6-RFP260206 specifications.pdf

Louisville Jefferson County

Metro Government

KentuckianaWorks

Career Services for Disconnected Young Adults in Jefferson County

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

RFP # 260206

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REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Instructions to Proposers

2. Specifications

3. Evaluation Criteria

4. General Provisions

5. Hold Harmless Agreement and Indemnification Clause and Insurance Requirements

6. Human Relations Commission Required Documentation

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SECTION 1

INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

1.1. Introduction

The Louisville/Jefferson County Metro Government (“Metro Government”) is now accepting Proposals for Career Services for Disconnected Young Adults in Jefferson County.

The process of accepting Proposals and choosing the successful proposer shall be by sealed Requests for Proposals (“RFP’s”) using the competitive negotiation process under KRS 45A.370. The Metro Government, if it chooses to award a contract based on this Proposal, shall do so on the basis of the Proposal which is most advantageous to it based upon the Evaluation Criteria set forth herein.

(KRS 45A.370(5)).

The Metro Government finds that a purchase through competitive negotiation is necessary because specifications cannot be made sufficiently specific to permit an award on the basis of either the lowest bid price or the lowest evaluated bid price.

The Metro Government shall conduct written or oral discussions with all responsible proposers who submit Proposals determined in writing to be reasonably susceptible of being selected for award, except as otherwise provided by law. Where the Metro Government can clearly demonstrate and document from the existence of adequate competition or accurate prior cost experience with the particular supply, service or construction item, the Metro Government may make an award on the basis of the original submitted Proposals.

1.2. Considerations Prior to Submitting a Proposal

1.2.1. Revenue Commission

If you are a Metro Government vendor or you are doing business in Metro Louisville, you should already be registered with the Revenue Commission and have all of your required taxes paid. If you become the successful Proposer, you must be properly registered with the Revenue Commission and have all of your required taxes paid prior to the award of a contract.

You must provide your Revenue Commission Number on the Proposer Information and Proposal Signature Document, unless you do not yet have one.

Contact the Louisville Metro Revenue Commission at (502) 574-4860 for information related to obtaining an account number or verifying current compliance.

1.2.2. Human Relations Commission

There are two affirmative action requirements which apply to Metro Government Contracts: a) Affirmative Action in Employment and b) Affirmative Action in the subcontracting of Minority, Female and Handicapped-owned businesses.

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1.2.2.1. Affirmative Action in Employment

1.2.2.1.1. The Louisville Metro Human Relations Commission (“HRC”) is required determine whether contractors’ employment policies assure employment opportunities are available to all citizens without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, handicap, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, or age.

1.2.2.1.2. To make this determination, the HRC will make an inquiry of the successful Proposer pursuant to Louisville Metro Ordinances Section 37.27.

1.2.2.1.3. If you are contacted by Purchasing Division staff notifying of award, and you have not already been “HRC Prequalified”, you will need to contact the HRC at 502-574-3631 for information and assistance on procedures to follow in becoming approved and qualified.

1.2.2.1.4. Proposer acknowledges that the resulting Agreement from this RFP is subject to Louisville/Jefferson County Metro Government Ordinances §37.25-§37.36 and failure to comply with the terms of those Ordinances will be cause for suspension, termination or cancellation of a contract executed hereunder, or rejection of Proposer’s Proposal.

1.2.2.2. Affirmative Action in Subcontracting

1.2.2.2.1. Generally, either a Proposer will use subcontractors or it will do all the work itself.

1.2.2.2.2. If Not Using Subcontractors, you must complete and sign Form GFE-1, which is included with this Proposal in the HRC’s “Good Faith Efforts Requirements” document, to indicate work will be self-performed.

1.2.2.2.3. Failure to include a completed Form GFE-1 with your proposal will cause the proposal to be rejected and deemed nonresponsive.

1.2.2.2.4. If Using Subcontractors, you must follow the instructions and complete the forms in the “Good Faith Efforts Requirements” document included with this Proposal. This includes but is not limited to making the required good faith effort, as that term is defined in the document.

1.2.3. LMCO Louisville Metro Codified Ordinance Policy Certifications LMCO 112.30

1.2.3.1. Per LMCO 112.30(D):

1.2.3.1.1. Vendors who apply for business with Louisville Metro must follow the practice that initial vendor employment applications not contain a "box" or a question of inquiry on the initial application regarding an applicant's prior criminal history and applicants shall not be required to check or otherwise fill in a "box" or respond to an inquiry regarding an applicant's prior criminal history on the vendor's initial employment application, unless as otherwise provided by or required by state and federal law.

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1.2.3.1.2. Failure to adhere to this requirement shall cause your submission not to be considered for award. Louisville Metro shall retain at all times the authority to deny, rescind, revoke, terminate or not renew a contract with a vendor for failing to comply with the standards established by LMCO 112.30.

