rfp_24-3003.pdf

April 9, 2024

TRIBAL INDIAN CHILD WELFARE ADVOCATES TRAINING

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) 24-3003

NOTICE TO PROSPECTIVE PROPOSERS

You are invited to review and respond to this Request for Proposal (RFP), entitled RFP 24-3003, Tribal Indian Child Welfare Advocates Training. In submitting your proposal, you must comply with these instructions.

Note that all agreements entered into with the State of California shall include by reference General Terms and Conditions and Contractor Certification Clauses that may be viewed and downloaded at Internet site https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of- Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language. If you do not have Internet access, a copy can be provided by contacting the person listed below.

Public Contract code Section 10115 et seq. establishes a contract participation goal of at least three percent (3%) for Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE). This goal applies to a state agency’s overall contracting program.

THE DEPARTMENT ELECTS TO WAIVE THE DVBE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

FOR THIS SOLICITATION, BUT OPTS TO INCLUDE THE DVBE INCENTIVE.

If you have questions or should you need any clarifying information, the contact person for this RFP is:

Rachel Lynch, Contracts Analyst

California Department of Social Services Non-IT Contracts Bureau

E-mail: Rachel.Lynch@dss.ca.gov

The RFP due date is May 22, 2024, 2:00 p.m. PT. Questions concerning the RFP must be received no later than April 25, 2024, 2:00 p.m. PT. See RFP Section D paragraph 1 for additional details. Please note that no verbal information given shall be binding upon the State unless such information is issued in writing as an official addendum.

Sincerely, Marvel Alder, Staff Services Manager I Contracts and Purchasing Bureau Enclosure https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language mailto:Rachel.Lynch@dss.ca.gov

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Request for Proposal (RFP) 24-3003

TRIBAL INDIAN CHILD WELFARE ADVOCATES TRAINING

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Table of Contents

Page A. Background and Purpose ...................................................................... …….5 B. Scope of Work C. Minimum Qualifications for Proposers D. Proposal Requirements and Information…………………………………………8

1. Key Action Dates………………………………………………………………. 8

2. Agreement Term………………………………………………………………. 9

3. Funding ........................................................................................... ……. 9

4. Subcontractors………………………………………………………………… 10

5. Proposer Questions...………………………………………………………….10

6. Proposal Format………………………………………………………………. 11

7. Proposal Content……………………………………………………………… 11

8. Submission of Proposal ....................................................................... ….18

9. Evaluation Process ……………………………………………………………20

10. Award and Protest

11. Disposition of Proposals

12. Agreement Execution and Performance

13. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Disclosure……………………….26

E. Preference and Incentive Programs

1. Small Business Enterprise (SBE)

2. DVBE Incentive for Awards Based on High Score …...…………………….28

3. Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA) …………………………….28

F. Insurance Requirements…………………………………………………………. 29 G. General Provisions Applying to All Insurance Policies…………...…………….30

Attachments and Exhibits

Attachment 1 Required Attachment Checklist Attachment 2 Minimum Qualification Certification Attachment 3 Proposal/Proposer Certification Sheet Attachment 4 Cost Proposal Attachment 4.1 Budget Summary Attachment 4.2 Personnel Budget Attachment 4.3 Budget Narrative Format and Instructions Attachment 5 Proposer References Attachment 5.1 Subcontractor References Attachment 6 Proposal Cover Letter and Statement of Intent to Meet RFP

Requirements Attachment 7 Bidder Declaration, GSPD-05-105 Attachment 8 Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Declarations, DGS PD

Attachment 9 DVBE Subcontractor Agreement Attachment 10 Darfur Contracting Act Certification Attachment 11 Commercially Useful Function (CUF) Evaluation Form Attachment 12 California Civil Rights Laws Attachment Attachment 13 Iran Contracting Act Verification Form Attachment 14 Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA), STD 830 Attachment 15 Bidder’s Summary of Contract Activities and Labor

Hours, DGS PD 526

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Attachment 16 Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Disclosure & Factsheet, STD 1000

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS

Exhibit 1 California DVBE Program Requirements Exhibit 2 Sample Agreement

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A. BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

1. Background

RFP 24-3003 is a Non-IT Services Request for Proposal. IT solutions as defined by State Administrative Manual (SAM) 4819.2.

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Resources/SCM/TOC/10/10 cannot be included in submitted proposals.

Native Americans constitute a vulnerable population in the United States. The historical trauma to which the Native American people were subjected informs their present-day attitudes of government mistrust that social service officials confront as this population and the tribes they are affiliated with are engaged in social welfare services. That distrust of state or federal governmental intervention is due to social welfare service policies of assimilation and mainstreaming in California and the nation. A 1976 study by the Association on American Indian Affairs found that Indian children were placed in foster care or placed for adoption at 3 times the rate of non-Indian children and 25%-35% of all American Indian children had been separated from their families and placed in foster care, or institutions, or with adoptive families. Over 8 times as many Indian children were placed in adoptive homes than non-Indian children and approximately 90% of American Indian foster care placements were in non-Indian homes. Aside from the cultural implications, the emotional and psychological impact on these children provided the impetus for passage of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA 1978, PL 95-608) that legislated protections to halt extinction of Indian culture and the assimilation of Indians into the mainstream society.

