FY25 WIOA Youth RFP OSY_ISY_FINAL 3.10.25.pdf

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR YOUTH SERVICES

U.S. Department of Labor Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA)

IN-SCHOOL AND OUT-OF-SCHOOL YOUTH

FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026 (7/1/2025 – 6/30/2026 With Potential Renewal for

FY’27)

This Project is funded 100% with WIOA Youth Grant Funds from USDOL.

RFP Timeline:

Request for Proposals Released Monday, March 10, 2025

Bidder’s Conference (virtual) Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 1:00PM EST

Deadline for Submission of Written Questions Wednesday, April 30, 2025, by 11:00AM EST

Proposal Submission Deadline Tuesday, May 13, 2025, by 11:00AM EST

MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board

One Union Street – Suite 202 Lawrence, MA 01840

Table of Contents I. Background and General Information

Services Solicited by this Procurement WIOA Overview About the MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board Target Populations

II. General Conditions & Terms Available Funding Eligible Applicants WIOA Eligibility and Low-Income Requirements

III. Program Specifications Program Design Program Components & Sequence of Service………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………10 MMVWB WIOA Specific & Administrative Roles…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..12 Program Performance Measures/Indicators

IV. Proposal Provisions & Requirements RFP Timeline Submission Date & Requirements Notification & Distribution…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………….15 Bidders Conference/RFP Questions & Answers………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………...15 Notification of Awards………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………...15 MMVWB & Proposer’s Rights/Appeal Procedures………………………………………………………………………………………………………….….……16 Contract Terms……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……..16 MMVWB Proposal Review

V. Attachments List Attachment A: Merrimack Valley Workforce Development Area Map Attachment B: WIOA Youth Eligibility Documentation Attachment C: Individual Service Strategy (ISS) Attachment D: WIOA 14 Elements

PROGRAM PROPOSAL

Attachment E: Program Proposal Checklist Attachment F: Program Proposal Cover Sheet Attachment G1: MMVWB WIOA Out-of-School Youth Program Proposal Narrative Questions Attachment G2: MMVWB WIOA In-School Youth Program Proposal Narrative Questions Attachment G3: Training Timeline Form…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….……..43

PRICE PROPOSAL

Attachment H: Price Proposal Contents Checklist Attachment I: Price Proposal Cover Sheet Attachment J: Minimum Qualifying Criteria Attachment K: Signatory Authorization for Corporate Providers Attachment L: Signatory Authorization for Non-Corporate Providers Attachment M: Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters Attachment N: Drug Free Workplace Certification Attachment O: Certificate of Non-Collusion Attachment P: Audit Certification Attachment Q: Commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Non-Discrimination Attachment R: Certificate of Good Standing Attachment S: Budget & Budget Narrative Instructions

OTHER ATTACHMENTS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………60

Attachment T: MMVWB/City of Lawrence Terms, Conditions & Assurances Attachment U: Contract Negotiation – Policies required upon Award Attachment V: MMVWB Formal Grievance/Complaint Policy

I. Background and General Information

Services Solicited by this Procurement The MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board (MMVWB) is seeking providers who will singularly or collaboratively provide comprehensive services for WIOA eligible youth between the ages of 16-24;

priority will be given to youth who reside within the following cities and towns: Andover, Amesbury, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Merrimac, Methuen, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Rowley, Salisbury, and West Newbury. This area is collectively known as the Merrimack Valley Workforce Development Area. However, youth who reside outside of this area can also be served.

The MMVWB is seeking innovative proposals for programs that will perform recruitment and outreach, intense case management, paid and unpaid work experiences, career readiness activities, career pathway activities, educational activities assisting with the attainment of a High School Diploma, High School Equivalency (HiSET/GED), occupational skills training leading to an industry recognized credential, financial literacy activities, self and career assessments, follow-up services for one year after program exit. Successful bidders will offer programs that directly address the barriers facing our youth.

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Overview (WIOA) The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) was signed into law on July 22, 2014, and is designed to help job seekers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and to match employers with the skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy. WIOA emphasizes servicing youth within a year-round comprehensive workforce development system that is outcome based and is built on services around a set of fourteen required program elements.

Successful proposals will be funded through WIOA Youth. Performance and full compliance with federal, state, and local statutes, including all terms of the contract, will be monitored and executed by the MMVWB. For more information and a copy of the WIOA regulations go to http://www.doleta.gov/wioa/.

About the MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board (MMVWB) The MMVWB is one of 16 Workforce Boards throughout Massachusetts, servicing the communities of Andover, Amesbury, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Merrimac, Methuen, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Rowley, Salisbury, and West Newbury. The MMVWB is composed of knowledgeable and influential business and community leaders who are appointed by the Mayor of Lawrence on behalf of the fifteen communities that make up the region. As a regional entity, we work closely with our local municipalities to bolster economic development and employment and to provide businesses in our region with the best trained workforce possible. The board serves as the oversight and policy-making body for federally funded employment and training services in the region.

The board also has the broader role of addressing critical labor market issues and developing strategic partnerships with local leaders in economic development, the K-12 and higher education system, government agencies, chambers of commerce, community-based and labor organizations.

http://www.doleta.gov/wioa/

Target Populations The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) serves two youth participant populations: In- School and Out-of-School youth.