1.2.4. Requirements Regarding Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment in the workplace, per

LMCO 39.220-224:

1.2.4.1. Per LMCO 39.222: An Organization executing a contract valued at $50K or more (“Covered Entities" shall not execute any settlement agreement concerning workplace sexual assault, sexual harassment, failure to prevent same or which concern claims of retaliation against a person reporting such matters if such an agreement prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to such claims filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action.

1.2.4.2. Reporting Requirements. Per LMCO 39.221: Each covered entity shall annually report to Louisville Metro internal complaints of workplace sexual harassment and sexual assault by employees who reside or work in Louisville/Jefferson County. The report shall be submitted to the Office of Equity.

1.2.4.3. Nondisclosure Agreements. Per LMCO 39.223: No covered entity shall, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment or continued employment, require an employee to sign any agreement that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace. “Information about unlawful acts in the workplace" includes, but is not limited to, information pertaining to harassment or discrimination or any other conduct that the employee has reasonable cause to believe is unlawful.

1.3. Preferences

1.3.1. Minimum Wage Preference

1.3.1.1. Per Louisville Metro Ordinance Chapter §37.56, preferences shall be given to businesses, which provide their employees a minimum wage equal to or exceeding the minimum wage set forth in §37.55 ("minimum wage business") which is currently $10.10/hour. This minimum wage rate is the rate set by Louisville Metro Council for all full-time Louisville Metro employees.

1.3.1.2. If a business provides its employees at least $10.10/hour, regardless of location or position, the offer price in the Proposal shall be reduced by 5% for the purpose of determining which offer is most advantageous to Metro Government.

1.3.1.3. If this Proposal is for services, and the business intends to use subcontractors to perform all or part of the work required under the contract, the business shall not subcontract more than 20% of the work to non-minimum wage businesses unless such services are not available from minimum wage businesses.

1.3.1.4. If a business receives the Minimum Wage Preference and is awarded a contract under this Proposal, then it must post a sign of the $10.10 minimum wage rate in a conspicuous place and manner so as to inform employees and the public of your minimum wage policy.

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1.3.1.5. If you certify your business as a minimum wage business, are subsequently awarded a contract, and the Metro Government discovers you do not pay your employees at least $10.10 per hour, your business will be liable to the Metro Government for 30% of the amount of the contract awarded.

1.3.1.6. You must complete the Minimum Wage Preference Certification on the Proposer Information and Signature Page included in this Proposal.

1.3.2. Local Vendor Preference

The Metro Government gives Proposals submitted by local vendors a preference.

1.3.2.1. To qualify as a local vendor, a company must:

1.3.2.1.1. Be established in the Louisville Metropolitan Statistical Area (“MSA”), as defined by the United States Census Bureau for twelve (12) consecutive months.

1.3.2.1.2. Possess a current Louisville Revenue Commission account number.

1.3.2.1.3. Have its headquarters located in the Louisville MSA or have a branch office currently located in the Louisville MSA for at least twelve (12) consecutive months prior to the broadcast date of this Request for Proposal.

1.3.2.1.4. Determine whether the City or County within the Louisville MSA in which your business is located has the required reciprocal ordinance which recognizes business located within the Louisville MSA as local businesses for the purpose of a procurement preference. If that City or County does have such an ordinance, you must include a copy of that document in your response to this

RFP.

1.3.2.1.5. Utilize local businesses to furnish at least 75% of the services under a contract awarded hereunder unless such services are not available locally.

1.3.2.2. If the Metro Government determines your business is a local business, based on the standards described here, then your business shall receive a 5% reduction of the total amount you propose or 5 points added to your evaluated Proposal total, depending on the type of proposal evaluation process the Metro Government has decided to use.

1.3.2.3. If the Metro Government concludes your business is a local business for the purposes of this Proposal, and that determination is based on false information, the Proposer shall be subject to a fine equal to 25% of the price quoted in this Proposal.

1.3.2.4. Any petition challenging the designation or award of local vendor preference shall follow the procedures set forth in LMCO §37.03.

1.3.3. Kentucky Statutory Preferences

The Commonwealth of Kentucky requires the Metro Government to apply certain purchasing preferences as set forth in Kentucky Revised Statutes (“KRS”) Sections 45A.470, 45A.490, 492 and 494.

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1. Kentucky Correctional Industries: Products made by the Department of Corrections, Division of Prison Industries, shall receive a preference equal to twenty (20) percent of the maximum points awarded to a bidder in a solicitation. (KRS 45A.470, 200 KAR 5:410)

2. Qualified bidder status: Kentucky Industries for the Blind, Incorporated, any nonprofit corporation that furthers the purposes of KRS Chapter 163, or a qualified nonprofit agency for individuals with severe disabilities as described in KRS 45A.465(3) shall receive a preference equal to fifteen (15) percent of the maximum points awarded to a bidder in a solicitation.

a. A bidder claiming qualified bidder status shall submit along with its response to a solicitation a notarized affidavit which affirms that it meets the requirements to be considered a qualified bidder. The required affidavit form can be obtained by going to Metro Louisville Metro Government’s Purchase webpage:

https://louisvilleky.gov/government/management-budget/procurement.