The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) established minimum federal standards for states regarding Indian child welfare as it relates to the stability and security of Indian tribes and families. First and foremost was the requirement of inquiry to determine if a child was a member of an Indian tribe or the biological child of a member and also eligible for membership. Other ICWA requirements include notifying respective tribes of child welfare services’ involvement, prescribing culturally appropriate family preservation efforts and requiring active efforts prior to removal of Indian children from Indian homes, among others. Should the child’s removal from their home be determined necessary, ICWA’s minimum standards require that states involve the child’s tribe and defer to Indian social and cultural standards in placement decisions.

Since the passage of the ICWA, the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has endeavored to nurture improved relations with all of the Indian tribes within the State of California, as well as the significant urban Indian population in California. The CDSS recognizes that the ICWA is a multi-faceted statute. In addition to minimum federal standards for state Indian child custody proceedings, the ICWA includes powerful jurisdictional and other provisions relating to the exercise of tribal authority over child custody matters. Effective implementation of the ICWA requires attention to these provisions, including actively collaborating with tribes and providing technical assistance to tribes in a manner that respects their heritage, acknowledges their sovereignty and empowers them to partner with the state and to administer effective services and programs for Indian children and https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Resources/SCM/TOC/10/10

RFP 24-3003 Page 6 of 31 families. In the 40 years since the ICWA’s enactment, the ICWA’s existence alone has not been sufficient to ensure delivery of adequate child welfare services to this population. California is home to the highest number of federally recognized tribes in the nation and has the largest American Indian population of any state, most affiliated with tribes from other states. To help address this challenge, California has also passed state legislation to reinforce and strengthen the protections and applications of the ICWA.

a. In 2006, California passed SB 678 (Chapter 838, Statutes of 2006), a comprehensive bill that focused on the uniform application of the federal ICWA into California law.

b. Effective July 1st, 2010 Assembly Bill 1325 (Chapter 287; Statutes of 2009,) recognized Tribal Customary Adoption (TCA), a form of adoption available to some Indian children who are dependents of the California Courts whereby their connection to their tribe is not severed by an order terminating parental rights.

c. SB 1460 (Chapter 772 Statutes of 2014) and AB 403 (Chapter 773, Statutes of

2015), were passed by the Legislature, giving federally recognized tribes the ability to conduct their own background checks for purposes of approving homes for placement of Indian children. Tribally approved homes (TAHs) must meet the minimum federal standards, including criminal and child abuse screenings, prior to placement [41 USC section 671(a)(10) and 45 CFR section 1355.20].

Challenges related to the ICWA are still disproportionately the subject of appeals in California as compared to the number and percentage of dependency appeals nationwide. This number’s significance is highlighted when one considers that Native American children only account for 1.2 percent of the child welfare population (current data reflects that Native Americans represent approximately 747 children in foster care out of a total of 60,045).

2. Purpose

The purpose of this RFP is for CDSS to obtain proposals from qualified contractors to provide tribes and tribal Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Advocates with the training, resources, and expertise that would otherwise be exclusively available to county social workers and county counsel staff. An ICWA Advocate is a supporter or defender of tribal civil rights who assists tribal families in the Child Welfare court system. The Advocates require continual training to learn of information on new legislation, program requirements, and court procedures.

Likewise, new Advocates need initial training, to replace Advocates lost through attrition. An ICWA Advocate falls under one of the following categories: tribal member, tribal representatives, tribal attorney, child’s attorney, parent’s attorney, tribal social worker, or county social worker. By focusing efforts here, tribes shall have the ability to strongly and competently advocate for ICWA compliance in court child welfare cases.

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The substantive knowledge and advocacy skills developed through this program shall better equip the tribal ICWA Advocates to more effectively and efficiently represent their tribes and clients in court, leading to better outcomes for tribal children and families. As a result, the goal is to ensure ICWA compliance, reduce disrupted placements, reduce the number of ICWA appeals, reduce the incidences of overturned ICWA cases, ensure that Native American children are not deprived of their rights under the ICWA, and minimize the dilution of tribal sovereignty consistent with the spirit of the ICWA.

B. SCOPE OF WORK

See Exhibit 2, Sample Standard Agreement, Exhibit A, Scope of Work.

C. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROPOSERS

1. This project requires an awareness and keen appreciation for the American Indian traditions, customs, and socioeconomic needs and the ability at all times to meet and deal effectively in contacts with Indian tribes and organizations. The Contractor must demonstrate project management and meeting facilitation skills with at least 5 years of experience doing work similar in complexity to this project.

The Contractor must provide copies of, or web links to, final reports for each project year.

