RFP QAAA 2026000153 Amendment #01.pdf

RFP QAAA 2026000153

HealthySteps Program Implementation Sites Solicitation

Amendment #01

The purpose of this Amendment #01 is to modify the deadlines listed in the Schedule of

Activities. Please reference the revised RFP document (v.2) for updated information. Note that all changes are highlighted in red.

Page 1 of 18 RFP12-2025A

Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC)

Request for Proposals (RFP)

HealthySteps Program Implementation Sites Solicitation

RFP QAAA 2026000153 v.2

Publication Date: February 11, 2026

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Signature Page

VENDORS: Reference the solicitation document below for the response deadline and other response submission information and requirements.

Vendors responding to this solicitation are required to complete this page in its entirety, sign it, and submit it along with their response. This page must include either a physical or electronic signature, as defined by the "Uniform Electronic Transactions Act," section 24-71.3-102 (8), to indicate the vendor's intent to be bound by their submission. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in disqualification of the vendor's response.

The undersigned acknowledges and agrees that any misrepresentation made in their response or in subsequent discussions or information provided to the State may be considered sufficient grounds for the State to decline to enter into a contract. Furthermore, any later discovery of omissions or misrepresentations in the solicitation response or in subsequent discussions may lead to the cancellation of any existing contract.

Legal Vendor Name:

Vendor Address:

Vendor Primary Contact Name:

Vendor Primary Contact Email:

Vendor Primary Contact Phone:

Name and email address of individual submitting this proposal (if different from the primary contact):

Is the Vendor a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) pursuant to C.R.S. §24- 103-905?

Is the Vendor currently on any debarred list?

Are you receiving funding from multiple sources for this project? (Yes/No)

● If yes, please provide details on how this proposal is a separate project from the others and how funding will be monitored.

o A duplication occurs when a person, household, business, or other entity receives federal assistance from multiple grant sources for the same purpose, and the total assistance received for that purpose is more than the total need. The amount of the Duplication of Benefit (DOB) is the amount received in excess of the total need for the same purpose. Any persons, business concerns, or other entities that are the recipient of duplicative assistance are liable to the United States for the amount of duplicated aid and the agency that provided the duplicative assistance is responsible for debt collection.

o Grant funds cannot be used to supplant current funding or existing activities. “Supplant” is defined as replacing funding of a recipient's existing program with funds from a state, federal, Page 3 of 18 RFP12-2025A or local funding.

Individual authorized to bind the Vendor to the proposal submission for this RFP:

Signature of individual authorized to bind the Vendor to the proposal submission for this RFP:

*If applicable, I confirm that my printed name acts as my signature.

Page 4 of 18 RFP12-2025A

Schedule of Activities

Single Point of Contact: Kellie Harris – Kellie.harris@state.co.us Please note that phone lines may not be consistently monitored, email is the preferred method of communication. The individual listed above is the sole point of contact for this solicitation. Please note that reaching out to anyone other than this individual may lead to disqualification of an offer, with the exception of the Colorado Supplier Diversity Navigator at the Statewide Equity Office of Supplier Diversity for the sole purpose of assisting with submission of the solicitation.

Solicitation Purpose: Led by Assuring Better Child Health and Development (ABCD), the HealthySteps Colorado program aims to improve long-term child and family outcomes through the delivery of high-fidelity, prevention-based pediatric care. The purpose of this solicitation is to identify and provide partial support for current HealthySteps implementation sites.

Eligibility Requirements: Any organization that can provide the services as outlined in this solicitation.

Service Location/Delivery Area: Statewide - Colorado

Anticipated Contract Start Date: July 1, 2026, or Upon execution of a Contract.

Anticipated Contract Term: The anticipated term of the resulting contract is July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 The resulting contract may be renewed for up to four additional one-year periods, not to exceed a maximum term of five years, at the sole discretion of the State, contingent upon funds being appropriated, budgeted, and otherwise made available, and other contractual requirements being satisfied.

Submission Method: Electronic. Reference Section 2.0 - Proposal Submission Instructions, for more information.

Pre-Proposal Conference: February 18, 2026 @11:15am *There will be a Pre-Proposal Conference. Reference Section 2.0 - Proposal Submission Instructions, for more information.