3. Reciprocal Preference (KRS 45A.490-494)

a. KRS 45A.490 Definitions for KRS 45A.490 to 45A.494.

1. "Contract" means any agreement of a public agency, including grants and orders, for the purchase or disposal of supplies, services, construction, or any other item; and

2. "Public agency" has the same meaning as in KRS 61.805.

b. KRS 45A.492 Legislative declarations. The General Assembly declares:

1. A public purpose of the Commonwealth is served by providing preference to

Kentucky residents in contracts by public agencies; and

2. Providing preference to Kentucky residents equalizes the competition with other states that provide preference to their residents.

c. KRS 45A.494 Reciprocal preference to be given by public agencies to resident bidders -- List of states -- Administrative regulations.

1. Prior to a contract being awarded to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder on a contract by a public agency, a resident bidder of the Commonwealth shall be given a preference against a nonresident bidder registered in any state that gives or requires a preference to bidders from that state. The preference shall be equal to the preference given or required by the state of the nonresident bidder.

2. A resident bidder is an individual, partnership, association, corporation, or other business entity that, on the date the contract is first advertised or announced as available for bidding:

https://louisvilleky.gov/government/management-budget/p

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a. Is authorized to transact business in the Commonwealth; and

b. Has for one (1) year prior to and through the date of the advertisement, filed Kentucky corporate income taxes, made payments to the Kentucky unemployment insurance fund established in KRS 341.490, and maintained a Kentucky workers' compensation policy in effect.

3. A nonresident bidder is an individual, partnership, association, corporation, or other business entity that does not meet the requirements of subsection

(2) of this section.

4. If a procurement determination results in a tie between a resident bidder and a nonresident bidder, preference shall be given to the resident bidder.

5. This section shall apply to all contracts funded or controlled in whole or in part by a public agency.

6. The Finance and Administration Cabinet shall maintain a list of states that give to or require a preference for their own resident bidders, including details of the preference given to such bidders, to be used by public agencies in determining resident bidder preferences. The cabinet shall also promulgate administrative regulations in accordance with KRS Chapter 13A establishing the procedure by which the preferences required by this section shall be given.

7. The preference for resident bidders shall not be given if the preference conflicts with federal law.

8. Any public agency soliciting or advertising for bids for contracts shall make KRS 45A.490 to 45A.494 part of the solicitation or advertisement for bids.

A notarized affidavit form for Bidders, Offerors, and Contractors Claiming Resident Bidder Status can be obtained by going to Metro Louisville Metro Government’s Purchase webpage:

https://louisvilleky.gov/government/management-budget/procurement if a proposer wishes to include in their proposal. Unless there are proposal from vendors from states that have a designated percentage or point procurement preference in that state, this preference will not apply.

1.4 Proposal Submittal Requirements

1.4.1 All Proposals must be signed by a duly authorized officer, agent or employee of the Bidder

(See the “Request for Proposal Signature Page” document). Bidder promises that the individual signing the Proposal document for the Bidder has the authority to bind the Bidder.

1.4.2 Sealed Proposals will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. EST on April 20, 2026.

Louisville Metro Government uses a web-based portal for accepting and evaluating proposals digitally (https://louisvilleky.bonfirehub.com/portal). Documents may be uploaded at any https://louisvilleky.gov/government/management-budget/p

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time during the open period. We strongly recommend that you allow sufficient time to complete uploading, submit and finalize your submission before the closing deadline.

If you have any technical questions related to your submission, please contact Bonfire at Support@GoBonfire.com.

You can also visit their help forum at https://bonfirehub.zendesk.com/hc.

1.4.3 Proposals cannot be submitted through the portal after 4:00 p.m. EST on April 20, 2026.

1.4.4 Any inquiries about this RFP shall be addressed in writing on the Bonfire portal.

1.4.5 Changes, Clarifications, Errors, Addenda:

1.4.5.1 Should a prospective Proposer find a discrepancy in or omissions from the specifications or be unclear as to what the specifications mean, the Proposer shall notify Metro Purchasing through the Bonfire portal. The Buyer will provide written clarification to all prospective Proposers. Proposer agrees that the Metro Government will not be responsible for any oral instructions.

1.4.5.2 Clarification of Submittal: The Metro Government may obtain clarification or additional information from a Bidder.

1.4.5.3 Changes/Alterations: Proposer may change or withdraw its Proposal at any time prior to Proposal closing date and time.

1.4.5.4 The Proposer must respond as required in this Proposal; failure to make any required response or provide required information may cause rejection of the Proposal as nonresponsive.

1.4.5.5 Once this Proposal has been signed by Proposer and officially submitted to the Purchasing Department of the Metro Government, Proposer will not be allowed to alter or withdraw its Proposal except with the written permission of the Director of Purchasing.

1.4.5.6 Addenda: The Metro Government may issue an addendum, or addenda, changing some aspect of the Proposal. All addenda, if any, shall be considered in making the Proposal, and such addenda shall be made a part of this Proposal. Before submitting a Proposal, it is incumbent upon each Proposer to be informed as to whether any addenda have been issued, and the failure to cover in the Proposal any such addenda may result in disqualification of that Proposal.

