Division of Mental Health

Program Summary The CRSS Success program will provide high-quality recovery support training, supervised practical experience, and wrap-around supports for individuals with lived expertise of mental health, substance use, or co-occurring mental health and substance use recovery. This program seeks to increase the number of individuals in Illinois who successfully obtain the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credential through the Illinois Certification Board (ICB d/b/a IAODAPCA), as one mechanism to address the behavioral health workforce shortage. For the purposes of this program, the term recovery support specialist will be utilized when referencing individuals pursuing either credential, i.e., the CRSS or the CPRS. Funding Priorities or Focus Areas • IDHS is working to counteract systemic racism and inequity, and to prioritize and maximize diversity throughout its service provision process. This work involves addressing existing institutionalized inequities, aiming to create transformation, and operationalizing equity and racial justice. It also focuses on the creation of a culture of inclusivity for all regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or ability. Project Description 1. Program Summary The CRSS Success program will provide high-quality recovery support training, supervised practical experience, and wrap-around supports for individuals with lived expertise of mental health, substance use, or co-occurring mental health and substance use recovery. This program seeks to increase the number of individuals in Illinois who successfully obtain the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credential through the Illinois Certification Board (ICB d/b/a IAODAPCA), as one mechanism to address the behavioral health workforce shortage. For the purposes of this program, the term recovery support specialist will be utilized when referencing individuals pursuing either credential, i.e., the CRSS or the CPRS. 2. Funding Priorities or Focus Areas IDHS is working to counteract systemic racism and inequity, and to prioritize and maximize diversity throughout its service provision process. This work involves addressing existing institutionalized inequities, aiming to create transformation, and operationalizing equity and racial justice. It also focuses on the creation of a culture of inclusivity for all regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or ability. 4. Project Description The CRSS Success program will provide high-quality recovery support training, supervised practical experience, and wrap-around supports for individuals with lived expertise of mental health, substance use, or co-occurring mental health and substance use recovery. This program seeks to increase the number of individuals in Illinois who successfully obtain the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credential through the Illinois Certification Board (ICB d/b/a IAODAPCA), as one mechanism to address the behavioral health workforce shortage. For the purposes of this program, the term recovery support specialist will be utilized when referencing individuals pursuing either credential, i.e., the CRSS or the CPRS. The CRSS Success program will design and implement a training and education plan that includes the following: Program components and expectations All activities should follow the standards outlined in Peer Recovery Support Training Program Accreditation Standards for CRSS and CPRS (Accreditation Standards), issued by the Illinois Certification Board. 4. Project Description The CRSS Success program will provide high-quality recovery support training, supervised practical experience, and wrap-around supports for individuals with lived expertise of mental health, substance use, or co-occurring mental health and substance use recovery. This program seeks to increase the number of individuals in Illinois who successfully obtain the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credential through the Illinois Certification Board (ICB d/b/a IAODAPCA), as one mechanism to address the behavioral health workforce shortage. For the purposes of this program, the term recovery support specialist will be utilized when referencing individuals pursuing either credential, i.e., the CRSS or the CPRS. The CRSS Success program will design and implement a training and education plan that includes the following: Program components and expectations All activities should follow the standards outlined in Peer Recovery Support Training Program Accreditation Standards for CRSS and CPRS (Accreditation Standards), issued by the Illinois Certification Board. 1. Accreditation a The program will apply for Peer Recovery Support Training Program Accreditation with the Illinois Certification Board (ICB) within the first quarter of the fiscal year (July 1 – September 30). b The program will consult with ICB staff to ensure that they understand the standards and timelines for the accreditation process. c The program will supply a copy of the certificate of accreditation to the DMH program contact no later than the end of the third quarter of the fiscal year (March 31). 2. Advisory board a The program will establish an advisory board by the end of the first quarter of the fiscal year (September 30). b The advisory board shall include, at minimum, two current or former students, two CRSS or CPRS professionals currently working in the field of recovery support, and two representatives from entities that employ CRSS and/or CPRS professionals. c The advisory board shall be responsible for reviewing and commenting on the content and administration of the Peer Recovery Support Training Program. 3. Student enrollment, retention, and transfer a The program will develop an application process for interested students. The application will be designed to identify students who meet minimum requirements for participation (minimum 18 years of age; minimum high school diploma or GED; identify as a person in recovery from mental health, substance use, or cooccurring mental health and substance use challenges.) b The program shall not establish additional pre-requisites beyond those outlined in the ICB Accreditation Standards. c The program will have a clear enrollment and transfer policy, to include admission/enrollment and transfer procedures and requirements. d The program will ensure participants in the program have access to the full continuum of resources available to other students. e The admission procedures will include policies prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, language, criminal background, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, or disability. f The program will develop a plan to ensure student retention is maintained at a minimum of 80%. g The program will have a clearly outlined grievance procedure. 4. Curriculum a The program will develop a curriculum which covers all the required education hours outlined in the ICB Accreditation Standards (40 hours recovery support specific including a minimum of 10 hours in each domain, 16 hours in professional ethics and responsibility, and 54 hours in the Core Functions including 5 hours specific to family and 5 hours specific to youth) with a total of a minimum 110 clock hours. As defined by the ICB, one clock hour is equal to 60 minutes of training/education; one college semester hour equals 15 clock hours; one college quarter hour equals 10 clock hours; one college trimester hour equals 12 clock hours. b The curriculum shall be developed with the input of different stakeholders including but not limited to CRSS and/or CPRS professionals, instructors, recovery community members, students, and advisory board members. c The curriculum shall include opportunities for students to increase in their knowledge, comprehension, and application of the material through use of case studies, role plays, etc. d The curriculum shall adhere to the core values outlined in the National Association of Peer Supporters’ National Practice Guidelines for Peer Specialists and Supervisors. e The curriculum shall align with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Core Competencies for Peer Workers in Behavioral Health Services. 5. Classroom component a The classroom component shall consist of a minimum of 125 clock hours of training as specified in section 4 (Curriculum) above. b The classroom component shall additionally include a minimum of 15 clock hours of workplace readiness training which includes job search, resume writing and application skills and interview skills. c The classroom component shall include, at minimum, 33% of on-site/face-to-face time in which the students and instructor are in the same physical location. The remaining hours can be conducted in virtual format/synchronous and must meet the requirements of the ICB Digital Learning Policy. Fully online/asynchronous and virtual/synchronous courses are not allowed. All courses must have some form of face-to-face component at some point, at a minimum, a hybrid platform with a minimum of 33% face-to-face (minimum 1 of 3 classes per course must be in-person). d The program shall maintain specific and clear documentation that essential knowledge is covered and mastered during the classroom component by maintaining students’ records that will be stored in a specified location by each program/Grantee. 6. Practical experience (internship) component a The program shall include a practical experience (internship) component to ensure students develop skills appropriate to meet the minimum recovery support specialist competencies. b The practical experience component will consist of no less than 300 contact hours and shall be no less than three months in length. c The program shall develop written agreements with a variety of practical experience sites. Students may complete the required hours at more than one site. d The program shall provide bi-monthly stipends for students throughout and upon completion of unpaid internships. Students completing paid internships will not be eligible for stipends during the practical experience component. e The program will ensure that practical experience sites provide on-site supervision for students throughout the completion of the internship component of the training. f The program will provide a minimum of monthly academic supervision for students throughout the practical experience component. g The program shall maintain specific and clear documentation that essential competencies are covered and mastered during the practical experience component. 7. Affiliate agreements a The program shall maintain linkages with the recovery support community, the education community, and other related professions. These linkages will serve as resources to enhance training opportunities for students. 8. Program staff a The program shall employ a program coordinator with responsibility to keep abreast of the advances and changes in the recovery support field and incorporate such changes into the curriculum. The coordinator will also maintain contact with ICB to ensure coordination between the accreditation and certification functions. b The program shall employ one or more instructors with a minimum of two years’ experience in providing recovery support, substance use, mental health, and co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use) services. Instructors shall, at minimum, be credentialed by ICB, preferably with either the CRSS or CPRS. c The program shall employ a student success coach with responsibility to help students identify barriers to success and identify resources for overcoming those barriers. The student success coach will engage students in person-centered, holistic conversations to help them articulate their goals, problem solve, develop action plans, and provide accountability to enhance their success. d The program coordinator, instructor(s) and success coach shall meet, at minimum, one hour per month to identify challenges and discuss strategies for improving students’ experience in the program. 9. Non-faculty guest presenters a The program shall utilize the expertise of individuals currently working in the recovery support field to provide training in specialized areas, including but not limited to Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), Honest, Open, Proud (HOP), and Trauma Informed Approaches to Peer Support. b Program staff shall be present during guest lecture presentations and shall evaluate the guest on educational effectiveness and adherence to the core values of peer support. 10. Program evaluation a The program shall supply students with a written statement of the minimum performance requirements the student is to have obtained by the completion of the program. b The program shall develop and implement methods for ongoing evaluation of the program by students and program staff, to be conducted a minimum of twice per cohort (mid-program and at the conclusion of the program). c The program shall assess student satisfaction utilizing a satisfaction survey designated by the IDHS/DMH. d The program evaluation and satisfaction survey data shall be utilized for continuous quality improvement, to identify challenges and implement solutions in a timely manner. e The program shall share evaluation and satisfaction data as requested by the IDHS/DMH. 11. Wrap-around supports a The program will develop an individualized process for identifying students’ challenges and barriers to success and align wrap-around resources and supports with students’ needs. b The student success coach will meet with students to facilitate access to identified resources and supports. c The program will provide wrap-around resources and supports for students to overcome practical barriers to full participation and success, including but not limited to: i tuition, books, and fees; ii counseling, advising, and transfer services; iii technology necessary for program participation (e.g., laptops, tablets, hotspots, etc.). iv transportation and parking expenses; v legal support to address barriers to employment related to criminal history or citizenship status (ex: waiver application for Health Care Workers); vi clothing for practical experience (internship) component (e.g., polo shirts, professional attire, etc.); vii ICB credentialing fees, including but not limited to initial application fee, exam fee, and proctor fee (if applicable); viii any other needs and/or accommodations essential for students to maintain participation in the program as approved by the DMH program contact. 12. Scholarship fund a The program will maintain and manage a $10,000 needs-based scholarship fund for Illinois residents who are CRSS and CPRS candidates or credentialed professionals. b The program will develop a process for aligning scholarship funds with applicant needs. c The scholarship funds will be made available to any qualified Illinois resident who is a CRSS or CPRS candidate or credentialed professional and will not be used for students enrolled in the CRSS Success program. d The program will dispense scholarship funds to cover, at a minimum, the following: i Application fee ii Postal costs for mailing the application and associated documentation iii Exam fee iv Proctor fee v Annual renewal fees vi Transportation costs to and from exam site 13. DMH Technical Assistance a A minimum of one representative from the program staff shall participate in the CRSS Success Program Learning Collaborative hosted by the IDHS/Division of Mental Health (monthly). b A minimum of one representative from the program staff shall attend and participate in the IDHS/Division of Mental Health CRSS Supervisor Training (quarterly). 14. Data collection and reporting a The program shall submit financial and program documentation to the IDHS/Division of Mental Health monthly. b The program shall submit performance documentation to the IDHS/Division of Mental Health monthly. c The program shall submit a fiscal year-end program and performance measures and outcomes report at the end of the fiscal year. d The program shall participate in program evaluation efforts as directed by the IDHS/Division of Mental Health and collect and report data accordingly. e The program shall supply evaluation data as requested by the IDHS/Division of Mental Health.