Inquiry Due Date and Time: February 25, 2026 @5:00pm

* Please send any questions via email to the Single Point of Contact prior to the inquiry deadline. Reference Section 2.0 - Proposal Submission Instructions, for more information.

Answers to Inquiries: March 4, 2026

* Reference Section 2.0 - Proposal Submission Instructions, for more information.

Proposal Due Date and Time: March 11, 2026 @ 2:00pm

* Reference Section 2.0 - Proposal Submission Instructions, for more information.

Public Opening Date and Time: March 12, 2026 @ 10:00am

* Reference Section 2.0 - Proposal Submission Instructions, for more information.

Note: All dates and times are subject to change and are listed in Mountain Time.

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1.0 Exhibit List

● Exhibit A - Statement of Work (SOW) Template (For Review Only)

● Exhibit B - Budget Template (Complete and Return)

● Exhibit C - Additional Provisions (For Review Only)

● Exhibit D – HIPAA Business Associate Agreement (For Review Only)

● Exhibit E - Vendor Contact Information Sheet (For Review Only)

● Exhibit F - CDEC Personal Services Contract Template (For Review Only)

2.0 Proposal Submission Instructions

i. Electronic Procurement Systems. Solicitations published by the CDEC will be posted on both BidNet Direct and the Vendor Self-Service (VSS) site, however all bid submissions will only be officially accepted on BidNet Direct by the deadline listed in the Schedule of Activities.

ii. Electronic Bid Submission. Vendors must be registered with BidNet Direct in order to download solicitation documents (including any amendments or modifications) and to be considered responsive at the time of submission of the response. Bidders who have not registered on the BidNet Direct website, must register promptly to ensure they are able to submit a timely bid response. Information may be accessed through the BidNet Direct website at: https://www.bidnetdirect.com/register.

Bidnet Direct’s Help Desk can be reached at 800-835-4603 or by email at: support@bidnet.com. No submissions will be accepted via VSS so please ensure that the proposal is submitted in accordance with these instructions.

iii. File Names. The zip file name should start with the solicitation type, solicitation number, and vendor name (e.g., “RFP QAAA 20XX000XXX Vendor Name…”).

iv. Confirmation. Vendors will receive an email confirmation that the file was uploaded correctly. If not, please contact the BidNet Direct Help Desk.

v. Pre-Proposal Conference. There will be an optional pre-proposal conference offered. The format of this pre-proposal conference will be a 15-minute presentation followed by a 30-minute Questions & Answers (Q&A)session. Please note that during the Q&A session, if there are no questions received after a period of time, the Pre-Proposal conference will end. Please refer to the information below on how to attend the conference:

February 18, 2026 @11:15am:

Meeting Link: meet.google.com/act-ughq-smh Dial in #: 7942-930-(US) +1 216 PIN: 292 685 235# meet.google.com/mum-yyxc-rug

(US) +1 260-300-0505 PIN: 444 627 554#

vi. Public Bid Opening. During the public bid opening, CDEC will formally open and announce all received proposals, revealing each bidder's name and submission timestamp to all attendees. To attend the Public Bid Opening, please refer to the information below on how to attend the conference:

March 12, 2026 @10:00am:

Meeting Link: meet.google.com/czg-tgty-rew Dial in: 3357-839-(US) +1 530 PIN: 779 151 709# meet.google.com/ifk-uncv-cin Dial in: (US) +1 440-462-2866 PIN: 268 217 171#

vii. Questions. Vendors may submit questions by email to the Single Point of Contact prior to the inquiry deadline identified in the Schedule of Activities above. The Department may answer some, all, or https://www.bidnetdirect.com/register mailto:support@bidnet.com

Page 6 of 18 RFP12-2025A none of the questions asked by posting them publicly via an amendment to this solicitation on both the BidNet and VSS sites. The state reserves the right to decline to answer any questions that do not pertain to the bid, are deemed offensive, or to decline to answer any question for any reason.

viii. Timeliness of Proposal Submission. Proposals received after the submission deadline shall not be opened and shall be rejected as a late proposal, unless otherwise permitted by the procurement official in accordance with Colorado Procurement Rule R-24-103-201-10.

ix. Deadline Adherence. Time is of the essence. Failure of a vendor to respond to any requests by established deadlines may result in the proposal being rejected.

