1. Proposal Container and Format Requirements
         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 letter(s) 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. The program narrative must not exceed the page totals specified in the "Content and Form of Application Submission" section including the Executive Summary. Items included as Attachments are NOT included in the page limitations.
         The entire application, including attachments, must be sequentially page numbered and compiled in the order specified below. The complete application must be compiled in a single PDF document, and submitted as directed.
         Applications will ONLY be accepted as described herein. Faxed copies, hard copies, etc. will not be accepted. The Department is under no obligation to review applications that do not comply with the above requirements.
      2. ALL Applications MUST include the following mandatory forms/attachments in the order identified below.
         1. Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance (Refer to Appendix D)
         2. Proposal Narrative
            1. Executive Summary
            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 1: Statement of Prequalification
               • Attachment 2: Status of ICQ/PRA
               • Attachment 3: COVID Impact Questionnaire
               • Attachment 4: Resume/Job Description
               • Attachment 5: Implementation Timeline
               • Attachment 6: Applicant Uniform Grant Budget
               • Attachment 7: Applicant NICRA
               • Attachment 8: Applicant Federal Form W9
               • Attachment 9: Program Contact Information-Subcontractor Form
               • Attachment 10: Additional Subcontractor Information
               • Attachment 11: Subcontractor Agreement and Budget
               • Attachment 12: Copy of Federal Form W9 for the Subcontractor Agency
               • Attachment 13: Copy of approved NICRA for Subcontractor Agency
         3. Uniform Grant Budget - The proposed budget must be entered, signed and submitted in CSA and is required for the application to be considered complete. A hard copy of this signed and submitted budget must be included with the application as Attachment 13 (see list of attachments above.)
   6. 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:
      1. Be registered in SAM.gov before the application due date. To establish a SAM.gov registration, go to https://sam.gov/SAM/pages/public/loginFAQ.jsf and or utilize https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/GATA/Grantee/GranteePortalFAQ/SAM-Registration.pdf and/or utilize this instructional link: "How To Register in SAM" 
      2. Provide a valid unique entity identifier (DUNS number) in its application; and
      3. 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.
      4. 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.
   7. Intergovernmental Review
      This funding opportunity is NOT subject to Executive Order 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs."
   8. Funding Restrictions
      The applicant must develop a budget consistent with program requirements as described in Section A. Program Description and in accordance with Section C. 6 Grant Funds Use Requirements.
5. 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.
      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.
      Review teams comprised of three or more individuals employed by IDHS serving in the Division of Family and Community Services, members of the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission or contractual staff will be assigned to review applications. These review teams may include contractual program staff and individuals working as Government Public Service Interns under contract from the University of Illinois at Springfield.
      Applications will first be reviewed and scored individually. Then, review team members will collectively review the application and team member's scores and comments to ensure team members have not missed items within the application that other team members may have identified. Application highlights and concerns will be discussed. Once this process has been completed, the individual review team members will finalize their scores and recommendations. The Review Team scores will be compiled and averaged by the application Review Coordinator who then will present the scores, summary comments and reviewer recommendations to the DHS Executive Director of the IJJC, who will in turn present to the IJJC Planning and Grants (P&G) Committee. The P&G Committee may consider other factors such as prior periodic performance reports, geographic location, etc. The P&G Committee will formalize by vote in a public meeting, funding recommendations to be presented to the full IJJC. Only IJJC members fully participating in the review process will have access to the individual applications. Based on the information prepared by the P&G committee and considering factors such as the availability of funding etc., the IJJC will determine its final recommendations by vote in a public meeting. The final recommendation will be presented to the Associate Director for the Office of Community and Positive Youth Development who will present it to the Director of the Division of Family and Community Services for a final award decision.
      Scoring will be on a 100-point scale.
      Application Narratives will be evaluated on the following criteria:
      

