REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) 13305

DEPARTMENT OF SELF SUFFICEINCY SERVICES

CALWORKS EMPLOYMENT AND SUPPORTIVE SERVICES

July 21, 2026

A. KEY INFORMATION

1. The County of San Diego is seeking proposals from firms interested in providing CalWorks Employment and Supportive Services (“Offerors”).

2. The County intends to award one (1) or more contracts. Multiple awards may be awarded with the goal of meeting the coverage area required to serve all regions and the target population. The contract term is anticipated to be an initial (base) period of one (1) year with four (4) one-year options. The anticipated contract maximum amount for the five (5) year contract is between $213,750,000 and $237,500,000. The anticipated maximum amount for the first year of the contract is between $42,750,000 - $47,500,000.

3. The County has posted this solicitation on its official BuyNet website at https://sdbuynet.sandiegocounty.gov/. In order to see all information related to this RFP, to submit Questions, and to receive notifications of updates, Offerors must select “Participate in RFx” for this solicitation in BuyNet.

4. The Contracting Officer for this solicitation is Punnita Dinmuong, Procurement Contracting Officer (Punnita.Dinmuong@sdcounty.ca.gov)

5. Schedule: This timeline is subject to change at any time, at the County’s sole discretion. The County will issue an addendum for changes to the Pre-Proposal Conference date, Questions due date, or Proposal due date.

Event Description Date and Time (San Diego Time) Pre-Proposal Conference August 3, 2026 at 1 p.m.

Questions due August 10, 2026 prior to 5:00 p.m.

Proposals due August 31, 2026 prior to 3:00 p.m.

6. Pre-Proposal Conference. The County will hold a pre-proposal conference by Video/Teleconference using the Microsoft Teams platform on the Date and Time listed in the Schedule. To participate click here to join, or dial in (audio only) +1 619-343- 2539,,466409988# or view of the RFP process and may provide a program/technical overview and other information. Attendance at the pre-proposal conference is encouraged but not mandatory.

7. Questions:

7.1. Offerors should submit all Questions, including requests for clarification related to definition or interpretation of this RFP, in writing by the Date and Time specified in the Schedule. Questions should be submitted via BuyNet, by sending a message to the Contracting Officer through the “Discussions” functionality.

7.2. Non-Offerors should direct inquiries regarding this solicitation to the Contracting Officer.

8. Table of Contents:

A. Key Information B. RFP Instructions and Rules C. Evaluation Criteria D. Submittal Items E. Required Forms F. Statement of Work G. Payment Schedule H. Draft Agreement

MAGGIE RAMSBERGER

INTERIM DIRECTOR

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING AND CONTRACTING

5560 OVERLAND AVENUE, SUITE 270, SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92123-1204

Phone (858) 505-6367 Fax (858) 715-6452

BRENDA G. MILLER

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

https://sdbuynet.sandiegocounty.gov/ mailto:Punnita.Dinmuong@sdcounty.ca.gov https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_M2Q3NmU5MDEtZmY4Zi00ZTFhLWJhYjAtMmU4OGZiNzlmY2Ni%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%224563af13-c029-41b3-b74c-965e8eec8f96%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%229ef6c607-de95-4f5c-8cbf-c690ef04f9b8%22%7d tel:+16193432539,,466409988 tel:+16193432539,,466409988

COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO – REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP 13305)

B. RFP INSTRUCTIONS AND RULES

1. INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING A PROPOSAL

1.1. It is the Offeror’s responsibility to submit a proposal based on the most current RFP, addenda thereto, responses to Questions, any other information posted on BuyNet, and any diligence material made available by the County. Offerors are advised to regularly check BuyNet for information. The County has no obligation to contact Offerors directly with any such RFP-related information.

1.1.1. In order to see all information related to this RFP, to submit Questions, and to receive notifications of updates, Offerors must select “Participate in RFx” for this solicitation in BuyNet.

1.2. Forms required to be submitted with Offerors response to this RFP are included in this RFP or posted on the County’s web site at https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/purchasing/purchasing-forms.html.

1.2.1. Posted forms may be updated from time to time. Unless otherwise specified, offerors may submit the version of a form in place as of the date of the posting of this RFP or any later version.

1.3. Offerors are advised to allow for sufficient time to obtain all necessary documents and forms, resolve any technical difficulties obtaining or completing documents or forms, and, if necessary, obtain documents and forms by an alternate method. If you are unable to download documents or forms, you may request a hard copy or technical assistance from Purchasing and Contracting’s front desk or contact clerical support at (858) 505-6367.

1.4. Offeror must submit a complete original proposal in accordance with the format provided in this solicitation to the County of San Diego, Department of Purchasing and Contracting, through electronic upload to BuyNet before the Date and Time listed in Schedule.

1.4.1. If Offeror is unable to submit via BuyNet for any reason, Offeror may submit by providing the Purchasing and Contracting front desk with either (i) electronic files on CD/DVD or, (ii) a printed proposal. Offeror must prominently mark such submissions with the RFP number on the outside of the packaging. Please use this method only if unable to submit through BuyNet.

