10-Appendix B SOW and Technical Requirements-BHRESOURCE.docx

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

SCOPE OF WORK AND TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

Nationally, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA’s) leads public health efforts to advance behavioral health. Its recent strategic priorities have focused on preventing substance misuse and addiction, addressing serious mental illness, expanding crisis services, and improving access to evidence-based treatment and recovery support programming for substance use, mental, and co-occurring disorders. These priorities are further strengthened by the SUPPORT Act Reauthorization (2025) which prioritizes scalable recovery infrastructure and non-clinical supports for individuals with substance use disorders.

A single state agency for behavioral health is the designated state-level entity responsible for managing federal funds designated to achieve identified federal priorities and administering programs for substance use and mental health services within a state. It is the official body that applies for, receives, and oversees funds for prevention, treatment, and recovery, though it may delegate operational responsibilities to other state, local, or private entities. The State of Delaware, Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH) is responsible for adhering to the responsibilities assigned in the role of the single state agency for the State of Delaware.

As the single state agency, DSAMH is responsible for the development, implementation, maintenance, and oversight of a state plan for prevention, treatment, and recovery support; coordination of state and federal funding; and development of standards for the certification and approval of prevention, treatment, and recovery support programs. The Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2026-2027, “Delaware Behavioral Health Assessment and Plan” aligns to key federal priorities and emphasizes the need for an effective, person-centered, system of integrated care and behavioral health resource development.

Administrative Note of Reference: To review DSAMH’s state plan “Delaware Behavioral Health Assessment and Plan” please take the following steps:

· Go to https://bgas.samhsa.gov

· Enter the username and password (these are case sensitive):

· Username - citizende

· Password - citizen

· Select "View Existing Applications" from the top tabs

· Select "FFY 2026-2027 Behavioral Health Assessment and Plan"

· Select “View Application"

· To review the plan, click to download the pdf file.

Overview The mission of DSAMH is to promote health and recovery by ensuring that Delawareans have access to quality prevention and treatment for mental health, substance use, and gambling conditions. To accomplish its mission, DSAMH aims to strengthen and broaden Delaware’s behavioral health system through a comprehensive behavioral health resource development initiative. This initiative supports the priorities outlined in DSAMH’s state plan and aligns with federal goals related to behavioral health system transformation, justice diversion, peer-led service integration, and community-based recovery supports. Behavioral health resource development involves building and enhancing the assets, funding mechanisms, and infrastructure necessary to promote the mental, emotional, and social well-being of a population. Through this initiative, DSAMH seeks to advance prevention efforts, expand access to recovery supports, build workforce capacity, strengthen cross-system collaboration, and integrate family and natural support-focused strategies to improve overall behavioral health outcomes across diverse communities.

The initiative is structured around four interrelated components that work collectively to enhance the availability, quality, and sustainability of behavioral health resources statewide:

1. Component 1: Building and Refining Services for Targeted Subpopulations – Mental Health Court Peer Support. Focuses on strengthening peer support services within the judicial system to improve engagement, reduce recidivism, and promote recovery for individuals participating in the Mental Health Court.

2. Component 2: Workforce Development – Peer Workforce Development and Certification Training. Expands the capacity of Delaware’s peer recovery workforce through certification training, competency development, and continuing education aligned with the Delaware Certification Board standards.

3. Component 3: Prevention-Based and Recovery Support Non-Direct System Development Strategies. Builds statewide prevention and recovery support capacity through community/partnership development activities (such as marketing and communication), planning and coordination of services and public education activities to create healthy and recovery-oriented communities.

4. Component 4: Partnership and System Integration – Crisis Intervention Team Training. Enhances collaboration between law enforcement and behavioral health systems by equipping officers with the skills and knowledge to safely de-escalate behavioral health crises and connect individuals to appropriate community resources.

5. Component 5: Service Delivery and Integration – The Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training (CRAFT). Strengthens the capacity of family members, friends, and other natural supports to support individuals with substance use challenges through skill-building, education, and non-confrontational engagement strategies that promote positive change and wellbeing.

Together, these components support DSAMH’s goal of building a coordinated and sustainable behavioral health system that increases access to recovery-oriented services, strengthens community readiness, and enhances outcomes for individuals and families across Delaware. By investing in service development, workforce training, community capacity-building, cross-system collaboration, and family and natural support-focused strategies, the initiative ensures a more resilient, person-centered, and effective behavioral health landscape statewide.

DSAMH is soliciting proposals from qualified vendors to implement targeted behavioral health resource development activities that support peer service enhancement within the Mental Health Court, expand peer support workforce development and certification training, advance community-based prevention and recovery support system initiatives, provide Crisis Intervention Team training to strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and behavioral health systems, and integrate family and natural support-focused strategies through CRAFT.

