RFP-DSS02-25 Family First Evidence Based Prevention Programs.pdf

ORANGE COUNTY, NEW YORK

Department of General Services PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

RFP TITLE: Family First Evidence Based Prevention Programs RFP-DSS02-25

RFP Shell 7/2024

Family First Evidence Based Prevention Programs

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NOTICE TO OFFERORS

INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

BONDING REQUIREMENTS

PURCHASES BY OTHER LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND DISTRICTS

SCOPE

SPECIFICATIONS

TERM

PRICING

PAYMENT

SUBMISSION OF PROPOSALS

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, INTERVIEWS & SITE VISITS

BASIS OF AWARD

ANTICIPATED RFP TIMELINE

PROPOSAL FORM ........................................................................................................................................... 38-39

QUESTIONS

NON-COLLUSION CERTIFICATION

IRAN DIVESTMENT ACT CERTIFICATION

DISCLOSURE OF NON-RESPONSIBILITY DETERMINATIONS

INFORMATION SHEET

NON-OFFEROR'S RESPONSE

APPENDIX

AGREEMENT FOR CONSULTANT SERVICES

SUPPLIER FORMS

PAY-TO-PLAY FORMS

ACH FORM

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

NOTICE TO OFFERORS

Proposals for the County of Orange RFP-DSS02-25 Family First Evidence Based Prevention Programs will be received by the undersigned Commissioner of the Department of General Services, in her office at 255-275 Main Street, Goshen NY 10924, up to and including Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 4:00 P.M., prevailing time.

Copies of the Request for Proposals may be obtained beginning July 11, 2025 at the above address between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 4:45 P.M., Monday through Friday (with the exception of County-observed holidays), as well as through https://www.bidnetdirect.com/new-york/county-of-orange.

July 11, 2025 Renee Arnold-O’Regan, M.A.

Commissioner https://www.bidnetdirect.com/new-york/county-of-orange

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS

Unless a Request for Proposal (RFP) is solicited directly by another County department, the only official distribution source for this RFP is through the Department of General Services. Additionally, most RFP documents issued by the Department of General Services are distributed through BidNet which can be accessed through https://www.bidnetdirect.com/new-york/county-of-orange. If you have obtained this RFP from a different source, you are encouraged to contact the Department of General Services to receive an official copy. You may not receive addenda or important information regarding this RFP if you are not registered with the Department of General Services as having obtained a copy of this RFP through the Department or through BidNet.

By submitting a Proposal, you are asking the County to accept your offer for the sale of goods and/or services. It is important that you READ and UNDERSTAND all terms and conditions in this RFP, as well as understand the laws that govern Public Contracts in New York State. If you do not agree with the terms and conditions contained in this RFP, you should not submit a Proposal.

Your Proposal will be considered by the County if the following conditions are met:

1. Pursuant to State Finance Law §139-j and §139-k, this solicitation includes and imposes certain restrictions on communications between the County and an Offeror during the procurement process. An Offeror is restricted from contacting other than designated staff from the earliest notice of intent to solicit offers through final award and approval of the Procurement Contract by the County Executive ("Restricted Period") unless it is a contact that is included among certain statutory exceptions set forth in State Finance Law §139-j(3)(a). County employees are required to obtain certain information when contacted during the Restricted Period. The designated staff contact is the Commissioner of General Services or her representative, telephone (845) 291-2792. Offerors responding to this RFP must familiarize themselves with these State Finance Law requirements and will be expected to affirm that they understand and agree to comply on the Proposal Form.

2. Applicable Not Applicable A pre-proposal conference and site visit will be held at [location] on [date] at [time], prevailing time. Attendance is strongly recommended. The County shall not be liable for, nor shall it review proposed change orders, contract amendments, etc. for inadequate pricing, labor, materials, time or similar issues in Vendor/Consultant's contract with the County resulting from Vendor/Consultant's failure to attend and obtain information provided at the pre-proposal conference, site visit and/or any addenda issued afterward.

3. Offerors are responsible for reporting in writing any errors, omissions or ambiguities found in this RFP. All such reports, requests for information, questions, etc. shall be either faxed to the Department of General Services on the Questions Form found in this RFP at (845) 378-2365 or emailed to GeneralServices@orangecountygov.com with questions typed in the body of the email, and the subject line “RFP Questions”. No questions will be entertained by any other means. All questions must be submitted by Tuesday, July 22, 2025, by 3:00 P.M., prevailing time. Questions received after this time may not be addressed. Please be patient, questions will be answered in an Addendum/Addenda to be shared with all interested Offerors. Questions will not be responded to individually.

