DMHAS-EBP-CIT-2026 Legal Notice 1.29.26.pdf

STATE OF CONNECTICUT STANDARD RFP FOR PSA PROCUREMENTS DMHAS-EBP-CIT-2026

STATE OF CONNECTICUT PROCUREMENT NOTICE

Request for Proposals (RFP)

Issued by the State of Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

(DMHAS)

Evidence Based Practices Crisis Intervention Team Training Provider

(DMHS-EBP-CIT-2026)

RFP Release DATE: January 29, 2026

The Request for Proposal is available in electronic format on the State

Contracting Portal by filtering by Organization for the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard or from the Agency’s Official Contact:

Name: Stacey Hubert Address: 410 Capitol Avenue Hartford, CT 06106

Phone: (860) 418-6640 E-Mail: DMHAS.FiscalContracts@ct.gov

The RFP is also available on the Department’s website at:

https://portal.ct.gov/dmhas/rfps/index/rfps-and-rfqs

RESPONSES MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN

March 26, 2026, 3:00 PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME (EST)

A MANDATORY BIDDERS’ CONFERENCE WILL BE HELD

Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 10:00 AM EST

DMHAS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

The Agency reserves the right to reject any and all submissions or cancel this procurement at any time if deemed in the best interest of the State of Connecticut (State).

https://biznet.ct.gov/SCP_Search/BidResults.aspx https://biznet.ct.gov/SCP_Search/BidResults.aspx https://portal.ct.gov/dmhas/rfps/index/rfps-and-rfqs

Table of Contents

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

A. INTRODUCTION

B. INSTRUCTIONS

II. PURPOSE OF RFP AND SCOPE OF SERVICES

A. AGENCY OVERVIEW

B. PROGRAM OVERVIEW

C. SCOPE OF SERVICE DESCRIPTION

D. PERFORMANCE MEASURES

E. CONTRACT MANAGEMENT/DATA REPORTING

III. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION OVERVIEW

A. SUBMISSION FORMAT INFORMATION

B. EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS

IV. REQUIRED PROPOSAL SUBMISSION OUTLINE AND REQUIREMENTS .. 23

A: Cover Sheet B: Table of Contents C: Proposer Executive Summary

D: Main Proposal Submission Requirements To Submit a Responsive Proposal: 24 E: Attachments

F: Declaration of Confidential Information G: Conflict of Interest – Disclosure Statement H: Statement of Assurances

V. MANDATORY PROVISIONS

A. PSA STANDARD CONTRACT PROVISIONS

B. ASSURANCES

C. TERMS AND CONDITIONS

D. RIGHTS RESERVED TO THE STATE

E. STATUTORY AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

VI. APPENDIX

A. ABBREVIATIONS / ACRONYMS / DEFINITIONS

B. STATEMENT OF ASSURANCES

C. REQUIRED LETTER OF INTENT

D. COVER SHEET

E. BUDGET AND BUDGET NARRATIVE

F. Acknowledgement of Contract Compliance – Notification to Bidders G. Campaign Contribution Certification

H. PROPOSAL CHECKLIST

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

A. INTRODUCTION

1. RFP Name and Number. Evidence Based Practices Request for Proposals (DMHAS-EBP-CIT-2026). The name and number will be used on the packaging if applicable and the cover sheet of proposals submitted in response to this RFP.

2. RFP Summary. The State of Connecticut (CT), represented by the Department of

Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS, Agency, or the Department), is soliciting proposals from qualified independent organizations (hereinto referred as the Contractor and/or Respondent) to provide Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training. DMHAS is the primary funding entity for CIT Training for law enforcement in CT. CIT Training aims to provide a comprehensive training program that includes education, tools and resources for local/municipal and state (State Troopers) law enforcement, first responders, and behavioral health clinicians on how to interact and engage with individuals who may be experiencing a behavioral health (mental health and/or substance use) crisis. DMHAS seeks to continue to fund a statewide CIT Training program to improve the way law enforcement responds to individuals experiencing mental health and/or addiction crisis, their families, and other partners.

3. RFP Purpose. To establish and implement a comprehensive statewide CIT

Training program for law enforcement, first responders, and behavioral health clinicians.

4. Commodity Codes. The services that the Agency wishes to procure through this

RFP are as follows:

• 46000000: Law Enforcement

• 80172100: Issues and Crisis Management Services

• 85000000: Healthcare Services

• 86000000: Education and Training

• 93000000: Politics and Civic Affairs Services

• 93140000: Community and Social Services

B. INSTRUCTIONS

1. Official Contact. The Agency has designated the individual below as the Official Contact for purposes of this RFP. The Official Contact is the only authorized contact for this procurement and, as such, handles all related communications on behalf of the Agency. Proposers, prospective proposers, and other interested parties are advised that any communication with any other Agency employee(s) (including appointed officials) or personnel under contract to the Agency about this RFP is strictly prohibited. Proposers or prospective proposers who violate this instruction may risk disqualification from further consideration.

Name: Stacey Hubert Address: 410 Capitol Avenue

Hartford, CT 06106 Phone: (860) 418-6640 E-Mail: DMHAS.FiscalContracts@ct.gov mailto:DMHAS.FiscalContracts@ct.gov

Please ensure that e-mail screening software (if used) recognizes and accepts e-mails from the Official Contact.