Administrative Note of Reference: This is a multi-service RFP. Multiple vendors may be selected based on the Division’s needs for each component and the availability of funding. Currently, $2,510,389.14, is available for the total execution of this scope of work. Funding allocations for each Component are detailed within the corresponding Scope of Work sections. Annual funding amounts are contingent upon the availability of funds, funding source, and funding source priorities and may vary accordingly.

For ease of understanding the scope of work and expectations of this RFP, Vendors will find the client target population; service functions; staffing requirements (as applicable); adherence to policies and procedures; fiscal requirements and funding restrictions; evaluation and performance measures; quality improvement; performance measurements and key outcome indicators; and technical response requirements separated by each Component to be served within this RFP.

It is recommended that Vendors wishing to submit a proposal for more than one component should submit separate proposals so that each component is scored independently for consideration. We understand the administrative burden for this request and recommend that organization content be copied for upload into each proposal for response areas that may be repetitive to the organization (meaning the same information be used for each proposal). Sections include Experience and Expertise Reputation; Capacity to Meet Requirements; Program Design and Implementation; and Sustainability and Pricing. All other information submitted should be specific to the Component outlined for each proposal.

Funding under Component #3 is restricted to vendors that provide non-direct resource development activities in support of prevention or recovery support services. Eligible projects must focus on system development, capacity-building, public education, or community-level strategies, rather than the delivery of direct client services. Activities under this component must not involve direct contact with clients or the provision of individual or group services. Further funding for Component #3 is not intended for clinical services; instead, it supports efforts that strengthen systems, expand organizational capacity, and enhance community awareness and engagement.

Vendors are not required to provide all service functions (prevention, community and recovery support outreach activities, or public education) included in Component #3. However, vendors must clearly specify the service function(s) for which they are applying and provide a detailed description of how they will implement all required activities associated with those function(s). Vendors must also demonstrate their ability to meet all additional requirements outlined in this RFP to be considered eligible for funding.

COMPONENT #1: BUILDING AND REFINING SERVICES FOR TARGETED SUBPOPULATION

MENTAL HEALTH COURT PEER SUPPORT

Peer support services are non-clinical, strengths-based supports provided by individuals with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use challenges. These services promote recovery by fostering hope, self-determination, and community integration. Peer support is recognized as a core component of behavioral health systems. Community-based organizations led by peers are increasingly central to helping individuals navigate recovery, reduce stigma, and access natural supports.

In 2023, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), released the National Model Standards for Peer Support Certification, reinforcing the essential role of Peer Recovery Specialists within behavioral health systems. These model standards and associated core competencies establish a unified framework for effective, ethical, and recovery-oriented peer support practice.

The National Model Standards emphasize the following foundational principles that guide peer support services:

· Lived Experience: Peer support is grounded in the authentic lived experience of individuals who have navigated substance use and/or mental health challenges, providing credibility, connection, and mutual understanding.

· Hope, Recovery, and Wellness: Promoting hope and supporting recovery-oriented and wellness-focused outcomes are central tenets of peer support.

· Person-Centered and Voluntary Support: Services are driven by the individual receiving support, tailored to their goals, preferences, and strengths, and participation is entirely voluntary.

· Empowerment and Advocacy: Peer Recovery Specialists support individuals in identifying strengths, exercising self-advocacy, understanding their rights, and navigating complex behavioral health and justice systems.

The model standards further define core competency areas required for effective peer support practice:

· Ethics and Boundaries: Adherence to ethical guidelines, maintenance of professional boundaries, and the appropriate use of self-disclosure.

· Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Use of respectful, inclusive language; development of effective working relationships with individuals served and multidisciplinary teams; and application of conflict resolution techniques.

· Cultural and Structural Competence: Recognition of health disparities and systemic inequities, with demonstrated cultural humility and responsiveness in practice.

· Trauma-Informed Care: Application of trauma-informed principles, including awareness of the impacts of trauma, grief, compassion fatigue, and burnout.

· Resource Navigation: Coaching individuals in accessing community-based resources, navigating healthcare and social service systems, and building sustainable support networks.

· Wellness and Self-Care: Promotion of resiliency and modeling of self-care strategies to support peer well-being and prevent burnout and compassion fatigue.

These competencies guide training, supervision, and professional development, ensuring peer recovery specialists are equipped to support others while maintaining their own wellness.