NA

59 Ill. Admin, Code 132 (Rule 132), Section 132.150g Mental Health Community Services Act (405 ILCS 30/ Section (f)

Illinois Administrative Code Part 7000 Grant Accountability and Transparency Act

• Grantee will apply for accreditation with the Illinois Certification Board and supply a copy of the certificate of accreditation to DMH. • Grantee will establish an Advisory Board that reviews and comments on the content and administration of the Peer Recovery Support Training Program. • Grantee will develop an application process for interested students designed to identify students who meet minimum requirements for participation. • Grantee will develop curricula for training recovery support specialists that meets the curriculum training standards as outlined in the Illinois Certification Board Peer Recovery Support Training Program Accreditation Standards for CRSS and CPRS and aligns with the National Practice Guidelines for Peer Specialists and Supervisors and the Core Competencies for Peer Workers in Behavioral Health Services. • Grantee will provide a minimum of 125 hours of education specific to recovery support specialists. • Grantee will provide a minimum of 10 hours of education in each of the Performance Domains (Advocacy, Mentoring/Education, Recovery/Wellness Support, Professional/Ethical Responsibility). • Grantee will provide minimum of 16 hours of education specific in professional ethics and responsibility with a focus on the CRSS/CPRS Code of Ethics. • Grantee will provide a minimum of 44 hours of education in the Core Functions. • Grantee will provide a minimum of 5 hours of education in the Core Functions specific to family and a minimum of 5 hours of education in the Core Functions specific to youth. • Grantee will provide a minimum of 15 additional hours of education specific to workplace readiness which includes job search, resume writing and application skills and interview skills. • Grantee will maintain written agreements with a variety of practical experience sites. • Grantee will have a practical experience (internship) component which ensures that students develop skills to meet minimum recovery support specialist competencies. • Grantee will maintain a list of affiliations with other segments of the recovery support community, the education community, and other professions, as resources, to enhance the training exposure of the student. • Grantee will employ program staff that includes a program coordinator, instructor(s), and a student success coach. • Grantee will provide stipends for students throughout the time they are participating in unpaid internships. • Grantee will develop an individualized process for identifying students’ challenges and barriers to success. • Grantee will provide wrap-around services and supports for students to overcome practical barriers to full participation such as student tuition, books, and fees; counseling, advising, and transfer services; technology necessary for program participation; legal support to address barriers to employment; clothing for practical experience component; ICB credentialing fees; and any other needs and/or accommodations essential for students to maintain participation in the program as approved by the DMH program contact. • Grantee shall maintain a need-based scholarship fund for Illinois residents who are CRSS and CPRS candidates or credentialed professionals. • Grantee will have representation of the program staff participate in the monthly learning collaborative hosted by DMH. • Grantee will have representation of the program staff participate in the quarterly CRSS Supervisor Training conducted by DMH. Performance Measures • Number of clock hours of recovery support specific training provided. • Number of clock hours of training provided in professional ethics and responsibility. • Number of clock hours of training provided in the Core Functions. • Number of clock hours of training provided in the Core Functions specific to family. • Number of clock hours of training provided in the Core Functions specific to youth. • Number of clock hours of training provided specific to workplace readiness. • Number of written agreements with practical experience (internship) sites. • Number of affiliations with the recovery support community and other resources for students. • Number of students applied for the program. • Number of students enrolled in the program. • Number of students successfully completed 110 classroom hours. • Number of students satisfied with classroom experience. • Number of students completed 300 hours practical experience (internship). • Number of students received internship stipends. • Number of students’ ICB application fees paid. • Number of students’ ICB exam fees paid. • Number of students passed ICB exam on their first or second attempt. • Number of students employed in the recovery support field. • Number of students employed outside of the recovery support field but within behavioral health. • Number of individuals applied for assistance through the scholarship fund. • Amount of assistance provided through the scholarship fund. • Number of program staff participated in CRSS Success Learning Collaborative. • Number of program staff participated in CRSS Supervisor Training. Performance Standards • Minimum 40 clock hours of recovery support specific training. • Minimum of 16 clock hours of training in professional ethics and responsibility. • Minimum 44 clock hours training in the Core Functions. • Minimum 5 clock hours training in the Core Functions specific to family. • Minimum 5 clock hours training in the Core Functions specific to youth. • Minimum 15 clock hours specific to workforce readiness. • Minimum of 4 written agreements with practical experience sites. • Minimum of 5 affiliations with the recovery support community and other resources for students. • Minimum of 20 students applied for the program. • Minimum of 15 students enrolled in program. • Minimum of 80% of students complete 110 classroom hours. • Minimum of 75% of students satisfied with classroom experience. • Minimum of 80% of students completed 300 hours practical experience (internship). • Minimum of 12 ICB application fees paid. • Minimum of 12 ICB exam fees paid. • Minimum of 80% students passed ICB exam with a maximum of 2 attempts. • Minimum of 75% students employed in recovery support field. • Minimum of one program staff participated in CRSS Success Learning Collaborative. • Minimum of one program staff participated in CRSS Supervisor Training.

Yes

(Grantor-Specific Terms) • This Notice of State Award (NOSA) is not an agreement nor a guarantee of an agreement. IDHS will publish its agreements in the CSA Tracking System after the NOSA is accepted. A signed hard copy is not needed. You also have the option to decline. • If your response(s) to the ICQ questions indicate a weakness in the identified area below, a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required to be submitted to your cognizant agency. If IDHS is your Cognizant Agency, please send an email to DHS.DMHGrantApp@Illinois.gov to begin communicating the direction and requirements of the CAP. • If your score from the Merit Review indicates a weakness in the identified area below, a CAP is required to be submitted to DHS after execution of the grant agreement. Within 30 days of award, please send an email to DHS.DMHGrantApp@Illinois.gov to begin communicating the direction and requirements of the CAP. (Program-Specific Terms) • The eligibility and program requirements outlined in this funding opportunity must be adhered to as the funded project is implemented. Grantees must comply with the milestones and deliverables, performance standards, performance measures, performance data collection and specific conditions as reflected in the grant agreement, DMH Attachment B and Program Manual. Additional terms and/or conditions may be applied to this award if outstanding financial or programmatic compliance issues are identified by IDHS.

Education Organizations; Nonprofit Organizations; For-Profit Organizations; Small Businesses;

• This discretionary funding opportunity is limited to applicants that meet the following requirements. If these requirements are not met by deadlines listed in this opportunity an award will not be made: o More than one application per entity is not permitted. o Instructors shall, at minimum, be credentialed by the Illinois Certification Board, preferably with either the CRSS or CPRS. o The applicant has met the Prequalification and Mandatory Requirements listed in this funding opportunity.

NA

Direct Payments for Specific Use

Human Services

• Instructors shall, at minimum, be credentialed by the Illinois Certification Board, preferably with either the CRSS or CPRS.

Prequalification • Applicant entities will not be eligible to apply for a grant award until they have prequalified through the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal. Registration and prequalification are required annually. During prequalification, verifications are performed including a check of federal Debarred and Suspended status on the Illinois Stop Payment or the Illinois Debarred and Suspended 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 UEI, not in good standing with the Secretary of State). A federal Debarred and Suspended status cannot be remediated. • For assistance navigating government application prequalification procedures, refer to IDHS GATA Prequalification Assistance. • Applicants must be prequalified; therefore, applications from entities that have not prequalified prior to the due date of this application will NOT be reviewed and will NOT be considered for funding. • The following information is required to complete registration: o Organization's Unique Entity Identifier (UEI); For additional information on UEI, refer to Section Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) below; o Organization's Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN); o Organization type; o Illinois Secretary of State File ID (required for non-profits, for-profits and limited liability corporations); o Organization's name; o Organization's mailing address; o Organization's primary email address; o Organization's primary phone number; o Organization's fiscal year-end date • Successful Applicants will not receive an award if pre-award requirements are not met. Indirect Cost Rates • Indirect Costs may be applied to this grant award. Indirect cost rates must be approved. Indirect Cost Requirements and Restrictions • In order to charge indirect costs to this grant, the applicant organization must have a Federal or State annually negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA) or must elect to use the De Minimis Rate. • Every organization that receives a state award must make an indirect cost rate proposal or election in the State of Illinois Grantee Portal, Centralized Indirect Cost Rate Election System, including organizations that are choosing not to claim payment for indirect costs. • Indirect Cost Rate Election: o Federally Negotiated Rate: Organizations that receive direct federal funding may have an indirect cost rate that was negotiated with the Federal Cognizant Agency. Illinois will accept the federally negotiated rate. The organization must provide a copy of the federal NICRA and submit an Indirect Cost Rate Proposal in the Illinois Centralized Indirect Cost Rate System. o 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 Illinois Centralized Indirect Cost Rate System if they do not have a Federally Negotiated Rate and would like to negotiate a rate with the State of Illinois. o De Minimis Rate: An organization may elect a De Minimis rate of 10% of modified total direct cost (MTDC)**. Once established, the De Minimis rate may be used indefinitely. If programs elect to use the De Minimis rate, it is critical that program budgets accurately calculate the MTDC base. Please see the regulation below and note the exclusions to MTDC. **2 CFR § 200.68 Modified Total Direct Cost (MTDC). MTDC means all direct salaries and wages, applicable fringe benefits, materials and supplies, services, travel, and subawards and subrecipient s up to the first $25,000 of each subaward or subcontractor (regardless of the period of performance of the subawards and subrecipients 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 subcontractor 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. o No Rate: Grantees have discretion not to claim payment for indirect costs. Grantees that elect not to claim indirect costs cannot be reimbursed for indirect costs. The organization must record an election of "No Indirect Costs" into the Indirect Cost Rate Election System. o State Funded Universities/Institutions: Maximum reimbursement for indirect costs is restricted to 10% Off Campus and 20% On Campus with MTDC base. • The Illinois Centralized Indirect Cost Rate System will allow your organization to document your already established federally approved indirect cost rate or complete an indirect cost rate proposal (see State Negotiated Rate above). Submission requirements are located on page 2 of the Uniform Budget Template as well as 2 CFR 200 Appendices IV, V & VII. • Organizations which have not previously made an indirect cost rate election must submit an election (and indirect cost rate proposal, if necessary) immediately and no later than 3 months after receiving an award notification. If the organization elects to submit a Federally Negotiated Rate or a State Negotiated Rate, they will receive an invitation to submit their proposal in the Illinois Centralized Indirect Cost Rate System. • Organizations that have previously established an indirect cost rate election and would like to continue with a Federal or State Negotiated Rate must submit a new indirect cost rate election immediately and no later than 6 months after the close of their organization's fiscal year. • Organizations that do not make a submission inside the Illinois Centralized Indirect Cost Rate System within the required timeframes will not be allowed to claim indirect cost reimbursement. • For more information, see: Centralized Indirect Cost Rate User Manual GATA Registration in CSA • The CSA Tracking System is the system the IDHS utilizes for approving budgets and issuing awards. It is strongly recommended that if an applicant entity is not already registered in the CSA Tracking System, they should begin the registration as soon as possible so they may submit a signed budget in CSA. While registration in CSA is not part of the prequalification process, successful applicants will NOT be issued an award without a fully approved budget in the CSA System.