2. Registering with State Contracting Portal. Respondents must register with the

State of CT contracting portal at: https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/Registration if not already registered.

Respondents must submit the following information pertaining to this RFP with your proposal:

a. Secretary of State recognition – onlineBusinessSearch (ct.gov)

b. Non-profit status, if applicable

c. Notification to Bidders, Parts I-V https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/chro/cc-documents/notificationtobidderspdf.pdf

d. Campaign Contribution Certification (OPM Ethics Form 1):

https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Fin-PSA/Forms/Ethics-Forms

3. RFP Information. The RFP, amendments to the RFP, and other information associated with this procurement are available in electronic format from the Official Contact or from the Internet at the following locations:

a. Agency’s RFP Web Page https://portal.ct.gov/DMHAS/RFPs/Index/RFPs-and-RFQs

b. State Contracting Portal (go to CTSource bid board, filter by DMHAS

It is strongly recommended that any proposer or prospective proposer interested in this procurement check the Bid Board for any solicitation changes. Interested proposers may receive additional e-mails from CTsource announcing addendums that are posted on the portal. This service is provided as a courtesy to assist in monitoring activities associated with State procurements, including this RFP.

4. Procurement Schedule. See below. Dates after the due date for proposals

(“Proposals Due”) are non-binding target dates only (*). The Agency may amend the schedule as needed. Any change to non-target dates will be made by means of an amendment to this RFP and will be posted on the State Contracting Portal and, if available, the Agency’s RFP Web Page.

RFP Released 1/29/2026

Required Letter of Intent Due 2/12/2026 by 3:00 PM EST

Mandatory RFP/Bidder’s Conference Date 2/26/2026 at 10:00 AM EST

Deadline for Questions 3/05/2026 by 3:00 PM EST

Answers Released 3/12/2026 by 3:00 PM EST

Proposals Due 3/26/2026 by 3:00 PM EST

(*) Proposer Selection TBD

(*) Start of Contract Negotiations TBD

(*) Start of Contract 7/01/2026

5. Contract Awards. The award of any contract pursuant to this RFP is dependent upon the availability of funding to the Agency. The Agency anticipates the following:

• Total Funding Available: $918,300.00

• Number of Awards: One (1) award https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/Registration https://service.ct.gov/business/s/onlinebusinesssearch?language=en_US https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/chro/cc-documents/notificationtobidderspdf.pdf https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/chro/cc-documents/notificationtobidderspdf.pdf https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Fin-PSA/Forms/Ethics-Forms https://portal.ct.gov/DMHAS/RFPs/Index/RFPs-and-RFQs

• Contract Cost: $306,100.00 (annually)

• Contract Term: 3-year term. DMHAS has the right to extend this contract based on funding availability.

• Funding Source: State Funds

6. Eligibility. Private provider organizations (defined as non-state entities that are either nonprofit or proprietary corporations or partnerships), and municipalities are eligible to submit proposals in response to this RFP. Individuals who are not a duly formed business entity are ineligible to participate in this procurement.

7. Minimum Qualifications of Proposers. To qualify for a contract award, a proposer must have the following minimum qualifications:

• Experience providing training in the CIT Model.

• Must currently be trained by CIT International as a Train-the-Trainer or must complete the CIT International Train-the-Trainer course within six (6) months of award announcement.

• Experience working with the Connecticut Behavioral Health System.

• Experience working with local and state law enforcement agencies.

• Registered to do business in the State of CT (the office of the Secretary of the

State) onlineBusinessSearch (ct.gov).

8. An Electronic Letter of Intent. An Electronic Letter of Intent (LOI) is required to respond to this RFP. The LOI is non-binding and does not obligate the sender to submit a proposal. The LOI must be submitted to the Official Contact by e-mail by the deadline established in the Procurement Schedule. The LOI must clearly identify the sender, including name, postal address, telephone number, and e-mail address. It is the sender’s responsibility to confirm the Agency’s receipt of the LOI.

Failure to submit the required LOI in accordance with the requirements set forth herein shall result in disqualification from further consideration. Proposers should complete and use the Letter of Intent form provided by the Agency in Section VI. Appendix, C. Required Letter of Intent.

9. Inquiry Procedures. All questions regarding this RFP or the Agency’s procurement process must be directed, in writing, electronically, (e-mail) to the Official Contact before the deadline specified in the Procurement Schedule. The early submission of questions is encouraged. Questions will not be accepted or answered verbally – neither in person nor over the telephone. All questions received before the deadline(s) will be answered. However, the Agency will not answer questions when the source is unknown (i.e., nuisance or anonymous questions). Questions deemed unrelated to the RFP or the procurement process will not be answered. At its discretion, the Agency may or may not respond to questions received after the deadline. If this RFP requires a Letter of Intent, the Agency reserves the right to answer questions only from those who have submitted such a letter. The Agency may combine similar questions and give only one answer. All questions and answers will be compiled into a written amendment to this RFP. If any answer to any question constitutes a material change to the RFP, the question and answer will be placed at the beginning of the amendment and duly noted as such.