SAMHSA defines recovery as a dynamic process through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential. Peer support plays a vital role in this journey by offering lived experience, mutual understanding, and practical guidance across SAMHSA’s four dimensions of recovery:

· Health: Peer workers model and support strategies for managing symptoms, reducing substance use, and making healthy lifestyle choices.

· Home: They help individuals navigate housing systems and build routines that support stability and safety.

· Purpose: Through shared experience, peers inspire hope and help others engage in meaningful roles, whether through work, education, or creative pursuits.

· Community: Peer support fosters connection, reduces isolation, and strengthens social networks that are essential for long-term recovery.

Aligned with SAMHSA’s definition of recovery, peer support drives measurable progress in health, housing stability, purpose, and community connection by transforming lived experience into actionable guidance and sustained motivation. By reinforcing strengths, fostering accountability, and building social connection, peer support extends beyond clinical care to empower individuals to take ownership of their recovery and succeed in their communities.

Component #1 Overview Delaware’s Mental Health Court is a specialized judicial initiative designed to divert individuals with serious mental illness from traditional criminal justice processing into structured, community-based treatment and recovery services. Operating under the Superior Court, the program identifies eligible defendants early in the adjudication process, confirms clinical diagnoses, and coordinates care through behavioral health providers and case managers.

Critical to its success in reducing incarceration and improving treatment engagement, Delaware’s Mental Health Court requires access to peer support services, an evidence-based intervention, shown to improve outcomes for justice-involved individuals. Embedding Certified Peer Recovery Specialists (CPRS) into the court system increases participant engagement, assists with reduced recidivism, and promotes long-term recovery.

This component directly supports DSAMH’s state plan and aligns with federal priorities for justice diversion, peer-led recovery services, and system integration. Building and refining services for this targeted subpopulation will ensure the sustainability and scalability of peer support within the judicial system, improve individual well-being for one of the state’s most vulnerable populations, and foster functional skills and community integration.

Client Target Population The Vendor will serve adults (age 18 and over) statewide participating in Delaware’s Mental Health Court who:

· have a confirmed diagnosis of a serious mental illness or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorder.

· are at risk of continued justice involvement, incarceration, or treatment non-engagement without enhanced recovery support services.

· have been referred by Delaware’s Superior Court and/or the Mental Health Court Team.

Service Functions The vendor shall deliver peer support services in alignment to National Model Standards designed to improve treatment engagement, increase participation in court-mandated activities, and support long-term recovery for the identified client target population. The primary functions of Component #1- Building and refining services for targeted subpopulation, Mental Health Court Peer Support for the target population include, at a minimum:

a. Peer Support Engagement: Peer Recovery Specialists provide individualized and group-based support rooted in shared lived experience. Services focus on building trust, fostering hope, and promoting recovery through regular one-on-one meetings, peer-led groups, and informal check-ins. Engagement is voluntary and designed to meet participants where they are emotionally, physically, and in their recovery journey. Peer Recovery Specialists model recovery, offer encouragement, and help participants navigate challenges related to mental health, substance use, and justice involvement.

b. Court System Navigation: Peer Recovery Specialists support participants in feeling informed, prepared, and confident when engaging with the Mental Health Court. Services focus on helping participants understand what to expect at each stage of the court process, including hearings, requirements, and timelines, using clear and accessible language. Peer Recovery Specialists help participants prepare questions, reflect on progress, and identify concerns they wish to share with the court team. By offering reassurance, emotional support, and practical guidance, peers help reduce fear and confusion, strengthen participants’ sense of agency, and support meaningful participation in court-related activities.

c. Recovery Planning: Peer Recovery Specialists collaborate with participants to develop personalized recovery and wellness plans that reflect their goals, strengths, and values. These plans are client-driven and aligned with clinical recommendations and court mandates. They help participants identify recovery pathways, set achievable goals, and track progress, while reinforcing autonomy and self-determination.

d. Warm Handoffs: Peer Recovery Specialists facilitate seamless transitions between systems of care by coordinating with case managers, treatment providers, housing agencies, and other community resources. They accompany participants to appointments when appropriate, ensure follow-through on referrals, and help build sustainable support networks. This approach reduces service fragmentation and promotes continuity of care.

e. Crisis Support and Relapse Prevention: Peer Recovery Specialists provide non-clinical support during emotional distress, relapse episodes, or life disruptions. They offer early intervention, de-escalation strategies, and recovery maintenance tools, while encouraging participants to access clinical or emergency services when needed. They also help develop individualized wellness recovery action plans and coping strategies to support long-term stability.

f. Trauma-Informed and Responsive Care: All services are delivered through a trauma-informed lens that prioritizes safety, empowerment, and social responsiveness. Peer Recovery Specialists recognize the impact of trauma on behavior and recovery, and use strengths-based, person-centered approaches to foster healing and resilience. Services are equitable and inclusive, respecting the varied identities and experiences of participants.