2. The project requires a comprehensive familiarity with federal and California child welfare law and practice. The ideal contractor must possess at least 5 years of experience working with California tribes, including working with tribes in developing policies and programs for tribal child welfare programs.

3. The Contractor must possess demonstratable competency in the development, delivery, and administration of training programs for tribal social work staff, tribal ICWA advocates, and county social workers involved in the implementation of the Indian Child Welfare Act. Such competency may be acquired or demonstrated by a project team, assembled from within the organization itself, by key administrative and operational staff in that organization, or through partnership(s) with other organizations. The identified project team must include members with the following qualifications:

a. A Master of Social Work (MSW) with at least 5 years of experience working as a social worker for a California tribe or 1 of the 58 counties in California.

b. An attorney with at least 5 years of experience representing Indians or tribes in Indian child custody proceedings in state or tribal courts in California.

c. A curriculum development specialist with a Master of Arts (MA) in Education or related field and with demonstrated knowledge of instruction techniques and principles of teaching, or professional experience in providing instruction to adults using a variety of methods such as discussion, small group work, games and role play.

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4. Demonstration of knowledge of instruction techniques and principles of teaching (in person and virtual), or professional experience in providing instruction to adults using a variety of methods such as discussion, small group work, games and role play.

5. Skills and ability to use multimedia elements to create documents and presentations.

6. Ability to collect all training related information including the administration, documentation, tracking, reporting, and method of delivery for all trainings.

7. Proposer must submit, with the proposal, a list of at least 3 business references that includes current and/or former paying clients for whom Proposer has provided services similar to those required herein within the last 5 years. References may be contacted by the CDSS to validate the information provided by the Proposer to determine the client’s overall satisfaction with the services provided. Proposer is responsible for notifying their references that CDSS may contact them for reference and performance information. CDSS shall contact references during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m.

and 5:00 p.m. PT. If references cannot be reached, the proposal may be deemed non-responsive and rejected. If references obtained are not favorable, the CDSS may reject the proposal. Refer to Attachment 5, Proposer References.

8. Proposer must provide evidence that it has at least 1 California office, or prior to execution of the awarded agreement, shall establish and maintain at least 1 California office, and shall provide services through this location. All travel expensed must be charged on the premise that travel commences from the California office location. An office located in California is defined as a physical office space in a commercial building owned or leased by the vendor that is accessible to employees of the CDSS.

9. Proposer must be a legal business entity authorized to do business in the State of

California. A business license from the city/county in which the Proposer's California-based office(s) are located shall be submitted with the proposal. All businesses based in unincorporated areas are required to submit signed proof of “exempted” business license status from the city or county, if applicable.

10. As applicable to private nonprofit organizations or private foundations, a

Proposer’s organization must be registered with the California Secretary of State as verified by the Secretary of State’s website: http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/, or registered and in good standing in another State and qualified to conduct business in the State of California in compliance with the California Corporations Code Section 2105.

D. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS AND INFORMATION

1. Key Action Dates

EVENT DATE

http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/

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RFP Available to Prospective Proposers April 9, 2024

Question Submittal Deadline April 25, 2024, 2:00 pm PT Must submit questions in an email to:

Rachel.Lynch@dss.ca.gov

Final Date for Proposal Submission May 22, 2024, 2:00 pm PT

Notice of Intent to Award Posted June 14, 2024

Last Day to Protest Award June 21, 2024

Proposed Agreement Start Date July 1, 2024

2. Agreement Term

The anticipated term of the resulting Agreement is July 1, 2024, or date of approval by the Department of General Services (DGS), whichever is later, through June 30, 2027. The State may exercise the option to amend to add funds to complete the identified tasks. The date of contract approval by the State, however, shall be the governing factor as to the date of commencement. Should performance commence before the contract is approved, such services may be considered voluntary.

3. Funding

A maximum of $1,485,000.00 is anticipated to be available to obtain the services described in this RFP. Only 1 Agreement shall be awarded. Funding for these services shall not exceed the following amounts per Fiscal Year (FY). Proposer’s cost to perform services cannot exceed the maximum funding available for the Agreement per FY.

a. $495,000.00 for FY 2024-25 (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025)

b. $495,000.00 for FY 2025-26 (July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026)

c. $495,000.00 for FY 2026-27 (July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027)

It is mutually agreed that if the Budget Act of the current year and/or any subsequent years covered under this Agreement does not appropriate sufficient funds for the program, this Agreement shall be of no further force and effect. In this event, CDSS shall have no liability to pay any funds whatsoever to Contractor or to furnish any other considerations under this Agreement and Contractor shall not be obligated to perform any provisions of this Agreement.

If funding for any fiscal year is reduced or deleted by the Budget Act for purposes of this program, CDSS shall have the option to either cancel this Agreement with no liability occurring to the State or offer an agreement amendment to Contractor to reflect the reduced amount.