1.4.2. When submitting via BuyNet, Offerors are advised to allow for sufficient time to submit by an alternate method in the event of technical difficulties.

1.4.3. For proposals submitted electronically through BuyNet, the time on the BuyNet server shall be considered the official time for the purpose of determining timely submittal.

1.4.4. For proposals submitted at the Purchasing and Contracting front desk, the time stamp at the front desk shall be considered the official time for the purpose of determining timely submittal.

1.4.5. In the event of multiple submittals of an original proposal by an Offeror, the County will only consider the most recent submittal submitted before the due date and time. The County will not review or consider previous submittals, whether submitted at the front desk or through BuyNet. Offerors are strongly encouraged to submit only one original proposal and to withdraw or replace any previous submittals in the event they update their proposal. Proposals may be found non-conforming if the County is unable to determine which proposal is the most recent, timely submittal.

1.5. A proposal that is untimely or otherwise not submitted in conformance with 1.4 above will not be considered for award unless: it is received before award is made; the County determines that it is in its best interest to accept the proposal;

and

1.5.1. It is determined by the County that the late receipt was due solely to mishandling by the County, or

1.5.2. No timely and conforming proposal was submitted.

1.6. Proposals may not be modified after the due date, except for modifications resulting from the Contracting Officer’s request for a revised proposal, Best and Final Offer (BAFO), or an addendum to the proposal.

1.7. Proposals may be withdrawn by written notice signed by a duly authorized representative of Offeror if received prior to Notice of Intent to Award. After Notice of Intent to Award, all proposals constitute firm offers, subject to negotiation, that will remain open and cannot be revoked, withdrawn, or modified for a period of six (6) months.

1.7.1. All proposals become the property of the County upon submission. An Offeror may request the return of its proposal upon withdrawal, which return the County may grant or deny in its sole discretion.

1.8. By submitting a proposal, Offeror agrees to these RFP Instructions and Rules and all other terms of this RFP.

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/purchasing/purchasing-forms.html

2. QUESTIONS

2.1. Offerors shall direct requests for explanation regarding the RFP or related documents to the Contracting Officer in writing as a question (“Question”). Submit Questions by sending a message to the Contracting Officer through the “Discussions” functionality in BuyNet.

2.2. The County may choose not to respond to Questions received after the date and time stated Schedule. Offeror is responsible for ensuring that Questions are received by the County.

3. PROPOSAL FORMAT

3.1. Submit electronic proposals as files in .pdf format, except where specified otherwise. For pages other than signature pages, converted and searchable formats are preferred.

3.2. Proposals shall be formatted to print on 8-1/2” x 11” page size, with no less than ½” margins and eleven (11) point font and to be suitable for black and white reproduction with no loss of information.

3.3. All proposals shall be signed with a handwritten signature by an authorized officer or employee of the Offeror.

3.3.1. Electronic or digital signatures will not be accepted.

3.3.2. Pages requiring signatures must be scanned from an original handwritten signature. If Offerors are unable to submit a .pdf with scanned signatures, Offerors may optionally submit clear pictures of signature pages containing original handwritten signatures.

4. PROPOSAL ORGANIZATION

4.1. Your proposal must be organized in accordance with the Submittal Items in this RFP.

4.1.1. Content shall be organized to correspond to the applicable exhibit and question or item within each exhibit.

4.1.2. Offerors shall separate each exhibit into one or more files, clearly named as to the exhibit and order.

4.1.3. Pages shall be consecutively numbered within each exhibit at the bottom or top margin of each page.

4.1.4. Cost/Price information:

4.1.4.1. All cost and pricing information must be contained within Cost/Price exhibit and be inclusive of all proposed compensation. No price data is to be included in the Program/Technical or other exhibits.

4.2. Confidential/Proprietary information:

4.2.1. The County is a public agency subject to the California Public Records Act, Government Code § 7920.000, et seq. Some or all of the documents submitted in response to this RFP may be subject to disclosure, and the County intends to publish any resulting contracts to its public website.

4.2.2. It is Offeror's responsibility to identify and separate into a "CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit and to provide a signed Nondisclosure Indemnification Agreement for:

4.2.2.1. all confidential information that should be protected from disclosure, including PI (Personal Information), PII (Personally Identifiable Information), or PHI (Protected Health Information), and

4.2.2.2. any proprietary or other information Offeror determines is exempt from disclosure under the California Public Records Act and wishes to protect from disclosure.

4.2.3. The “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit must be clearly labeled with all pages marked as

“CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY”

4.2.4. Refence material in the “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit where it is needed to respond to a Submittal Item (for example “See response 1 contained within the “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit” for staff Social Security numbers”).

4.2.5. If the County determines that a submission improperly designates information as confidential or proprietary, the County may, at its sole discretion: (i) deem the information releasable; (ii) declare the submission non-conforming/non-responsive; (iii) remove such information, or (iv) take any other appropriate action. (Note:

pricing and terms and conditions are generally not considered confidential under the California Public Records Act).