1.4.6 The Metro Government shall not permit a Proposer to withdraw its Proposal for sixty (60) days after Proposals are opened, unless the Metro Government makes a specific exception in writing. Further, Proposal prices shall be firm for a minimum of six (6) months after the Proposal closing date.

1.4.7 Metro Government shall not be responsible for any cost incurred by the Proposer in the preparation of its Proposal.

1.4.8 If the award is divided among or between vendors, written notification will be given to each vendor of the specific items covered on their respective contracts.

1.5 Buyer Information

Name: Kim Henry Email: kim.henry@louisvilleky.gov Phone: 502-574-3491 mailto:Support@GoBonfire.com https://bonfirehub.zendesk.com/hc

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SECTION 2

SPECIFICATIONS

Career Services for Disconnected Young Adults Program Year 2026–2027

Contract Period: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027

General Proposal Information The Greater Louisville Workforce Development Board, operating as KentuckianaWorks, is seeking a qualified organization or consortium to deliver comprehensive, employment-focused career and workforce services for young adults ages 16–24 in Jefferson County, Kentucky who face significant barriers to economic self-sufficiency.

Priority populations include disconnected youth, young adults experiencing homelessness or housing instability, and justice-involved individuals. All roads in this program lead to one destination: unsubsidized job placement and long-term employment retention.

The total not-to-exceed funding available for the first year of this contract is $4 Million.

Final award amounts will be determined following proposal evaluation and board approval. Interested parties must propose to execute the full program as a single, integrated scope of work. Partial proposals covering only select program elements will not be accepted.

KentuckianaWorks strongly encourages collaborative proposals, allowing organizations with complementary expertise—such as workforce development, housing stabilization, behavioral health services, education, and case management—to partner in delivering coordinated services that effectively meet the complex needs of young adults.

The contract period will run July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, with the possibility of renewal for up to four additional one-year terms based on performance, funding availability, and regional workforce needs.

Procurement Schedule The anticipated schedule for this procurement is as follows. KentuckianaWorks reserves the right to modify this timeline if necessary.

Milestone Date/Detail RFP Issue Date Tuesday, March 24, 2026 Virtual Bidders Conference Monday, March 30, 2026, 10:30 AM Last Day for Questions Wednesday, April 2, 2026, by 4:00 PM EDST Answers Posted Tuesday, April 7, 2026 Proposals Due Monday, April 20, 2026, by 4:00 PM EDST

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Milestone Date/Detail Oral Interviews Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 1:00–4:00 PM EDST Contract Award Date Thursday, May 28, 2026 Contract Start Date Thursday, July 1, 2026

Virtual Bidders Conference Monday, March 30 · 10:30am Time zone: America/New York Google Meet joining info JoJoin with Google Meetin with Google Meet Video call link: meet.google.com/nur-oaay-wiu Or dial: 9551-375-(US) +1 401 PIN: 755 602 935#

Eligible Entities Applicants may be a for-profit, non-profit, private, or public organization. Services must be provided locally in Jefferson County, Kentucky. A single entity or consortium of entities may apply to deliver the full scope of services described in this RFP.

Should a for-profit entity (or a consortium that includes a for-profit entity) be selected, profit will be negotiated as a separate element of price not to exceed 5% of the total contract value.

A consortium application must identify a lead entity responsible for management, coordination of services, operations, financial accountability, performance measures, legal obligations, and all reporting requirements. A signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) must be included, specifying each partner's roles and responsibilities. An organization may be a member of multiple consortium applications but may not serve as the lead entity in more than one proposal.

KentuckianaWorks is especially interested in proposals from community-based organizations whose board of directors, leadership, and staff reflect and understand the communities prioritized for services in this RFP. Smaller organizations with distinct expertise in serving the target population but limited administrative or fiscal capacity are encouraged to join or form a consortium with organizations that can provide those capacities.

Introduction

About KentuckianaWorks KentuckianaWorks is the Workforce Development Board for a seven-county area in and around Louisville, Kentucky, including Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, and Trimble counties. The Board is made up of community leaders appointed https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/IZuQC31rEWuyLKJxUgfJSQ-luQ?domain=meet.google.com https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/IZuQC31rEWuyLKJxUgfJSQ-luQ?domain=meet.google.com https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/IZuQC31rEWuyLKJxUgfJSQ-luQ?domain=meet.google.com

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by local elected officials and oversees federal, state, and local workforce development funding as outlined in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Note:

While the Board's region includes seven counties, this funding opportunity applies to Jefferson County only.

WIOA charges Local Workforce Development Boards (WDB) with driving workforce strategy at the local level. Boards are business-led and include representation from core WIOA programs, labor unions, government agencies, and educational institutions or community-based organizations. WDBs promote, sustain, and grow regional economies by aligning job training investments, integrating service delivery, and ensuring that workforce investments are employer-driven and produce skilled workers.