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4. Subcontractors

a. Any subcontractor that the Proposer chooses to use in fulfilling the requirements of this solicitation must also meet all the requisites of this RFP including the minimum qualifications and insurance requirements. In total, subcontractors may not perform more than 49% of the required services. If the Proposer proposes the use of a subcontractor, the Proposer must also submit a list of references, Attachment 5.1, Subcontractor References, on behalf of each subcontractor.

b. For any DVBE subcontractor, in addition to section 4.a. above, Proposer must submit a completed DVBE Subcontractor Agreement – Attachment 9, for each DVBE subcontractor identified in their proposal. Only the Proposer shall fill out this Agreement and either mail, fax, or email the Agreement to the selected DVBE(s) for signature. The Agreement must be submitted with the proposal.

c. Proposer may not substitute any proposed subcontractor without advance written consent of the CDSS.

d. Nothing contained in the awarded Agreement or otherwise shall create any contractual relationship between CDSS and any subcontractors, and no subcontractor shall relieve the Contractor of its responsibilities and obligations hereunder. The Contactor agrees to be fully responsible to CDSS for the acts and omissions of its subcontractors and of persons either directly or indirectly employed by any of them as it is for the acts and omissions of persons directly employed by the Contractor. The Contractor’s obligation to pay its subcontractors is an independent obligation from the obligation of CDSS to make payments to the Contractor. As a result, CDSS shall have no obligation to pay or to enforce the payment of any moneys to any subcontractor.

5. Proposer Questions

Questions related to this RFP shall be submitted by April 25, 2024, 2:00 pm PT in an email by Proposers to Rachel.Lynch@dss.ca.gov. Questions shall not be responded to on an individual basis. Once all questions have been submitted, CDSS shall summarize all questions and post the summary and response document to the Cal eProcure, California State Contracts Register as a document titled “Questions and Answers to RFP 24-3003”. Oral communications concerning this RFP shall not be binding on the State and shall in no way excuse the Proposer of any obligations set forth in the RFP.

Proposers shall ONLY contact the individual identified above and shall not contact other CDSS personnel for meetings, conferences or technical discussion related to this RFP. No questions may be answered by other CDSS staff. If Proposers are discovered to have contacted other CDSS personnel, CDSS may reject their proposals.

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Include the following information in your inquiry:

a. Your name, name of your firm, area code, telephone number, and email address.

b. A description of the subject or issue in question or discrepancy found.

c. RFP section, page number or other information useful in identifying the specific problem or issue in question.

d. Remedy sought, if any.

6. Proposal Format

a. The proposal should provide straightforward and concise descriptions of the

Proposer’s ability to satisfy the requirements of the RFP. The proposal must be complete and accurate. Omissions, inaccuracies, or misstatements may be cause for rejection of a proposal. Emphasis in the proposal should be on completeness and clarity of content. The evaluation process shall not provide credit for capabilities or advantages that are not clearly shown in the written proposal.

b. The narrative portions of the proposal shall be formatted using one-inch margins at the top, bottom and both sides, a font size of Arial 12-point, on standard white paper, 8 ½ by 11 inch in size, typed, double-spaced, with each page clearly and consecutively numbered.

c. All documents requiring signatures contained in the original proposal package submitted to CDSS must bear an electronic or scanned signature and must be signed by a person with the authority to bind the proposing entity. Signatures facsimile stamps shall not be accepted for the signature on the proposal.

d. Except for any required audits or financial statements or returns, do not mark any portion of your proposal response as “Confidential” or “Proprietary”. CDSS shall disregard any such markings.

e. All narrative portions should be straightforward, concise, and precise. The quality of the proposal, not the volume, packaging, or elaborate displays, shall receive greater attention in the evaluation process.

f. The proposal must be submitted in the legal entity name of the Proposer. The proposal must be signed by the Proposer, a corporate officer, or an authorized agent of the Proposer. Signature facsimile stamps shall not be accepted.

7. Proposal Content

This section specifies the order and content of each proposal. Failure to submit applicable attachments may cause the bid to be rejected.

a. Required Attachment Checklist (Attachment 1)

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b. Minimum Qualification Certification (Attachment 2)

Proposers must complete and return the Attached 2, Minimum Qualification Certification, certifying that the Proposer satisfies the Minimum Qualifications and requirements and include an explanation of how each applicable Minimum Qualification is met. This form must be signed by an individual who is authorized to bind the Proposer contractually.

c. Proposal/Proposer Certification Sheet (Attachment 3)

d. Proposal Cover Letter and Statement of Intent to Meet RFP Requirements

(Attachment 6)

e. Table of Contents

A Table of Contents must be provided. It must identify all major sections of the proposal by page number. All exhibits and attachments must also be identified and referenced by page number.

f. Body of Proposal

The following elements must be included in the proposal narrative. Address all of the required elements in the proposal narrative. Page limitations are noted for certain sections; pages in excess of the stated page limitations shall not be read.