g. Collaboration with Court Teams: Peer Recovery Specialists function as collaborative partners within the Mental Health Court team, supporting coordinated, recovery-oriented decision-making. They may participate in staffing meetings, case reviews, and court hearings as appropriate and in accordance with Delaware Superior Court guidance. Peer Recovery Specialists provide observations related to participant engagement, strengths, and recovery progress, while reinforcing treatment adherence and court expectations. Their role supports the court team’s understanding of participant experiences and promotes balanced, informed responses that align accountability with recovery principles.

h. Documentation and Reporting: Peer Recovery Specialists maintain accurate, timely, and confidential records of all services provided. Documentation includes participant contacts, progress toward recovery goals, referrals made, and outcomes achieved. Reports are submitted in accordance with Mental Health Court program protocols and may be used to inform case planning, team discussions, and program evaluation.

The vendor must use the Delaware Treatment and Referral Network (DTRN) E-referral module when making referrals for Mental Health Court Peer Support participants requiring access to behavioral health treatment and other recovery support services as applicable. Vendors can refer to Appendix H of this RFP for information on the DTRN User Agreement and Provider Standards.

Administrative Note of Reference: Only one vendor shall be selected for this Component as it is important to maintain consistency for the Delaware Superior Court as it relates to care coordination, collaboration, and communication needs of the Mental Health Court and its participants.

Staffing Requirements The vendor shall ensure staffing levels sufficient to meet the needs of the Mental Health Court docket(s). Requirements include:

· Certified Peer Recovery Specialists (CPRS) who hold active state certification and meet Delaware Certification Board credentialing standards. Peer Recovery Specialists hired who do not hold the CPRS credential must be actively pursuing the credential and receive certification within nine (9) months of hire. Information on CPRS can be found at Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) | Delaware Certification Board.

· Lead/Supervisory Staff with experience supervising peer recovery specialists, providing coaching, and ensuring adherence to evidence-based practices. It is preferred that supervisors of peer recovery specialists acquire certification as a supervisor of peer specialists (CSPS) through the Delaware Certification Board. Information on CSPS can be found at Certified Supervisor of Peer Specialists (CSPS) | Delaware Certification Board.

Vendors must maintain adequate staff–participant ratios to ensure accessibility, engagement, and timely response to referrals and participant needs. Staff background checks, credential verifications, and continuing education must comply with DSAMH policies and procedures and requirements under the Delaware Certification Board.

Adherence to Policies and Procedures The Vendor is required to adhere to all federal, state and DSAMH policies, processes, procedures, requirements, rules, laws, and regulations, including, but not limited to, those listed for Component #1 in this RFP. In settings where these policies do not apply in part or full, the Vendor must detail this and obtain written approval from DSAMH. Such policies include but are not limited to:

· DSAMH004 – Community Access Standards

· DSAMH007 – Contracted Religious Organizations

· DSAMH009 – Nicotine Policy

· DSAMH011 – Trauma Informed Care

· DSAMH012 – Provision of Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services

· DSAMH013 – Discharge From Services Policy

· DSAMH026 – Client Complaint and Grievance

· DSAMH026A – Sample Posting

· DSAMH026B – Clients Rights and Responsibilities

· DSAMH026C – Complaint Response Letter

· DSAMH029 – Community Incident Reporting Policy

· DSAMH030 – PCWFD Program Closure Policy

· Criminal Background Check

· Human Subjects Review Board

· Inclusion

· Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of1964, as amended (codified at 42 USC 2000d et seq.).

· The Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988.

· The Americans with Disabilities Act (PL 101-336).

· HIPAA and 42 CFR, Part 2.

· State of Delaware, Office of Management and Budget, Budget and Accounting Manual. https://budget.delaware.gov/accounting-manual/index.shtml.

· Any applicable policy, regulation, or terms and conditions that falls under compliance with credentials for Peer Recovery Specialists (CPRS) and Supervisors of Peer Specialists (CSPS) with the Delaware Certification Board Home | Delaware Certification Board.

DSAMH reserves the right to modify, replace, or add to these policies with 60 days’ notice to Vendor. In the event of a policy modification or addition of new policy, the Vendor agrees to formulate a plan, in writing, regarding the Vendor’s compliance strategy with the modified or new policy.