5. PROPOSAL EVALUATION

5.1. Evaluations shall be based on the criteria contained in the Evaluation Criteria and Submittal Items to determine the proposals(s) that provide the best value to the County.

5.2. The County shall have the discretion, but not the obligation, to construe any submission as non-conforming and ineligible for consideration if it does not conform to the requirements of this Request for Proposals. The County shall also have the discretion to waive any irregularities or deviations from the requirements of this Request for Proposals in any submission.

5.3. Small-Local Business preference: The County intends to expend federal funds for contract(s) resulting from this solicitation; therefore, in accordance with 2 CFR § 200.319(c), a Small-Local Business preference will not be applied when evaluating offers and determining contract award. Regardless, Offerors are encouraged to complete the Small- Local Business Self-Certification form to assist with County data collection.

5.4. Small-Local Business Subcontractor Utilization: Reserved.

5.5. During evaluation, County may appropriately consider the sustainability and social, human health, environmental, and economic impact of Offeror’s proposed products and approach to providing goods and services, in accordance with Board Policy B-67. Therefore, Offerors are encouraged to include relevant information in their proposals.

5.6. During evaluation, the County may appropriately evaluate the cultural competency of Offeror and Offeror’s proposed approach to providing goods and services. Therefore, Offerors are encouraged to include relevant information in their proposals.

5.7. When evaluating an Offeror’s cost or pricing, the County may also consider the effect of the proposal on the overall total cost to the County.

5.8. In evaluating an Offeror’s ability to satisfy the requirements of this RFP and any resulting contract, the County may also consider any parent, subsidiary, or related legal entity of Offeror, including, without limitation, a legal entity that Offeror acquired or merged with or will use as a guarantor in providing services to the County.

5.9. When evaluating Offeror’s proposal, County will appropriately consider the proposed purchase, acquisition, or use of goods, products, and materials produced in the United States in accordance with 2 CFR § 200.322. Offeror should include information relevant under section 200.322 in its proposal in order to be considered for such preference during evaluation.

6. EVALUATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

6.1. Proposals received, including any additions, revisions, and clarifications, will be evaluated by a Source Selection Committee (SSC) appointed by a Source Selection Authority(s) (SSA). The County may evaluate information known to the County, in addition to the information provided in response to the RFP.

6.2. The County reserves the right to request clarification and/or additional information (“Clarification”) from Offerors.

The Contracting Officer will determine the appropriate means of requesting and obtaining Clarification, which may include telephonic communication, email, letter, presentation, oral interview, or an addendum or revision to the proposal. The County may invite Offerors to make presentations to, or participate in interviews with, the County at a date, time, and location determined by the County. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the County is not obligated to seek Clarification, therefore Offerors are advised to submit complete and accurate information in their proposals.

6.3. At any point in the evaluation process, the County may determine that a proposal is unacceptable in any area or that a proposal is no longer in the competitive range, and no longer consider it for award. In such cases, the Contracting Officer will attempt to notify the Offeror.

6.4. At any point in the evaluation process, the County may hold discussions with one or more Offerors in the competitive range. Discussions may include requests for revised proposals, Best and Final Offers (BAFOs), or addenda to the proposal that may contain additional selection factors.

6.5. The SSC may recommend to the SSA that award be made to one or more Offerors. After receipt and approval of the SSA’s decision, the County will post a Notice of Intent to Award (NOI).

6.6. Upon posting of the NOI, the County will enter into contract finalization negotiations with the selected Offeror(s) and, upon successful completion, award a contract(s).

6.7. The County may rescind or modify the NOI at any time due to unsuccessful negotiations or if the County otherwise determines that it is in its best interest to do so.

6.8. The County intends to expend federal funds for contract(s) resulting from this solicitation. 2 CFR § 200.324 requires that pricing and profit margin be negotiated prior to award if only one conforming proposal is received. Failure to provide sufficient cost and pricing information for such negotiations may be cause for the County to terminate negotiations.

6.9. The actual timing and sequence of events resulting from this RFP shall ultimately be determined by the County, in its sole discretion. The County may, at any time cancel this RFP, reject all proposals, restart evaluations, modify or replace the membership of the SSC, or correct any deficiencies in the procurement process or evaluation.

7. DEBRIEF AND REVIEW OF CONTRACT FILES

7.1. After an Offeror has been notified by the Contracting Officer that that Offeror’s proposal is no longer being considered for award, the Offeror may request a debriefing from the Contracting Officer. For debriefings held prior to contract execution, the Offeror will be limited to a review of the information pertaining to the County’s evaluation of their own proposal, in accordance with Section 9.4 of these RFP Instructions and Rules. After contract execution, debriefings may include review of other proposals, the Source Selection Committee Report, and other releasable documents.

8. PROTEST PROCEDURE

8.1. Board Policy A-97 sets forth the procedures for the filing and resolution of protests related to this RFP. Board Policy A-97 is available from the Clerk of the Board, 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101, or on the County’s website at https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/cob/ocd.html .

8.2. All protests must be filed in accordance with Board Policy A-97, which requires, among other things, that a protest must be filed timely, be submitted in writing to the Contracting Officer identified in the solicitation package, and be based on a protestable action and established grounds for protest.