The agency will release the answers to questions on the date(s) established in the

Procurement Schedule. The Agency will publish any and all amendments to this https://service.ct.gov/business/s/onlinebusinesssearch?language=en_US

RFP on the State Contracting Portal and, if available, on the Agency’s RFP Web Page.

At its discretion, the Agency may distribute any amendments to this RFP to prospective proposers who submitted a Letter of Intent or attended the RFP Conference.

10. Virtual RFP Conference. A mandatory virtual RFP Bidder’s conference will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM EST. Invitations will be forwarded to prospective proposers who sent in the Required Letter of Intent.

Prospective proposers will be provided an opportunity to submit questions via email to DMHAS.FiscalContracts@ct.gov. All questions submitted will be answered in a written Addendum to this RFP, which will serve as the Department’s official response. If any answer to any question constitutes a material change to the RFP, the question and answer will be placed at the beginning of the Addendum and duly noted as such. The agency will release the Addendum on the date established in the Procurement Schedule. The Department will publish any and all Addenda.

11. Electronic Proposal Due Date and Time. The Official Contact is the only authorized recipient of proposals submitted in response to this RFP. Proposals must be received by the Official Contact on or before the due date and time:

• Due Date: March 26, 2026

• Time: 3:00 PM EST

Proposals received after the due date and time will be ineligible and will not be evaluated. The Agency will send an official letter alerting late respondents of ineligibility. Do not submit proposals via CTSource.

An acceptable submission must include the following:

a. One (1) conforming electronic copy of the original proposal.

b. The proposal must be complete, properly formatted and outlined, and ready for evaluation by the Screening Committee.

c. The electronic copy of the proposal must be emailed to the official agency contact for this procurement. The subject line of the email must read: DMHAS- EBP-CIT-2026. Required forms and appendices may be scanned and submitted as PDFs at the end of the main proposal document. Please ensure the entire email submission is less than 25MB as this reflects The Agency’s server limitations. Respondents should work to ensure there are not additional IT limitations from the provider side.

12. Multiple Proposals. The submission of multiple proposals is not an option for this procurement.

II. PURPOSE OF RFP AND SCOPE OF SERVICES

A. AGENCY OVERVIEW

The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) promotes and administers comprehensive, recovery-oriented services in the areas of mental health treatment and substance use treatment throughout Connecticut.

While the Department’s services serve all Connecticut citizens, its mandate is to serve adults (over 18 years of age) with psychiatric or substance use disorders, or both, who lack the financial means to obtain such services on their own. DMHAS also provides collaborative programs for individuals with special needs, such as persons with HIV/AIDS infection, people in the criminal justice system, those with problem gambling disorders, pregnant and parenting women with substance use disorders, persons with traumatic brain injury or hearing impairment, those with co-occurring substance use and mental illness, and special population transitioning out of the Department of Children and Families.

DMHAS operates on the belief that people with mental illnesses and/or substance use disorders can and should be treated in community settings, and that inpatient treatment should be used when absolutely necessary to meet the best interests of the individual. Effective care requires that services such as residential, supportive, rehabilitative and crisis intervention programs are available within their local communities. DMHAS is responsible for providing a wide range of services to adults in each of the five human service Regions in Connecticut.

Department Mission

“To promote the overall health and wellness of persons with behavioral health needs through integrated network of holistic, comprehensive, effective, and efficient services and supports that foster dignity, respect, and self-sufficiency in those we serve.”

B. PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The State of Connecticut, represented by DMHAS, in its effort to successfully implement a comprehensive CIT Statewide Model including CIT training, collaboration and partnerships with community members, requests proposals from qualified CIT trained entities to provide submissions that effectively describe a plan to provide CIT Training statewide to law enforcement officers, first responders and behavioral health clinicians.

The CIT model, known as the "Memphis Model" was first developed in 1988 and since has spread throughout the United States and worldwide. The CIT Model is a collaborative approach to safely and effectively address the needs of persons with mental health and/or substance use conditions. The prospective contractor shall provide a comprehensive CIT Training Statewide Program that aims to improve the way law enforcement and the community respond to individuals experiencing mental health and/or addiction crisis, their families, and other partners.

CIT Training is a law enforcement-based crisis intervention training on interacting with persons in distress and/or crisis using de-escalation techniques and providing linkage to appropriate care that may result in diversion from being hospitalized and/or arrested/incarcerated. According to research, CIT training can be considered an Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) for improving officers’ cognitive and attitudinal outcomes, including knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy. Additionally, evidence supports CIT as an EBP for officers’ behavioral intentions and decision-making.

The statewide CIT Statewide Model and Training is designed to equip law enforcement officers, first responders, dispatch/911, mental health professionals, and other relevant stakeholders with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to effectively respond to individuals in crisis. First responders are defined as personnel who are the initial providers of emergency services, including police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics. Other relevant stakeholders may include 911 dispatch, college safety personnel, judicial marshals, and others. This program will be implemented across all regions within the state, ensuring that law enforcement personnel are trained to handle situations involving mental health crises, substance abuse, and other behavioral health issues in a safe and compassionate manner.