4. Unless otherwise specified herein, all Proposals shall be made upon forms furnished in this RFP, if any, and as may be modified by addenda, contained in sealed envelopes clearly marked on the outside packaging with RFP-DSS02-25 Family First Evidence Based Prevention Programs addressed to Renee Arnold-O’Regan, https://www.bidnetdirect.com/new-york/county-of-orange mailto:GeneralServices@orangecountygov.com

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

Commissioner, Department of General Services, PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street, Goshen, NY 10924 and received up to and including Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 4:00 P.M prevailing time. If NOT sending your Proposal via U.S. Mail, (i.e., using FedEx, UPS, hand delivery, etc.) please use the following address: Orange County Department of General Services, 255-275 Main Street, Goshen NY 10924. It is the Offeror’s responsibility to clearly mark the outside of their mailing package with the RFP title and number. Faxed / E-mailed Proposals are not permitted. NO LATE BIDS WILL BE ACCEPTED - NO EXCEPTIONS!

5. ONE (1) UNBOUND, SINGLE-SIDED SET OF WHICH MUST CONTAIN ORIGINAL SIGNATURES including completed copies of any forms or certifications required in this RFP and three (3) sets of all Proposals shall be submitted. Forms, if any, included in this RFP shall be completely filled in, in ink or by typing, on the original, unbound form. Failure to respond to this RFP on any official form(s) included in this RFP, may result in disqualification of a Proposal as non-responsive. No Proposal Form will be accepted which contains any modification to the template, additional information not specifically requested, omissions or erasures. Each Proposal Form shall be signed by a duly authorized individual on behalf of the Offeror. Illegible and unsigned Proposals will be rejected as non-responsive.

6. Permission will not be given to modify or explain any Proposal after it has been opened, unless clearly specified in this document (e.g. interviews). Permission to withdraw a Proposal prior to opening will be at the discretion of the County and no replacement Proposal may be submitted without authorization from the Commissioner of General Services. Opened Proposals which required a deposit for plans and specifications may not be withdrawn until forty-five (45) days after opening.

7. Basis of Award provisions vary with each RFP, please read that section carefully. Some RFPs may be awarded to more than one entity. The County reserves the right to waive any informality, reject any and all Proposals, or, if noted in the Basis of Award section of this RFP, accept any Proposal in whole or in part, if deemed to be in the best interest of the County.

8. Any award shall be subject to the execution of a contract (and, if applicable, license or other agreements) between the Offeror and the County. The County's contract obligation is contingent upon execution of the contract between the County and selected Vendor/Consultant, provision of required Pay-to-Play forms, insurance certificates and bonds, as applicable, by the Vendor/Consultant, and the availability of appropriated funds for the contract. No legal liability on the part of the County for payment of any money shall arise unless and until a contract is executed by both parties, funds are appropriated and made available in each year of the term of the contract, and all performance requirements for each payment are met. The County shall have no responsibility or liability for any of Offeror's costs related to preparation of Proposals, attendance at interviews, etc.; all such costs are solely at Offeror's risk and expense.

9. Offeror(s) awarded a contract agree to execute the contract in the same form as the template enclosed in this RFP in the timeframe, if any, indicated in this RFP. Any supplemental agreement(s) (e.g. licensing or maintenance agreements) requested by an Offeror must be included in the Proposal and are subject to the discretionary approval of the County Attorney and the County Executive. For any software required in the scope of services, include any proposed license or maintenance agreement(s) with your Proposal. Failure to reach agreement on contract terms and conditions may result in rejection of a Proposal, rescission of an award and/or retention of Proposal Security by the County.

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

10. The County maintains a unilateral right to cancel or extend the contract in accordance with the terms of any contract resulting from this RFP. If a Vendor/Consultant fails to perform or otherwise breaches the contract, in addition to any other rights and remedies the County may have, the Vendor/Consultant may be listed as non-responsible and may be ineligible for future contract awards.

11. If Bid (Proposal) Security is required by this RFP; it must be included in the Proposal. If Performance and/or Payment Bonds are required by this RFP, Proposals must include a letter from the Offeror's bank or surety stating that the required letter of credit or bond(s) will be provided in the event of a contract. The letter of credit or bond(s) shall be provided for each year or relevant portion of the contract, as may be applicable.

12. Offerors should be properly registered to do business in the State of New York and furnish applicable certificates of authority/incorporation/partnership/dba, etc. with their Proposal.

13. The County encourages submission of Proposals by certified Minority- and/or Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) and/or Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE).

14. A Non-Collusion Certification, Disclosure of Non-Responsibility Determination and Iran Divestment Act Certification are included in this RFP. Offerors must complete and submit a signed original of each and the applicable number of copies of each with each Proposal.

15. Supplier Forms are provided with this RFP. Offerors that have not received a purchase order in the last twelve

(12) months from the County must submit completed and signed Supplier Forms prior to execution of a contract by the County.

16. Please be advised that this solicitation is subject to Orange County Local Law No. 13 of 2013, as amended, known as the "Pay-to-Play Law". Pay-to-Play Forms will be made available with this RFP. All Pay-to-Play Forms should be submitted with your Proposal and will be required if you are awarded a contract. The Pay-to-Play Forms are required from the Vendor/Consultant (unless exempted by the law) prior to execution of a contract by the County.