8.3. For Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS) provider selections, an Offeror that has exhausted the County’s protest procedure may be entitled to an additional review by the State of California – Health and Human Services Agency – Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), in accordance with MHSUDS Information Notice No. 19-018, which is located at:

https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/formsandpubs/Documents/MHSUDS%20Information%20Notices/MHSUDS_Information_ Notices_2019/MHSUDS_IN_19-018_DMC-ODS_Provider_Selection_Review_Process.pdf .

9. COUNTY COMMITMENT

9.1. This RFP does not commit the County to award a contract, nor does it commit the County to pay any of Offeror’s costs incurred in the preparation or submission of the proposal. Further, no reimbursable cost may be incurred in anticipation of a contract award.

9.2. Neither Offeror nor any of its representatives shall have any claims whatsoever against the County or any of its respective officials, agents, or employees arising out of or relating to this RFP or these procedures (other than those arising under a definitive contract with Offeror in accordance with the terms thereof).

9.3. The County reserves the right to separately procure the same or similar goods or services.

9.4. The County may withhold all information regarding this procurement until after negotiations are complete, including, but not limited to: the number of proposals received; the identity of Offeror(s); the content of proposals; the County’s evaluation and results thereof; and, the identity of the members of the SSC. Information releasable after the conclusion of negotiations is subject to the disclosure requirements and withholding exemptions of the California Public Records Act.

9.5. Pursuant to County Charter §§ 703.10 and 916, award of a contract resulting from this RFP may be subject to the County’s requirement to determine that the services can be provided more economically and efficiently by an independent contractor than by persons employed in the Classified Service

9.6. In the event that an Offeror is involved in a merger, acquisition, or other change in control, the County reserves the right to award a contract to a resulting entity.

10. DILIGENCE AND DUTY TO INQUIRE

10.1. Should an Offeror find discrepancies in or omissions from, or be in doubt as to the meaning of, the RFP or related documents, Offeror shall have a duty to submit a Question to the County.

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/cob/ocd.html https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/formsandpubs/Documents/MHSUDS%20Information%20Notices/MHSUDS_Information_Notices_2019/MHSUDS_IN_19-018_DMC-ODS_Provider_Selection_Review_Process.pdf https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/formsandpubs/Documents/MHSUDS%20Information%20Notices/MHSUDS_Information_Notices_2019/MHSUDS_IN_19-018_DMC-ODS_Provider_Selection_Review_Process.pdf

CALWORKS EMPLOYMENT AND SUPPORTIVE SERVICES

10.2. Offerors are expected to perform reasonable due diligence with regard to this RFP and the work required, including, but not limited to, information that is publicly or otherwise reasonably available and, if applicable, information that can be obtained during a site visit (including verification of measurements, conditions, and other attributes). Neither the selected Offeror(s), nor any Offerors, shall be entitled to any price adjustment or other relief based upon information that was discovered or should have been discovered through due diligence.

10.3. The County makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of any diligence material or other information provided by the County or any of its agents, representatives, contractors or consultants. Such information may reflect good faith assumptions, estimates, or projections, which may or may not prove to be correct.

10.4. Offeror should not rely upon oral statements made or explanations given by the County, including any oral responses to Questions or other inquiries. No prior, current, or post award communication(s) with any officer, agent, or employee of the County shall affect or modify any terms or requirements of this RFP, except as explicitly provided for in this

RFP.

11. OFFEROR COMMUNICATIONS

11.1. All communications from the Offeror (including its employees, agents, and representatives) to the County or its officers and employees (including consultants working on or assisting with this procurement), related to this RFP or the Offeror’s proposal, must be directed in writing exclusively to the Contracting Officer, unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer. Offerors shall not communicate with or attempt to contact any other County personnel about this solicitation, except as otherwise allowed for in this RFP or by law. Any improper contact may, at the County’s sole discretion, cause the Offeror to be removed from consideration for contract award.

11.2. If Offeror issues any public announcement, or otherwise engages in communication that, in the County’s sole determination, compromises the integrity of this RFP process or attempts to restrain competition, Offeror may be removed from consideration for award.

11.3. Audio and/or video recording of pre-proposal conferences, presentations, discussions, negotiations, debriefings, or other communications with the County regarding this RFP are prohibited, unless specifically authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer.

12. SOLICITING EMPLOYEES

12.1. Until contract award, Offerors shall not, directly or indirectly, solicit any employee of the County to leave the County’s employ in order to accept employment with the Offeror, its affiliates, actual or prospective contractors, or any person acting in concert with the Offeror without prior written approval of the County’s Contracting Officer. This paragraph does not prevent the employment by an Offeror of a County employee who has initiated contact with the Offeror.