1. Program Outcome Goals:

a. To improve safety during law enforcement encounters with people experiencing a mental health and/or substance use crisis, for everyone involved;

b. To increase connections to effective and timely mental health and/or substance use services for people experiencing a mental health and/or substance use crisis;

c. To use law enforcement strategically during crisis situations – such as when there is an imminent threat of safety or a criminal concern – and increase the role of mental health professionals, peer support specialists, and other community supports;

d. To reduce the trauma that people experience during a mental health and/or substance use crisis and thus contribute to their long-term recovery.

2. Target Population:

The target population for the 40-hour CIT training consists of local and state law enforcement personnel who serve on the front lines of public safety. This includes patrol officers, supervisors, dispatchers, and specialized units who routinely interact with individuals experiencing mental health crises. These professionals represent municipal police departments, state police agencies, and other law‑enforcement entities responsible for emergency response, community engagement, and crisis stabilization. By focusing on both local and state police, the program aims to create a consistent, coordinated approach to crisis response across jurisdictions, improving safety outcomes for officers, individuals in crisis, and the broader community.

The target population for this Dispatch/911 Training initiative is Public Safety

Answering Points (PSAPs), including call‑takers, dispatchers, supervisors, and related communications personnel responsible for receiving and managing emergency and non‑emergency calls. These professionals serve as the first point of contact in crisis situations and play a critical role in gathering information, coordinating response, and ensuring public and officer safety. The training is designed to strengthen their skills in crisis recognition, communication, de‑escalation, and effective coordination with law enforcement, emergency medical services, and behavioral‑health partners.

3. Evidence-Based Programming:

The Contractor will provide a CIT Statewide Model including CIT Training that aims to align with the best practices established by the Memphis Model, CIT

International Guidelines and other nationally recognized CIT frameworks.

4. Vision for a Successful Program:

While CIT programs are known for CIT-trained officers, successful programs also focus on improving the crisis response system, advocating for needed services, and strengthening partnerships across the community. The CIT Model reduces stigma and provides a forum for effective problem solving regarding the interaction between the criminal justice and mental health care system. The

Contractor will have extensive knowledge of the CIT Training model and CIT

International’s guidelines for CIT programming as well as experience providing training to law enforcement. The Contractor will also have well established working relationships with local/municipal and state law enforcement agencies.

The Contractor will also have awareness of and familiarity working with the

Connecticut Behavioral Health System.

C. SCOPE OF SERVICE DESCRIPTION

1. Organizational Expectations The purpose of this subsection is to gather information about the administrative and operational capabilities of the proposer to provide the purchased service.

a. Entity Type

1) Proposers eligible to respond to the RFP are private provider organizations

(defined as non-state entities that are either nonprofit or proprietary corporations or partnerships).

2) Proposals must describe the proposer’s experience and capacity to develop and implement services defined in this RFP within timeframes set forth by the Department.

b. Location of Offices/Services

Proposers eligible to respond to the RFP must have at least one office location in Connecticut. The address of this location must be submitted to DMHAS as part of the proposal.

2. Service Expectations

The purpose of this subsection is to gather information about how the proposer intends to provide the purchased service (including the use of any subcontractors).

a. Attend CIT International Conferences: The Contractor shall attend, either in-person or virtually, the annual CIT International Conference each year to learn about new and best practices related to CIT training and interventions and use this information to inform their CIT training programs.

b. Attend CT Police Chiefs Association Annual Meeting: The selected contractor shall attend the CT Police Chiefs Association Annual Meeting and host a booth/table in order to advance consistent, high-quality CIT implementation and strengthen collaboration across law enforcement agencies statewide. Attendance will ensure engagement with police chiefs and command staff, facilitating open dialogue regarding training needs and outcomes.

c.. Submit Training Calendars: For each calendar year of the contract, the selected contractor shall submit a schedule of the CIT Trainings, CIT Coordinator Trainings, Dispatch/911 Trainings and the CIT Annual Statewide Conference (hereinafter collectively referred to as "Trainings"), described below, to the DMHAS Project Manager for approval. The Training Calendar shall include at a minimum the dates, times, topics and locations of the Trainings. The DMHAS Project Manager shall approve the Training Calendar prior to the Contractor conducting the Trainings.

d.. Conduct Trainings: Conduct the following Trainings in accordance with the

DMHAS Project Manager approved Training Calendar. The Contractor shall provide training manuals and materials.

1) CIT Training: Minimum of ten (10), forty (40)-hour CIT Training sessions per contract year for Police Officers, State Troopers, and behavioral health personnel. Each session shall have a minimum of fifteen (15) and a maximum of fifty (50) available slots for registration.

Law Enforcement attending the CIT Training shall be selected by CT

Police Departments and Troops. Behavioral health personnel attending

CIT Training shall be selected by DMHAS and/or DMHAS funded agencies.

All participants shall attend CIT Training at no cost. The CIT training curriculum must cover items (a) through (h) below however, the

Contractor may select any additional CIT Training topics. Topics may include but are not limited to the following:

(a) Introduction to CIT key topics;

° Overview of the CIT model.

° The role of law enforcement in responding to mental health crisis.

° Understanding mental health, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders.

(b) Mental Health Conditions and Substance Use/Co-occurring

Disorders key topics;

° Common mental health disorders (e.g. schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder(PTSD).