Fiscal Requirements and Funding Restrictions Selected vendor will be paid on a cost reimbursement basis. $390,000 is presently available for the total service execution of Component #1. Annual funding amount determinant is contingent on availability of funds, funding source, and funding source priorities. To participate in this program:

· Vendor will be required to obtain a Unique Entity ID Number, register and provide updated information as required to the System for Award Management. Information about System for Award Management can be found at: https://www.sam.gov/.

· Vendor shall acknowledge DSAMH as a funding source in all publicity pertaining to this Scope of Work.

· Payments made will adhere to the State of Delaware, Office of Management and Budget, and Accounting Manual. https://budget.delaware.gov/accounting- manual/index.shtml.

· Vendor must be a non-profit or for-profit entity that has been in operation for over two-years and has an active Business License with the State of Delaware.

· For a Vendor that has a contract with DSAMH in place when this RFP is issued, that Vendor must have all outstanding Corrective Action Plans for deficiencies submitted to DSAMH for approval prior to submission.

· The funds received and expended under the executed contract must be accounted for and recorded by the selected Vendor to permit auditing and accounting for all expenditures in conformity with the terms and provisions of the executed contract, and State and Federal laws and regulations.

· The Vendor’s fiscal records and accounts, including those involving other programs which, by virtue of cost or material resources sharing, are substantially related to the executed contract, shall be subject to audit by duly authorized Federal and State officials.

· All fees paid to the Vendor shall be subject to claw back by DSAMH if such fees are determined by DSAMH or applicable governmental authority to be inappropriate for any reason.

· Cost Reimbursement Contracts are subject to Fiscal Monitoring. Vendors will be notified prior to the scheduled monitor date. The provider will be informed of the required documents for submission. The monitor process session will include review of invoices from the previous invoices submitted.

· Upon notice given to the Vendor’s Executive Director or designee, representatives of DSAMH or other duly authorized State or Federal agencies shall have the right to inspect, monitor, audit and evaluate the program’s fiscal records or other material relative to the executed contract. The Vendor must cooperate and comply with all audit activities and submit all requested materials in support of the expense and/or service being reviewed.

· Vendor is required to have an annual audit, conducted by an independent auditor, and provide DSAMH with a copy of the completed annual audit, including any related financial statements and management letters, within nine (9) months of the end of the Vendor fiscal year. Vendor must provide one bound copy via US Mail and an electronic (via the DHSS_DSAMHFiscalMonitoring@delaware.gov mailbox). Any DSAMH initiated audit shall neither obviate the need for, nor restrict the Vendor from conducting required annual corporate audits. Financial statements are to be prepared in accordance with appropriate generally accepted accounting principles. Audits must be performed in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States and Government Auditing Standards issued by the U.S. Comptroller General. When required by the amount of the Vendor’s total annual Federal award expenditures, the Vendor must comply with the requirements of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Uniform Grant Guidance, and its successors.

· Prohibited Costs: In determining unallowable costs, DSAMH used, Subpart E of the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. A copy of this document is available at the following link: eCFR :: 2 CFR Part 200 -- Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. DSAMH will not pay for the following costs:

· Costs incurred before the effective date or after the termination date of any contract.

· Costs for services which have not been rendered; cannot be verified as having been provided, according to standard DSAMH monitoring and audit procedures; have not been provided by DSAMH approved agencies and programs; have been provided to persons not authorized by DSAMH; have been provided to persons of less than 18 years of age, unless such persons have been approved in writing by DSAMH as eligible to receive services under this Contract; have been paid for by Medicaid or Medicare, by other third-party payers, by or on behalf of the recipient of services; or are a benefit offered as a covered service in any healthcare plan under which the resident has been determined to be covered, or for which the resident has been found to be eligible (unless such residents are specifically approved in writing by DSAMH as eligible to receive services under this Contract).

· Costs incurred prior to the approval of the Purchase Order by the Delaware State Department of Finance.

· Costs incurred in violation of any provision of the contract.

· Costs of acquisition, renovation or improvement of facilities or land. Ongoing costs of facility maintenance and repair are distinguished from improvement and are allowable.

· Costs incurred for the purchase and maintenance of Vehicles.

· Costs of political activities, including transportation of voters or prospective voters to the polls, activities in connection with an election or a voter registration effort, contributions to political organizations and expenses related to lobbying.

· Costs of idle facilities. Idle facilities mean completely unused facilities that are excess to the organization’s current needs. Unallowable costs related to the idle facility include maintenance, repair, rent, property tax, insurance and depreciation or use allowances.

· Interest payments, late payment fees and penalties charged by Vendor because of late invoicing.

· Costs related to fines or penalties imposed on the agency or legal fees related to the defense of the agency or any of its employees in any civil or criminal action.