The Board's mission is to engage employers, educators, and job seekers with resources to build a stronger community through the dignity of work that satisfies needs, creates value, and inspires hope. Our vision is a fully prepared and engaged workforce aligned with the needs of employers. For more information, including KentuckianaWorks' latest annual report and Local Plan, visit www.kentuckianaworks.org.

By regulation, the Board contracts for workforce services rather than functioning as a direct service provider. The Board will work with the awarded service provider in an administrative capacity to ensure contract execution and compliance with Board, federal, state, and local policies through leadership, direction, guidance, technical assistance, and oversight.

KentuckianaWorks' Commitment to Disconnected Youth

KentuckianaWorks has demonstrated a strong, long-standing commitment to serving disconnected youth for more than 25 years, leveraging private, city, state, and federal funding to support this mission. Since 2009, KentuckianaWorks has served more than 6,500 participants, helping over 1,800 earn GEDs or occupational credentials and placing nearly 2,500 into employment.

This work is further strengthened through active engagement at both the national and local levels. KentuckianaWorks is a member of the National Youth Employment Coalition (NYEC), connecting to best practices, policy insights, and innovation in youth workforce development. Locally, KentuckianaWorks collaborates with a broad network of community partners, service providers, and public agencies to ensure coordinated, impactful services for young people across the region.

Background KentuckianaWorks, in alignment with WIOA's broad youth vision, is committed to providing high-quality career services for youth—from career exploration and guidance through educational attainment, skill training, work-based learning, and culminating in employment. Bidders are encouraged to review the following U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration guidance letters:

http://www.kentuckianaworks.org/

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● TEGL 23-14: WIOA Youth Program Transition (March 2015): Topics covered in this TEGL include the out-of-school youth expenditure requirement, youth standing committees, and resources for serving in-school youth.

● TEGL 08-15: Second Title I WIOA Youth Program Transition Guidance (November 2015): Topics covered in this TEGL include eligibility, youth standing committees, the work experience expenditure requirement, and partner programs.

● TEGL 21-16: Third WIOA Title I Youth Formula Program Guidance (March 2017): Topics covered in this TEGL include eligibility, program design, competitive procurement, and the 14 program elements.

● Training and Employment Guidance Letter (TEGL) 10-16, Change 3: Performance Accountability Guidance for WIOA Core Programs

KentuckianaWorks' Youth and Young Adult Portfolio In support of this vision, KentuckianaWorks oversees a portfolio of initiatives to prepare and support the region’s youth and young adults. This includes the Academies of Louisville model in partnership with Jefferson County Public Schools and One Louisville (formerly Greater Louisville, Inc.), the SummerWorks program, and youth-centric career centers—the Spot—specifically designed for populations facing multiple barriers to success. Most recently, KentuckianaWorks launched After the Tassel, a program working with graduating seniors at 11 JCPS high schools who do not plan to pursue college upon graduation, helping them transition directly into quality employment and launch their careers.

Youth-Centric Career Centers and Target Populations KentuckianaWorks oversees and guides the Spot-Young Adult Opportunity Center, a youth-specific career center serving three distinct populations, each with unique needs and dedicated funding streams:

• Disconnected Youth — Career services authorized by WIOA Youth formula funds, primarily targeting 18- to 24-year-old out-of-school youth facing barriers to economic independence, also enhanced by Louisville Metro Government funding.

• Homeless Youth — Career services through the Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP), targeting young adults 18 to 24 experiencing homelessness, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through Louisville's Continuum of Care process.

• Justice System-Involved Youth — Career services through the Reimage program targeting youth and young adults ages 16 to 24 involved with the criminal justice system, funded by Louisville Metro Government.

Guiding Principles for Services at the Spot

Positive Youth Development https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/advisories/training-and-employment-guidance-letter-no-23-14 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/advisories/training-and-employment-guidance-letter-no-08-15 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/advisories/training-and-employment-guidance-letter-no-08-15 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/advisories/training-and-employment-guidance-letter-no-21-16 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/advisories/tegl-10-16-change-3 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/advisories/tegl-10-16-change-3

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In addition to providing career services, a core goal of Spot programming is to foster resiliency among the young people we serve. KentuckianaWorks embraces a positive youth development approach, which intentionally engages youth in their communities, schools, organizations, peer groups, and families in ways that are both productive and constructive. This approach recognizes and builds upon young people’s strengths while promoting positive outcomes through meaningful opportunities, supportive relationships, and leadership development.

This framework views young people not as problems to be fixed, but as assets to be nurtured and developed. Successful applicants should demonstrate a strong understanding of this approach, as reflected in both their staffing plan and proposed service design.

Trauma-Informed and Culturally Responsive Care A core tenant of Spot programming is addressing the trauma burden many of our young people carry. Because our programs serve young people facing multiple barriers to economic stability, most participants have experienced trauma stemming from poverty, homelessness, justice system involvement, foster care, community violence, interpersonal violence, or family instability. Research documents that trauma and adverse childhood experiences significantly affect an individual's ability to focus on education, training, and career progress—and also that with appropriate supports and interventions, people can overcome trauma and thrive.