13. PROHIBITED CONTRACTS AND SUBCONTRACTS

13.1. In accordance with Section 67 of the San Diego County Administrative Code, the County shall not contract with, and shall reject any bid or proposal submitted by the person or entities specified below, unless the Board of Supervisors finds that special circumstances exist which justify the approval of such contract:

13.1.1. Persons employed by the County or of public agencies for which the Board of Supervisors is the governing body;

13.1.2. Profit making firms or businesses in which employees described in subsection 13.1.1 serve as officers, principals, partners or major shareholders;

13.1.3. Persons who, within the immediately preceding twelve (12) months, came within the provisions of subsection 13.1.1, and who (1) were employed in positions of substantial responsibility in the area of service to be performed by the contract, or (2) participated in any way in developing the contract or its service specifications; and

13.1.4. Profit making firms or businesses in which the former employees described in subsection 13.1.3 serve as officers, principals, partners or major shareholders.

13.2. Per Board Policy A-79, a successful Offeror that is a non-profit corporation shall not subcontract any work under the agreement with a related for-profit subcontractor where an interlocking directorate, management, or ownership relationship exists, unless specifically authorized by the Board of Supervisors.

13.3. Offeror certifies that if awarded a contract under this RFP, such contract will be in compliance with Sections 13.1 and

13.2 above. Offeror shall promptly notify the County of any change in circumstance affecting these provisions.

14. CALIFORNIA REVENUE & TAXATION CODE § 18662

14.1. In compliance with California Revenue and Taxation Code § 18662, if Offeror is a non-resident of California (out-of-state invoices) that receives California source income and has not completed Franchise Tax Board Form 590, there may be a backup withholding on all payments. Fifteen (15) business days prior to the first payment from the County, new suppliers, or suppliers with expired forms or forms with incorrect information, must submit new forms to the County (forms are available from the Franchise Tax Board website listed below).

14.2. Under certain circumstances, Offerors may be eligible for reduced or waived nonresident withholding. If Offeror has already received a waiver or a reduced withholding response from the State of California and the response remains valid, Offeror should submit the response to the County in lieu of the forms. Failure to submit the required forms will result in withholding of payments. Offerors should access the Franchise Tax Board websites, listed below, for tax forms and relevant information regarding non-resident withholding, including waivers or reductions. The County will not give Offerors any tax advice. It is recommended that Offerors speak with their tax advisers and/or the State of California for guidance.

Franchise Tax Board Websites:

https://www.ftb.ca.gov https://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/search/

14.3. If selected for award, the Offeror must submit applicable forms to the Auditor & Controller via fax, at (858) 694-2060, or mail originals to: County of San Diego, 5530 Overland Avenue, Suite 410, San Diego, CA 92123. The P.O. Number or Contract Number (if available) and “California Revenue and Taxation Code § 18662” must appear on fax cover sheet and/or the outside of the mailing envelope.

15. W-9 FORM

15.1. If selected for award, the Offeror must complete and submit a W-9 form if a current form is not on file with the County.

16. PREVAILING WAGE

16.1. Prevailing Wage. Reserved.

(Remainder of this page left blank) https://www.ftb.ca.gov/ https://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/search/

C. EVALUATION CRITERIA

Proposal Evaluation Criteria The evaluation criteria listed below are in descending order of importance by paragraph, not subparagraph, and will be considered in the evaluation of the Offeror’s written and oral proposals accordingly. Proposals should give clear, concise information in sufficient detail to allow an evaluation based on these criteria.

Evaluation Criteria Key factors, extend to which:

Program Design and Approach

• Offeror’s acceptance of Exhibit A, Statement of Work (SOW).

• Offeror’s proposal demonstrates the capability to provide CalWORKs employment and supportive services.

• Offeror’s ability to effectively and efficiently meet the goals of the program, including but not limited to, meeting the unique needs of the populations served, timely completion of key activities such as employment services orientation and appraisal, employment services plans development and activity assignment, stage 1 child care payments, and employment placement, as well as to maintain strong quality assurance processes and ensure meaningful participant engagement, including verification of monthly participation hours in approved activities.

• Offeror’s proposed implementation plan is clear, feasible, and operationally efficient and demonstrates equity and inclusion efforts while meeting Federal, State and Local requirements, specifically California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), and CalWORKs Program Guide (CPG.)

• Offeror’s approach shows a clear, feasible and operationally efficient plan that demonstrates sustainability efforts.

• Offeror submitted a HHSA Cultural & Linguistic Diversity Plan that meets the cultural and linguistic needs of the target population.

Organizational Capability, Experience and Qualifications

• Offeror’s proposal demonstrates relevant experience and knowledge providing the same or similar CalWORKs and supportive services.

• Offeror’s experience with providing case management services, supportive services to Refugee populations, professional services for Learning Disabilities that include screening, reporting, consulting, and following recommended modifications for vocational and employment goals.

• Offeror’s experience using data reporting software and case management system(s).

• Offeror’s experience with providing Housing Support, Family Stabilization, and Wrap

Around Intensive Case Management services.

• Offeror’s staffing framework (including subcontracting) and requirements are designed to support the program and demonstrate the ability to support and achieve the program’s goals and objectives and demonstrate equity and inclusion efforts.

• Offeror’s proposal shows hiring, training, and sustainability plan for staffing that demonstrate the value to the focus population.

• The extent of Small Local Business participation.

• Subcontractors, if proposed, support the achievement of the outcomes of the program.