· Costs that violate any requirement or are identified as a prohibited activity in this scope of work

· Costs that violate any applicable Federal or State statute or regulation.

$390,000 is presently available for the total service execution of Component #1. Annual funding amount determinant is contingent on availability of funds, funding source, and funding source priorities.

Evaluation and Performance Measures The goal of this portion of the scope is to establish sustainable systems to understand the program and its outcomes as simply as possible, integrating data collection into current systems wherever possible. DSAMH has the right to conduct any onsite evaluation and monitoring of the Vendor’s activity at any time.

The extension of the service period of the contract is based on the past performance of the Vendor. The determination shall be based on, but not limited to, considerations of the following factors:

Quality Improvement Vendor shall implement a method for identifying, evaluating, and correcting deficiencies in the quality and quantity of services to be provided under any resulting contract arising out of this RFP. The quality assurance plan shall include the proposed indicators essential to assess the Vendor’s performance and the overall adequacy of services being provided to individuals in the target population.

1. Vendor must comply with HIPAA and 42 CFR, Part 2.

2. Vendor must comply with regular program and service reporting.

Measurement and Key Outcome Indicators The Vendor shall implement a structured monthly reporting cadence, established at contract initiation, to monitor progress toward project milestones, outputs, and outcomes. DSAMH may request supplemental reporting as necessary. The monthly provider report shall contain the following performance measures:

a. Participant Retention and Completion Monthly census tracks aggregate number of client referrals for Mental Health Court peer support participation to Vendor, including basic client demographics (gender, age (Young People (18-24); Young Adults (25-35); Older Adults (36-60); Seniors (60+), race and ethnicity), dates of referrals and referral status. Includes rate of successful vs. involuntary discharges.

b. Engagement and Participation Performance indicators:

· Number of peer support sessions completed (individual and group)

· Percentage of participants actively engaged in services

· Retention rate in peer support over 90 days

Targets consideration for indicators:

· ≥60% of enrolled participants engage in peer support services as recommended

· ≥60% retention rate over a 3-month period

c. Recovery and Wellness Outcomes Performance indicators:

· Participant-reported improvements in hope, empowerment, and self-efficacy

· Reduction in psychiatric symptoms or emotional distress (self-assessed)

Targets consideration for indicators:

· ≥75% of participants report increased hope and empowerment within 90 days

· ≥50% report improved emotional regulation or symptom management

d. Service Access and Coordination Performance indicators:

· Number and type of referrals made to community services

· Participant-reported ease of accessing services

Targets consideration for indicators:

· ≥70% of participants receive at least one referral within 30 days

· ≥60% report improved access to needed supports

e. Crisis Support and Relapse Prevention Performance indicators:

· Number of crisis interventions provided

· Percentage of participants with wellness recovery action plans

Targets consideration for indicators:

· ≥60% report using peer support during crisis situations

· ≥80% of participants have a documented wellness recovery action plan

f. Quality Improvement Review As part of the quality improvement plan, the monthly program report must also highlight issues raised either by the Vendor as continuous improvement objectives along with recommendations to address these objectives.

Presently, the Vendor shall submit monthly program reports to DSAMH_peer@delaware.gov by the 10th of each month for the preceding month of service. DSAMH shall establish the content and format structure of the report. As DSAMH reviews its various reporting mechanisms for the purpose of standardization across its behavioral health ecosystem, DSAMH reserves the right to shift the mechanism of how monthly program information is submitted which may include submission via a state contracted cloud-based survey platform. DSAMH shall provide the Vendor 60 days’ notice of any report submission changes in writing.

DSAMH reserves the right to claw back or hold funds for program reports not submitted.

Technical Response Requirements The Vendor’s responses to the categories below must describe how it will fulfill the requirements outlined in the scope of work. Vendor should ensure that all proposed solutions are consistent with DSAMH policies and procedures, and applicable regulations, standards, procedures, and best practices.

It is recommended that Vendors wishing to submit a proposal for more than one component should submit separate proposals so that each Component is scored independently for consideration. We understand the administrative burden for this request and recommend that organization content be copied for upload into each proposal for response areas that may be repetitive to the organization (meaning the same information be used for each proposal). Sections include Experience and Expertise Reputation; Capacity to Meet Requirements; Program Design and Implementation; and Sustainability and Pricing. All other information submitted should be specific to the component outlined for each proposal.

1. Experience and Expertise (up to 25 points): The Vendor shall provide documentation and narrative demonstrating its qualifications to deliver peer support workforce development and certification training consistent with services and requirements outlined in this scope of work. Required elements include:

a. Organizational Documentation

· Submit a current Board of Directors roster, if applicable.