17. Pursuant to New York’s Freedom of Information Law (“FOIL”) (Public Officers Law, Article 6, Sections 84-90) all government records are presumptively open for public inspection unless specifically exempted from disclosure under FOIL. Offerors who have a good faith belief that information contained in their Proposal is exempt from disclosure under FOIL must, at the time of their submission, request the exemption in writing, setting forth the basis for the claimed exemption. In addition, the Offeror must mark each page of its submission claimed to be exempt from disclosure under FOIL with the following legend: “THE OFFEROR BELIEVES THAT THIS INFORMATION IS PROTECTED FROM DISCLOSURE UNDER THE NEW YORK STATE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION LAW.” Neither the Offeror’s classification of materials as exempt under FOIL, nor the County’s acceptance of Offeror’s Proposal with the claimed exemption(s), should be considered a final determination as to whether the designated materials are exempt from disclosure under FOIL. Any and all determinations as to the propriety of claimed exemptions will be made by the County and/or a court of law in accordance with applicable law.

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

During the term of the contract, or longer if required, Vendor/Consultant shall maintain, at its expense, Worker's Compensation, Disability and liability insurance policies of the types and minimum coverages specified in the enclosed contract template (e.g., Agreement for Vendor Services), as applicable. Certificates of insurance evidencing Vendor’s/Consultant's compliance with these requirements shall be required prior to execution of the contract by the County. Award is conditional upon submission of insurance documents within the time specified in the Notice of Award. Failure to do so may result in disqualification of the Offeror as non-responsive and/or the County's retention of any Proposal Security.

BONDING REQUIREMENTS

There are no Bonds required for this contract.

PURCHASES BY OTHER LOCAL GOVERNMENTS AND DISTRICTS

New York State General Municipal Law §103(3), §103(16), County Law §408-a, and County Procurement Policy allow New York State political subdivisions and districts to make purchases through County contracts open to such procurements by the County. THE AWARD OF ANY CONTRACT UNDER THIS RFP SHALL BE OPEN TO SUCH PROCUREMENTS. OFFERORS WHO DO NOT WISH TO ACCEPT THIS AS A CONDITION OF CONTRACT SHOULD NOT

SUBMIT A PROPOSAL.

1. The Department of General Services shall make award information on any contract resulting from this RFP available to other political subdivisions.

2. Other political subdivisions or districts will issue purchase orders directly to Vendor/Consultant within the specified contract period referencing the County’s contract and shall be solely liable and responsible for all payments due on under the contract for that political subdivisions or district’s use of the Contract. The County shall not be liable or responsible for any debts incurred by other users of any contract resulting from this RFP.

3. All purchases shall be subject to audit and inspection by the County.

4. Necessary deviations from the County’s specifications in the award of a participant contract, for example quantities or delivery points, shall be resolved between the successful Offeror and the other political subdivisions or districts. However, at no time shall any change to price and product specifications be permitted, except where an item has been replaced by another item due to obsolescence or pricing is contingent on an outside factor (e.g.

fuel at market rates) pursuant to the terms of the contract, and/or the Vendor or Consultant offers reduced pricing to any participant, which then must be made immediately available to all participants. If a product specification requires modification due to obsolescence, the County must approve a change of product in writing in order for it to be valid. In the event a product substitution is approved, no change in price will be permitted except when the price will be lower than the originally awarded price. Any reduced pricing shall be applicable to all other participants’ quantities ordered on or after the date such reduced pricing became effective for the initial participant receiving such pricing.

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

SCOPE

1. The County of Orange (“County”), by and through its Department of Social Services (“OCDSS”) is seeking proposals from qualified organizations (referred to collectively as “Offerors” and individually as “Offeror”) to operate and provide programs from the Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse that are well supported, specifically the following programs:

(a) Functional Family Therapy,

(b) Multisystemic Therapy,

(c) Brief Strategic Family Therapy, and

(d) Familias Unidas.

2. Offerors interested in operating and providing services through more than one (1) of the aforementioned programs must submit a separate proposal for each such program, clearly identifying the program for which the proposal is being submitted by checking the appropriate box on the Proposal Form (included in this RFP). Proposals will be reviewed and evaluated separately according to program. The County reserves the right to award separate contracts under this RFP according to program, even if multiple programs will be operated by one (1) organization. The County may also award more than one (1) contract for each program.

SPECIFICATIONS

ARTICLE I

DEFINED TERMS APPLICABLE TO ALL PROGRAMS

1. The following defined terms apply to all of the programs identified in Section 1 of the Scope portion of this RFP (i.e. Functional Family Therapy, Multisystemic Therapy, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, and Familias Unidas) for which Offerors may submit a proposal.

(a) “Consultant” means any successful Offeror awarded a contract under this RFP.

(b) “Contract” means any contract awarded under this RFP.

