Support B

B. COLLECTIONS OF INFORMATION EMPLOYING STATISTICAL METHOD

1. Describe (including a numerical estimate) the potential respondent universe and any sampling or other respondent selection method to be used. Data on the number of entities (e.g., establishments, State and local government units, households or persons) in the universe covered by the collection and in the corresponding sample are to be provided in tabular form for the universe as a whole and for each of the strata in the proposed same. Indicate expected response rates for the collection as a whole. If the collection had been conducted previously, include the actual response rate achieved during the last collection.

Approximately 4,000 non-profit applicants will be surveyed. All questions are yes and no, yes responses are asked to provide details. Anticipated response rate is 20% or 800. There is no previous collection of this type of data.

2. Describe the procedures for the collection of information including:

• Statistical methodology for stratification and sample selection. None

• Estimation procedure. None

• Degree of accuracy needed for the purpose described in the justification. The survey is designed so that all of the respondents data will be useful. There is not a degree of accuracy required.

• Unusual problems requiring specialized sampling procedures. None.

• Any use of periodic (less frequent than annual) data collection cycles to reduce burden. Respondents will only need to report information on a onetime basis.

3. Describe methods to maximize response rates and to deal with issues of non-response. The accuracy and reliability of information collected must be shown to be adequate for intended uses. For collections based on sampling, a special justification must be provided for any collection that will not yield “reliable” data that can be generalized to the universe.

There is no additional follow-up activity planned if customers do not respond to the original survey.

The survey is designed to capture the level of satisfaction non-profit customers have with Rural Development regarding their treatment under the Equal Treatment Rule and Rural Development Staff compliance with the Equal Treatment Rule. The data captured will serve as a benchmark for future surveys and improvements in equal treatment and outreach to faith-based and community organizations. Statistical accuracy will be determined to aid in the sample design for future surveys.

4. Describe any test of procedure or methods to be undertaken. Testing is encouraged as an effective means of refining collections of information to minimize burden and improve utility. Tests must be approved if they call for answers to identical questions from 10 or more respondents. A proposed test or set of tests may be submitted for approval separately or in combination with the main collection of information.

Testing of the survey was accomplished on September 26, 2006, at the White House Office Faith-Based and Community Initiatives Conference in Denver, Colorado. A volunteer group of faith-based and community based organizations completed the survey and provide comments.

5. Provide the name and telephone number of individuals consulted on statistical aspects of the designing and the name of the Agency contractor(s), grantee(s) or other persons who will actually collect and/or analyze the information for the Agency.

USDA contact person is Therese Lyons, Director, Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, Office of the Secretary, (202) 720-2552.

Rural Development contact person is Rhonda Brown, Faith-Based and Community Initiatives Coordinator, (202) 692-0298

Statistical Review was provided by: Contact- Ginny McBride (202) 720-5778, National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA, on August 30, 2006.

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