For the purposes of this RFP, the target population, In-School Youth (ISY), is defined as youth between the ages of 16-21 enrolled in secondary education, including alternative and vocational schools, low income and has at least one barrier (reference attachment B) to educational and/or employment barriers.

The target population, Out-of-School Youth (OSY), is defined as a youth who is not enrolled in any school, between the ages of 16-24, and has at least one significant barrier (reference attachment B) to educational and employment outcomes.

II. General Conditions & Terms

Available Funding For the purpose of this request for proposal, we are anticipating $550,000.00 in WIOA Youth funding availability, depending upon the release of the FY26 WIOA Youth allocation.

We anticipate up to six (6) programs may be funded between In-School Youth & Out-of-School Youth.

No more than one (1) In-School Youth program will be funded. The Period of Performance is August 2025 – June 30, 2026, with potential renewal for FY27.

Terms, conditions, and specifications of this RFP are subject to change. Contracts are awarded for a one-year period, with the possibility of a second year, based on performance and funding availability.

Eligible Applicants (Entities that can apply for program funding) Applicants eligible to submit a proposal(s) are public or private agencies, public school systems, units of government, non-profit, faith based and community-based organizations, labor groups, private businesses and employers, proprietary schools, community and state colleges, post-secondary accredited schools and other qualified educational and training institutions who have demonstrated successful performance in serving youth, especially low-income youth. Proposals that demonstrate sustainable partnerships between employers, youth serving agencies, school districts and workforce/economic development partners in the provision of youth services will be given priority for funding. Facilities providing services should be accessible to persons with disabilities, and programs selected for funding must operate in full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

WIOA Eligibility and Low-Income Requirements At a minimum, youth must meet the following eligibility criteria which consist of providing documentation for each applicable category:

In-School Youth

1. Attending secondary school leading to the attainment of a high school diploma

2. Citizenship/Work Eligible*

3. Selective Service compliant **

4. Between 16 and 21 at the time of enrollment

5. Low income*** o includes youth who receive or is eligible to receive a free or reduced-price lunch under Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act o includes youth who reside in a designated high poverty area AND

6. Have one or more of the following barriers:

a. Basic skills deficient;

at or below the 8.9th grade level in reading, writing, or computing skills on a generally accepted standardized test; or unable to compute or solve problems, read, write, or speak English at a level necessary to function on the job, in the individual’s family or in society

b. An English language learner;

c. An offender;

d. A homeless youth or a runaway, in foster care or has aged out of the foster care system;

e. An individual who is pregnant or parenting;

f. A youth who is an individual with a disability;

g. A low-income***individual who requires additional assistance to enter or complete an educational program or to secure or hold employment. (WIOA sections 3(46) and 129(a)(1)(B).

• Local definitions of this barrier include

(i) A limited work history (less than 4 months in the past year) or no work experience;

(ii) Involvement with any State agency providing special services, support or oversight to the youth or to the youth’s immediate family;

(iii) Residency in a Designated Census Tract Poverty Area;

(iv) A non-traditional household member i.e.: a single parent household, or with an unofficial guardian, or with a grandparent, or with maternal or paternal domestic partners, etc.;

(v) Residency in public housing or Section 8 subsidized housing;

(vi) Less than a 2.0 GPA while in school.

Out-of-School Youth

1. Not attending any school (as defined under State law)

2. Citizenship/Work Eligible*

3. Selective Service compliant **

4. Are age 16 through 24 at time of enrollment, AND

5. Are one or more of the following:

a. School dropout;

b. Youth within the age of compulsory school attendance, but has not attended for at least the most recent complete school year calendar quarter;

c. An individual subject to the juvenile or adult justice system;

d. A homeless individual, child, or youth, a runaway, in foster care or aged out of foster care, eligible for assistance under SSA section 477, or in an out-of-home placement;

e. An individual who is pregnant or parenting;

f. A youth who is an individual with a disability;

g. Recipient of secondary school diploma or its equivalent who is a low-income* individual and is:

(i) Basic skills deficient:

at or below the 8.9 grade level in reading, writing, or computing skills on a generally accepted standardized test; or

Unable to compute or solve problems, read, write, or speak English at a level necessary to function on the job, in the individual’s family or in society.

(ii) An English language learner

h. A low-income***individual who requires additional assistance to enter or complete an educational program or to secure or hold employment. (WIOA sections 3(46) and 129(a)(1)(B).

• Local definitions of this barrier include:

(vii) A limited work history (less than 4 months in the past year) or no work experience;

(viii) Involvement with any State agency providing special services, support or oversight to the youth or to the youth’s immediate family;

(ix) Residency in a Designated Census Tract Poverty Area;

(x) A non-traditional household member i.e.: a single parent household, or with an unofficial guardian, or with a grandparent, or with maternal or paternal domestic partners, etc.;

(xi) Residency in public housing or Section 8 subsidized housing;

(xii) Less than a 2.0 GPA while in school.