° Suicide prevention and crisis intervention strategies.

° Understanding trauma and its impact on individuals in crisis.

(c) De-Escalation and Communication Techniques key topics;

° Nonviolent communication and active listening.

° Verbal and nonverbal de-escalation techniques.

° Managing stress and emotional responses during crisis situations.

(d) Officer Wellness;

° Recognition of stress, burnout, and secondary trauma.

° Resilience and healthy coping strategies.

° Access to wellness programs (peer support EAP, community resources).

° Strategies for work-life balance and maintaining overall well-being.

(e) Legal and Ethical Considerations for Crisis Intervention key topics;

° Legal rights of individuals with mental illness.

° Crisis intervention and the use of force.

° Ethical guidelines for responding to behavioral health emergencies.

(f) Collaboration with Mental Health Professionals key topics;

° Building partnerships with community mental health providers and service organizations.

° Coordinating with local hospitals, crisis centers, and shelters.

° Integration of mental health crisis protocols into law enforcement operations.

(g) Cultural Competency and Bias Training key topics;

° Understanding cultural factors that affect mental health crisis.

° Addressing implicit bias and stigma related to mental illness.

° Ensuring fair and equitable treatment of diverse populations.

(h) Role-Playing and Scenario-Based Training key topics;

° Practical exercises to simulate real-world mental health crisis situations.

° Hands-on training in de-escalation, communication, and decision-making.

° Feedback and critique from instructors to improve responses.

(i) .Trauma/Trauma Informed Care;

(j) Autism Spectrum Disorder;

(k) Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities;

(l) Suicide Assessment and Intervention;

(m) .C.G.S. §§ 17a-503 and17a-683 – Involuntary Emergency

.Evaluation/Protective Custody – Intoxicated Persons;

(n) Youth and Adolescent Considerations;

(o) The Elderly and Aging Considerations;

(p) Community Resources and Partnerships;

(q) Veterans’ Issues;

(r) Death and Grieving;

(s) Hospital Assessment Process;

(t) Hearing Distressing Voices Simulation;

(u) Lived Experience Perspectives from individuals Living with Mental

Illness as well as the Family Perspective.

2) CT Annual CIT Statewide Conference: Minimum of one (1) CIT Annual

Statewide Conference per contract year, each session consisting of one

(1) full day (8 hours), for a minimum of one-hundred (100) and maximum of three hundred (300) Police Officers, State Troopers and behavioral health personnel who completed prior CIT Training(s) to keep them current on the skills learned in those trainings. There will be no cost for individuals to attend the CIT Statewide Conference. CIT Annual Statewide

Conference number of participants, topics, and relevant materials shall be determined by the Contractor in collaboration with the Department. The following awards will be granted at the annual conference- CIT Police

Officer of the Year, CIT/Mobile Crisis Clinician of the Year, CIT State

Trooper of the Year, CIT Leadership Award and CIT Moment of the Year.

3) Dispatch/911 Training: Minimum of two (2) Dispatch/911 training sessions per contract year, each session consisting of one (1) full day (8 hours), for a minimum of fifteen (15) and maximum of fifty (50) Public

Safety Answering Point (PSAP) personnel. There will be no cost for individuals to attend the Dispatch/911 Training. Training topics and materials shall be determined by the Contractor in collaboration with the

Department. Topics may include but are not limited to the following:

(a) Introduction to CIT, crisis response and the role of emergency call takers;

(b) Overview of mental health and the mental health system;

(c) Gathering information/identifying CIT calls;

(d) Verbal de-escalation and communication techniques;

(e) Suicide assessment and intervention;

(f) Legal considerations;

(g) Scenario-based exercises and case studies;

(h) Critical Incident debriefs; and

(i) Maintaining physical and emotional wellness as a call taker.

4) CIT Coordinator Training: Minimum of two (2) CIT Coordinator training sessions per contract year, each session consisting of one (1) eight-hour training. Registration capacity shall be set at a minimum of twenty-five

(25) participants and a maximum of fifty (50) per session. A CIT

Coordinator is a law enforcement officer at the Police Department of State

Trooper Barracks who is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing all aspects of the Crisis Intervention Team program. The coordinator services as the liaison between law enforcement and community partners. The Contractor shall select the training topics approved by DMHAS. Topics may include but are not limited to the following:

(a) Defining the CIT model and the role of the CIT Coordinator;

(b) Crisis system disaster mapping to contribute information either remotely or from the site of the crisis;

(c) Writing and establishing CIT policies and goals;

(d) CIT program implementation;

(e) Developing metrics and data collection strategies;

(f) Developing community partnerships and working collaboratively with

Mobile Crisis Teams;

(g) Case studies - exploration of partnership models being used by CT

Police Departments and CT State Troopers;

(h) Program sustainability and growth; and

(i) …Resources available to CIT Coordinators to support them in their role.

5) CIT Coordinator Refresher Training: A CIT Coordinator Refresher

Course will be pre-recorded and available on-demand through an online platform. This shall be a two (2) hour long course and shall review the important role a CIT Coordinator has in improving crisis response. Core elements and best practices will be reviewed as well as content included in the CIT Coordinator Training (see Section II.C.2.c.5) above). Current CIT coordinators must attend the CIT Coordinator Refresher every three (3)-years in order to maintain the designation. Record of Refresher Training completion shall be maintained by the contractor.

e. Develop Program Logistics

1) Regional Training Sessions:

(a) A series of in-person training sessions will be held in various regions of the state to accommodate the geographic diversity of law enforcement agencies and first responders.