(1) Background and Experience: A narrative description is required of the

Proposer’s relevant background and experience. This description should not exceed ten (10) typed, double-spaced pages in length with Arial 12-point font size. Pages in excess of ten (10) shall not be read. The following information should be included:

(a) Extensive knowledge and familiarity working closely with child welfare services at the State and local government levels.

(b) Statements regarding the success of recruiting, organizing, effectively facilitating and training groups of participants from connections it has to tribal leaders, courts, and social service agencies and provide examples of tangible and applicable work product which resulted from the convening of these groups.

(c) Statements describing project management capacity in order to effectively manage the administration, resources, relationships and deliverables required as part of this RFP.

(d) Example of complex research and data analysis as related to child welfare programs and outcomes.

(e) Copies of, or web links to, final reports from 4 projects.

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(f) At least 5 years of working with California tribes, including working with tribes in developing policies and programs for tribal child welfare programs.

(g) Competency in the development, delivery and administration of training programs for tribal social work staff, tribal ICWA advocates and county social workers involved in implementation of the Indian Child Welfare Act.

(2) Organizational Structure and Personnel Resources –

The content of this section should describe how the Proposer shall organize the resources necessary to complete the data collection required by this RFP. The content should demonstrate Proposer’s ability to provide the services set forth in this RFP. Do not exceed five (5) typed, double-spaced pages with Arial 12-point font size. Pages in excess of five (5) shall not be read (limitation not to include (e) below). This section shall include:

(a) Services and Activities: Provide a description of the nature of the respondent’s services and activities as it relates to developing curriculum and provide training sessions to tribal Indian Child Welfare advocates to strengthen courtroom advocacy skills. If the Proposer is a business, note when the Proposing business was established, its brief history and its location. List the location(s) of the office(s) from which the primary work on this Agreement would be performed. The Proposer must give evidence that it has at least 1 California office and shall provide services through this location.

(b) Principal Investigator (PI): Identify 1 individual on the Proposer’s team who shall manage the work of this Agreement. Describe, including factual examples, the individual’s overall experience in planning and developing curriculum of ICWA training such as that described in the context of this RFP.

(c) Key Personnel: Specify the key personnel who shall manage or conduct the work. Identify the role each person shall serve, their title, where the individual is headquartered, and the percentage of the Proposer’s total effort that shall be provided by the individual towards the project. “Key personnel” are defined as those people in conjunction with the PI who shall exercise a major management and/or administrative role on behalf of the Proposer. “Key personnel” also includes individuals who are responsible for completing or assisting with the completion of the deliverables described in Exhibit A, Scope of Work. “Key personnel” does not include clerical staff. At minimum, this must include”

1) A Master of Social Work (MSW) with at least 5 years of experience working as a social worker for a California tribe or 1 of the 58 counties in California.

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2) An attorney with at least 5 years of experience representing Indians or tribes in Indian child custody proceedings in state or tribal courts in California.

3) A curriculum development specialist with a Master of Arts (MA) in

Education or related field and with demonstrated knowledge of instruction techniques and principles of teaching, or professional experience in providing instruction to adults using a variety of methods such as discussion, small group work, games and role

(d) Current resumes for the PI and key personnel: Include resumes describing education, experience and expertise with pertinent information demonstrating qualifications for this RFP. If specific positions are not yet filled, please include job descriptions and qualifications for those positions desired. Do not exceed two (2) typed, double-spaced pages with Arial 12-point font size per person.

(e) Subcontractors: Provide the names, addresses and telephone numbers of all contemplated subcontractors; clearly describe the services each shall provide; the method used to secure their services; the portions and monetary percentages of the work to be done by the subcontractors; a description of how the subcontracted work shall be controlled, monitored, and evaluated by the Proposer; and a resume for each key staff member of the subcontractor. Do not exceed two (2) typed double-spaced pages with Arial 12-point font size per person. The CDSS considers the successful Proposer to be the sole point of contact for the resulting Agreement. However, all subcontractors must conform to all requirements of this RFP and must be approved by the CDSS, in writing, in advance. Entering into an Agreement with the State pursuant to the proposal does not constitute written approval of the proposed subcontractor. Should the subcontractor’s participation include access, use or storage of personally identifiable information or protected health information, the subcontractor must meet the same requirements as the Contractor for access to the data described in the RFP.

(f) Organization Chart: Proposer must include an organization chart, showing the hierarchy of the PI and key personnel involved. The chart must show the principal staff, creative media/public relations staff, researchers and other key personnel of the Proposer’s organization and all other parties (subcontractors) to the proposal.

(3) Methodology – This section of the proposal should contain a detailed, clearly written explanation of the methods and tasks that the Proposer shall follow to perform the services required by this RFP. This narrative for all components should not exceed fifteen (15) typed, double-spaced pages in length with Arial 12-point font size. Pages in excess of fifteen (15) shall not be read. The written explanation should include the following for each component:

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Description of Methodology: Describe in detail the methodology that the Proposer intends to follow to meet each deliverable as outlined in the Scope of Work and the attached Services and Deliverables and what activities shall be completed to fulfill those. Outline the phases of planning and implementation, highlighting any practice approaches necessary.