Address to Request Application Package • The complete application package (this Notice of Funding Opportunity, including links to required forms) is available through the Illinois Catalog of State Financial Assistance and throughout this opportunity. • 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 later in this announcement. It is the responsibility of each applicant to monitor that website and comply with any instructions or requirements relating to the NOFO. • Additional copies may be obtained by contacting the Division of Mental Health by emailing DHS.DMHGrantApp@illinois.gov. Content and Form of Application Submission Required Content • 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. • All Application Materials should be submitted in one email (size permitting), as separate pdf documents: o Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance o Program Narrative o Conflict-of-Interest Disclosure o Subcontractor Budgets, if applicable o Advance Payment Request Cash Budget Form, if applicable Program Narrative • IMPORTANT: Each applicant is required to submit a Program Narrative. The Program Narrative makes up the bulk of the application. If the Program Narrative is missing from your application package, your application will receive a score of zero points and your agency will not meet the criteria to receive a grant under this notice of funding opportunity. • The maximum possible score is 100 points. All submissions will be reviewed, evaluated, and based on the Criteria listed below. Program Narrative Content and Attachments • 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. • Label each section of the Program Narrative utilizing the format provided below. Information must be provided in the section in which it is requested. • To be successful in the application process, applicants must submit the following information as part of the grant application process. Please provide a complete response to the following sections. o Executive Summary (not to exceed 1 page) – Not Scored Describe the organization’s mission, history, achievements, services, equity advancement, financial overview, and future plans. Identify how the organization’s goals link to this funding opportunity. o Community Identification and Need (not to exceed 4 pages) – 20 points: Provide a clear and accurate picture of the demographics and the need for these services within the geographic area where your organization is located. You may use a table instead of a description. Need: Provide a clear and accurate picture of the need for these services within the geographic area where your organization is located, including but not limited to the presence or absence of similar programs in the area. Data: Provide a comparison of U.S. Census data to data of population served by your organization, including age, gender, racial, and ethnic demographics. Population-level data: Include relevant population-level data about the geographical area to be served, including employment/unemployment levels and languages spoken. Population barriers: Describe the potential barriers to participation and engagement in the geographical area, including but not limited to language, cultural, motivational, and access barriers. o Capacity/Agency Qualifications (not to exceed 5 pages) - 20 points: Describe the organization’s capacity to meet the program requirements and ability to address needs identified in the above sections. Administrative: Describe in detail your organization’s administrative, fiscal, and programmatic capacity. Personnel. Include an overview of the anticipated staffing structure. You may use a table to provide information if you choose. Describe the hiring approach your organization uses to ensure your staffing reflects the racial/ethnic communities you serve. Include a description of how your current staff demographics are reflective of the racial/ethnic community served. Explain any additional changes to hiring processes that will need to be made to ensure cultural and linguistic needs are addressed in the staffing of your program. Readiness: Describe the process your organization will follow to be fully ready to provide services by July 1, 2024. Population Experience: Describe your organization’s prior experience and expertise in working with first-generation college students and students with behavioral health challenges. Collaboration: Describe your organization’s history of collaborating with entities in the human services and/or behavioral health arena to ensure successful program implementation. o Quality - Description of Program Services (not to exceed 8 pages) - 30 points: Describe the goals and measurable objectives of the proposed project, aligned with the Program Components and Expectations outlined in the NOFO and the Community Identification and Need detailed in the section above. Program alignment with need: Describe the goals and measurable objectives of the proposed project, aligned with the Community Identification and Need detailed in the section above. Program timeline: Provide a detailed timeline for the proposed approach that includes development of curricula, anticipated linkage agreements and other coordination activities necessary to accomplish the goals and objectives. Program components: Include goals, expected outcomes, timeframe/dates, persons responsible, and evaluation in a clear and orderly format for each of the Program Components and Expectations outlined in the NOFO: 1) Accreditation; 2) Advisory Board; 3) Student enrollment, retention, and transfer; 4) Curriculum; 5) Classroom component; 6) Practical experience component; 7) Affiliate agreements; 8) Program Staff; 9) Non-Faculty Guest Presenters; 10) Program evaluation; 11) Wrap-around supports; 12) Scholarship Fund; 13) DMH Technical Assistance; and 14) Data collection and reporting. 1. Accreditation a. Describe how your organization will complete the application process for Peer Recovery Support Training Program Accreditation with the Illinois Certification Board (ICB) within the first quarter of the fiscal year (July 1 – September 30). b. Describe how your organization will consult with ICB staff to ensure that they understand the standards and timelines for the accreditation process. c. Describe how your organization will supply a copy of the certificate of accreditation to the DMH program contact no later than the end of the third quarter of the fiscal year (March 31). 2. Advisory Board a. Describe how your organization will establish an advisory board by September 30 that includes, at minimum, two current or former students, two CRSS or CPRS professionals currently working the field of recovery support, and two representatives from entities that employ CRSS and/or CPRS professionals. b. Describe how the advisory board will be responsible for reviewing and commenting on the content and administration of the Peer Recovery Support Training Program. 3. Student enrollment, retention, and transfer a. Describe how your organization will develop an application process for interested students to identify students who meet minimum requirements for participation (minimum 18 years of age; minimum high school diploma or GED; identify as a person in recovery from mental health, substance use, or cooccurring mental health and substance use challenges.) b. Describe how your organization will develop a clear enrollment and transfer policy, to include admission/enrollment and transfer procedures and requirements. c. Describe how your organization will ensure that participants in the program have access to the full continuum of resources available to other students. d. Describe how your organization will develop or enhance policies prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, language, criminal background, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, or disability. e. Describe how your organization will develop a plan to ensure student retention is maintained at a minimum of 80%. f. Describe how your organization will develop a clearly outlined grievance procedure. 4. Curriculum a. Describe how your organization will develop a curriculum which covers all the required education hours outlined in the ICB Accreditation Standards (40 hours recovery support specific including a minimum of 10 hours in each domain, 16 hours in professional ethics and responsibility, and 54 hours in the Core Functions including 5 hours specific to family and 5 hours specific to youth) with a total of a minimum 110 clock hours. As defined by the ICB, one clock hour is equal to 60 minutes of training/education; one college semester hour equals 15 clock hours; one college quarter hour equals 10 clock hours; one college trimester hour equals 12 clock hours. b. Describe how your organization will develop curriculum with the input of different stakeholders including but not limited to CRSS and/or CPRS professionals, instructors, recovery community members, students, and advisory board members. c. Describe how your organization will develop curriculum that includes opportunities for students to increase in their knowledge, comprehension, and application of the material through use of case studies, role plays, etc. d. Describe how your organization will develop curriculum that adheres to the core values outlined in the National Association of Peer Supporters’ National Practice Guidelines for Peer Specialists and Supervisors. e. Describe how your organization will develop curriculum that aligns with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Core Competencies for Peer Workers in Behavioral Health Services. 