DISC 1221 Attachment 3 - References LOCKED.docx

This is a references attachment for a Discretionary Opportunity (DISC) 1221 announcement issued by the New York State Office of Children & Family Services (OCFS) for Post-Release Support Services in Erie and Niagara Counties. The attachment specifies mandatory submission requirements for applicant organizations seeking to provide youth services in the form of post-release support, mentoring, or juvenile justice-related programming. Applicants must provide at least three professional references from organizations or partners with which they have collaborated on similar youth services within the past two years. Each reference submission must include the contact person's name and title, the organization's name and complete address, telephone number, email address, period of services provided, and a detailed description of the services rendered.

The referenced DISC 1221 opportunity focuses on supporting the successful reintegration and stabilization of youth transitioning from residential placement under OCFS custody back into the community in Erie and Niagara Counties, including those already residing in these counties under conditional release or aftercare. Post-release support typically lasts four to five months on average, and OCFS prioritizes community-based, culturally and linguistically responsive, trauma-informed services designed to reduce recidivism and promote positive development. The solicitation emphasizes the need for innovative interventions addressing the significant challenges these youth face, including exposure to gang involvement, human trafficking, severe trauma, and limited access to traditional community supports such as educational and vocational opportunities.