*U.S. Citizenship or Authorization to Work in the United States if a Non-U.S. Citizen Eligible youth must be a citizen or national of the United States, lawfully admitted permanent resident alien, refugee, asylee, and parolee, and other immigrant authorized by the Attorney General to work in the U.S.

**Selective Service Individuals participating in any WIOA funded program or activity must be in compliance with the Military Selective Service Act. All born males who are between the age of 18 and 26 at enrollment must register for Selective Service (50 U.S.C. App. 453). Males who are enrolled in WIOA funded programs prior to turning 18 years of age must register for Selective Service when they turn 18 to continue in WIOA activities.

Individuals can visit the Selective Service website or call 1-888-655-1825 to register or to request a Status Information Letter (SIL) to prove exemption from registering: https://www.sss.gov/verify/

*** A low-income individual is an individual who:

• Receives, or in past 6 months received, or is a member of a family that is receiving or in past 6 months received, assistance through the supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP), or the supplemental security income program established under Title XVI of the Social Security Act, or State or local income-based public assistance;

• A homeless individual;

• Receives or is eligible to receive free or reduced-price lunch (ISY only);

• A foster child on behalf of whom State or local government payments are made;

• An individual with a disability whose own income meets the low-income level for eligibility purposes;

• A youth who resides in a High Poverty Area. The Census Bureau defines a “poverty area” as a census track where at least 25% of the residents are economically disadvantaged

• Income is at/below 70% of the Lower Living Standard (LLS), or below poverty line for a family of one

• They are dependent on the income of their parent/guardian and total family income is at or below 70% of the Lower Living Standard (LLS)

WIOA Low-income eligibility is determined by the U.S. Department of Labor (MDCS Workforce Issuance

100DCS18.114).

HHS Poverty Income Guidelines and the ETA Lower Living Standard Income Levels for 2023, the higher of either the Poverty Income Guidelines or 70% of the Lower Living Standard Income Level (LLSIL) shall be used for eligibility determination for WIOA Title I and other programs using economically disadvantaged/low-income status criteria.

WIOA YOUTH INCOME GUIDELINES – updated April 2024

FAMILY SIZE INCOME GUIDELINE USED

1 $15,060 HHS

2 $24,161 LLSIL

3 $33,174 LLSIL

4 $40,994 LLSIL

https://www.sss.gov/verify/ https://www.mass.gov/doc/dcs-policy-18-114-poverty-guidelines-lower-living-standard-income-levels-2023/download https://www.mass.gov/doc/dcs-policy-18-114-poverty-guidelines-lower-living-standard-income-levels-2023/download https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2023-05-08/pdf/2023-09662.pdf https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/llsil

5 $48,321 LLSIL

6 $56,506 LLSIL

Over 6 increments* $8,185 LLSIL

*LLSIL: For family sizes greater than 6 subtract the LLSIL of a family of five from a family of six. Use the difference of a family of five and six as the income you will add to each income after a family of six.

III. Program Specifications

Program Design WIOA places an emphasis on the development of Career Pathways designed to transition youth from education to the workforce. Career Pathways are an integrated collection of programs and services intended to develop a youth’s core academic, technical, and employability skills, provide them with continuous education, training, and placement into high-demand jobs.

The term “Career Pathway” means a combination of rigorous and high-quality education, training, and other services and all services will be required to be in person:

• Align with the skill needs of industries in the economy of the state or regional economy involved;

• Prepare individuals to be successful in any of a full range of secondary or post-secondary education options, including apprenticeships;

• Include counseling to support an individual in achieving education and career goals;

• Include, as appropriate, education offered concurrently with and in the same context as workforce preparation activities and training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster;

• Organize education, training, and other services to meet the needs of an individual in a manner that accelerates their educational and career advancement to the extent practicable;

• Enable an individual to attain a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, and at least 1 recognized postsecondary credential; and

• Help an individual enter or advance within a specific occupation or occupational cluster.

As WIOA emphasizes Career Pathways, the MMVWB is also prioritizing the development of regionally focused Career Pathways for all job seekers (regardless of age/education level). The priority industries are advanced manufacturing, professional/technical, healthcare, and social services. For the purposes of this RFP, preference will be given to applicants who develop innovative Career Pathway focused program designs using the 14 WIOA elements described below.

Additionally, WIOA aims to maximize opportunities for competitive, integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. Pre-employment transition services must be made available to youth with disabilities who need such services. Pre-employment transition services for youth include job exploration, work-based learning experiences, workplace readiness training, counseling on opportunities for enrollment in comprehensive transition or postsecondary education programs and instruction in self-advocacy. All applicants must include components in their program design to develop Career Pathways.

WIOA ELEMENTS

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA Sec. 123) lists 14 program elements that must be made available to eligible youth in order to support the attainment of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, entry into post-secondary education, occupational skills training, employment, and career readiness for participants. Applicants are encouraged to but are not required to provide all 14 elements on- site, however, all elements must be available locally, if a youth is assessed and requires those services.

The MMVWB requires that WIOA Youth Tile I Vendor’s provide all the mandatory (M) elements (5 for In-School youth and 6 for Out-of-School Youth) highlighted below, in your program design.