· Submit proof of legal operation for at least two (2) years (i.e., certificate of incorporation, tax filings, prior contracts).

· Submit a current Delaware Business License.

b. Demonstrated Experience and Expertise- The Vendor must clearly demonstrate experience in providing peer support services, particularly for clients with justice-involvement.

c. Key Personnel and Staffing Plan Requirement- The Vendor must submit a comprehensive staffing plan that ensures timely and consistent delivery of Component #1 Mental Health Court Peer Support services. The plan must:

· Identify all key personnel responsible for designing, delivering, coordinating, and supervising training, including their roles, responsibilities, and level of involvement.

· Provide résumés, CVs, or bios demonstrating qualifications, peer support credentials, trauma-informed pedagogy, and recovery-oriented practice.

· Include detailed position descriptions for any new personnel to be hired, outlining required qualifications, experience, and recruitment strategies.

· Describe procedures for staff recruitment, hiring, onboarding, training, supervision, and performance management, including background checks and credential verification compliant with DSAMH and DCB policies.

· Ensure staff training addresses essential competencies for serving the target population, including trauma-informed, ethical, social responsive, and person-centered practices.

· Include any existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or formal documentation for recruitment, onboarding, training, supervision, and performance management. Selected Vendors must provide these policies annually as part of Division contract monitoring.

2. Capacity to Meet Requirements (up to 20 points): This section requires a detailed description of the vendor's capacity to execute the project effectively.

a. Organizational Strengths and Challenges:

· Describe clearly the organization’s strengths that support its ability to successfully implement each of the proposed service functions within the required timeframes.

· Identify any anticipated challenges that may affect implementation, along with strategies the organization will employ to address or mitigate these challenges.

b. Operational Readiness:

· Provide an explanation of internal systems, processes, or structures that demonstrate the organization’s readiness to begin service delivery of the proposed service functions upon contract execution.

· Identify the system in place for documentation, data collection, and reporting.

c. Established Partnerships, (Required): The Vendor shall demonstrate experience in partnering with behavioral health treatment providers.

· Provide a letter of support demonstrating established partnerships with behavioral health treatment providers who are actively serving the target client population.

3. Program Design and Implementation (up to 35 points)

a. Programming- The Vendor must provide a comprehensive proposal detailing its strategy for delivering the services outlined for Component #1 in this Scope of Work, demonstrating how the approach effectively addresses the needs of the target population. The response should explicitly cover the following aspects:

· Peer Support and Integration: Identify and describe the specific evidence-based tools and interventions the Vendor will utilize. Additionally, detail the approach to providing peer support services, including how these services will be integrated with existing behavioral health treatment programs to reduce service duplication and enhance participant outcomes and support recovery.

· Collaboration Strategy: Outline clear strategies and mechanisms for effective collaboration with key stakeholders in the Mental Health Court, including the Superior Court, Department of Corrections, Bureau of Community Corrections-Probation and Parole, and the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health’s Treatment Access Services Center (DSAMH's TASC).

· Supporting Documentation: The Vendor shall upload existing Standard Operational Procedures (SOPs), peer support group topics/curriculum, and other formal documents relevant to service delivery. The selected vendor will be required to provide these policies annually as part of the Division's contract monitoring process.

· Adherence to Policies and Procedures: Describe how the Vendor intends to adhere to all policies and procedures specified within this scope of work for each proposed component. The Vendor shall upload any existing internal policies that support compliance with the identified policies, processes, and regulations. The selected vendor shall provide these policies annually as part of the Division’s contract monitoring process.

· Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP): The Vendor shall attach a Continuity of Operations (COOP) Plan. These plans are designed to guide the entire Vendor organization in the continued provision of essential operations and the re-establishment of critical business functions during and after a disaster. The selected vendor shall submit COOP Plans annually as part of the Division’s contract monitoring process.

b. Quality Assurance and Performance Measures: The Vendor is required to implement a robust quality assurance plan designed to identify, evaluate, and promptly correct deficiencies in service quality and quantity.

· Plan Components: The quality assurance plan must detail the methodology for sustaining service fidelity (i.e., reporting mechanisms, monitoring processes). It shall also establish clear performance targets and a system for evaluating, tracking, and reporting progress. Additionally, the plan must outline methods for assessing both client and stakeholder satisfaction. The selected Vendor shall submit an updated quality assurance plan annually as part of the Division’s contract monitoring process.

· Data Collection: The proposal must describe the specific procedures for collecting all metrics outlined for Component #1.

c. Work Plan Submission Requirements- The Vendor shall complete and submit a Workplan for Component #1 using the template provided as an Appendix E of this RFP. Upon award of this RFP, the Work Plan will be incorporated as an Appendix to the executed contract. The Work Plan shall include:

· Areas of Agreement: A detailed statement of agreement to service functions and requirements outlined for Component #1.