Spot programming acknowledges the range of social challenges many of our participants navigate, given that we serve a majority Black population in a city where documented disparities in systems—including education, criminal justice, employment, housing, and healthcare—shape life outcomes. Service delivery at the Spot will provide a safe and affirming space where these realities can be acknowledged and addressed, with tools and activities that support healing, empowerment, and forward progress.

Applicants will be expected to provide trauma-informed care and culturally responsive services. Successful applicants will demonstrate an understanding of these approaches in their staffing arrangements and proposed service design. All applicants must also address the provision of integrated mental and behavioral health services as part of their program.

Service Area, Locations, and Operations Work performed under this solicitation must adhere to the following operational requirements:

Operational Requirement

Description

Service Area Louisville/Jefferson County, KY. Participants reside throughout Jefferson County, with the majority in low-income neighborhoods. In the current program year 2025- 26, the majority of participants live in downtown and west end ZIP codes (46.1%), RFP # 260206 15

Operational Requirement

Description south end ZIP codes (26.3%), or ZIP codes in the Buechel/Newburg community (8%).

Main Service Location

The Spot's main service location is currently in downtown Louisville at 216 W.

Chestnut St., Louisville, KY 40202. There is also a smaller Spot outpost in Shively at Southland Terrace—3965 S. 7th Street Rd., Louisville, KY 40216. Both locations are accessible by public transit and include a small computer lab. If the applicant wishes to operate at a different owned or leased location, the applicant should outline their reasoning and list associated costs in a budget addendum as a separate cost item not included in the total funding outlined in this RFP.

KentuckianaWorks will negotiate alternative locations and costs with the successful applicant.

Satellite Service Locations

Service providers are expected to maintain a community footprint by providing mobile service delivery at sites accessible to our target populations and where partners have agreed to host program staff. Applicants should propose predetermined arrangements or ideas for community-based service delivery beyond the current Spot locations.

Schedule of Operation

Service providers are expected to operate year-round at full staff capacity. All staff are expected to work 12 months per year at approximately 40 hours per week with normal vacation and time-off schedules. The needs of the young adults we serve do not conform to school calendars or traditional schedules.

Hours of Operation

In addition to normal business hours, service providers are expected to offer programming on a regular basis during non-traditional hours, including evenings and weekends. Applicants should propose a schedule of operations that explicitly outlines non-traditional hours of availability.

Program Layout Applicants must ensure that main service locations are youth-friendly—e.g., welcoming entrance, non-institutional layout, inclusive imagery, and celebration of participants' achievements.

Safety Services must be delivered in a safe, supportive environment where young people feel free to explore ideas, express emotions, and disclose personal circumstances.

Each applicant must establish clear discipline procedures with defined consequences for policy violations.

Confidentiality Applicants must protect the confidentiality of participants' personally identifiable information. Records must be stored securely. Visual and auditory privacy must be ensured for sensitive conversations. Participants must be informed of their rights, the conditions under which their information may be shared with relevant staff, and the applicant's obligation to notify authorities and KentuckianaWorks if a participant indicates intent to harm themselves or others.

Staff Representation

Applicants should staff the program with individuals who reflect the lived experiences of the populations served—often referred to as 'credible messengers'—who can build authentic trust and connection with participants. For justice-involved programming, proposers must demonstrate the capacity to hire staff with prior justice system involvement.

Scope of Work

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This solicitation seeks a single, integrated proposal to deliver the full program of career and employment services described below. There are no separate components from which bidders may choose. Interested parties must propose to execute all program elements as one unified scope of work. The overarching objective of every service and activity within this program is job placement—specifically, placement into quality, unsubsidized employment with opportunities for career advancement and long-term economic self-sufficiency.

All service pathways—career readiness, work-based learning, occupational training, case management, mental and behavioral health services, and follow-up—are designed to converge on a single outcome: connecting young adults to good jobs and supporting them in staying employed. Bidders should design their programs with this north star in mind.

KentuckianaWorks seeks a partner capable of delivering holistic, wraparound workforce services under the banner of the Spot. The foundation of the Spot programming is strong case management and coaching from caring staff members, together with referrals to community partners to meet participant needs not provided directly. See the attached Theory of Change model for a conceptual framework of service delivery at the Spot.

There is no set timeframe for participation in Spot programs, and program exit is not linked to the timing of contracts or program years. Services must be offered for the time necessary to ensure each participant's successful transition to unsubsidized employment. The length of program participation varies widely, and many participants carry over from one program year into the next. Applicants should plan to serve all carryover participants who are still active as of June 30, 2026, as well as targeted new enrollees throughout the program year.

Target Populations Disconnected and Homeless Youth (WIOA Youth Formula and YHDP) The Spot provides career services authorized by WIOA Youth Formula Funds for out-of-school youth (OSY) ages 18 to 24. Per federal regulations, a minimum of 75 percent of WIOA Youth funds must be spent on OSY; KentuckianaWorks' programs well exceed this threshold. Under limited circumstances, in-school youth (ISY) may also be served with advance consent from KentuckianaWorks.