• Offeror’s experience establishing and maintaining community networks and collaborative partnerships.

Organizational Stability and Risk

• Offeror’s record of quality performance.

• Offeror’s fiscal stability, contract performance and compliance, accounting systems and litigation and any risk to the County.

Cost/Price

• Offeror’s proposed cost/price is reasonable to support and implement the proposed program.

Offeror’s proposed cost/pricing is comprehensive, stable and predictable, which limits risk or variance to the County.

Acceptance of County’s Terms and Conditions, and Insurance

• Overall risk to the County resulting from Offeror’s agreement with, or exception to, the County’s Terms and Conditions and Insurance.

D. SUBMITTAL ITEMS

Proposals should give clear, concise information in sufficient detail and in the order presented below to allow for a comprehensive evaluation. The County shall have the discretion, but not the obligation, to construe any submission as non-conforming and ineligible for consideration if it does not conform to the Submittal Requirements described by these Submittal Items. The County shall also have the discretion to waive any irregularities or variances from these Submittal Items in any submission and/or seek Clarification.

Although the Submittal Requirements below may be organized by Evaluation Criteria, the headings are only for purposes of organization and clarity. The County may evaluate the information provided under any section of the Submittal Requirements for each Evaluation Criterion (e.g., when evaluating the offeror’s Technical Approach, the County is not limited to reviewing the information submitted in response to the Technical Approach section and may, for example, also rely on information submitted in response to the Offeror's Experience, Qualifications, Capacity, Competency, etc.).

1) EXHIBIT 1 - REQUIRED FORMS

1.1. Submit a completed and signed Offeror’s Cover Page (PC600) form

• Required for all Offerors

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC600_dpc_Offerors_Cover_Page.pdf

1.2. Submit a completed and signed Representations and Certifications form (PC601)

• Required for all Offerors

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC601_dpc_Reps_and_Certs.pdf

1.3. Submit a completed and signed Small-Local Business Self-Certification Form (PC610)

• Required if claiming Small-Local Business Preference; All other Offerors are encouraged to complete this form to support County data collection.

• While the Small-Local Business Preference does not apply to this RFP due to funding source or other restrictions, all Offerors are encouraged to complete this form to support County data collection.

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC610_dpc_Small_Local_Self_Cert.pdf

1.4. Submit a completed Small-Local Business Subcontractor Utilization Plan (PC611)

• In accordance with Board Policy B-53, Offeror must submit a Small-Local Business Utilization Plan demonstrating that Offeror: (i) will either meet or exceed a 3% Small-Local Business Subcontractor Participation Requirement based on the total pricing/payment schedule of Offeror's submittal or show a good faith effort to do so, or (ii) is exempt from the Small-Local Business Subcontractor Participation Requirements.

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC611_dpc_SLB_Sub_Utilization.pdf

1.5. Submit a completed and signed Nondisclosure Indemnification Agreement (PC620) (if applicable).

• Required if submitting Confidential/Proprietary Information (see RFP Instructions and Rules section 4.2)

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC620_dpc_Nondisclosure_Indemnity.pdf

1.6. Submit a completed Exhibit C – Budget Template for Cost Reimbursement

2) EXHIBIT 2 - PROGRAM/TECHNICAL EXHIBIT

Section A: Program Design and Approach

2.1 Provide a statement that Offeror has read, understands, and accepts the Exhibit A – Statement of Work (SOW). If Offeror does not accept all portions of the SOW, then provide a marked up redline version of the SOW that provides applicable alternative language along with supporting explanation to support any alternative standards/language being proposed.

Failure to specifically reject a proposed requirement(s) will be deemed an acceptance of such requirement.

2.2 Prepare a program description for each proposed service for which proposals are being submitted, describing in detail the Offeror’s overall program design and program services, and how the programs will operate. Descriptions for each work component should be in the same sequential order and labeling each description with the appropriate section from the Statement of Work (SOW). Samples and other materials supporting the program descriptions or other parts of the proposal may be submitted as appendices. Program service descriptions should include the following:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC600_dpc_Offerors_Cover_Page.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC601_dpc_Reps_and_Certs.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC610_dpc_Small_Local_Self_Cert.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC611_dpc_SLB_Sub_Utilization.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC620_dpc_Nondisclosure_Indemnity.pdf

2.2.1 Program Design and Service Description – Prepare an overall program design and service description for the programs as described in the Statement of Work. Include any anticipated barriers to implementation and strategies to mitigate them.

2.2.2 Target Population – Describe Offeror’s understanding of the demographics and unique needs of the populations listed in the SOW, Section 4 and its subsections.

2.2.3 General Requirements for Service Delivery – Describe how the Offeror will meet the requirements listed in the SOW, Section 5.

2.2.4 Specific Requirements for Service Delivery – Describe how the Offeror will meet the requirements listed in SOW, Section 6. Include descriptions for all subsections, and specifically:

2.2.4.1 Describe in detail the qualified professional services that will be utilized for Section 6.4, Learning

Disabilities Screening, Reporting, and Consulting.