1. (M) Tutoring, study skills training, instruction, and evidence-based dropout prevention and recovery strategies that lead to completion of the requirements for a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent (including a recognized certificate of attendance or similar document for individuals with disabilities) or for a recognized postsecondary credential; This is a requirement for all MMVWB In-School-Youth. MMVWB Out-of-School Youth Programs must provide academic support to youth who tested at or below an 8th grade level at the time of enrollment or English Language Learners.

2. Alternative secondary school services, or dropout recovery services, as appropriate

3. (M) Paid and unpaid work experiences* that have as a component academic and occupational education

4. (M-For Out-Of-School Youth) Occupational skills training, which shall include priority consideration for training programs that lead to recognized postsecondary credentials that are aligned with in-demand industry sectors or occupation in the local area involved. All MMVWB Out of School Youth must be enrolled in an occupational skills training leading to an industry recognized credential.

5. Comprehensive guidance and counseling, which may include drug and alcohol abuse counseling and referral, as appropriate

6. Leadership development opportunities, which may include community service and peer-centered activities encouraging responsibility and other positive social and civic behaviors, as appropriate

7. Supportive services - examples may include Linkages to community services; Assistance with transportation; Assistance with childcare and dependent care; Assistance with housing;

Referrals to medical services; and Assistance with uniforms or other appropriate work attire and work-related tools. Provision of additional services that will support youth with disabilities

8. Adult mentoring for the period of participation and a subsequent period, for a total of 12 months

9. (M) Follow-up services for 12 months after the completion of participation, as appropriate;

10. (M) Financial Literacy Education

11. Entrepreneurial Skills Training

12. (M) Services that provide labor market and employment information about in-demand industry sectors or occupations available in the local area, such as career awareness, career counseling, and career exploration services;

13. Activities that help youth prepare for and transition to postsecondary education and training

14. Education offered concurrently with and in the same context as workforce preparation activities and training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster.

*Paid and Unpaid Work Experiences Work Experience/Internship Parameters: WIOA section 129(c)(4) prioritizes work experiences. The MMVWB requires that the prospective bidder must spend a minimum of 40 percent of their budget on work experience activities listed below.

Wage payments for internship/externship: Youth participants will be paid $15.00 per hour (current Mass minimum wage) for program internship/externship. Wages to youth in subsidized work experience will be paid by the prospective bidder through the cost reimbursement contract with the MMVWB/City of Lawrence. Under WIOA, subsidized structured work experiences or internships are limited to a maximum of 100 hours at an hourly rate equal to Massachusetts designated hourly minimum wage.

Incentive payments (ONLY for training related activities): The MMVWB will require incentive payments of up to $350 per youth for training-related activities. In the budget section you will be asked to provide five (5) training-related benchmarks, goals, achievements of milestones, and criteria to evaluate and calculate the incentive payments. Each training-related benchmark will be paid as follows: benchmarks 1 through 4 $75.00 each and benchmark 5 at $50.00. Incentive payments to youth will be paid by the prospective bidder through the cost reimbursement contract with the MMVWB/City of Lawrence.

Stipend payments: The MMVWB will require stipend payments to youth participants at a rate of $15.00 per hour (current Mass minimum wage) for in-person classroom participation and program activities.

These stipends will be paid by the MMVWB/City of Lawrence, but the prospective bidder should include these costs in their budget.

Youth Work Experience can include the following paid/unpaid activities:

Wages/stipends paid to youth in the work experience;

Incentive payments directly tied to the completion of work experience;

Employability skill/job readiness training to prepare youth for work experience;

Participant work experience orientation sessions;

Classroom training or the required academic component directly related to the work experience;

Orientations for employers Staff time working to identify and develop a work experience opportunity, including staff time spent working with employers to identify and develop the work experience;

Staff time working with employers to ensure successful work experience, including staff time spent managing the work experience;

Staff time spent evaluating the work experience;

Program Components and Sequence of Service Programs funded through this RFP are required to document the sequence of services consistent with the WIOA system to guarantee all participants receive comprehensive and individualized services in adherence with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. In order to operate an efficient WIOA program, it is important that the roles and responsibilities of both the MMVWB and the vendor are clearly defined.

Sequence of Services

• Outreach and Recruitment: The MMVWB will include information about WIOA funded programs on our website and in literature promoting services available to eligible youth. However, vendors should be prepared to bear the primary responsibility for ensuring that their outreach and recruitment efforts result in meeting the enrollment goals established in their contract.

• Referrals: Vendors will accept referrals made to them by the MMVWB and other local agencies serving youth.

• Initial Assessment: An initial assessment is conducted on the first visit and is considered the “Application Orientation”. The applicant will receive the application and an explanation of the documentation required to determine WIOA eligibility. Also, information on services and programs is provided to the applicant.

• Point of Entry/Eligibility Determination: Eligibility determination is the sole responsibility of the MMVWB. As such the point of entry into the WIOA system should be the MMVWB. This includes the completion of a WIOA application, and the verification of the information provided by the applicant. The collection of required documents is the responsibility of the applicant and vendor. All documents must be submitted to MMVWB staff, and a paper file is maintained. No youth is permitted to receive WIOA services until vendors are notified in writing by the MMVWB of youth’s eligibility.