(b) Trainings may be held in-person or in a hybrid format (in-person and virtual).

(c) Training schedules will be coordinated to ensure minimal disruption to officers' regular duties.

2) Instructor Development:

(a) Qualified CIT instructors will be selected and trained to lead sessions.

(b) Instructors will include experienced law enforcement officers, mental health professionals, and community leaders.

3) Public Facing Website:

(a) A public-facing website accessible via webpage and cell phone browsers.

(b) The website will provide updated CIT information, resources, calendars, key contacts, and training registration information.

(c) The website will reflect the organization’s mission and work.

4) Online Learning Portal:

(a) An online platform will be available for officers to complete supplemental coursework, review materials, and participate in virtual discussions.

(b) Online resources will include videos, articles, case studies, and quizzes to reinforce key training concepts.

5) Training Materials:

(a) Comprehensive training manuals, handouts, and reference materials will be provided to all participants.

(b) Resource kits will include information on mental health resources, local crisis intervention protocols, and aftercare information for individuals in crisis.

g. Provide Consultation and Technical Support: The selected Contractor shall provide ongoing consultation and technical support, as requested, throughout the duration of the contract. This support shall be offered to:

1) CT Police Departments: Consultation and support in the development and implementation of a CIT program, CIT policies and selection of Police Officers that Police Departments determine will work well with individuals in distress/crisis and utilize CIT Training skills.

2) CT State Troopers: Consultation and support in the development and implementation of a CIT program, CIT policies and selection of State Troopers who are determined will work well with individuals in distress/crisis and utilize CIT Training skills.

3) DMHAS Mobile Crisis Teams: Consultation and training in the areas of

Situational Awareness, Law Enforcement culture, and other topics of interest and need that will enhance collaboration and partnership.

4) Community Providers: Consultation and support proactively and upon request, ensuring that community providers have access to expert assistance related to CIT programming and law enforcement crisis response.

f. Record and Submit Training Rosters/Participant Lists: Following completion of each of the following Trainings, the Contractor shall submit a list of all participants or a roster of all individuals trained to the DMHAS Project Manager at the completion of each offering. The roster/participant list shall include at a minimum date(s) of Training and participant's name and employer.

1) CIT Training;

2) CT Annual CIT Statewide Conference;

3) Dispatch/911 Training;

4) CIT Coordinator Training; and

5) CIT Coordinator Refresher Training.

g. Maintain Contact Lists

1) An updated list of Police Departments and Troops with active CIT

Coordinators and Officers.

2) An updated list of CIT Coordinators and Officers contact information including email and phone.

3) Copies of Department CIT Policies will be collected and maintained.

h. Police Request for Emergency Evaluation (PREE) Form

1) Support data collection and quality improvement related to the Police

Request for Emergency Evaluation form used by law enforcement.

2) Include training on completing the PREE form in CIT Training.

3) Help inform and recommend revisions to the PREE form as needed.

4) Administer a survey to law enforcement on confidence and familiarity with the form and submit findings report to DMHAS.

i. Mobile Crisis Response Learning Collaborative

1) The prospective contractor shall participate in the monthly Mobile Crisis

Response Learning Collaborative.

2) The prospective contractor shall facilitate discussion at the mobile crisis response learning collaborative meetings with mobile crisis teams around law enforcement partnership and ideas for fostering connection.

j. Board of Directors

1) The prospective contractor shall have a Board of Directors who will provide oversight of the CIT Training Program and ensure alignment with organizational goals, community needs, and funding requirements.

k. Achieve Program Objectives

1) Provide evidence-based, trauma-informed training for law enforcement officers and first responders.

2) Promote collaboration between law enforcement, mental health professionals, and community service organizations.

3) Enhance officers' ability to recognize signs of mental health crises and de-escalate situations effectively.

4) Reduce the use of force and improve outcomes for individuals in mental health crises.

5) Strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and mental health service providers.

6) Increase public safety and improve community trust in law enforcement’s handling of behavioral health crises.

3. Staffing Expectations

Team overview: Describe the team that would work on this project. Include a list of key team members and their general availability while on this project.

Make the case for why they will be great partners on this project. Please provide bios, and additional information you think best highlights the strength of the team that would be working on this project.

General capacity: Please describe your organization’s capacity to take on additional work if you are awarded this contract. How would you create additional capacity, if needed? How would you quickly pivot directions, should feedback from the DMHAS require a change in direction?

At a minimum, the prospective contractor shall staff the following:

a. Executive Leadership (Employee)

1) Chief Executive Officer: Provides strategic oversight, ensures alignment with organizational mission, manages high-level stakeholder relationships, and oversees compliance with funding and reporting requirements.

b. Staffing Plan (Employees)

1) Program Director(s): Oversees curriculum development, compliance, scheduling, and agency liaison. Provides consultation to Police

Departments and community stakeholders.