· Organizational Information: Vendor shall provide:

· Name of the organization and mission statement, emphasizing commitment to the service functions outlined in Component #1.

· Address(es) of operation, including description of how locations facilitate access for the target population.

· Operational hours and scheduling plan for project activities within the service functions.

· Implementation Plan: Vendor shall provide a comprehensive Implementation Plan in a chart format, including:

· Milestones, Target Dates, and Expected Completion Dates: Identify key milestones, target dates, and expected completion dates for all planned activities.

· Activities from Start-Up through Full Implementation: Describe activities required for each service function, including start-up tasks, recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and orientation of key staff.

· Metrics for Tracking Progress and Outcomes: Include tracking of measurable indicators outlined for Component #1.

4. Sustainability and Pricing (up to 20 points) Financial sustainability shall be evaluated by review of the following information:

· Vendor must provide a copy of the last independent A-133 audit, if it is required to conduct A-133 audit according to the federal requirements). If your A-133 audit resulted in administrative findings or corrective actions, the findings/corrective actions must be included in your submission to us along with your organization’s response to those findings. Vendors that are not subject to an A-133 Audit must submit their most recent Independent Audit/Evaluation.

· Discuss any corporate reorganization or restructuring that has occurred within the last three years and discuss how the restructuring will impact the Vendor’s ability to provide services proposed.

· The Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health reserves the right to terminate the contract, based upon merger or acquisition of the Vendor, during the contract. Vendor must include a description of any current or anticipated business or financial obligations, which will coincide with the term of the awarded RFP contract.

Pricing shall be scored based on review of the submitted Budget Workbook for Component #1 attached as Appendix F of this RFP. $390,000 is presently available for the total service execution of Component #1. Annual funding amount determination is contingent on availability of funds, funding source, and funding source priorities.

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COMPONENT #2: WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

PEER SUPPORT WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND CERTIFICATION TRAINING

Peer support services are non-clinical, strengths-based supports provided by individuals with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use challenges. These services promote recovery by fostering hope, self-determination, and community integration. Peer support is recognized as a core component of behavioral health systems. Community-based organizations led by peers are increasingly central to helping individuals navigate recovery, reduce stigma, and access natural supports.

In 2023, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), released the National Model Standards for Peer Support Certification, reinforcing the essential role of Peer Recovery Specialists within behavioral health systems. These model standards and associated core competencies establish a unified framework for effective, ethical, and recovery-oriented peer support practice.

The National Model Standards emphasize the following foundational principles that guide peer support services:

· Lived Experience: Peer support is grounded in the authentic lived experience of individuals who have navigated substance use and/or mental health challenges, providing credibility, connection, and mutual understanding.

· Hope, Recovery, and Wellness: Promoting hope and supporting recovery-oriented and wellness-focused outcomes are central tenets of peer support.

· Person-Centered and Voluntary Support: Services are driven by the individual receiving support, tailored to their goals, preferences, and strengths, and participation is entirely voluntary.

· Empowerment and Advocacy: Peer Recovery Specialists support individuals in identifying strengths, exercising self-advocacy, understanding their rights, and navigating complex behavioral health and justice systems.

The model standards further define core competency areas required for effective peer support practice:

· Ethics and Boundaries: Adherence to ethical guidelines, maintenance of professional boundaries, and the appropriate use of self-disclosure.

· Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Use of respectful, inclusive language; development of effective working relationships with individuals served and multidisciplinary teams; and application of conflict resolution techniques.

· Cultural and Structural Competence: Recognition of health disparities and systemic inequities, with demonstrated cultural humility and responsiveness in practice.

· Trauma-Informed Care: Application of trauma-informed principles, including awareness of the impacts of trauma, grief, compassion fatigue, and burnout.

· Resource Navigation: Coaching individuals in accessing community-based resources, navigating healthcare and social service systems, and building sustainable support networks.

· Wellness and Self-Care: Promotion of resiliency and modeling of self-care strategies to support peer well-being and prevent burnout and compassion fatigue.

These competencies guide training, supervision, and professional development, ensuring peer recovery specialists are equipped to support others while maintaining their own wellness.

SAMHSA defines recovery as a dynamic process through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential. Peer support plays a vital role in this journey by offering lived experience, mutual understanding, and practical guidance across SAMHSA’s four dimensions of recovery:

· Health: Peer workers model and support strategies for managing symptoms, reducing substance use, and making healthy lifestyle…