      Executive Summary

      Capacity - Agency Qualifications/Organizational Capacity

      Need - Description of Need

      Quality - Description of Program Design and Services

      Budget Narrative*

      TOTAL

      10 Points

      30 points

      10 points

      40 points

      10 points

      100 POINTS

      
      * 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 DHS. If the Uniform Grant Budget is not in this status by the application due date and time, ZERO points will be awarded for the Budget Narrative section of the application.
      The application criteria to be reviewed and scored are found under each category in this announcement in Section D. Application and Submission Information, 2. Content and Form of Application Submission; Proposal Narrative Content.
      This award is not subject to Cost Sharing/Matching. 
   2. Review and Selection Process
      As described in the Criteria section above, scoring will be done by committee on a 100-point scale with priority points if indicated. The numerical score may not be the sole award criterion. The Department reserves the right to consider other factors such as: geographical distribution, projected cost per youth; demonstrated need, and agency past performance as a state grantee, etc. While the score/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 review panel 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 at the same percentage; or
      • Not fund any of the tied applications.
        Final award decisions will be made by the Director of the Division of Family and Community Services at the recommendation of the Associate Director of the Office of Community & Positive Youth Development.
        The Department reserves the right to negotiate with successful applicants to adjust award amounts, targets, etc.
   3. Merit-Based Review Appeal Process
      1. 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).
      2. Appeals submission IDHS contact information:
         Name of Agency contact for appeals: Karrie Rueter
         Email of Agency contact for appeals: DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov
         Email Subject Line: "agency name JJSI 444-80-1269-01 Appeal Karrie"
      3. Submission of Appeal.
         1. 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.
         2.  An appeal must be received within 14 calendar days after the date that the grant award notice has been published.
         3. The written appeal shall include at a minimum the following:
            1. Name and address of the appealing party;
            2. Identification of the grant; and
            3. Statement of reasons for the appeal.
            4. Supporting documentation, if applicable
      4. Response to Appeal.
         1. DHS will acknowledge receipt of an appeal within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date the appeal was received.
         2. DHS will respond to the appeal within 60 days or supply a written explanation to the appealing party as to why additional time is required.
         3. The appealing party must supply any additional information requested by DHS within the time period set in the request.
      5. Resolution
         1. The ARO shall make a recommendation to the Agency Head or designee as expeditiously as possible after receiving all relevant, requested information.
         2. 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.
         3. The Agency will resolve the appeal by means of written determination.
         4. The determination shall include, but not be limited to:
            1. Review of the appeal;
            2. Appeal determination; and
            3. Rationale for the determination.
   4. 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 2CFR200 Section 200.88). Therefore, the grantee is subject to Simplified Acquisition Threshold. Refer to Section C. 8.Grant Funds Use Requirements for more information.
6. 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:
      1. Grant award amount
      2. The terms and conditions of the award.
      3. Specific conditions, if any, assigned to the applicant based on the fiscal and administrative (ICQ), programmatic risk assessments (PRA) and merit-based review.
         Note: The Department cannot issue a NOSA until the successful applicant has an approved budget entered into CSA. Refer to Section C. Eligibility Information and Grant Funding Requirements, 6. Registration in 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.
         Upon acceptance of the grant award, announcement of the grant award shall be published by the awarding agency to Grants.Illinois.gov
         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 DHS 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 FY2022 DHS Uniform Grant Agreement, please visit the DHS Website at https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=29741.
      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:
      1. Forms
         1. Periodic Financial Report (PFR)
            1. The Provider will submit monthly expenditure documentation and certification forms (EDCFs), quarterly and final Periodic Financial Reports (PFRs) in the format prescribed by the Department.
            2. The monthly reports must be submitted no later than the 30th of each month for the preceding month by email.
            3. The quarterly reports must be submitted no later than the 30th of month following the end of the quarter; Quarter 1 (July1 - September 30) is due October30th; Quarter 2 (October 1-December 31st) is due - January 30th, Quarter 3 (January 1- March 31st) is due - April 30th, and Quarter 4 (April 1st -June 30th) is due - July 30th).
            4. The final (cumulative fiscal year) Periodic Financial report is due July 30th of the next fiscal year.
         2. Periodic Performance Report (PPR)
            1. The Provider will submit quarterly and final Periodic Performance Reports (PPRs) in the format prescribed by the Department.
            2. The quarterly reports must be submitted no later than the 30th of month following the end of the quarter; Quarter 1 (July1 - September 30) is due October30th; Quarter 2 (October 1-December 31st) is due - January 30th, Quarter 3 (January 1- March 31st) is due - April 30th, and Quarter 4 (April 1st -June 30th) is due - July 30th).
            3. The final (cumulative fiscal year) Periodic Financial report is due July 30th of the next fiscal year.