• Comprehensive/Objective Assessment: During this meeting, the application is reviewed along with the documentation to determine WIOA eligibility. An overview of their educational background, employment history, and barrier(s) to employment are discussed and assessment testing is scheduled. The information is then entered into the Massachusetts One Stop Employment System (MOSES) database. A determination of what WIOA or non-WIOA services are most appropriate for the youth is also completed.

• Assessment Testing: Out-of-school youth are required to take reading and math assessments using TABE 11/12 or ACT WorkKeys. MMVWB staff will coordinate testing at the MMVCC office weekly.

Vendors must be TABE and/or ACT WorkKeys certified to perform testing and must provide copy of tests to MMVWB.

• Program Enrollment and Commencement of Services: Education, skills, and career readiness services, on-site, are offered during a designated daily schedule to all enrolled participants including but not limited to: assessments, labor market research, financial literacy, paid and unpaid work experiences, HiSET/GED preparation, occupational skills training, career pathway development and career readiness activities.

• Development of an Individualized Service Strategy (ISS): An ISS will be developed for each youth participant outlining their objective assessment results employment, educational and social-personal goals, appropriate achievement objectives and the combination of needed services based on the WIOA 14 Required Elements. WIOA places a strong emphasis on Career Pathways, therefore, a connection to a career pathway must be included as part of a youth’s Individual Service Strategy.

The ISS is initiated and maintained by the WIOA program vendor and the MMVWB. The development of service strategies and goals within the ISS should be directly linked to WIOA performance indicators.

• Counseling: This includes education and career and, if requested, personal counseling.

• Case Management: Strategic case management will be necessary in order to connect youth to multiple programs and services, as well as to help youth achieve short-term attainable goals and support youth in long-term positive outcomes. The Program Vendor Case Managers must create and maintain positive relationships with youth. Case management is a tandem effort between the vendor and MMVWB staff, to ensure goals of the ISS are achieved and positive outcomes are attained for common measures.

• Monthly Reporting: Reports must be submitted to the MMVWB during the first week of each month. Details on credential attainment, progress toward goals, activities completed, and detailed case management must be communicated to assigned MMVWB staff through the monthly report.

• Retention after Exit and Follow-up Activities: Follow-up services are required under WIOA funding.

Vendors will provide follow up services which are intended to enhance youth outcomes. All WIOA youth participants who have been placed in employment, or entered the military, post-secondary education/advanced training will receive follow-up services for a minimum of 12 months after exit.

MMVWB WIOA Specific and Administrative Roles

• Provide official WIOA eligibility determination of all targeted youth (see Attachment B for a listing of required eligibility documentation).

• Maintain hard copy files of each enrolled participant with required documentation.

• Information Systems MOSES: MMVWB maintains an electronic record of an individual, including enrollment information, services received, and case management notes provided by the vendor once they have been determined eligible to participate in the program and is receiving services under WIOA.

• Coordinate a schedule with each approved youth vendor: MMVWB Youth Staff will visit the program on a regular basis to provide any requested programmatic assistance, observe the program and meet with staff as needed.

• Conduct oversight and evaluation of program activities of funded youth service providers:

MMVWB staff will communicate regularly with WIOA funded vendors to ensure programs are offering services listed in proposal and are meeting benchmarks and goals.

• Technical Assistance: MMVWB staff are available to assist Vendors in any matter relating to the administration of their WIOA program.

• Vendor Meetings: Vendors are required to attend meetings with the MMVWB staff. The purpose of these meetings is to sustain clear communication between the vendor and the MMVWB.

Meetings may be held on site or at the MMVWB offices.

• Program and Fiscal Monitoring: Each vendor is formally monitored at least once during the contract year by the MMVWB staff. Regular programmatic reviews are done based on MOSES reports and vendor reports as well as invoices submitted on a monthly basis.

Program Performance Measures/Indicators Bidders responding to this RFP must meet Performance Measures; Applicants must consider strategies for meeting the WIOA Performance Indicators:

MEASURABLE OUTCOME (exited participants) OUTCOME DESCRIPTION Placement in Employment/Education/Military 2nd Quarter After Exit

% of all exited youth participants who are in in post-secondary education or training or employed during 2nd Quarter after exit.

Placement in Employment/Education/Military 4th Quarter After Exit

% of all exited youth participants who are in post-secondary education or training or employed during 4th Quarter after exit

Median Earnings 2nd Quarter after exit Median wages for exited participants who are employed during the 2nd quarter after exit

Credential Attainment (up to 1 year after exit) % of youth who obtain a post-secondary credential, license, or industry recognized credential during program or within 1 year of exit

OR

% of youth who obtain diploma/equivalency AND have obtained or retained a job OR are in an education or training program that leads to a license or industry recognized credential within 1 year of exit

Measurable Skills Gain % of youth in an education or training program that leads to a credential or employment and who are achieving “measurable skills gains” Meeting one or more “Measurable skill gains” include:

1.) Attainment of a high school diploma 2.) Achievement of an educational function level 3.) Transcript / Report Card achievement 4.) Achievement of a milestone (completion of OJT, apprenticeship program, any training achievement) 5.) Achievement of a trade-related benchmark /skill progression (knowledge-based exams)

Effectiveness in Serving Employers % of youth employed with the same employer in the 2nd and 4th quarters after exit.