x. Multiple or Alternate Proposals. Unless otherwise stated in this solicitation, vendors shall not be limited in providing multiple or alternate proposals. In the event a vendor provides multiple or alternate proposals, each proposal must be submitted separately and distinctly to permit independent review based on the individual proposal. Further, any vendor submitting multiple or alternate proposals must expressly identify their preferred or primary proposal.

xi. Additional Resources:

● Vendor Assistance. Any vendors needing support responding to solicitations may contact the

Colorado Supplier Diversity Navigator at the Statewide Equity Office of Supplier Diversity, https://dhr.colorado.gov/statewide-equity-office/supplier-diversity. Services provided include assistance with responding to solicitations, interpretation of solicitation documents, technical assistance referrals. The office can be reached during normal business hours by calling 303-866-5765 or emailing DPA_SupplierDiversityHelp@state.co.us.

○ Statewide Equity Office of Supplier Diversity:

https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__dhr.colorado.gov_statewide- 2Dequity-2Doffice_supplier- 2Ddiversity&d=DwMFaQ&c=sdnEM9SRGFuMt5z5w3AhsPNahmNicq64TgF1JwNR0cs&r= 2K9kkYDPzg9W7wrnb9URPPzWuzXzmzc6oQUqmP_d9mA&m=UsSCoCc_Nnj_It7iTj2w9X h- U0kW8zKwh7sIdTrgvW_OXQDDQG8CMBmOZsCmKo6l&s=AHk9LQL8xQKwtYW6AlMhIp Khc64M4gHnBm1wvGiKqhU&e=

● BidNet Direct: https://www.bidnetdirect.com/

● Vendor Self-Service (VSS) Site: https://prd.co.cgiadvantage.com/PRDVSS1X1/Advantage4

● HealthySteps: www.healthysteps.org.

● HealthySteps Model: https://www.healthysteps.org/the-model

● Tiers and Core Components - Healthysteps: https://www.healthysteps.org/what-we-do/our-model/tiers-and-core-components/

● Eight Core Competencies: https://www.healthysteps.org/what-we-do/our-model/tiers-and-core-components/

3.0 Proposal Format

i. In General. Proposals must clearly demonstrate the organization’s ability to perform the services described in this RFP.

ii. Maximum Length. Proposals should not exceed 25 pages (excluding any required attachments). The Department may evaluate proposals negatively if this page limit is not followed. Proposals must include all required attachments:

● Exhibit B – Budget Template (Return)