ARTICLE II

FUNCTIONAL FAMILY THERAPY

1. Background. Functional Family Therapy (“FFT”) is an evidence-based treatment model designed to improve family interactions and address behavioral or emotional challenges in high-risk youth. FFT is family-focused, recognizing that a youth’s struggles are interconnected with the family system, communication patterns, and dynamics within the home. By developing healthier communication patterns and strengthening bonds, families can create a more supportive environment for everyone. FFT is also strength-based, working with families to identify their existing strengths and resources. Instead of dwelling on deficits, FFT focuses on what’s working well and builds upon those positive foundations. Lastly, FFT is present-focused. While past experiences

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924 are acknowledged, the primary emphasis is understanding current interactions and developing solutions for the future. This forward-looking approach empowers families to create positive change in the here and now.

2. Qualifications. To perform FFT services an individual must satisfy certain qualifications required by applicable Federal and NYS laws, rules, and regulations, each as may be amended from time to time, including, without limitation, those specifically set forth below.

(a) Professional Clinical Licensure. An FFT supervisor and/or therapist must have a current NYS professional clinical licensure as one (1) of the following: a master’s degree in clinical or counseling psychology, social work, or a related mental health field. Offeror must submit a copy of the license of each of its staff who will act as an FFT therapist on its behalf.

(b) Child Welfare Experience. Offeror must also have at least two (2) years’ experience in the child welfare field. Offeror must submit proof that each of its staff who will act as an FFT therapist on its behalf possesses the required child welfare experience.

(c) Certification. Offeror must work with FFT LLC for the required training, ongoing consultation, and quality assurance process over the life of the program. Offeror must also obtain licensure to provide FFT.

The FFT model offered by FFT LLC includes Phase I – Clinical Training, Phase II – Supervision Training, and

Phase III – Maintenance Phase.

3. Target Population. FFT is an intensive therapeutic model for families that is trauma-responsive, family-focused, and strength-based and is intended for at-risk youth ages eleven (11) to eighteen (18) years olds with behavioral and/or emotional challenges. Targeted youth generally are justice-involved or at risk for delinquency, violence, substance use, or other behavioral challenges.

4. Program Goals. The FFT program shall achieve but not be limited to the following goals, as applicable to the particular youth being served.

(a) Improved emotional regulation

(b) Ability to utilize healthier coping mechanisms

(c) Improved mental health for youth and parents

(d) Improved parenting practices

(e) Reduced delinquent behavior

(f) Reduced number of youths entering out of home placements

(g) Improved family functioning

5. Program Capacity. Offeror should have the ability to provide FFT for up to fifteen (15) families per month for an average of 5-7 months or longer if warranted.

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

6. Program Services. Consultant shall require and ensure that its supervisors and therapists perform certain tasks including but not limited to those identified below.

(a) Accept all referrals that meet the program criteria for youth and families with open and active cases from OCDSS programming areas of Preventive Services, Child Protective Services, Juvenile Justice, and Foster Care.

(b) Make initial contact with each referred youth/family within forty-eight (48) hours of receipt of the referral. The preferred method of contact is a home visit, but in cases where contact cannot be made face-to-face, alternative methods of contact including, but not limited to, telephone and virtual communication platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Skype may be used.

(c) Deliver services (including on-call crisis services) during flexible hours according to the needs of the family. Ensure team availability 24 hours 7 days a week to provide treatment when and where it is needed.

(d) Conduct one (1) face-to-face visit per week with youth/family members. Each visit should have a duration of at least sixty (60) to ninety (90) minutes.

(e) Provide FFT services in settings including but not limited to home, clinic, school, child welfare offices, probation and/or parole offices, aftercare systems, and mental health facilities.

(f) OCDSS requires, at minimum, a monthly case conference including the OCDSS program monitor, FFT supervisor and FFT therapist to report status of referred youth/family and to ensure youth/family is making progress towards program goals. The date of this monthlymeeting will be set by OCDSS and provided to Consultant.

7. Program Recording. Each month of the contract term, Consultant shall maintain the following information and report same by the twentieth (20th) day of the month immediately following the month in which FFT services were provided:

(a) Consultant shall record all referrals, sessions, contacts and assessments as specified by OCDSS within the Connections system. Also, Consultant shall be assigned a case planner role in Connections and will complete applicable sections in the Family Assessment Service Plan (FASP).

(b) Submit quarterly reports to the designated OCDSS program monitor and/or supervisor by the 20th day of the month immediately following the quarter in which program services were provided. These reports must contain any and all statistics required by the designated OCDSS program monitor and/or supervisor together with the following items:

(i) Number of referrals,

(ii) Reason for referral and reason referral is not accepted,

(iii) Number of families waitlisted,

(iv) Length of time between referral and initial contact, PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

(v) Goals/objectives,

(vi) Services provided,

(vii) Referrals/linkages made during service provision,

(viii) Average length of service,

(ix) Number of sessions completed each month,

(x) Number of cases that successfully completed the program,

(xi) Number of cases closed that were unsuccessfully discharged from the program and reason for unsuccessful completion,

(xii) Number of families who are not engaging/dropped out of the program,

(xiii) Needs identified in discharge planning, and

(xvi) Additional demographic and services information as requested by OCDSS.

