TANF Employment & Training Program - Special Projects Program - Community Resource Development Program

The TANF Community Resource Program is administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), specifically through its Division of Family and Community Services. This initiative is aligned with the broader goals of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, aiming to improve the quality of life for children, youth, and families across Illinois. It focuses on making human services, workforce development, education, and health programs more accessible, effective, and responsive to local needs. The program seeks to connect individuals and families with local and state human service resources that promote self-sufficiency through employment, skill-building, and education. This grant supports a targeted subset of TANF services—referred to as "Special Projects"—which emphasize community-based development and resource linkage for underserved or disadvantaged populations. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, governmental units, educational institutions, and for-profit organizations, though a narrower subset of those groups may apply based on past funding status. Specifically, only those who previously received funding under the TANF Special Project Program and continue to meet IDHS eligibility criteria are permitted to apply. Pre-qualification through the GATA portal and good standing with the Secretary of State are mandatory, with detailed procedural steps outlined in the application process. Funding for this program is delivered through project grants. Each award may reach up to $75,000, with the total allocation for FY2026 being $75,000. Historically, the program has operated on an annual basis, with prior funding years ranging from FY2017 through FY2025. No match requirement is listed, and the funds are to be used in accordance with federal and state administrative rules governing allowable costs and expenditures. The program emphasizes services that help TANF and low-income participants develop the life and employment skills necessary for long-term independence. Applications must be submitted by May 12, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CST. While the grant is competitive, scoring is not the sole determining factor for funding. Geographic distribution, racial equity considerations, and past performance are among the variables factored into award decisions. All applicants must complete a unified grant application form and budget using the IDHS Community Service Agreement (CSA) system. Additionally, entities must submit a Fiscal and Administrative Risk Assessment, known as the Internal Controls Questionnaire (ICQ), prior to being considered for funding. Award notifications typically follow within 45 days of the deadline. Those selected for funding will receive a Notice of State Award (NOSA), which must be signed and returned to formalize the grant agreement. Renewals may be available for up to two additional one-year terms, contingent upon satisfactory past performance, timely reporting, and continued eligibility. All reporting requirements—such as financial and performance reports, audits, and close-out documentation—are governed by the Uniform Grant Agreement and applicable federal and state regulations. The Department maintains the authority to adjust award amounts or set additional program conditions based on programmatic or fiscal assessments. Overall, the TANF Community Resource Program serves as a critical funding stream for community organizations working to eliminate systemic barriers to self-sufficiency for TANF participants in Illinois. Its recurring structure, combined with clearly defined application steps and oversight mechanisms, ensures alignment with both federal regulations and state-level policy objectives.