Youth Coalitions for Drug Demand Reduction

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) invites applications for the **Youth Coalitions for Drug Demand Reduction** program in Peru. The program aims to engage youth in drug prevention initiatives, expand access to community mental health services, and reduce substance use in underserved communities. This cooperative agreement will establish and support youth-led coalitions in at least **10 communities**, targeting three regions: **coastal, Andean, and Amazonian**. The program will empower youth aged **12-24** as leaders and advocates for drug demand reduction through evidence-based activities and partnerships with local stakeholders, including NGOs, schools, and government entities. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based and foreign nonprofits, educational institutions, and NGOs. For-profit organizations and public international organizations are not eligible. The award will provide up to **$700,000** in funding, with applications requiring a minimum of **$500,000**. Cost sharing is recommended but not mandatory. Applicants must submit proposals through **Grants.gov** by **January 10, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST**. Organizations may submit only one proposal individually but may participate as a sub-recipient in other applications. A **36-month project period** is anticipated, with a start date of **March 2025**. The program’s goal is to create youth-led coalitions that implement community-based solutions to drug use prevention while fostering mental health awareness. Specific objectives include establishing at least **10 coalitions** (three in each target region), equipping youth with leadership and advocacy skills, and promoting collaboration with local stakeholders. Key activities include community assessments to identify drug use challenges, training youth leaders, engaging families and local organizations, and implementing peer-led prevention strategies. Proposals must include clear, measurable goals with robust **monitoring and evaluation plans**, baseline data collection tools, and follow-up activities to track project impact. INL emphasizes community collaboration and sustainability, encouraging partnerships with local organizations, schools, health providers, and government agencies like DEVIDA and the Ministry of Health. Youth coalitions will engage in activities such as organizing peer forums, awareness campaigns, and outreach events to address substance use and mental health challenges. The program requires a focus on **diversity, equity, and inclusion**, with at least **30% female participation**. Successful applicants must demonstrate experience managing similar programs, highlight organizational capacity, and provide a feasible sustainability plan. Proposals must adhere to INL’s submission requirements, including a **20-page narrative**, performance monitoring plan, project risk analysis, and detailed budget. The budget must include a summary and narrative, and indirect costs may be claimed under a NICRA or a 10% de minimis rate. Supporting documents include organizational biographical information, key personnel resumes, and optional letters of support. Applicants must have a valid **UEI number** and an active **SAM.gov registration**. INL will evaluate proposals based on criteria such as alignment with program objectives, project feasibility, gender and equity considerations, and sustainability. The project’s success may lead to future expansion into additional regions or activities, contingent on available funding. Interested applicants should submit questions by **December 5, 2024**, to INL points of contact listed in the NOFO. For technical issues, Grants.gov offers 24/7 support via phone or email.