(c) Consultant must submit quarterly reports (consistent with the Contract term) to the applicable

OCDSS supervisor/division by the twentieth (20th) day of the month immediately following the end of a Contract quarter. Annual reports (consistent with the Contract term) must be submitted to the applicable OCDSS monitor/division by the twentieth (20th) day of the month immediately following the end of the Contract year. Such reports must provide statistical data regarding calls received, detail and summarize the Consultant’s performance regarding the Specifications contained in this RFP. Please note that the annual report is intended to be a summary of the Consultant’s performance throughout the Contract year and does not replace the fourth (4th) quarter report.

8. Performance Measures.

(a) To ensure that FFT services are consistently provided throughout each referred case and that FFT program staff work toward the attainment of stated objectives, the following performance measures have been developed.

(i) First Contact: 98% of youth/families will have initial contact in accordance with Article II

Section 6(b) of this Request for Proposals (RFP). Contact must be made by the supervisor or therapist. If contact cannot be made as outlined, the program must document all of their diligent efforts to make contact with the youth/family. This documentation must be provided to OCDSS by the end of the business day following the missed contact. OCDSS reserves the right to determine if the program’s diligent efforts made to contact a youth/family will result in a case being exempted from a performance measure. Any exemptions to this measure will require a review of circumstances by OCDSS. Any exemptions must be authorized in writing and signed by an OCDSS supervisor or administrator.

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

(ii) Monthly contact: 95% of youth/families will receive a minimum number of contacts in accordance with Article II Section 6(d). If the program is unable to meet the required number of contacts, the program must clearly document all efforts made in the Connections progress notes.

OCDSS reserves the right to determine if the program’s diligent efforts made to contact a youth/family will result in a case being exempted from a performance measure. Any exemptions to this measure will require a review of circumstances by OCDSS. Any exemptions must be authorized in writing and signed by an OCDSS supervisor or administrator.

(iii) Maintained In Home Placement: 90% of youth served by the program will be maintained in the custody of their parent/guardian or parent/guardian designee. This measure will be documented in the monthly statistical reports that are provided to OCDSS. Any exemptions to this measure will require a review of circumstances by OCDSS. Any exemptions must be authorized in writing and signed by an OCDSS supervisor or administrator.

(iv) In Home Behavior: 90% of youth enrolled in the program will show an improvement in behavior. Programs must submit the rating instrument used to capture the youth’s behavior within the home. Instruments will be submitted quarterly to OCDSS. Improvements reflected in the instruments must be maintained in subsequent quarters.

(v) Substance Abuse/Mental Health Treatment: 90% of youth assessed to be in need of

Substance Abuse or Mental Health treatment will comply with all recommendations of the treatment program including attendance, medication compliance and substance abuse testing during their involvement in the program as verified by written report of the treatment professionals (copy of written report in case file; and/or verbal progress documented in Connections).

(b) Consultant shall report to OCDSS, on both a quarterly and annual basis (consistent with the contract term), regarding its FFT program’s success and/or failure to meet the performance measures. Quarterly and annual reports must be completed and submitted according to guidelines contained in the Orange County Department of Social Services Performance Based Contracting Instructions and Work Sheets, which can be downloaded from the County’s website, www.orangecountygov.com by clicking on Departments, Social Services, Vendor Budget Information, Performance Measures. The annual report is intended to be a summary of program performance throughout the contract year and does not replace the fourth quarter report.

(c) Each performance measure shall have a pre-selected one (1%) percent value associated with the annual value of a contract resulting from this RFP. If Consultants FFT program fails to achieve a performance measure, it will be subject to a one (1%) percent reduction of the annual reimbursement ceiling.

(d) Monthly statistical reports must be completed and submitted to the assigned OCDSS monitor and/or supervisor by the fifth (5th) day of the month immediately following the month in which FFT services were provided. These monthly reports must contain any and all statistics required by the assigned OCDSS monitor and/or supervisor.

http://www.orangecountygov.com/

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

ARTICLE III

MULTISYSTEMIC THERAPY

1. Background. Multisystemic Therapy (“MST”) is a type of family and community-based treatment that is designed to address the complex needs of at-risk youth who are struggling with serious behavioral challenges.

MST is an effective treatment for a range of challenges including delinquency, substance abuse, aggression, and mental health issues. MST focuses on the strengths and resources of the family and community. The MST therapist works to identify and mobilize the existing resources in the youths’ environment, including the family’s strengths, as well as community resources. MST targets the specific factors that contribute to the youth’s challenging behaviors. The MST therapist conducts a comprehensive assessment to identify the specific factors that are contributing to the youth’s challenging behavior, such as family conflict, peer relationships, school problems, or substance use. MST uses evidence-based interventions that are effective in addressing those specific factors identified in the assessment. MST promotes behavior change and maintains a flexible and adaptive approach. The MST therapist works with the youth and their family to develop and implement strategies for addressing the specific factors identified in the assessment; then regularly monitors progress and adjusts the treatment plan as needed based upon the changing needs of the youth and their family.