5. Classroom component a. Describe how your organization will design the classroom component consisting of a minimum of 125 clock hours of training as specified in section 4 (Curriculum) above. b. Describe how your organization will develop a minimum of 15 clock hours of workplace readiness training which includes job search, resume writing and application skills and interview skills. c. Describe how your organization will include, at minimum, 33% of on-site/face-to-face time in which the students and instructor are in the same physical location. Describe how the remaining hours will be conducted in virtual format/synchronous and meet the requirements of the ICB Digital Learning Policy. d. Describe how your organization will maintain students’ records that include specific and clear documentation that essential knowledge is covered and mastered during the classroom component. 6. Practical experience component a. Describe how your organization will include a practical experience (internship) component to ensure students develop skills appropriate to meet the minimum recovery support specialist competencies. b. Describe how your organization will develop a practical experience (internship) component consisting of no less than 300 contact hours and shall be no less than three months in length. c. Describe your organization’s policies and procedures for developing written agreements with practical experience sites. Provide a list of known sites with whom your organization will pursue affiliate agreements for students’ internships. d. Describe how your organization will provide bi-monthly stipends for students throughout and upon completion of unpaid internships. e. Describe how your organization will ensure that practical experience sites provide on-site supervision for students throughout the completion of the internship component of the training. f. Describe how your organization will provide a minimum of monthly academic supervision for students throughout the practical experience component. g. Describe how your organization will maintain specific and clear documentation that essential competencies are covered and mastered during the practical experience component. 7. Affiliate agreements a. Describe your organization’s policies and procedures for developing linkages for students to connect with the education community, the recovery community, and other affinity groups. 8. Program staff a. Provide a plan to staff the program that includes a Program Coordinator, Instructor(s) and a Student Success Coach that meet the program staff requirements as outlined in the NOFO. b. Describe how the applicant will ensure the program staff reflect the demographics of the community proposed to be served and familiarity with their culture(s) and language(s). c. Include a description of instructors’ credentials and experience in providing recovery support, substance use, mental health, and co-occurring mental health and substance use services. 9. Non-Faculty Guest Presenters a. Describe how the applicant will utilize the expertise of individuals currently working in the recovery support field to provide training in specialized areas, including but not limited to Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), Honest, Open, Proud (HOP), and Trauma Informed Approaches to Peer Support. b. Include a description of how program staff will evaluate the guest presenter on educational effectiveness and adherence to the core values of peer support. 10. Program evaluation a. Describe your organization’s plan for evaluating the recovery support training program to identify problems, implement solutions, and initiate innovative responses to the changing demands of the field. b. Include a description of how your organization will develop and implement methods for ongoing evaluation of the program by students and program staff and the frequency of these processes. c. Provide a plan for assessing student satisfaction and utilizing program evaluation and satisfaction survey data for continuous quality improvement, to include identifying challenges and implementing solutions in a timely manner. 11. Stipends a. Describe your organization’s plan for providing students with a monthly stipend to assist with living expenses throughout the time students are completing unpaid practical experience (internship). b. Include a description of how your organization will ensure that students in paid internships are excluded from receiving stipends while participating in the internship. 12. Wrap-around supports a. Describe your organization’s plan for providing wrap-around supports for students to overcome practical barriers to full participation. Include in your plan how your organization will develop an individualized process for identifying students’ challenges and barriers to success and align wrap-around resources and supports with students’ needs. b. Describe any existing organizational and/or staffing structures in place for managing the oversight and distribution of wrap-around supports, including student tuition, books, and fees; counseling, advising, and transfer fees; technology necessary for program participation (e.g., laptops, tablets, hotspots, etc.); transportation and parking fees; legal support to address barriers to employment related to criminal history or citizenship status ex: waiver application for Health Care Workers); clothing for practical experience component (e.g., polo shirts, professional attire, etc.); ICB credentialing fees, including but not limited to initial application fee, exam fee, and proctor fee (if applicable); and any other needs and/or accommodations essential for students to maintain participation in the program as approved by the DMH program contact. 13. Scholarship Fund a. Describe how your organization will maintain and manage a $10,000 needs-based scholarship fund for Illinois residents who are CRSS and CPRS candidates or credentialed professionals. b. Include the process the organization will use for aligning scholarship funds with applicant needs for funds to cover, at minimum, ICB application fees, postal costs for mailing the application and associated documentation, exam fee, proctor fee, annual renewal fees, and transportation costs to and from exam site. 14. DMH Technical Assistance a. Describe how your organization will ensure representative(s) from the program staff will participate in the CRSS Success Program Learning Collaborative hosted by the IDHS/Division of Mental Health (monthly) and the CRSS Supervisor Training (quarterly). o Data Collection, Evaluation and Reporting Criteria (not to exceed 2 pages) - 20 Points: Describe how your organization will collect, report, and evaluate data for this program, including but not limited to the data points provided in the Program Standards and Measures as outlined in the notice of funding opportunity. Data Collection: Provide specific information about how your organization will collect the required data for this program. Experience: Provide a description of your organization’s experience collecting this type of data and how you ensured it was successfully reported, including staff involved and technology utilized. Data usage: Describe how the data collected will be utilized to manage, monitor, and enhance the proposed program. Quality assurance: Describe your organization’s quality assurance process to ensure compliance with stated programmatic design and achievement of Deliverables/Performance Requirements as outlined in the NOFO. Additional data: Describe your organization’s willingness to participate in additional data collection requirements as requested by the Department of Human Services. o Resource Availability (not to exceed 1 page) – 5 points: Describe any existing financial, knowledge, skills, and other resources that you may be able to leverage to ensure the overall success and long-term sustainability of the program. o Other Program Specific Criteria (not to exceed 1 page) – 5 points: Provide a detailed description of how all aspects of the program will meet the standards outlined in Peer Recovery Support Training Program Accreditation Standards for CRSS and CPRS, issued by the Illinois Certification Board. Include timelines for meeting these standards. Required Forms • Subject to appropriation, the grant period will begin no sooner than July 1, 2024, and will continue through June 30, 2025. • 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. • Page one of the application is pre-populated with the appropriate information. Applicants must not complete anything on Page one. The correct application must be used. • On Page three, applicants will need to include the amount for which they are applying and sign. • The applicant submission email address will be used for official communication between the Department and the applicant organization for matters regarding this application. Required Format • The narrative portion must follow the page maximums where prescribed and must be organized in the format outlined below or points may be deducted. o The Program Narrative shall not exceed 20 pages. If there are more than 20 pages, the remaining pages will not