2.2.4.2 Explain how you ensure equitable LD screening and evaluation for Participants across languages, cultures, disabilities, literacy levels, and educational backgrounds.

2.2.5 Outcome Objectives - Offeror shall provide a description of how goals will be achieved or exceeded for each of the Outcome Objectives listed in the SOW, Paragraph 7 and its subsections.

2.2.6 Use of County Eligibility Determination System/County Network - Offeror shall indicate how they will comply with the requirements listed in the SOW, Section 9 and its subsections.

2.2.6.1 Describe how your organization will ensure secure, efficient, and sustainable use of the County’s eligibility determination system, HMIS, VPN, reporting tools, and other technology platforms.

2.2.6.2 Describe how your organization ensures long-term reliability and sustainability of IT infrastructure used to access County systems.

2.2.7 Data Collection and Reporting Requirements - Offeror shall describe how they will meet the requirements listed in the SOW, Section 10 and its subsections.

2.2.8 Staff Training - Offeror shall describe how they will meet the training requirements listed in the SOW, Section

11 and its subsections, including the training for case management and intensive case management.

2.2.9 Ethical Conduct and Zero Tolerance for Fraud - Offeror shall describe how comply with the requirements in the SOW, Section 12 and its subsections.

2.2.10 Quality Assurance - Offeror shall provide a description of how the requirements of the SOW, Section 12 will be achieved including, but not limited to, the following:

2.2.10.1 Description of a comprehensive quality assurance program capable of monitoring Offeror’s performance.

2.2.10.2 Describe how the Offeror’s Quality Assurance program will identify and respond to problems.

2.2.10.3 Provide detail on how the quality assurance program will be incorporated in Offeror’s policies and procedures and will involve designation of a staff person responsible for oversight.

2.2.11 Geographic Service Location - Please describe how you will provide services in the region (s) in which you propose to provide services pursuant to the SOW, Section 14.

2.2.12 Location - Please describe the proposed location (s) of services and indicate you have read and will comply with the requirements in the SOW, Section 15.

2.2.13 Facilities - Describe each of the current or proposed facility(s), their physical environment, hours of operation, proximity to mass transit and compliance with accessibility to meet all permits, licenses, certifications, ADA standards, and CA Title 24 requirements as indicated in the SOW, Section 16.

2.2.13.1 Describe how your facility locations and service delivery practices reduce geographic and systemic inequities.

2.2.14 Hours of Operation - Offeror shall indicate they’ve read and will comply with the requirements in the SOW, Section 17.

2.2.15 Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction - Offeror shall provide a general description of how they will administer surveys and meet the requirements of the SOW, Section 18 and its subsections. Please include ideas on how to maximize the number of surveys completed by program participants.

2.2.16 Pilot Program and Service Innovation - Offeror shall indicate they’ve read and accept the requirements indicated in the SOW, Section 19.

2.3 Explain how you will sustain equitable practices throughout the contract term and beyond.

2.3.1 Describe your approach to building equitable partnerships with Native American tribes, refugee resettlement agencies, ECBOs, community colleges, behavioral health partners, childcare agencies, and local community-based organizations.

2.3.2 Provide examples of how your organization ensures culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and ethical service delivery that supports long-term Participant well-being and community resilience.

2.4 Implementation Plan - Provide an action plan for program implementation. Include a chart (Gantt or similar type of chart), with start dates and completion dates for all actions leading up to a fully functioning program. The chart should show actions required, strategies employed, responsibilities (persons, organizations, agencies), dependencies, (actions which must be completed before subsequent actions must be initiated or completed), and milestones (significant actions and dates in the implementation) with dates in days and weeks beginning with Offeror receiving note of award of the contract. County plans to award a contract for services to start on January 1, 2027.

2.4.1 Describe how quickly program will start up and begin providing services.

2.4.2 Describe how Offeror plans to transition existing participants from the current provider(s) and provide services to them (with a minimal gap in services).

2.4.3 Describe how your organization incorporates policies for equity and inclusion within your projects and how they are measured and reported. Description should include:

2.4.3.1 How the program will meet the need of underserved and unserved populations.

2.4.3.2 Provide examples of how services are adapted for individuals with disabilities, neurodivergent clients, refugees, survivors of violence, populations experiencing homelessness, and persons who are justice-involved.

2.4.3.3 Any specialized population(s) Offeror is able to provide service to, such as individuals with convictions or tier offenders, primary Spanish-speaking, LGBTQ+, or others as identified by the respondent.

2.4.3.4 Describe how cultural beliefs, family structures, identity needs, and language preferences are incorporated into case planning and service delivery.

2.4.3.5 Describe how your organization will address accessibility and inclusivity safety concerns for all travelers and travel coordinators during travel and at the destination.

2.5 Describe how your organization integrates sustainability principles into service delivery for complex, multicomponent human services programs such as CalWORKs Employment Services, Refugee Employment Services, and Housing Support.

2.5.1 Explain how your service model ensures long-term sustainability for Participants, particularly regarding employment placement, retention, housing stability, and educational advancement.