2. Qualifications. To perform MST services an individual must satisfy certain qualifications required by applicable Federal and NYS laws, rules, and regulations, each as may be amended from time to time, including, without limitation, those specifically set forth below.

(a) Professional Clinical Licensure. An MST supervisor and/or therapist must have a current NYS professional clinical licensure as one (1) of the following: a master’s degree in clinical or counseling psychology, social work, or a related mental health field. Offeror must submit a copy of the license of each of its staff who will act as an MST therapist on its behalf.

(b) Child Welfare Experience. Offeror must also have at least two (2) years’ experience in the child welfare field. Offeror must submit proof that each of its staff who will act as an MST therapist on its

(c) Certification. Offeror must work with MST Services, Inc. for the required training, ongoing consultation, and quality assurance process over the life of the program. Offeror must also obtain licensure to provide MST.

3. Target Population. MST is an intensive therapeutic model for families that is trauma-responsive, family-focused, evidence-and strength-based and is intended for at-risk youth ages twelve (12) to seventeen (17) year olds. Targeted youth are generally at risk for or are engaging in delinquent activity, substance misuse, experiencing mental health issues, are at risk for out-of-home placement, are experiencing emotional or behavioral disorders such as depression, anxiety, or conduct disorder, are experiencing family conflicts such as parent-child conflict, or are involved in child welfare, juvenile justice or other social services system.

4. Program Goals. MST program shall achieve but not be limited to the following goals, as applicable to the particular youth being served.

(a) Reduced delinquent behavior

(b) Improved family functioning

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

(c) Improved mental health for youth and parents

(d) Lower recidivism rates

(e) Decrease in violent and felony crimes

(f) Reduced number of youths entering out of home placements

(g) Decreased substance misuse

5. Program Capacity. Offeror should have the ability to provide MST for up to fifteen (15) families per month for an average of 3-5 months or longer if warranted.

6. Program Services. Consultant shall require and ensure that its supervisors and therapists perform certain cases from OCDSS programming areas of Preventive Services, Child Protective Services, Juvenile Justice,

(b) Make initial contact with each referred youth/family within forty-eight (48) hours of receipt of the face-to-face, alternative methods of contact including, but not limited to, telephone and virtual communication platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Skype may be used.

(c) Deliver services (including on-call crisis services) during flexible hours according to the needs of the family. Ensure team availability 24 hours 7 days a week to provide treatment when and where it is

(d) Conduct multiple visits per week with the youth/family members depending on the needs of the youth/family and the stage in the program.

(e) Provide MST services in settings including but not limited to home, clinic, school, child welfare offices, probation and/or parole offices, aftercare systems, and mental health facilities.

(f) Work with multiple systems within which the youth’s environment including immediate and extended family, peers, school, neighborhood, community-based providers, and other key participants.

(g) OCDSS requires, at minimum, a monthly case conference including the OCDSS program monitor, MST supervisor and MST therapist to report status of referred youth/family and to ensure youth/family is making progress towards program goals.

information and report same by the twentieth (20th) day of the month immediately following the month in which MST services were provided:

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

(a) Consultant shall record all referrals, sessions, contacts and assessments as specified by OCDSS within the Connections system. Also, Consultant shall be assigned a case planner role in Connections and

(iii) Number of families waitlisted,

(iv) Length of time between referral and initial contact,

(v) Goals/objectives,

(vi) Services provided,

(vii) Referrals/linkages made during service provision,

(viii) Average length of service,

(ix) Number of sessions completed each month,

(x) Number of cases that successfully completed the program,

(xi) Number of cases closed that were unsuccessfully discharged from the program and reason for unsuccessful completion,

(xii) Number of families who are not engaging/dropped out of the program,

(xiii) Needs identified in discharge planning, and

(xvi) Additional demographic and services information as requested by OCDSS.

(c) Consultant must submit quarterly reports (consistent with the Contract term) to the applicable

OCDSS supervisor/division by the twentieth (20th) day of the month immediately following the end of a Contract quarter. Annual reports (consistent with the Contract term) must be submitted to the applicable OCDSS monitor/division by the twentieth (20th) day of the month immediately following the end of the Contract year. Such reports must provide statistical data regarding calls received, detail and summarize the Consultant’s performance regarding the Specifications contained in this RFP. Please note that the

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924

(a) To ensure that MST services are consistently provided throughout each referred case and that

MST program staff work toward the attainment of stated objectives, the following performance measures have been developed.

(i) First Contact: 98% of youth/families will have initial contact in accordance with Article III therapist. If contact cannot be made as outlined, the program must document all of their diligent efforts to make contact with the youth/family. This documentation must be provided to OCDSS by the end of the business day following the missed contact. OCDSS reserves the right to determine if the program’s diligent efforts made to contact a youth/family will result in a case being exempted from a performance measure. Any exemptions to this measure will require a review of accordance with Article III Section 6(d). If the program is unable to meet the required number of contacts, the program must clearly document all efforts made in the Connections progress notes.