2) Administrative Support Staff : Handles registration, attendance, meetings, logistics, and reporting.

c. Instructional Staff (Mix of Employees & Subcontractors)

1) Lead Trainer(s) / Facilitator(s): Core staff delivering CIT training modules, administering pre/post-tests and collecting feedback, monitoring instructional delivery and updating training schedule.

2) Subject Matter Experts: Contracted professionals (mental health clinicians, social workers, advocates) providing specialized modules and conducting scenario-based exercises.

4. Data and Technology Expectations

The purpose of this subsection is to gather information about the proposer’s information management and performance measurement systems.

a. Data Needs

1) Participant Data: Secure collection of officer demographics, agency affiliation, training history, and attendance records.

2) Performance Metrics: Pre- and post-training assessments and feedback surveys.

3) Records: Documentation related to the completion of trainings and refresher course.

4) Feedback & Evaluation Data: Surveys, qualitative feedback, and engagement analytics to measure training effectiveness.

b. Technology Needs – Virtual Training

1) Online Learning Platform: Centralized platform for hosting modules, tracking progress, and issuing certificates.

2) Video Conferencing Tools: Secure platforms with breakout rooms, live polling, and interactive Q&A.

3) Mobile Compatibility: Training is accessible via smartphones and tablets for officers in the field.

4) Technical Support: helpdesk, onboarding assistance, and troubleshooting protocols.

c. Technology Needs – In-Person Training

1) Presentation Systems: Projectors, smart boards, and audio systems for interactive instruction.

2) Resource Access: Cloud-based repository for manuals, handouts, and supplemental materials.

5. Performance Metrics and Evaluation

a. Pre- and Post-Training Assessments: Measure changes in knowledge, skills, and attitudes related to crisis intervention, de-escalation, and mental health awareness.

b. Feedback Surveys: Collect participant feedback after each training session to assess satisfaction and identify areas for improvement.

6. Subcontractor Subcontractors are allowable for a maximum of 50% of the total budget if needed for training purposes.

7. Work Plan

Below is the required format and information being requested for a comprehensive and realistic work plan that demonstrates the flow of activities in a logical and sequential manner:

a. Tasks and Deliverables: Describe what start-up and implementation activities, actions, tasks, and deliverables needed to accomplish providing the identified service.

b. Responsible Staff: Indicate staff position and their related qualifications for those who will be responsible for providing the identified service.

c. Methodologies: Describe how each service and deliverable will be accomplished, providing a detailed explanation of the procedures or processes that will be used to attain the expected outcomes.

d. Timetable/Schedule: Include a proposed timetable indicating when each task and deliverables will be accomplished. Identify any significant milestones or deadlines. Timetable/schedule must include the day and time service is to be provided, if applicable.

8. Financial Expectations

a. Financial Status Reports: If a proposer agency holds a current contract with the Department and their three (3) most recent audits are available via the Office of Policy and Management’s EARS system, such may be noted in the proposal, and a hard copy of the audit cover letters need not be provided.

b. Audited Financial Statements: Any proposer agency that does not hold a current contract with the Department must submit cover letters from their auditor for the last three (3) annual audits of their agency and a copy of their most recent financial audit, included in the proposal. If less than three (3) audits were conducted, detail must be provided as to why, and any supporting documentation assuring the financial efficacy of the applicant agency should be included (i.e. an accountant prepared financial statement, a tax return, etc.).

9. Budget Expectations

a. Proposals must contain an itemized annual budget on the budget form delineated in Section VI. Appendix, E. Budget and Budget Narrative, of this RFP. All startup costs must be clearly identified as one (1) line item in the budget.

b. A budget narrative must be provided, explaining all costs contained in the budget. All start-up costs must be listed separately and clearly detailed in the budget narrative.

c. Costs may include but are not limited to hiring, training, supervising, and compensating all staff, consultants, and trainers, training manuals and material, curriculum development, training locations, meals, beverages, audiovisual equipment, consultation and technical support, and other costs related to the delivery of the trainings.

d. All other funding, including agency financial support, must be identified.

1) Complete a price schedule, budget, or cost proposal in its entirety that will enable the effective delivery of the proposed project or services.

2) Describe all direct and indirect costs associated with the service or project.

3) Describe any key cost variables for the service or project such as volume, frequency, duration or length.

4) Narrative and justification: Present a detailed, line-item cost narrative that explains the basis and rationale for the costs proposed.

10. Letters of Support Proposers must submit two (2) letters of support which should not be provided from the DMHAS Office of Commissioner and/or DMHAS state-operated Local Mental Health Authorities. The letters of support shall be provided from a first responder, State Trooper, The CT Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), a municipal police department, a DMHAS-funded mobile crisis team provider, or The CT Police Officer Standards and Training (POST).

11. Culturally Competent Services

a. What experience do you have interacting effectively and communicating with people of different cultures and socio-economic backgrounds?

b. Please provide an example of your work with underserved/under-represented groups of people or communities.

c. Describe your proposed method of incorporating cultural competence in the trainings and services you are proposing to provide.

D. PERFORMANCE MEASURES

The following performance metrics highlight key priorities that will be analyzed with providers/vendors collaboratively during the life of the contract. This is not an exhaustive list, but rather an indication of significant performance metrics of interest to DMHAS. DMHAS looks forward to working with providers/vendors to define additional important performance metrics.