be reviewed or scored. o All documents must be typed using Times New Roman 12-point type, 100% magnification and use black typeface on a white background, Except for letterhead. o For charts and tables only, Times New Roman 10-point with color may be used. o The Program Narrative must be typed, single-spaced with 1-inch margins on all sides. o The submission must be on 8 1/2 x 11-inch page size using pdf. Budget Requirements • Deadline for submission of the budget, in the CSA Tracking System, is the same as the application deadline. • The CSA Tracking System is where the IDHS requires all applicants to enter their GATA Budget information. It is also where IDHS staff will review and take action on the proposed budget. The CSA Tracking system requires that you have different credentials than what you have for the Illinois GATA Grantee Portal. • A budget and budget narrative need to be completed, electronically signed, and submitted in the CSA tracking system with the status as “GATA Budget signed and submitted to program review”. A copy is not to be submitted along with the application packet. • There is space when preparing the budget on each line item for the budget narrative. For each line in the budget the applicant will describe why each expenditure is necessary for program implementation and how the amount was determined. Please include cost allocations as necessary. The Budget narrative (including MTDC base exclusions as appropriate) must clearly identify indirect costs, direct program costs, direct administrative costs, and describe how the specified resources and personnel have been allocated for the tasks and activities within each line item. See instructions for the CSA Tracking System and Budget Information. The budget should be prepared to reflect 12 months. • A Budget Template can be used as a tool to assist in determining expenses; however, the final budget must be completed in the CSA Tracking System. The pdf budget or paper copy will not be accepted. Applicants will NOT be issued an award without the applicant’s fully approved budget in the CSA System. Subcontractor budget(s) • If applicant is planning to use a subcontractor, a pdf copy of the subcontractor budget must be submitted as a separate pdf document with the other application materials. • Subcontractor budgets shall be submitted on the GATA Uniform Grant Budget Template (GOMBGATU—3002). Grant Fund Use Requirements • All applicants will use grant funds according to the guidelines, conditions, and parameters set forth in this funding notice and in compliance with federal statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of any applicable federal awards. • Please refer to 2 CFR 200 - Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, PART 200 Subpart E - Cost Principles to determine the appropriateness of costs. • Allowable costs are those that are necessary and reasonable based on the activity(ies) contained in the scope of work, are justified in the Budget Narrative, and are allowable under Subpart E of 2 CFR 200. It is expected that administrative costs, both direct and indirect, will represent a small portion of the overall program budget. Any budget deemed to include inappropriate or excessive administrative costs will not be approved. Program budgets and narratives must detail how all proposed expenditures are necessary for program implementation. • Unallowable costs: Please refer to 2 CFR 200 - Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, PART 200 Subpart E - Cost Principles to determine the appropriateness of costs. In addition, and specific to this grant, the following costs will be unallowable without specific prior written approval from IDHS: o 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) o Capital expenditures for general purpose equipment, including any vehicle regardless of cost, buildings, and land (2 CFR 200.439) o Capital expenditures for improvements to land, buildings, or equipment which materially increase their value or useful life (2 CFR 200.439) o 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). o Deposits for items, services, or space Pre-Award Requirements • All successful applicants are required to complete a risk assessment prior to execution of a grant award. The Internal Controls Questionnaire (ICQ) is the instrument used to assess risk of grantees by identifying an organization's potential weaknesses. The ICQ is accessed through the Grantee Portal. • The deadline to submit the ICQ is April 3, 2024, 12:00 PM (Noon) Central Time Unique Entity Identifiers 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: o Be registered in SAM.gov before the application due date. o Provide a valid unique entity identifier (UEI) in its application. o 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. o The Department may not make an award until applicant has fully complied with all UEI and SAM requirements. o The Department may determine that an applicant is not qualified if they have not complied with requirements and use that determination as a basis to award another applicant. Application Submission Dates and Times Application Due Date and Time: • The Department must receive the Full Application: o Due on March 27, 2024, at Noon Central Time. • Applicants must electronically submit the complete application including all required narratives and attachments. • Applications must be sent electronically to DHS.DMHGrantApp@illinois.gov. The application will be electronically time-stamped upon receipt. The Department will ONLY accept applications submitted by electronic mail sent to DHS.DMHGrantApp@illinois.gov. • Include the following in the subject line: o Your Agency Name o 814 CRSS (Certified Recovery Support Specialist) Success Program • 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. • Applicants will receive an email to notify them that the application was received. Applications and Program Narratives received after the due date and time listed in the NOFO Summary above will NOT be considered for review or funding. There will be no exceptions. • 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/or 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. Missed Deadlines: • 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. 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. • 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 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. Intergovernmental Review • Not applicable to Illinois State Awards. Other Submission Requirements Electronic Submission • Applications must be submitted electronically to DHS.DMHGrantApp@illinois.gov. • Documents must NOT include a password nor be encrypted. • Contact DHS.DMHGrantApp@illinois.gov in the event of technical difficulties. • IDHS/DMH is under no obligation to review applications that do not comply with the above requirements. Questions • IDHS encourages inquiries concerning this funding opportunity and welcomes the opportunity to answer questions from applicants. Questions and IDHS/DMH Responses “Q&A" will be posted to the Mental Health Grants - FY25 and updated periodically. • Questions about this NOFO, must be sent via email to DHS.DMHGrantApp@illinois.gov. The subject line of the email MUST state: o Applicant Name - 814 CRSS (Certified Recovery Support Specialist) Success Programs - Question(s). • Questions will ONLY be accepted electronically. • Deadline for Questions is March 20, 2024, 12:00 PM (Noon) Central Time. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosures • Every grantee and subcontractor must disclose in writing any actual or potential Conflict of Interest as part of the grant application packet using the Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form IL444-5205. • Grantee Conflicts of Interest include, but are not limited to: o Grantee has an employee, board member, trustee, or immediate family member who: ? Holds an elected or appointed office in Illinois. ? Holds a seat in the Illinois General Assembly. ? Is an officer or employee of any State board, commission, authority, or holds an elected or appointed position or is employed in any of the offices or agencies of State government. o Grantee has a financial interest, including ownership of stocks or bonds, in a firm which is a vendor or contractor. o Grantee has outstanding financial commitments to any vendor or contractor. o Grantee has a close personal relationship. such as a spouse, dependent child, or member of the technical advisor's household, that may compromise or impair the fairness and impartiality of the technical advisor and grants officer during the solicitation development, proposal evaluation, award selection process, and management of an award. o Grantee has any negotiation of employment with current or potential subcontractor or vendor. • Additional examples of Grantee Conflicts of Interest can be found in the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Website Resource Library. Mandatory Forms • Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance • Uniform Grant Budget Template (Submit in CSA)| Instructions • Subcontract Budget, if applicable submit as a separate attachment • Conflict of Interest Disclosure submit as a separate attachment • Advance Payment Request Cash Budget Form (IL444-4985) submit as a separate attachment (no submission will result in default to Reimbursement Method)