OCDSS reserves the right to determine if the program’s diligent efforts made to contact a youth/family will result in a case being exempted from a performance measure. Any exemptions documented in the monthly statistical reports that are provided to OCDSS. Any exemptions to this

(v) Substance Abuse/Mental Health Treatment: 90% of youth assessed to be in need of

Substance Abuse or Mental Health treatment will comply with all recommendations of the treatment program including attendance, medication compliance and substance abuse testing during their involvement in the program as verified by written report of the treatment professionals (copy of written report in case file; and/or verbal progress documented in Connections).

contract term), regarding its MST program’s success and/or failure to meet the performance measures. Quarterly and annual reports must be completed and submitted according to guidelines contained in the Orange County Department of Social Services Performance Based Contracting Instructions and Work Sheets, which can be downloaded from the County’s website, PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924 www.orangecountygov.com by clicking on Departments, Social Services, Vendor Budget annual value of a contract resulting from this RFP. If Consultants MST program fails to achieve a

MST services were provided. These monthly reports must contain any and all statistics required by the assigned OCDSS monitor and/or supervisor.

ARTICLE IV

BRIEF STRATEGIC FAMILY THERAPY PROGRAM

1. Background. Brief Strategic Family Therapy (“BSFT”) seeks to identify and change the structural interaction patterns that make up the family environment. Addressing family behaviors and interactions that contribute to challenging behaviors helps families function better so that youth can overcome issues they are experiencing. BSFT is an effective treatment for a range of challenges including substance abuse, associations with antisocial peers, bullying, truancy, and other recognized youth risk factors. BSFT has three main components. First, therapists establish relationships with family members to better understand and join the family system. Second, therapists observe how family members behave with one another to identify interactional patterns that are associated with problematic youth behavior. Third, therapists work in the present, using reframes, assigning tasks, and coaching family members to try new ways of relating to one another to promote more effective and adaptive family interactions.

2. Qualifications. To perform BSFT services an individual must satisfy certain qualifications required by applicable Federal and NYS laws, rules, and regulations, each as may be amended from time to time, including, without limitation, those specifically set forth below.

(a) Professional Clinical Licensure. An BSFT supervisor and/or therapist must have a current NYS professional clinical licensure as one (1) of the following: a master’s degree in social work, marriage and family therapy, psychology, or a related field. Offeror must submit a copy of the license of each of its staff who will act as a BSFT therapist on its behalf.

(b) Child Welfare Experience. Offeror must also have at least two (2) years’ experience in the child welfare field. Offeror must submit proof that each of its staff who will act as a BSFT therapist on its

(c) Certification. Offeror must work with either Brief Strategic Family Therapy Institute or the Family

Therapy Training Institute of Miami for the required training, ongoing consultation, and quality assurance process over the life of the program and to obtain licensure to provide BSFT.

3. Target Population. BSFT is a short-term therapeutic model for families that is evidence-and strength-based and is intended for at-risk youth ages twelve (12) to seventeen (17) year olds. Targeted youth are generally

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924 at risk for or are engaging in substance abuse, associations with antisocial peers, bullying, truancy, and other recognized youth risk factors.

4. Program Goals. BSFT program shall achieve but not be limited to the following goals, as applicable to the particular youth being served.

(a) Reduced delinquent behavior

(b) Improved family functioning

(c) Improved mental health for youth and parents

(d) Improved family communication, conflict-resolution, and problem-solving skills

(e) Decreased socialized aggression

(f) Reduced number of youths entering out of home placements

(g) Decreased substance misuse

5. Program Capacity. Offeror should have the ability to provide BSFT for up to fifteen (15) families per month for an average of 12 – 16 weeks or longer if warranted.

6. Program Services. Consultant shall require and ensure that its supervisors and therapists perform certain cases from OCDSS programming areas of Child Protective Services, Juvenile Justice, Preventive Services,

(b) Make initial contact with each referred youth/family within forty-eight (48) hours of receipt of the face-to-face, alternative methods of contact including, but not limited to, telephone and virtual communication platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Skype may be used.

(c) Deliver services (including on-call crisis services) during flexible hours according to the needs of the family. Ensure team availability 24 hours 7 days a week to provide treatment when and where it is

(d) Conduct weekly visits with the youth/family members.

(e) Provide BSFT services in settings including but not limited to home, clinic, and child welfare offices.

(f) OCDSS requires, at minimum, a monthly case conference including the OCDSS program monitor, BSFT supervisor and BSFT therapist to report status of referred youth/family and to ensure youth/family is making progress towards program goals.