Recent U.S. Census Bureau data from the American Community Survey (ACS) indicate the scale of need. Based on the most recent 5-year estimates, approximately 14,000– 17,000 youth ages 16 to 24 in the Louisville/Jefferson County area are neither enrolled in school nor participating in the labor force, representing roughly 12–13% of the population in this age group. Young adults experiencing housing instability represent a significant share of Spot participants. Applicants should plan to enroll at least 100 new WIOA Youth participants and up to 25 new YHDP participants during the program year, in addition to supporting carryover enrollees (subject to change based on available funds and contractual requirements).

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For YHDP participants, housing stability must be the initial priority. Once housing is secured through the Coordinated Entry Process and Common Assessment, services should focus on activities that support long-term stability and positive employment outcomes. YHDP staffing is fixed at 1.5 FTEs. Bidders must demonstrate active participation in Louisville/Jefferson County's Continuum of Care managed by the Coalition for the Homeless.

Justice System-Involved Youth (Reimage Program)

The Reimage program serves youth and young adults ages 16 to 24 with past or current involvement in the juvenile or adult justice system. Documented involvement at the misdemeanor, Class B (with judge’s referral), Class C, or Class D felony level is required. Reimage enrollment is not open to individuals convicted of crimes involving children, sexual assault, or a sexual motive (excluding prostitution) unless charges are part of a juvenile record.

Applicants must staff the Reimage program with credible messengers—individuals who share lived experiences with the target population or who have themselves been involved with the justice system and can build authentic trust and motivation. Bidders must provide a letter from the organization’s Executive Director confirming Human Resources policies that allow for the hiring of staff with justice system involvement, provided that involvement does not have a direct negative bearing on job performance.

Hiring parameters will be finalized during contract negotiations.

While final performance metrics for FY27 are still being determined, bidders should plan based on historical program expectations. This includes serving approximately 75 new Reimage enrollees during the program year (subject to change based on final contract requirements). Program design should address both younger participants (ages 16–18, with an emphasis on re-engagement in education and career awareness) and older participants (ages 18–24, with an emphasis on training, work experience, and placement into stable employment).

This solicitation also includes one year of follow-up services for approximately 125 exited from other areas of programming through April 2027. Follow-up services include monthly contact, job retention support, career advancement activities, recidivism prevention, and alumni engagement.

Program Services and Activities The following table outlines all required program elements and the cost-sharing arrangement between the contractor and KentuckianaWorks. Bidders should NOT include in their budget items identified as KentuckianaWorks' responsibility.

KentuckianaWorks will fund participant wages/stipends for work experience and direct supportive services payments; the contractor is responsible for all other staffing and program delivery costs.

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Program Requirement

Description Contractor Budget

KentuckianaWorks Budget

Outreach, Recruitment & Orientation

Outreach to identify and recruit target populations through print, electronic, and social media campaigns, and partnerships with agencies in contact with the target population. Comprehensive orientation for potential participants.

✔ (staff, community events)

✔ (print, social media materials)

Eligibility Determination & Enrollment

Determine eligibility of recruited youth.

Collect and verify source documents.

Make referrals for youth who do not qualify.

Assessment & Individual Service Strategy

(ISS)

Conduct objective assessment covering academic skills, occupational skills, prior experience, employability, interests, strengths, and needs. Develop an ISS jointly with each participant tailored to their circumstances, outlining short- and long-term goals, service activities, and timelines. The ISS is a living document updated throughout participation.

Ongoing Coaching & Case Management

Connect participants to services and activities that facilitate goal achievement.

Encourage persistence, problem-solve barriers, and provide warm referrals to resources. This process extends from recruitment through follow-up. Case management is the connective tissue linking every service to the goal of job placement.

Career Readiness & Employment Services

Career readiness training including career awareness activities, labor market information, resume/interview/job search/application assistance, and financial literacy. A more in-depth professional development curriculum for work experience participants. Direct job placement assistance, leveraging KentuckianaWorks' Business Services team and partner providers. Job placement is the primary and explicit goal of all career readiness activities.

Work-Based Learning & Internship Program

A planned, structured learning experience in a workplace for a limited period.

Categories include: (1) summer and year-round employment opportunities; (2) pre-apprenticeship programs; (3) internships and job shadows; (4) on-the-job training.

WIOA requires a minimum of 20% of non-administrative Youth funds be spent on work experience. Bidders must operate a

✔ (staff) ✔ (participant wages)

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Requirement

Description Contractor Budget

KentuckianaWorks Budget robust internship program, engage employers to recruit quality worksites in high-demand industries, develop worksite agreements, and provide support during placements. KentuckianaWorks utilizes a staffing firm as employer of record and payroll provider for interns; approximately $150,000 is available for participant wages in work experience.