2.5.2 Describe your organization’s experience implementing pilot programs or innovative service models that promote sustainability in human services delivery.

2.5.3 Describe your approach to providing rapid rehousing and eviction prevention in a way that promotes long-term housing stability and reduces repeated episodes of homelessness.

2.5.4 Describe policies or practices your organization uses to reduce administrative waste and optimize sustainable operations within case management, payments processing, reporting, and system usage.

2.5.5 Describe how your child care support operations (payments, attendance tracking, transfer timelines) incorporate sustainable processes that reduce administrative duplication and errors.

2.5.6 Describe what measures your organization has taken to improve energy efficiency in your operations.

2.5.7 Describe how your organization addresses the sustainability of transportation methods used in your program

(such as bus passes, vanpooling, rideshare alternatives, or fuel-efficient vehicle repairs) and how sustainable travel metrics will be reported.

2.5.8 Describe your organization’s environmental sustainability policies, including practices for energy efficiency, waste reduction, recycling, technology usage, consumable supplies, digital records management, and environmentally responsible purchasing.

2.6 Describe how your organization advances social sustainability by promoting equitable access to services for diverse populations, including refugees, individuals with learning disabilities, families experiencing homelessness, and multilingual communities.

2.6.1 Describe how your RES service model supports sustainable integration, economic mobility, and long-term success for newly arrived refugees.

2.6.2 Explain how your service model promotes economic sustainability through job placement, wage advancement, employer partnerships, and long-term earnings potential.

2.6.3 Describe how your organization collaborates with partners to pursue sustainable employment pipelines, employer relationships, and community-based workforce development initiatives.

2.7 Cultural Linguistic Diversity Plan: Complete and submit HHSA Linguistic and Cultural Diversity Plan Template, attached as a separate file on BuyNet.

2.7.1 Describe the specific measures you have implemented to promote diversity and inclusion within your organization.

2.7.2 Describe the approach for providing language access to non-English clients, including:

2.7.2.1 Use of bilingual staff, telephone interpretation or any translation services.

2.7.2.2 Describe how Offeror’s staff is trained to ensure effective communication.

Section B: Organizational Capability, Experience, and Qualifications

2.8 Offeror’s Resume. (Please note: The information requested in this section is in regards to the experience of the Offeror’s organization in providing the proposed service listed in this solicitation, and NOT the experience of the proposed staff).

Provide a resume of the Offeror’s experience within the last five (5) years in developing, implementing, and managing services as described in Exhibit A, Statement of Work, or comparable programs or services. Provide the dates in which Offeror has operated each program; the facility name, address, phone number, e-mail address, director and contact person(s); agency for which the program(s) operated, contact persons for each, their phone numbers and e-mail addresses. Include the average annual number of participants served and the program’s annual operational costs, as well as:

2.8.1 Dates of operation for each program; the facility name, address, phone number, email address and contact person(s); agency for which the program operated; population of focus; a brief description of services provided;

annual and total contract values and population serviced.

2.8.2 Describe your organization’s experience working with government agencies, collaborative partners and/or subcontractors to effectively communicate, collaborate and problem-solve to serve the focus population.

2.8.3 Describe your organization’s experience providing services with subcontractors and/or collaborative partners that have local expertise to service the focus population(s) and support the goals and outcomes of the program.

2.8.4 Describe your organization’s, and/or your subcontractor(s)’ approach to incorporating staff with lived experience relevant to the population served. Include:

2.8.4.1 The roles or positions within the program that are designated for individuals with lived experience.

2.8.4.2 The recruitment, hiring, and retention strategies used to attract and support staff with lived experience

(refugee voices, formerly homeless individuals, survivors, youth voices, kinship families, etc.).

2.8.4.3 Any training, supervision, or organizational supports provided to ensure the success of staff with lived experience.

2.8.5 Provide examples of prior collaborations that improved equity outcomes for underserved communities.

2.8.6 Provide examples where community voice influenced service redesign or policy change.

2.9 Organizational Framework. Describe how Offeror’s organizational framework supports the Program’s goals and outcomes. Include at a minimum the following:

2.9.1 An organizational chart that describes Offeror’s overall organization and illustrates the relationship of the proposed Program with other divisions, programs, and sections within Offeror’s overall organization. Indicate the lines of organizational management, authority, and responsibility. If any operational components will be provided through subcontracting, indicate lines of responsibility and how it functions to achieve the outcomes outlined in SOW.

2.9.2 Staffing chart that identifies all program staff positions (by name and title, if known) and reporting responsibility. Include volunteer and other non-paid positions, if applicable.

2.9.3 Job descriptions for all program staff positions in the proposed program(s), including all administrative and direct service staff positions. In the job description include 1) position title; 2) position description, including duties and responsibilities; 3) education and certifications; 4) experience; 5) title of supervisor, 6) hourly and annual salary range including benefits; and 7) if position is not full-time, identify the portion of a full-time position, such as 0.75, 0.5, etc.

2.9.4 Brief staff resumes for all administrative and program staff who are currently employed by your organization or who your organization plans to employ to fill positions in the staffing schedule to accomplish the requirements of SOW.