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924 information and report same by the twentieth (20th) day of the month immediately following the month in which BSFT services were provided:

(a) Consultant shall record all referrals, sessions, contacts and assessments as specified by OCDSS within the Connections system. Also, Consultant shall be assigned a case planner role in Connections and day of the month immediately following the quarter in which BSFT services were provided. These reports must contain any and all statistics required by the designated OCDSS program monitor and/or supervisor together with the following items:

(iii) Number of families waitlisted,

(iv) Length of time between referral and initial contact,

(v) Goals/objectives,

(vi) Services provided,

(vii) Referrals/linkages made during service provision,

(viii) Average length of service,

(ix) Number of sessions completed each month,

(x) Number of cases that successfully completed the program,

(xi) Number of cases closed that were unsuccessfully discharged from the program and reason for unsuccessful completion,

(xii) Number of families who are not engaging/dropped out of the program,

(xiii) Needs identified in discharge planning, and

(xvi) Additional demographic and services information as requested by OCDSS.

(c) Consultant must submit quarterly reports (consistent with the Contract term) to the applicable

OCDSS supervisor/division by the twentieth (20th) day of the month immediately following the end of a Contract quarter. Annual reports (consistent with the Contract term) must be submitted to the applicable OCDSS monitor/division by the twentieth (20th) day of the month immediately following the end of the Contract year. Such reports must provide statistical data regarding calls received, detail and summarize

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924 the Consultant’s performance regarding the Specifications contained in this RFP. Please note that the

(a) To ensure that BSFT services are consistently provided throughout each referred case and that

BSFT program staff work toward the attainment of stated objectives, the following performance measures have been developed.

(i) First Contact: 98% of youth/families will have initial contact in accordance with Article IV therapist. If contact cannot be made as outlined, the program must document all of their diligent efforts to make contact with the youth/family. This documentation must be provided to OCDSS by the end of the business day following the missed contact. OCDSS reserves the right to determine if the program’s diligent efforts made to contact a youth/family will result in a case being exempted from a performance measure. Any exemptions to this measure will require a review of accordance with Article IV Section 6(d). If the program is unable to meet the required number of contacts, the program must clearly document all efforts made in the Connections progress notes.

OCDSS reserves the right to determine if the program’s diligent efforts made to contact a youth/family will result in a case being exempted from a performance measure. Any exemptions documented in the monthly statistical reports that are provided to OCDSS. Any exemptions to this

(v) School Behaviors: 90% of youth enrolled in the program will remain free of behavioral or academic suspensions throughout program enrollment. Any documented contact with school personnel is acceptable, including verbal and written. Information obtained verbally must be documented in Connections; written documentation will be maintained in the case file.

contract term), regarding its BSFT program’s success and/or failure to meet the performance measures. Quarterly and annual reports must be completed and submitted according to

PO Box 218, 255-275 Main Street Goshen, New York 10924 guidelines contained in the Orange County Department of Social Services Performance Based Contracting Instructions and Work Sheets, which can be downloaded from the County’s website, www.orangecountygov.com by clicking on Departments, Social Services, Vendor Budget annual value of a contract resulting from this RFP. If Consultants BSFT program fails to achieve a

BSFT services were provided. These monthly reports must contain any and all statistics required by the assigned OCDSS monitor and/or supervisor.

ARTICLE V

FAMILIAS UNIDAS

1. Background. Familias Unidas is a family-centered intervention that aims to prevent substance use and risky sexual behavior among Hispanic youth. Familias Unidas aims to empower parents by increasing their support network, teaching them about protective and risk factors, improving parenting skills, enhancing parent-youth communication, and facilitating involvement and investment in youths’ lives. Familias Unidas consists of five key intervention components. One, parents participate in parent support network groups led by two facilitators. Facilitators use participatory learning methods (i.e., learning through dialogue rather than instruction) during group sessions to help establish parental investment, increase parental support, and build self-efficacy.

Two, facilitators conduct family visits in the home. During these visits, facilitators restructure negative interactions within the youth’s family, peer, and social networks, and parents apply skills learned during the group sessions. Three, parents participate in individual and group parent-school personnel meetings aimed at establishing or strengthening positive parent-school connections. Four, youth engage in family-supervised activities with their peers that allow parents to become more informed and involved in the youth’s peer world.

Five, parents complete family homework assignments to practice parenting skills. Parents discuss the homework assignment during the group sessions.

2. Qualifications. To perform Familias Unidas services an individual must satisfy certain qualifications required by applicable Federal and NYS laws, rules, and regulations, each as may be amended from time to time, including, without limitation, those specifically set forth below.

(a) Education. A Bachelor’s degree and is proficient in English and Spanish languages with effective writing skills in both languages.

(b) Child Welfare Experience. Offeror must also have at least two (2) years’ experience in the child welfare field. Offeror must submit proof that each of its staff who will act as a Familias Unidas facilitator on its behalf possesses the required child welfare experience.

(c) Certification. Offeror must complete training to become a certified Familias Unidas facilitator.

Facilitators must complete a 32-hour training (four 8-hour days) to become certified.

PO Box 218,…