         3. 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.
      2. Annual Audit in conformance with Audit Requirements set forth in the grant agreement.
         Non-compliance with any of the above reporting requirements, including timeliness of reports may lead to being placed on the Illinois Stop Payment List.
   4. Payment Terms
      1. Payment Options
         To determine payment options, OCPYD will look at the results of the Internal Controls Questionnaire (ICQ) as described below AND the answers supplied by the applicant to the following four questions as part of this application: (Refer to Section D Application and Submission Instruction, 2f Budget.)
         1. Does your Agency maintain written procedures that minimize the time elapsing between the receipt and disbursement of grant funds?
         2. Does your Agency comply with/meet the financial management standards of 2 CFR 200.302?
         3. Does your Agency anticipate any immediate cash needs to implement this grant?
         4. Does your Agency have sufficient working capital to fully operate the grant program for 2 months beginning July 1, without advance payment, including initial startup costs and normal monthly grant expenses?
      2. Payment Determination Process
         1. Payment Determination (for grant awards not requiring a match)
            1. Applicants identified as low risk on the ICQ: Applicants will be identified as low risk if they have zero high risk scores and one or less medium risk scores on the items on the ICQ. Applicants identified as low-risk will receive monthly advance payments. An initial 2/12 of the Award amount will be issued upon execution of the agreement; and may be rounded to the nearest $100.00. Subsequent payments will be issued, after reconciling all current and previously reported expenditures, ensuring the Applicant maintains a 1/12 rolling advance.
            2. Applicants identified as Medium to High Risk on the ICQ: Applicants will be identified as medium to high risk if they have one or more high risk scores and/or two or more medium risk scores on the items on the ICQ. An annual determination will be made regarding the need for a working capital advance. This determination will be made based on information submitted by the applicant as part of the FY21 Grant Application/Plan process. Applicants will be placed in one of the following payment categories:
               1. For applicants that indicate insufficient working capital to fully operate the grant program for 2 months beginning July 1, will receive an initial working capital advance payment of 2/12 of the Award amount upon execution of the agreement; and may be rounded to the nearest $100.00. Subsequent payments will be issued on a reimbursement basis and will consider all previously submitted and documented expenditures.
               2. For applicants that indicate sufficient working capital to fully operate the grant program for 2 months beginning July 1, grant payments will be issued on a reimbursement basis that will consider all previously submitted and documented expenditures.
         2. The Department will compare, as applicable, the amount of the initial advance/working capital payment made to date with the documented expenditures provided to the Department by the Applicant. 
            1. Applicants identified as low risk on the ICQ: In the event the documented services provided by the Applicant do not justify the level of award being provided to the Applicant, future payments may be withheld or reduced until such time as the services documentation provided by the Applicant equals the amounts previously provided to the Applicant to ensure each payment advanced does not exceed 1/12 cash-on-hand. Failure of the Applicant to provide timely, accurate and sufficiently detailed documentation will result in delayed payments and may result in a reduction to the total award.
            2. Applicants identified as Medium to High Risk on the ICQ: In the event the documented services provided by the Applicant do not justify the level of award being provided to the Applicant, future payments may be withheld or reduced until such time as the services documentation provided by the Applicant equals the amounts previously provided to the Applicant. Failure of the Applicant to provide timely, accurate and sufficiently detailed documentation will result in delayed payments and may result in a reduction to the total award.
         3. Final Payment
            The final payment from the Department under this Agreement shall be made upon the Department's determination that all requirements under this Agreement have been completed, which determination shall not be unreasonably withheld. Such final payment will be subject to adjustment after the completion of a review of the Applicant's records as provided in the Agreement.
         4. Repayment
            In the event payments made by the Department to the Applicant exceed the total amount of Applicant reported and Department authorized expenditures, the Applicant will be required to issue a repayment to the Department in an amount equal to the overpayment.
      3. 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 DHS Executive Staff.
7. State Awarding Agency Contact(s)
   1. Point of Contact
      Name:  Andrea Hall
      Email Address: DHS.YouthServicesInfo@illinois.gov
      Phone Number: 312-914-0476
   2. Questions and Answers
      If you have questions relating to this NOFO, please send them via email to: DHS.YouthServicesInfo@Illinois.gov with "JJSI FUNDING NOTICE - Drea" in the subject line of the email. Beginning 4/9/2021 questions with their respective answers will be posted on the DHS website at FY22 Bureau of Positive Youth Development and Youth Intervention Services Q and A and Technical Assistance Sessions. 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 Monday; 5/12/2021The Final listing of Q&A will be posted by End of Day on Friday, 5/14/2021
8. Other Information, if applicable
9. Mandatory Forms - Required for grant program
   • Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance (Appendix D)
   • Project Narrative and Attachments (Refer to Section D. Application and Submission Information, 4. Other Submission Requirements for a list of required attachments)
   • Uniform Grant Budget (Budget must be entered and submitted in CSA; a PDF copy must be included with the application.)

Juvenile Justice System Improvement Notice of Funding Opportunity (pdf)