(4) Work Plan – Provide as an attachment a detailed proposed work plan for the period July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027. This section of the proposal should contain a list of phases, major activities, strategies, and tools to achieve the goal of developing and implementing a training curriculum to Tribal Welfare advocates as outlined in the Scope of Work. The work plan shall include a list of major activities and sufficient detail to ascertain the roles and activities of the PI and key personnel, including any subcontractors. In addition to the work plan, please provide a timeline for the term of the Agreement. The work plan shall be updated as necessary during the course of the Agreement. The work plan and any changes are subject to the approval of the Project Team.

(5) Budget – Proposers must complete the following budget document included as Attachments 4, 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 to this RFP. These forms must be completed and included as attachments to the submitted proposals. The format shall not be altered.

• Cost Proposal (Attachment 4)

• Budget Summary (Attachment 4.1)

• Personnel Budget (Attachment 4.2)

• Budget Narrative Format and Instructions (Attachment 4.3)

All costs associated with the performance of the Scope of Work required in this RFP must be included in the formats provided. Proposers are encouraged to include all anticipated travel costs in the formation of their proposal. Travel costs cannot exceed the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) allowable rates for “Meal and Incidental Rates” located at https://www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/pages/travel-reimbursements.aspx.

The Awarded Proposer shall be required to provide detailed budget information by each component and by each State fiscal year prior to Agreement execution. The costs for services shall be for the entire term of the Agreement.

f. Additional Documentation

(1) Declaration Forms

(a) Bidder Declaration GSPD-05-105 Attachment 7

All Proposers must complete the Attachment 7, Bidder Declaration GSPD-05-105, and include it with the proposal. If Proposer proposes the use of a subcontractor, Proposer must submit for each proposed subcontractor the required documentation, name(s) of people or firm(s), and specify the type of work the proposed subcontractor shall be performing. Proposers awarded an agreement are contractually https://www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/pages/travel-reimbursements.aspx

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(b) Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Declarations, DGS PD 843 Attachment 8

Proposers who have been certified by California as a DVBE (or who are bidding rental equipment and have obtained the participation of subcontractors certified by California as a DVBE) must also submit a completed form(s) Attachment 8, STD 843 (Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Declaration). All disabled veteran owners and disabled veteran managers of the DVBE(s) must sign the form(s).

Should the form not be included with this solicitation, contact the State contracting official or obtain a copy online from the Department of General Services, Procurement Division, Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (OSDS) website at: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Forms.

The completed form should be included with the Proposal response.

At the State’s option prior to award, Proposers may be required to submit additional written clarifying information. Failure to submit the requested written information as specified may be grounds for bid rejection.

(2) DVBE Subcontractor Agreement (Attachment 9)

Proposer shall submit a completed Attachment 9, DVBE Subcontractor Agreement for each DVBE subcontractor identified in their proposal. Only the Proposer shall fill out this Agreement and either mail, fax or email the Agreement to the selected DVBE(s) for signature. Failure to submit the DVBE Subcontractor Agreement included in this solicitation for each DVBE subcontractor identified may render a proposal non-responsive. Each DVBE Subcontractor Agreement shall include: the term of intended subcontract with the DVBE, anticipated dates the DVBE shall perform required work, rate and conditions of payment, the percentage of the entire Agreement that shall be awarded to the DVBE, and the description of services and/or goods to be performed/supplied by the DVBE subcontractor. If further verifications are necessary, the State shall obtain additional information to verify the above requirements. Should the form not be included with the solicitation, contact the State contracting official or obtain a copy online from the Department of General Services, Procurement Division, Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (OSDS) website at: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Forms. The completed form should be included with the Proposal.

In accordance to SB 999.7, effective January 1, 2021, the Department shall withhold $10,000, or the full payment if it is less than $10,000 from the final payment on a contract until that certification is received by the awarding department within 60 calendar days after the expiration date of the agreement. If the Contractor fails to meet those certification requirements, https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Forms https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Forms

RFP 24-3003 Page 17 of 31 the Contractor may be granted 15 to 30 calendar days to cure the defect. If the Contractor does not comply with the requirement, the awarding department shall permanently deduct $10,000 from the final payment, or the full payment if it is less than $10,000 from a contract with the Contractor who does comply with those requirements within the specified period.

(3) Darfur Contracting Act Certification (Attachment 10)

All Proposers must address the requirements of the Darfur Contracting Act of 2008, for the reason described in Public Contract Code section 10475- 10481. Any scrutinized companies are ineligible to, and cannot, bid on or submit a proposal for an agreement with a State agency for goods or services. A scrutinized company is defined in Public Contract Code section 10476. However, a bid/proposal may be submitted by scrutinized companies if permission is obtained first from the Department of General Services according to the criteria set forth in Public Contract Code section 10477(b).