iii. Please respond to the items listed in Section 5.0 Proposal Content in the same sequence as outlined in this section. Proposals that do not follow the sequence outline and response format https://dhr.colorado.gov/statewide-equity-office/supplier-diversity https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__dhr.colorado.gov_statewide-2Dequity-2Doffice_supplier-2Ddiversity&d=DwMFaQ&c=sdnEM9SRGFuMt5z5w3AhsPNahmNicq64TgF1JwNR0cs&r=2K9kkYDPzg9W7wrnb9URPPzWuzXzmzc6oQUqmP_d9mA&m=UsSCoCc_Nnj_It7iTj2w9Xh-U0kW8zKwh7sIdTrgvW_OXQDDQG8CMBmOZsCmKo6l&s=AHk9LQL8xQKwtYW6AlMhIpKhc64M4gHnBm1wvGiKqhU&e= https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__dhr.colorado.gov_statewide-2Dequity-2Doffice_supplier-2Ddiversity&d=DwMFaQ&c=sdnEM9SRGFuMt5z5w3AhsPNahmNicq64TgF1JwNR0cs&r=2K9kkYDPzg9W7wrnb9URPPzWuzXzmzc6oQUqmP_d9mA&m=UsSCoCc_Nnj_It7iTj2w9Xh-U0kW8zKwh7sIdTrgvW_OXQDDQG8CMBmOZsCmKo6l&s=AHk9LQL8xQKwtYW6AlMhIpKhc64M4gHnBm1wvGiKqhU&e= https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__dhr.colorado.gov_statewide-2Dequity-2Doffice_supplier-2Ddiversity&d=DwMFaQ&c=sdnEM9SRGFuMt5z5w3AhsPNahmNicq64TgF1JwNR0cs&r=2K9kkYDPzg9W7wrnb9URPPzWuzXzmzc6oQUqmP_d9mA&m=UsSCoCc_Nnj_It7iTj2w9Xh-U0kW8zKwh7sIdTrgvW_OXQDDQG8CMBmOZsCmKo6l&s=AHk9LQL8xQKwtYW6AlMhIpKhc64M4gHnBm1wvGiKqhU&e= https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__dhr.colorado.gov_statewide-2Dequity-2Doffice_supplier-2Ddiversity&d=DwMFaQ&c=sdnEM9SRGFuMt5z5w3AhsPNahmNicq64TgF1JwNR0cs&r=2K9kkYDPzg9W7wrnb9URPPzWuzXzmzc6oQUqmP_d9mA&m=UsSCoCc_Nnj_It7iTj2w9Xh-U0kW8zKwh7sIdTrgvW_OXQDDQG8CMBmOZsCmKo6l&s=AHk9LQL8xQKwtYW6AlMhIpKhc64M4gHnBm1wvGiKqhU&e= https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__dhr.colorado.gov_statewide-2Dequity-2Doffice_supplier-2Ddiversity&d=DwMFaQ&c=sdnEM9SRGFuMt5z5w3AhsPNahmNicq64TgF1JwNR0cs&r=2K9kkYDPzg9W7wrnb9URPPzWuzXzmzc6oQUqmP_d9mA&m=UsSCoCc_Nnj_It7iTj2w9Xh-U0kW8zKwh7sIdTrgvW_OXQDDQG8CMBmOZsCmKo6l&s=AHk9LQL8xQKwtYW6AlMhIpKhc64M4gHnBm1wvGiKqhU&e= https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__dhr.colorado.gov_statewide-2Dequity-2Doffice_supplier-2Ddiversity&d=DwMFaQ&c=sdnEM9SRGFuMt5z5w3AhsPNahmNicq64TgF1JwNR0cs&r=2K9kkYDPzg9W7wrnb9URPPzWuzXzmzc6oQUqmP_d9mA&m=UsSCoCc_Nnj_It7iTj2w9Xh-U0kW8zKwh7sIdTrgvW_OXQDDQG8CMBmOZsCmKo6l&s=AHk9LQL8xQKwtYW6AlMhIpKhc64M4gHnBm1wvGiKqhU&e= https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__dhr.colorado.gov_statewide-2Dequity-2Doffice_supplier-2Ddiversity&d=DwMFaQ&c=sdnEM9SRGFuMt5z5w3AhsPNahmNicq64TgF1JwNR0cs&r=2K9kkYDPzg9W7wrnb9URPPzWuzXzmzc6oQUqmP_d9mA&m=UsSCoCc_Nnj_It7iTj2w9Xh-U0kW8zKwh7sIdTrgvW_OXQDDQG8CMBmOZsCmKo6l&s=AHk9LQL8xQKwtYW6AlMhIpKhc64M4gHnBm1wvGiKqhU&e= https://www.bidnetdirect.com/ https://prd.co.cgiadvantage.com/PRDVSS1X1/Advantage4 http://www.healthysteps.org/ https://www.healthysteps.org/the-model https://www.healthysteps.org/what-we-do/our-model/tiers-and-core-components/ https://www.healthysteps.org/what-we-do/our-model/tiers-and-core-components/ https://www.healthysteps.org/what-we-do/our-model/tiers-and-core-components/

Page 7 of 18 RFP12-2025A of this Request for Proposals (RFP) may be deemed non-responsive and disqualified from further consideration.

iv. Please define all acronyms used in your proposal. Include any additional considerations, capabilities, or information that demonstrates your qualifications for this project.

v. Mandatory Requirements. Failure to address all mandatory requirements outlined in Section 5.0 Proposal Content will result in disqualification.

4.0 Introduction and Background

HealthySteps® (HS) is an evidence-based program of ZERO TO THREE, the nation’s leading nonprofit working to ensure all babies and toddlers have a strong start in life. A multi-site randomized controlled trial, as well as other more recent site-level studies of HealthySteps, has demonstrated positive outcomes for children, their families, and the physicians and practices that serve them.

The HealthySteps® program (HS) provides enhanced, comprehensive well‐child care to children ages birth to three years and their families by promoting the establishment of close relationships between health care professionals and parents in addressing the physical, emotional, and intellectual growth and development of young children (www.healthysteps.org). HS pairs a developmental specialist (HealthySteps Specialist-HS Specialist) with a primary care provider in order to meet the overall needs of the child and his or her family.