Criteria • All discretionary grant applications are subject to merit review. • Applications that fail to meet the criteria described under "Eligibility Information" will not be scored and/or considered for funding. • Applications must follow the instructions under “Application and Submission Information.” Review and Selection Process • The process for evaluation of the application is as follows: o IDHS/DMH staff familiar with the requirements of the program will score and review the application package. o Review team members will have no conflicts of interest and will read and evaluate application packages independently. o The numerical score may not be the sole award criterion. o The Department reserves the right to consider other factors such as: geographical distribution, demonstrated need, and agency past performance as a state awardee, etc. o While the recommendation of the review panel will be a key factor in the funding decision, the Department maintains final authority over funding decisions and considers the findings of the reviewers to be non-binding recommendations. Any internal documentation used in scoring or awarding of grants shall not be considered public information. • In the event of a tie with insufficient funding for all tied applications, the Department may choose to elect one of the following options: o Apply one or more of the additional factors for consideration described above to prioritize the applications; or o Partially fund each of the tied applications; or o Not fund any of the tied applications. • The Department reserves the right to negotiate with applicants to adjust award amounts, targets, deliverables, etc. These negotiations do not obligate IDHS to provide funding, nor should an applicant draw any conclusions about the Department's intentions to fund or not fund the application. Simplified Acquisition Threshold – Federal and State Awards • Potential grantees under this funding announcement may receive an award in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (currently $250,000) (Refer to 2 CFR 200 Section 200.1 Definitions). Therefore, the grantee is subject to Simplified Acquisition Threshold and related requirements. o IDHS prior to making an award with a total amount 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); o 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 a State or Federal awarding agency previously entered and is currently in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM; o IDHS 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 State and Federal awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as described in § 200.206. • (From 2 CFR 200.1 Definitions): Simplified Acquisition Threshold means the dollar amount below which a non-Federal entity may purchase property or services using small purchase methods (see § 200.320). Non-Federal entities adopt small purchase procedures in order to expedite the purchase of items at or below the simplified acquisition threshold. The simplified acquisition threshold for procurement activities administered under Federal awards is set by the FAR at 48 CFR part 2, subpart 2.1. The non-Federal entity is responsible for determining an appropriate simplified acquisition threshold based on internal controls, an evaluation of risk, and its documented procurement procedures. However, in no circumstances can this threshold exceed the dollar value established in the FAR (48 CFR part 2, subpart 2.1) for the simplified acquisition threshold. Recipients should determine if local government laws on purchasing apply.