(4) Commercially Useful Function (CUF) Evaluation Form (Attachment 11)

The Department of General Services (DGS), Procurement Division (PD), is the entity responsible for statewide implementation of Small Business/DVBE program regulations resulting from legislative mandates passed into law. Under Government Code and Military and Veterans Code any California certified Small (SB), Micro (MB) or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Suppliers doing business with the State must perform a Commercially Useful Function (CUF). Subsequently, each Department’s buyer is held responsible for its CUF compliance procedures and evaluation of a proposer’s activities in response to Department solicitations. This applies to Suppliers responding to the Department’s solicitations whether prime or subcontractor. CUF must be established prior to making final Agreement or purchase order award.

All SB and/or DVBE applicants must include the completed Attachment 11, Commercially Useful Function Evaluation Form, with their submittal.

(5) California Civil Rights Law Attachment (Attachment 12)

Prior to bidding on, submitting a proposal or executing an agreement or renewal for a State of California agreement over $100,000 on or after January 1, 2017, the Bidder or Proposer must certify compliance with the Unruh Civil Rights Act (Section 51 of the Civil Code) and the Fair Employment and Housing Act (Section 12960 of the Government Code);

and if a Contractor has an internal policy against a sovereign nation or peoples recognized by the United States government, the Contractor certifies that such policies are not used in violation of the Unruh Civil Rights Act (Section 51 of the Civil Code) or the Fair Employment and Housing Act (Section 12960 of the Government Code).

RFP 24-3003 Page 18 of 31

(6) Iran Contracting Act Verification Form (Attachment 13)

Prior to bidding on, submitting a proposal or executing a contract or renewal for a State of California contract for goods or services of $1,000,000 or more, a vendor must either: a) certify it is not on the current list of persons engaged in investment activities in Iran created by DGS pursuant to Public Contract Code section 2203(b) and is not a financial institution extending $20,000,000 or more in credit to another person, for 45 days or more, if that other person shall use the credit to provide goods or services in the energy sector in Iran and is identified on the current list of persons engaged investment activities in Iran created by DGS; or b) demonstrate it has been exempted from the certification requirement for that solicitation or contract pursuant to Public Contract Code section 2203(c) or (d).

(7) Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA), STD 830 (Attachment 14)

(8) Bidder’s Summary of Contract Activities and Labor Hours, DGS PD 526 (Attachment 15)

(9) Tax Delinquencies Contract Ban

Public Contract Code section 10295.4 provides that a State agency shall not enter into any contract for goods or services with a Contractor whose name appears on either list of the 500 largest tax delinquencies pursuant to Section 7063 or 19195 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. This section applies to contracts executed on or after July 1, 2012. The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) and California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) shall post and periodically update lists of the 500 largest tax delinquencies on their websites as required by law. Starting July 1, 2012, prior to executing contracts, State agencies must check the FTB and CDTFA lists to ensure the proposed awardee/vendor is not on either list.

(10) Proof of Corporate Status: If the Proposer is a corporation, submit a copy of your firm’s most current Certificate of Status issued by the State of California, Office of Secretary of State. Submit an explanation if this documentation cannot be submitted. Do not submit copies of your firm’s Bylaws or Articles of Incorporation.

(11) Proof of Nonprofit Status: If the Proposer is nonprofit organization, submit a copy of an IRS determination letter indicating nonprofit 501(c)(3) tax exempt status. Submit an explanation if this documentation cannot be submitted.

8. Submission of Proposal

a. All proposals must be submitted and received by CDSS by the date and time shown in Section D, Proposal Requirements and Information, Item 1, Key Action Dates, pages 8-9. Proposals received after this date and time shall not be considered.

RFP 24-3003 Page 19 of 31

b. An electronic copy that contains a complete Portable Documents Format (PDF) of the proposal must be submitted to Rachel Lynch at Rachel.Lynch@dss.ca.gov, prior to the proposal submission deadline. The subject line shall contain the following naming convention: RFP 24-3003, Tribal Indian Child Welfare Advocates Training. If the size of the submitted files are too large to be sent in one email, multiple emails may be sent from the same proposer’s email indicating Email (#) of (total #) in the subject line.