The HS Specialist is available to provide enhanced information and services to families of young children in the clinic. HS Specialists are trained in child development, address behavioral and developmental concerns, and provide resources and supports to families being seen in primary care. HS takes a risk-stratified approach to delivering enhanced pediatric primary care. All children ages 0-3 in the primary care setting where HS is delivered receive universal child- and family-level screening (Tier 1). A subset of the population receive specific support from the HS Specialist to address an area of concern that is identified in the context of a child’s medical visit (Tier 2). This includes brief consultations to families to address common developmental or behavioral concerns that may arise in the first three years of life (e.g. fussiness, tantrums, concerns for developmental delay, potty training challenges). Children who are determined by the clinic to have the most needs receive team-based well-child care throughout the first three years of life. Children and families are offered enrollment in the highest level of care as early in life as possible and are seen for well child visits by both a HealthySteps specialist and a primary care provider at each well‐child visit until their 3-year well child visit.

BACKGROUND

Colorado’s goal is to fund prevention services for families at risk of entering the child welfare system by implementing and expanding evidence-based programs with fidelity to the evidence-based model, to use Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) plans to improve service delivery, and to collect program data that will show progress towards intended goals.

HealthySteps outcomes include:

● Greater adherence to well-child visits

● Increased vaccination rates

● Earlier identification and treatment of child concerns

● Increased breastfeeding and age-appropriate nutrition

● Earlier adoption of preventative dental hygiene

● Increased parental understanding of child development and behavior

● Increased use of positive parenting techniques

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● Decreased use of severe discipline

● Increased behaviors/activities that enhance child development, early learning and school readiness

● Increased use of available services to address family needs

● Greater adherence to maternal post-partum check up

● Reduction in unwanted pregnancies

● Increased parental satisfaction with care

PROGRAM INTRODUCTION

HealthySteps (HS) has been improving pediatric care in Colorado since the late 1990s. The HealthySteps National Office at ZERO TO THREE® advances HS growth, sustainability, and fidelity across the country. The National Office works closely with Assuring Better Child Health and Development (ABCD) and recognizes it as the program lead for HealthySteps in Colorado since 2012. HS is delivered in the context of primary care and is multi-generational and prevention focused. The reach of HS goes beyond the children enrolled and reaches the whole family. The long-term goals of the HealthySteps program are healthy children who succeed in school and life. These outcomes are achieved by targeting child health, parenting knowledge and practices, and family health and well-being.

HealthySteps is a population health model that includes eight core components organized into three tiers of service that are responsive to each family’s needs.

● Tier 1: Universal Services – For All Families with Children Age 0-3 in the Practice Universal services—including screenings and access to a support line—are provided to all families with children age 0-3 in the practice. All children and families benefit from being patients of a HealthySteps (HS) site, even if they do not interact directly with the HS Specialist, as practice and staff performance are enhanced through HS policies and training, universal screening protocols, and ongoing collaboration with the onsite HS Specialist. Services include: 1) Child Development, Social-Emotional & Behavioral Screening, 2) Screening for Family Needs (i.e., maternal depression, other risk factors, social determinants of health), and 3) Child Development Support Line (e.g., phone, text, email, online portal).

● Tier 2: Short Term Supports – For Families with Mild Concerns Building upon services offered in

Tier 1, families identified for Tier 2 are provided these additional services: 4) Child Development & Behavior Consults, 5) Care Coordination & Systems Navigation, 6) Positive Parenting Guidance & Information, and 7) Early Learning Resources.

● Tier 3: Comprehensive Services – For Families Determined to be Most at Risk Building upon services offered in Tiers 1 & 2, families identified with significant risk factors (defined by the site), the final component of services includes 8) Ongoing, Preventive Team-Based Well-Child Visits. The HS Specialist provides support in the exam room prior to, during, and/or following a child’s routine health care maintenance visits. These visits are preventive in nature and begin as early as possible, potentially at the newborn visit. Meeting with families when they are already at the practice for routine visits is convenient for parents and ensures seamless coordination of care between the HS Specialist and medical providers. The HS team determines which families receive this comprehensive level of intervention. The HS Specialist is not limited to a patient’s routine appointments and may schedule additional visits as needed. If staffing allows, this component may be provided universally. If a family receiving comprehensive services illustrates social stability, positive parenting, resolved identified risks, and optimal child outcomes, a HS Specialist may determine the family has “completed” services prior to baby’s third birthday.

https://www.healthysteps.org/the-model

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Staffing: HealthySteps pairs a developmental specialist, the HealthySteps Specialist (HSS), with a primary care provider in order to meet the overall needs of the child and their family. Each HealthySteps team includes a HealthySteps Specialist who enhances the information and services available to parents.