Occupational Skills Training

Referrals and support for short-term occupational training resulting in an industry-recognized credential (e.g., construction, manufacturing, IT, community college CTE, YouthBuild, Job Corps). All training costs are funded through KentuckianaWorks or other sources such as Pell grants—not from the contractor's budget.

(coordination and support, no direct instruction funded)

✔ (all training costs)

Education Services

Referrals and support for secondary (HSD/GED) and post-secondary (AA, BA) education. Awareness of post-secondary options and bridging support. Education costs funded through KentuckianaWorks or other sources—not from the contractor's budget.

(coordination , no direct instruction funded)

✔ (all education costs)

Leadership Development Activities

Activities that build confidence, responsibility, employability, and self-determination. May include peer-centered activities, community service learning, civic engagement, and youth leadership opportunities. All leadership development activities should be framed as building the personal assets participants need to succeed and advance in employment.

Supportive Services

Assistance with transportation, housing, child care, food, health care, legal aid, and costs associated with school/training/employment entry (uniforms, tools, test fees, etc.). Contractor staff manage referrals and identify needs;

KentuckianaWorks makes direct payments via vouchers.

(coordination

✔ (direct payments to vendors)

Incentive Payments

Incentives for participant achievement of milestones tied to work experience, education, or training. Incentives may not be used for recruitment or basic participation. Currently issued as gift cards by the contractor.

✔ (contractor administers)

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Requirement

Description Contractor Budget

KentuckianaWorks Budget

Transition & 12- Month Follow-Up Services

Upon successful transition to employment or post-secondary education/training, all participants must be offered 12 months of follow-up services. Follow-up supports retention in employment, professional development, alumni engagement, and— for justice-involved participants— recidivism prevention. Employment retention and advancement are the ultimate measures of success.

Integrated Mental & Behavioral Health Services

Mental and behavioral health services infused into workforce activities and available as stand-alone offerings.

Services must be trauma-informed and responsive to the experiences of the populations served. Topics may include:

trauma and resiliency; healthy relationships; cognitive and behavioral skill-building; identity and social navigation;

and culturally grounded healing practices.

Services may be delivered directly by the bidder (with demonstrated expertise) or through a qualified partner or subcontractor. Participants with serious or extensive mental health needs should be referred to community providers for longer-term treatment.

Staff Professional Development

Ongoing training for all staff in positive youth development, trauma-informed care, and culturally responsive service delivery.

Bidders must submit a professional development plan.

Strong Partnerships

Partnerships are required for recruitment, referrals to education/training/employment, wraparound support, and employer engagement. Participation in broader youth initiatives including those led by the Coalition Supporting Young Adults and Metro's Office of Youth Development is expected.

Contractor-led

Contractor-led

Employer Engagement and Job Placement Strategy Job placement is the central purpose and defining measure of success for this program.

Bidders must articulate a robust, specific strategy for connecting participants to unsubsidized employment. This strategy should include:

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• A clear plan for developing and maintaining relationships with employers in high-demand industries willing to hire and retain participants from the target populations

• A description of how staff will provide job development services—actively marketing participants to employers, facilitating introductions, negotiating job placements, and supporting both employer and participant through the onboarding process

• A plan for addressing employment barriers related to criminal records, including knowledge of industry-specific hiring standards and partnerships with employers who practice fair-chance hiring

• A description of how the program will support job retention and career advancement after initial placement, including a 12-month follow-up service plan

• Participation in KentuckianaWorks' Business Services team and coordination with other regional workforce system partners

Bidders should demonstrate existing employer relationships and include letters of commitment or MOUs from key employer partners where available.

Performance Expectations Bidders are expected to meet negotiated performance targets aligned with WIOA federal performance indicators. KentuckianaWorks has negotiated the following baseline targets with the Kentucky Education & Workforce Cabinet for the past two program years:

Youth Measure PY24 (FY25) PY25 (FY26) Employment Rate – 2nd Quarter After Exit 75.00% 76.00% Employment Rate – 4th Quarter After Exit 74.00% 75.00% Median Quarterly Earnings (2nd Quarter After Exit)

$5,035 $5,035

Credential Attainment within 4 Quarters After Exit

66.00% 67.00%

Measurable Skill Gains 50.00% 50.00%

In addition, KentuckianaWorks will establish real-time performance measures to track service activity and outcomes, including:

• Minimum expenditure thresholds for work-based learning activities

• Participation rates in training, work-based learning, and leadership development

• Job placement rates into unsubsidized employment

• Employment retention rates at 30, 60, 90, and 180 days post-placement

• Median earnings at placement and at 6 months

• Credential attainment rates

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• Recidivism rates for justice-involved participants

• Monthly contact rates for YHDP and Compass Rose follow-up participants

Details will be finalized during contract negotiations with the successful applicant.

Bidders should propose measurable performance targets in their proposals, demonstrating ambition and accountability.

Additional Contractor Responsibilities

Data Systems Service providers are expected to utilize case management database(s) for regular data entry. Database(s) will be provided by KentuckianaWorks, its funding partners, or both.

Ke…