Program Performance Goals (based on FY25 WIOA Performance Measures*)

MEASURABLE OUTCOME (exited participants) Goal* Placement in Employment/Education/Military 2nd Quarter After Exit 75% Placement in Employment/Education/Military 4th Quarter After Exit 72% Median Earnings 2nd Quarter after exit $4,500 Credential Attainment (up to 1 year after exit) 60% Measurable Skills Gain 45% Effectiveness in Serving Employers TBD

IV. Proposal Provisions and Requirements

RFP Timeline

DATE ACTIVITY

Monday, March 10, 2025 Request for Proposals Released Wednesday, April 9, 2025 Bidder’s Conference (virtual) @ 1:00 PM EST Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Deadline for Submission of Written Questions by 11:00AM EST Tuesday, May 13, 2025 Proposals Submission Deadline by 11:00AM EST Thursday, June 12, 2025 Bidders Notified of Outcome after Board Approval Monday August 4, 2025 Contract Start Date

Proposals must be completed and submitted in accordance with the Proposal Provisions & Requirements section.

The applicant is solely responsible for ensuring that their proposals are received by the specified date and time, otherwise, the proposal will be rejected.

Submission Date and Requirements All proposals and modifications must be submitted by email to procurement@masshiremvwb.org no later than Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 11:00AM EST.

Please note that that for any prospective bidders applying to both an In-School and Out-of-School Program, proposals must be completed and submitted separately, with the narrative and budget sections filled out for each.

In the subject of your email, clearly mark as MMVWB In-School Youth Services RFP Proposal OR Out-of-School MMVWB Youth Services RFP Proposal.

In the body of your email, attach the following two files:

1) Youth RFP Program Proposal 5.13.2025 – Attachments E thru G3

2) Youth RFP Price Proposal 5.13.2025 – Attachments H thru S

Please make sure that your total of both files does not exceed 24MB, as the email will bounce back. If your files are over 24MB, please split them up into separate files and send it in separate emails.

mailto:procurement@masshiremvwb.org

When you submit the proposals, you will receive an automated reply acknowledging receipt. If you don’t receive an automated reply, please contact Matt Robert at (978) 995-2784 during regular business hours, Monday to Friday between 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

Please note that we will not accept hand delivered or mailed proposals.

Proposals must be completed and submitted in accordance with the Proposal Provisions & Requirements section of this RFP. The applicant is solely responsible for assuring that anything sent to MMVWB arrives by the specified date and time, otherwise, the proposal will be rejected.

Notification and Distribution The RFP will be released on Monday, March 10, 2025, on the MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board’s website, www.MassHireMVWB.org. Information relating to the RFP, including updates, amendments, minutes of the Bidders’ Conference, and responses to questions submitted by email, will be posted on the website. Prospective bidders are responsible for monitoring the website for updates;

MMVWB will not send individual notification of updates directly to applicants.

Bidders’ Conference/ RFP Questions and Answers A Bidders’ Conference will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, via Zoom at 1:00 PM. All interested parties are strongly encouraged to participate.

Zoom Meeting Link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8462116073?pwd=WXVxL3pvamY0SHA2RllNVlZIUXRadz09&omn=87514968063 Meeting ID: 846 211 6073 Passcode: 082661

To maintain a competitive bidding process, substantive questions related to this RFP will be addressed.

Questions must be submitted via email to mrobert@masshiremvwb.org beginning March 10th and no later than April 30th, 2025, by 11:00AM EST. All questions and answers will be posted to the MMVWB website by 4:00PM EST on Monday, May 5, 2025.

Notification of Awards The MMVWB Proposal Review sub-committee will score and rank the proposals. The sub-committee will consist of Board Directors, Youth Committee members and MMVWB staff. Those recommendations shall then be made to the Planning/Career Center Committee and subsequently to the full Board for final approval. MMVWB staff will then notify the approved vendors with a letter indicating award of grant. Please note, v endors that submit proposals for both In-School and Out-of-School Youth funding could be approved for both, one, or neither.

Vendors who have not been selected for funding will also be notified at this time. It is anticipated that award notifications will be made by Thursday, June 12, 2025, with contract operations beginning on Monday, August 4, 2025, contingent upon successful contract negotiation.

http://www.masshiremvwb.org/ https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8462116073?pwd=WXVxL3pvamY0SHA2RllNVlZIUXRadz09&omn=87514968063 mailto:mrobert@masshiremvwb.org

MMVWB and Proposer’s Rights/Appeal Procedures A. The release of this RFP does not constitute an acceptance of any offer, nor does its release in any way obligate the MMVWB to execute a contract with any bidder. The MMVWB reserves the right to accept or reject any offers on the basis of the general conditions set forth in this RFP, and to evaluate all accepted proposals on the criteria in this RFP.