1. Program Evaluation Metrics

a. Training completion rates: Number of officers trained by police department.

b. Satisfaction scores: Feedback from officers and community partners on training quality.

2. Officer-Level Outcomes

a. Knowledge and skill acquisition: Pre- and post-training assessments to measure understanding of mental health conditions, de-escalation techniques, and legal considerations.

b. Confidence and attitudes: Surveys capturing officers’ self-reported confidence in handling crisis calls and attitudes toward individuals with behavioral health needs.

Entities are welcome to propose additional key metrics in their submissions.

E. CONTRACT MANAGEMENT/DATA REPORTING

As part of the State’s commitment to becoming more outcomes-oriented, DMHAS seeks to actively and regularly collaborate with providers/vendors to enhance contract management, improve results, and adjust service delivery and policy based on learning what works. Reliable and relevant data is necessary to ensure compliance, inform trends to be monitored, evaluate results and performance, and drive service improvements. As such, DMHAS reserves the right to request/collect other key data and metrics from providers/vendors.

Annual and Quarterly Progress Reports:

1. Annual Progress Reports: The prospective contractor shall submit annual progress reports to DMHAS no later than July 15th for the previous fiscal year.

Annual Progress Reports shall summarize activities conducted during the reporting period including: issues and/or problems incurred and plans to troubleshoot challenges, a breakdown by CT Police Department of the Police Officer's name and date of CIT Training, Pre and Post Survey results and summary and use of data to implement change or improvements, and any other information relevant to the successful implementation of this contract.

2. Quarterly Progress Reports: The Contractor shall submit quarterly progress reports to DMHAS which are due by the 15th day after the last day of each fiscal calendar quarter. Quarterly Progress Reports shall summarize activities conducted during the reporting period including: issues and/or problems incurred and plans to troubleshoot challenges, a breakdown by CT Police Department of the Police Officer's name and date of CIT Training, Pre and Post Survey results and summary and use of data to implement change or improvements, and any other information relevant to the successful implementation of this contract.

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III. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION OVERVIEW

A. SUBMISSION FORMAT INFORMATION

1. Required Outline. All proposals must follow the required outline presented in Section IV – Proposal Outline. Proposals that fail to follow the required outline will be deemed non-responsive and not evaluated.

2. Cover Sheet. The Cover Sheet is Page 1 of the proposal. Proposers must complete and use the Cover Sheet form provided by the Agency in the Appendix VI. Appendix D. Cover Sheet.

3. Table of Contents. All proposals must include a Table of Contents that conforms with the required proposal outline.

4. Executive Summary. Proposals must include a high-level summary, not exceeding one (1) page of the main proposal and cost proposal. The summary must also include the organization’s eligibility and qualifications to respond to this RFP. The Executive Summary is not part of the main proposal and cost proposal.

5. Attachments. Attachments other than the required Appendices or Forms identified in the RFP are not permitted and will not be evaluated. Further, the required Appendices or Forms must not be altered or used to extend, enhance, or replace any component required by this RFP. Failure to abide by these instructions will result in disqualification. All attachments should be included in VI. Appendix.

6. Style Requirements. This is an electronic submission.

The proposals submitted must conform to the following specifications:

Paper Size 8.5 x 11 (Standard Letter)

Font Size 12

Font Type Times New Roman

Margins Normal (1 inch around)

Line Spacing 1 ½

Print Style Singled-Sided

Page Limit Maximum 15 pages, exclusive of Executive Summary, Appendices, Budget Forms and Budget Narrative

7. Pagination. The proposer’s name must be displayed in the header of each page.

All pages, including the required Appendices and Forms, must be numbered in the footer.

8. Packaging and Labeling Requirements. Not Applicable

9. Declaration of Confidential Information. Proposers are advised that all materials associated with this procurement are subject to the terms of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), the Privacy Act, and all rules, regulations and interpretations resulting from them. If a proposer deems that certain information required by this RFP is confidential, the proposer must label such information as CONFIDENTIAL prior to submission. In subsection IV.F of the proposal submission, the proposer must reference where the information labeled CONFIDENTIAL is located in the proposal. EXAMPLE: Section G.1.a. For each subsection so referenced, the proposer must provide a convincing explanation and rationale sufficient to justify an exemption of the information from release under the FOIA.

The explanation and rationale must be stated in terms of (a) the prospective harm to the competitive position of the proposer that would result if the identified information were to be released and (b) the reasons why the information is legally exempt from release pursuant to C.G.S. § 1-210(b).

10. Conflict of Interest - Disclosure Statement. Proposers must include a disclosure statement concerning any current business relationships (within the last three (3) years) that pose a conflict of interest, as defined by C.G.S. § 1-85. A conflict of interest exists when a relationship exists between the proposer and a public official (including an elected official) or State employee that may interfere with fair competition or may be adverse to the interests of the State. The existence of a conflict of interest is not, in and of itself, evidence of wrongdoing. A conflict of interest may, however, become a legal matter if a proposer tries to influence, or succeeds in influencing, the outcome of an official decision for their personal or corporate benefit.