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). This notification is sent to the main contact listed in the Grantee Portal; therefore, it is important to keep contact information in the Grantee Portal updated. The NOSA shall include: o Grant award amount o The terms and conditions of the award o Specific conditions, if any, assigned to the applicant based on the fiscal and administrative risk assessment (ICQ) and merit-based review. • Note: The Department cannot issue a NOSA until the successful applicant has an approved budget entered into CSA. The applicant shall receive the NOSA through the Grantee Portal. The NOSA must be Accepted or Declined by the grants officer (or equivalent). This acceptance of the NOSA effectively accepts the state award amount and all conditions set forth within the notice. This accepted NOSA is the document authorizing the Department to proceed with issuing a grant agreement. The NOSA must be Accepted or Declined through the Grantee Portal. A hard copy is not required. • The NOSA is NOT an authorization to begin performance (to the extent that it allows charging to State awards of pre-award costs at the non-State entity's own risk). • After the Uniform Grant Agreement is published in the CSA Tracking System, it must be signed, and the signature page submitted to the Office of Contract Administration at DHS.DHSOCA@Illinois.gov. • An award is NOT considered to be fully executed until both parties have signed the grant agreement. IDHS/DMH is not obligated to reimburse applicants for expenses or services incurred prior to the complete and final execution of the grant agreement and filing with the Illinois Office of the Comptroller. • A written Notice of Non-Selection shall be sent to the applicants not receiving the award. Administrative and National Policy Requirements • The agency awarded funds shall provide services as set forth in the IDHS grant agreement and shall act in accordance with all state and federal statutes and administrative rules applicable to the provision of the services. Payment Terms • Grantees will receive payment by one of the three payment methodologies (Advance Payment, Reimbursement or Working Capital Advance). Grantees will automatically be paid via Reimbursement Method unless a request for Advance Payment Method or Working Capital Advance Method is made using the IDHS Advance Payment Request Cash Budget Template (Cash Budget). • Advance Payment Method (Advance and Reconcile) o An initial payment will be processed in an amount equal to the first two months' cash requirements as reflected in the Advance Payment Requirements Forecast (Cash Budget) Form submitted with the Grantee's application. The initial payment will be processed upon execution of the grantee's Uniform Grant Agreement. o Grantees must submit monthly invoices in the format and method prescribed in the Grantee's executed Uniform Grant Agreement. Invoices must be submitted no later than 15 days following the end of any respective monthly invoice period, or as indicated in their UGA Exhibit F - Payments. Invoices must include only allowable incurred costs that have been paid by the Grantee. For programs that have Grantee matching requirements, allowable costs are only reimbursable when matching costs have also been incurred. o Subsequent monthly payments will be based on each monthly invoice submitted by Grantee to Grantor, and will be adjusted up or down, based on a comparison of actual cumulative expenditures to cumulative advance payments, to date. o Grantees that do not expend all advance payment amounts by the end of the Award term or that are unable to demonstrate that all incurred costs were necessary, reasonable, allowable, or allocable as approved in their respective budget, must return the funds within 45 days. o Grantees may be required to submit supporting documentation for their requests at the request of and in a manner prescribed by the Grantor. o Failure to abide by advance payment governance requirements may result in grantee losing their right to advance payments. • Reimbursement Method o IDHS will disburse payments to Grantee based on actual allowable costs incurred as reported in the monthly financial invoice submitted for the respective month, as described below. o Grantees must submit monthly invoices in a format prescribed by Grantor. Invoices must include all allowable incurred costs for the first and each subsequent month of operations until the end of the Award term. Invoices must be submitted no later than 15 days following the end of any respective monthly invoice period, or as indicated in their UGA Exhibit F - Payments. As practicable, Grantor shall process payment within 30 calendar days after receipt of the invoice, unless the State awarding agency reasonably believes the request to be improper. o Grantees may be required to submit supporting documentation for their requests at the request of and in a manner prescribed by the Grantor. • Working Capital Advance Method o IDHS Grant Program Managers will advance working capital payments to the grantee to cover their estimated disbursement needs for an initial period not to exceed two months of grant expenses. Startup costs may be approved if determined by IDHS Grant Program Managers to be allowable. o Grantees must submit monthly invoices for each of the one or two months covered by the Working Capital Advance in the format and method prescribed by the Grantor. Invoices must be submitted no later than 15 days following the end of any respective monthly invoice period, or as indicated in their UGA Exhibit F - Payments. Invoices must include only allowable incurred costs that have been paid by the grantee. For grant programs that have grantee matching requirements, allowable costs are only reimbursable when matching costs have also been incurred. o Grantees may be required to submit supporting documentation for their requests at the request of and in a manner prescribed by the Grantor. o Working Capital Advance Payments are limited to a single occurrence per grant term. o Following the initial working capital advance payment, grantees will be paid via advance or reimbursement method as appropriate. • Grantees selecting the Advance Payment Method, or the Working Capital Advance Payment Method must complete the Advance Payment Request Cash Budget Template as described in the procedures above. In addition, please note: If you will be submitting the Advance Payment Request Cash Budget, it must be submitted with the application materials as a separate document. • The Monthly Invoice IL444-5257 Template must be used for all DMH programs and submitted no later than 15 days after the end of the month. All invoices shall be HIIPA compliant and encrypted utilizing DHS approved encryption software and emailed to DMH at the email address listed above. • Invoice and PFR Email Address for General Grants: DHS.DMHQuarterlyReports@illinois.gov • Invoice and PFR Email Address for Williams Consent Decree: DHS.DMHWilliamsInvoices@Illinois.gov • Invoice and PFR Email Address for Colbert Consent Decree: DHS.Colbert.Invoices@illinois.gov • Payment Forms o Monthly Invoice IL444-5257 o Advance Payment Request Cash Budget Form (IL444-4985) Only if requesting an advance payment