B. The MMVWB issues this RFP with the explicit understanding that minor and major changes may be made, up to and including the option to rescind this RFP in its entirety, if in the best interest of the MMVWB.

C. The MMVWB reserves the right to negotiate the final terms of all contracts with successful vendors. Items that may be negotiated include but are not limited to type and scope of services, costs and prices, schedule of services, target groups, geographic goals, and service levels.

D. Following the competitive procurement process, all proposals become public records.

The contract awarded to each vendor selected through this procurement will include terms and conditions required to ensure compliance with WIOA statute and regulations. The terms be subject to periodic changes and/or revisions as deemed necessary by MMVWB staff and/or the City of Lawrence Attorney’s Office.

Contract Terms Successful bidders will be awarded a cost reimbursement contract, which will consist of the following sections:

Cost Reimbursement Contract Cover Page Certification for Signature Fiscal Contact Information Direct Deposit Form Work Statement Scope of Services Programmatic Performance Standards Time of Performance

Reporting Program Program Monitoring/Corrective Action Budget-Payment Schedule & Reporting Requirements Contractor’s Closeout MMVWB Terms, Conditions, and Assurances Formal Grievance Complaint Policy

In case of inclement weather or any unforeseen circumstances, the new submission date will be posted on the MMVWB website: https://www.masshiremvwb.org/.

Minimum Qualifying Criteria In order to be considered for funding, the following must be completed and submitted with your original price proposal only. Failure to complete these certifications and affidavits will result in your proposal not being considered for funding.

• Content Check List (Price Proposal) – Attachment H

• Signed Price Proposal Cover Sheet – Attachment I

• Minimum Qualifying Document – Attachment J https://www.masshiremvwb.org/

• Signatory Authorization for Corporate Providers (If Applicable) – Attachment K

• Signatory Authorization for Non-Corporate Providers (If Applicable) – Attachment L

• Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters – Attachment M

• Drug Free Workplace Certification – Attachment N

• Certificate of Non-Collusion – Attachment O

• Audit Assurance Certification – Attachement P

• Commitment to Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Non-Discrimination – Attachment Q

• Certificate of Good Standing – Attachment R

• Completed Budget & Budget Narrative – Attachment S

Rule for Award The MMVWB will select the most advantageous proposal(s) from a responsive and responsible bidder(s), taking into consideration all evaluation and price criteria. The MMVWB anticipates sending awards or non-award notifications by Thursday, June 12, 2025.

MMVWB Proposal Review A. Program and Price Proposal MMVWB Grants Accountant will first review all proposals to determine if the minimum qualifying criteria has been met. Proposals that do not meet the Minimum Qualifying Criteria will not be considered for funding. If minimum-qualifying criteria have been met, proposals will then be reviewed for program costs. Proposed costs will be compared with similar costs proposed by other bidders, as well as historical data available (i.e., current, or previously funded contracts). Results will be documented.

Program proposals will be reviewed and rated by a sub-committee of MMVWB Board Directors, Youth Committee members and MMVWB Staff. The program proposal narrative has five (5) parts, and the price proposal has one (1). Proposals will be rated according to a point system. The maximum total any proposal may receive is 100 points. Each part is awarded as follows:

Program Design 30 points Customer Identification (Outreach and Recruitment) 20 points Past Performance (incumbent Vendors)/Ability to achieve WIOA Youth Program Outcomes

20 points

Administration 5 points Program Operations 5 points Budget and Budget Narrative 20 points

Complete proposals received by the submission deadline and that meet all requirements will be reviewed by the Proposal Review subcommittee. The sub-committee shall utilize the evaluation criteria noted in the Program Proposal section and identified in the MMVWB WIOA Youth Proposal Rating Criteria. Proposals will be given an overall rating of Highly Advantageous, Advantageous, Not

Advantageous, or Unacceptable based on the points awarded. The overall scoring and overall rating break down as follows:

85 to 100 points Highly Advantageous 70 to 84 points Advantageous 50 to 69 points Not Advantageous Less than 50 points Unacceptable

Proposals with an overall rating of Highly Advantageous or Advantageous will be considered for funding. Proposals receiving a rating of Not Advantageous or Unacceptable will not be considered.

B. Final Funding

Final funding decisions will take into consideration the results of the program and price proposal reviews, an adequate mix of the various types of services to be made available and an equitable distribution of funds and services to youth. The MMVWB reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to not fund any or all proposals, and/or to partially fund any and all proposals as submitted in response to this RFP. All proposals become the property of the MMVWB/City of Lawrence.