CDSS cannot be held liable for emails not received due to file size exceeding email capabilities. Proposals submitted to any other e-mail address shall not be accepted.

c. LATE SUBMISSIONS, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, SHALL NOT BE

ACCEPTED FOR ANY REASON.

d. If the proposal is made under a fictitious name or business title, the actual legal name of the Proposer must be provided.

e. All proposals shall include the documents identified in Attachment 1, Required Attachment Checklist. Proposals not including the proper “required attachments” shall be deemed non-responsive. A non-responsive proposal is one that does not meet the basic proposal requirements.

f. Proposals must be submitted for the performance of all the services described herein. Any deviation from the work specifications shall not be considered and shall cause a proposal to be rejected.

g. A proposal may be rejected if it is conditional or incomplete, or if it contains any alterations of form or other irregularities of any kind. CDSS may reject any or all proposals and may waive an immaterial deviation in a proposal. CDSS’ waiver of an immaterial deviation shall in no way modify the RFP document or excuse the Proposer from full compliance with all requirements if awarded the Agreement.

h. Costs incurred for developing proposals and in anticipation of award of the

Agreement are entirely the responsibility of the Proposer and shall not be charged to the State of California.

i. An individual who is authorized to bind the proposing firm contractually shall sign Attachment 3, Proposal/Proposer Certification Sheet. The signature must indicate the title or position that the individual holds in the firm. An unsigned proposal may be rejected.

j. A Proposer may modify a proposal after its submission by withdrawing its original proposal and resubmitting a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline as set forth in the Key Action Dates. Proposal modifications offered in any other manner, oral or written, shall not be considered.

k. A Proposer may withdraw its proposal by submitting a written withdrawal request to CDSS, signed by the Proposer or an authorized agent. A Proposer

RFP 24-3003 Page 20 of 31 may thereafter submit a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline. Proposals may not be withdrawn without cause subsequent to proposal submission deadline.

l. CDSS may modify the RFP prior to the date fixed for submission of proposals by the issuance of an addendum to all parties who received an RFP package.

m. CDSS reserves the right to reject all proposals. CDSS is not required to award an agreement.

n. Before submitting a response to this solicitation, Proposers should review, correct all errors, and confirm compliance with the RFP requirements.

o. Where applicable, Proposer should carefully examine work sites and specifications. No additions or increases to the Agreement amount shall be made due to lack of careful examination or work sites and specifications.

p. More than 1 proposal from an individual, firm, partnership, corporation, or association under the same or different names, shall not be considered.

q. The State does not accept alternate Agreement language from a prospective

Contractor. A proposal with such language shall be considered a counter proposal and shall be rejected. The State’s General Terms and Conditions (GTC) are not negotiable.

r. No oral understanding or agreement shall be binding on either party.

s. CDSS reserves the right to use any and all ideas or concepts in any proposal submitted and/or selected for the award of the Agreement.

t. News releases pertaining to this RFP and its award shall not be made without prior approval of CDSS.

9. Evaluation Process

a. A multiple stage evaluation process shall be used to review and/or score proposals. A responsive proposal is one which meets or exceeds the requirements stated in this RFP. CDSS may reject any proposal that is found to be non-responsive at any stage of evaluation.

b. At the time of proposal opening, each proposal shall be checked for the presence or absence of required information in conformance with the submission requirements of this RFP.

c. Proposals that contain false or misleading statements, or which provide references, which do not support an attribute or condition claimed by the Proposer, may be rejected.

d. Award, if made, shall be to the highest scored responsive and responsible proposal.

RFP 24-3003 Page 21 of 31

e. In the event of a tie the winning proposal shall be decided in a coin toss. The event shall be observed by witnesses and the affected Proposers shall be invited.

f. Proposal Evaluation

The proposals shall be evaluated and scored according to the criteria indicated below. The maximum points possible are 100 (excluding points for socioeconomic incentives or preferences).

Each section of the core application narrative shall be assigned a score using the scoring rubric, which summarizes the required element of the application narrative.

Rating Category/Scoring Criteria – 100 Points

ABSENT: Proposer does not provide a clear response or address the specific request, or there is no response.

LIMITED: Proposer provides a partial response but does not provide detail that fully addresses the RFP’s request, or the response does not fully support the intent of the RFP package. The response lacks detail and would not impact the intended outcome of the RFP.

ADEQUATE: The response meets expectations, sufficiently addressing the question and demonstrating an understanding of the intent of the RFP. The response is organized and clear.

SIGNIFICANT: The response significantly expresses understanding and thoughtfulness. The respondent demonstrates clarity and ability to achieve the intended outcome of the RFP. The response demonstrates a significant ability for impact.

EXCELLENT: The response is above and beyond what is necessary. It is clear, detailed, and thoughtful. The information is thoroughly developed, innovative, and demonstrative of a high potential for success.

(1) Adequacy of Background and Experience (30 points)

(a) The Proposer should have extensive knowledge and familiarity working closely with child welfare services at the State and local government levels. (5 points)

(b) The Proposer’s background should demonstrate knowledge with the ICWA. (4 points)

(c) The Proposer should demonstrate success recruiting, organizing, effectively facilitating and training groups of participants from connections it has to tribals leaders, courts, and social service agencies and provide examples of tangible and applicable work products which

RFP 24-3003 Page 22 of 31 resulted from the convening of these groups. Include copies of, or web links to, final reports from 4 projects. (4 points)

(d) The Proposer should have proven project management capacity in order to effectively manage the administration, resources, relationships and deliverables required as part of this RFP. (4 points)

(e) Example of complex…