• March 27, 2024. at Noon Central Time

45-90 Days

Merit Review Appeal Process • Discretionary grant appeals are limited to the evaluation process. Evaluation scores may not be protested. Only the evaluation process is subject to appeal and shall be reviewed by IDHS' Appeal Review Officer (ARO). Submission of Appeal • Appeals submission IDHS contact information: o Name of Agency contact for appeals: Barb Roberson o Email of Agency contact for appeals: DHS.DMHGrantApp@illinois.gov o Email Subject Line: Applicant Name - 814 CRSS (Certified Recovery Support Specialist) Success Program - Appeal • An appeal must be submitted in writing to the appeals submission IDHS contact listed above, who will send it to the IDHS Appeal Review Officer (ARO) for consideration. • An appeal must be received within 14 calendar days after the date that the grant award notice has been published. • The written appeal shall include at a minimum the following: o Name and address of the appealing party o Identification of the grant o Statement of reasons for the appeal o Supporting documentation, if applicable Response to Appeal • IDHS will acknowledge receipt of an appeal within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date the appeal was received. o IDHS will respond to the appeal within 60 days or supply a written explanation to the appealing party as to why additional time is required. o The appealing party must supply any additional information requested by IDHS within the time period set in the request. Resolution • The ARO shall make a recommendation to the Agency Head or designee as expeditiously as possible after receiving all relevant, requested information. • In determining the appropriate recommendation, the ARO shall consider the integrity of the competitive grant process and the impact of the recommendation on the State Agency. • The Agency will resolve the appeal by means of written determination. • The determination shall include, but not be limited to: o Review of the appeal. o Appeal determination. o Rationale for the determination.

• Applications for renewal or supplementation of existing projects are eligible to compete with applications for new State awards. • Successful applicants under this NOFO may be eligible to receive two subsequent one-year grant renewals for this program. Renewals are at the discretion of the Department and are based on performance and sufficient appropriation.

Cost Sharing or Match Requirements • Providers are not required to participate in cost sharing or provide match. • Serves as Maintenance of Effort to the Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Community Mental Health Block Grant

Procurement Contract Allowability • Subcontract Agreement(s) and budgets must be pre-approved by the Department and on file with the Department. Subcontractors are subject to all provisions of this Agreement. The successful applicant Agency shall retain sole responsibility for the performance and monitoring of the Subcontractor. • The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Illinois Department of Human Services to make an award. Funding Restrictions Pre-Award Costs • Pre-award costs are not allowable. • IDHS grants are governed by 2 CFR. Part 200, Subpart E-Cost Principles and 30 ILCS 708 which include information on allowable costs, audit requirements, and financial records.

• 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: o Periodic Financial Reports. o Close-out Reports. o Periodic Performance Reports. o Close-out Performance Reports. o 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. • 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. o Non-compliance with any of the identified reports may lead to being placed on the Illinois Stop Payment List (SSPL). • Grantee shall submit these reports) to the appropriate email address listed below. Reported expenses should be consistent with the approved annual grant budget. Any expenditure variances require prior Grantor approval in accordance with Article VI of the UGA to be reimbursable. o PFR Email Address for General Grants: DHS.DMHQuarterlyReports@illinois.gov o PFR Email Address for Williams Consent Decree: DHS.DMHWilliamsInvoices@Illinois.gov o PFR Email Address for Colbert Consent Decree: DHS.Colbert.Invoices@illinois.gov o PPR and PRTP Email Address for All Grants: DHS.DMHQuarterlyReports@illinois.gov • DMH reporting templates and detailed instructions for submitting reports can be found in the Provider section of the IDHS website.

See JCAR Title 44 Illinois Administrative Code 7000.90 Auditing Standards

See JCAR Title 44 Illinois Administrative Code 7000.430 Record Retention

State Funded

$9,161,341

Expected Amounts of Individual Grant Awards The Department anticipates that grant awards will be between $571,000 and $1,150,000. Number of Grant Awards The Department anticipates funding approximately 11 grant awards to provide this program. Previous funding amounts per grant award on average was $832,849.

NA

Title 59: Mental Health of the Administrative Code

NA

IL Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health

• Program Websites o https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=140505 o https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=85526 o IDHS website: www.dhs.state.il.us o Community Service Agreements (CSA) Tracking System o Centralized Repository Vault (CRV) o GATA Learning Management System (LMS)

NA

NA

2/27/2024

FY 2022 : $4,044,688
FY 2023 : $91,177,375
FY 2024 : $9,161,341
FY 2025 : $9,161,341