V. Attachments List

A. Map of Region B. WIOA Participant Eligibility Documentation Chart C. ISS – Individual Service Strategy D. WIOA 14 Elements

Program Proposal

E. Contents Checklist (Program Proposal) F. Program Proposal Cover Sheet OSY Program Proposal Narrative Questions G1 ISY Program Proposal Narrative Questions G2 Program Timeline G3

Price Proposal

H. Contents Checklist (Price Proposal ISY and OSY – must complete one for each OSY and ISY if applying to both)

I. Price Proposal Cover Sheet (must complete one for each OSY and ISY if applying to both) J. Minimum Qualifying Criteria K. Signatory Authorization for Corporate Providers/ Affidavit of Compliance L. Signatory Authorization for Non-Corporate Providers M. Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and other Responsibility Matters Primary

Covered Transactions N. Drug Free Workplace Certification O. Certificate of Non-Collusion P. Audit Certification Q. Commitment to Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Non-Discrimination R. Certificate of Good Standing S. Budget & Budget Narrative Instructions

Budget Completed Budget Narrative Completed Indirect Rate included (if applicable)

Other Attachments

T. MMVWB Terms, Conditions, Assurances U. Contract Negotiation – Policies required upon Award V. MMVWB Formal Grievance/Complaint Policy

Attachment A

MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Development Area

Attachment B

WIOA TITLE I YOUTH ELIGBILITY

SOURCE DOCUMENTATION

YOUTH ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

CRITERIA DOCUMENTATION

In-School Youth School Records/Identification Card Letter from School Official Report Card/Transcript

Out-of-School Youth Copy of HS Diploma/HiSet Verification of Enrollment in HSE program (not funded by the K-12 Public

School System) Verification of Enrollment in Dropout Re-engagement Program Verification of Enrollment in the YouthBuild Program Verification of Enrollment in the Job Corps Program Verification of Enrollment in Adult Education Programs funded by Title II

Birth Date/Age

* Must be documented for all youth

Baptismal Record Birth Certificate DD-214, Report of Transfer or Discharge Paper Driver’s License (with photo and date of birth) Federal, State or Local Government Identification Card with date of birth Selective Service Card Hospital Record of Birth Passport (as long as the passport includes the date of birth) Public Assistance /Social Service Records School Records/Identification Card Unexpired Alien Registration Card/Documents indicating authorization to work in the United States (INS Forms I-179, I-197, I-551, I-688, I-688A, I- 688B, I-766, Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570), I-94 Arrival/Departure Form

Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States

* Must be documented for all youth

U.S. Baptismal Certificate (If place of birth is shown) U.S. Birth Certificate U.S. Hospital Record of Birth U.S. Passport (either current or expired) U.S. Passport Card (either current or expired) Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570) Unexpired Alien Registration Card/Documents indicating authorization to work in the United States (INS Forms I-179, I-197, I-327, I-551, I-571, I-688, I-688A, I-688B, I-766, an unexpired I-94 Arrival/Departure from that includes an endorsement (stamped) of the individual’s status as authorized to work in the United States when accompanied with an unexpired temporary foreign passport that has the same name as the I-94, an unexpired temporary foreign passport stamped with an I-155 Work Authorization stamp.

Native American Tribal Document

Selective Service Registrant

* Only applicable for males 18 or older (refer to MassHire MVCC Selective Service Verification Policy for additional clarification)

DD-214, Report of Transfer or Discharge Selective Service Online Verification at http://www/sss/gov (Printout) Selective Service Registration Acknowledgement Card Selective Service Status Information Letter Selective Service Registration Record (Form 3A) Stamped Post Office Receipt of Registration Certificate of Naturalization (indicates compliance with all Selective

Service requirements) U.S. Passport (for non- U.S. born customers only)

YOUTH ECONOMIC ELIGIBILITY

Individual/Family Income Alimony Agreement Award letter from Veterans Administration Bank Statements (Direct Deposits) Compensation Award Letter Court Award Letter Employer Statement/Contact Business Financial Records Housing Authority Verification Pay Stubs Pension Statement Quarterly Estimated Tax for the Self-Employed Persons Social Security Benefits Unemployment Insurance Documents Written statement from other Federal, State, or Local agency Applicant Statement if no other forms of documentation are available

(must be supported with corroborative contact or reliable witness) Telephone verification if other forms of documentation are not readily available Document Inspection verification if provided document cannot be legally photocopied Individual Status/Family Size [must be documented for all youth]

Birth Certificate Decree of Court Disabled (See “Individuals with Disabilities” below) Divorce Decree Lease or Landlord Statement Marriage Certificate Medical Card Public Assistance/Social Service/Public Housing Agency Records http://www/sss/gov

Applicant Statement if no other forms of documentation are available (must be supported with corroborative contact or reliable witness)

Telephone verification if other forms of documentation are not readily available

Document Inspection verification if provided document cannot be legally photocopied

Cash Public Assistance [TAFDC]

Copy of Authorization to Receive Cash Public Assistance Copy of Public Assistance check Medical Card showing Cash Grant Status Public Assistance Identification Card showing Cash Grant Status Public Assistance Records/Printout/Master File

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Current Authorization to obtain SNAP SNAP Card with Current Date Public Assistance Records/Printout

Free or Reduced School Lunch * *Needs to be specific to family if provided to all individuals in a community

Verification from School (as defined by the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act)

High Poverty Area Poverty Threshold Census Tract Database Print Out Homeless

Written Statement from an Individual Providing Temporary Residence Written Statement from Shelter/Social Service Agency McKinney-Vento Homeless Act Authorization Form Applicant Statement if no other forms of documentation are available (must be supported with corroborative contact or reliable witness) Telephone verification if other…