HealthySteps Specialists are trained in child development, addressing behavioral and developmental issues, and providing resources and supports to families being seen in primary care.

Caseload: Caseload is defined as the number of children currently enrolled in Tiers 2 and 3. Volume of Tier 2 and 3 visits and children served will be determined by the practice based on need.

Visits: While the model does not prescribe the exact number of visits that provide positive outcomes, the Colorado Department of Early Childhood desires number of visits to be as close as possible to the clinics’ recommended well-child visit schedule for Tier 3 families. On a monthly basis, the HealthySteps Specialist shall monitor Tier 3 families that are due for a well-child visit that month. If a child does not complete a recommended visit during that month, the HealthySteps Specialist shall follow up with the family in order to get them scheduled within the recommended window of time for completion of a well-child visit.

Ongoing planning is critical for successful implementation of the HS model. The implementation team shall meet at least quarterly to determine what policies and procedures should be in place to ensure success. This team includes the physician champion, the HSS, the HS coordinator and other staff as the site deems necessary (e.g. IT staff, nursing director). The role of the physician champion is to support ongoing program growth and development.

Candidates for the HSS position require a strong foundation in child development and at least a Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline. While not mandatory, advanced degrees (Master's or higher) and eligibility for professional licensure are highly desirable.Patient caseload will vary from site to site. It is expected that a full-time HSS will see an average of 4-8 patients per day (Tier 2 and Tier 3.). The specialist utilizes a dedicated area on-site for conducting private family sessions, managing documentation, and housing screening tools and informational handouts. The HSS role includes monthly supervision, preferably utilizing a reflective supervision model.This role encompasses ongoing engagement with ABCD through necessary technical assistance calls and annual site visits, as well as mandatory participation in the annual professional development day. Targeted technical assistance will also be provided to support site growth, program fidelity, and sustainability.

The pediatric practice will utilize universal standardized screening tools to identify developmental delays, social emotional concerns for both parents and children, and family needs. Written policies for identification of children eligible for Tier 3 supports will be reviewed regularly, as well as the procedure for identifying children in need of Tier 2 support. A timeline for responding to requests for support and data collection will also be in place. The HSS will share information with practice staff and caregivers around community resources, positive parenting guidance, and high-quality early learning resources.

ACCREDITATION

All HealthySteps sites will sign an affiliate agreement with ZERO TO THREE. An annual memorandum of understanding with the state intermediary, ABCD, is required.

PROGRAM ENROLLMENT ELIGIBILITY

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Any family with children ages zero to three years served by a HealthySteps practice is eligible for enrollment in Tiers 1, 2 and 3 services. Specific Tier 3 eligibility will be defined by the practice.

5.0 Proposal Content

Proposal Substance. Responses to the following components should be included in the proposal. Each component will be evaluated for completeness. Please address the following:

1. Why is your agency interested in providing HealthySteps services?

2. What geographic area(s) is your agency located in, and what geographic area (counties) are you proposing to serve?

3. What strengths do you feel your agency brings to the implementation of the HealthySteps model (in your area)?

4. Does your agency work collaboratively with other providers, agencies, and systems in your geographic area? If your agency does not currently work with other providers, agencies, and systems in your geographic area, please describe your plans for building and maintaining those relationships.

5. Collecting and analyzing data. Please include information about any electronic health record system or other database that you use to collect data and describe your approach to collecting and analyzing HealthySteps data.

6. Describe the diversity (with percentages) of your staff with regard to race, culture, and language.

7. Please affirm that your organization has provided general HealthySteps services for 3 years or more. In addition, please discuss your organization’s experience in providing supportive services to children and families.

8. Discuss your organization’s commitment to a family-centered, system of care approach to providing comprehensive, coordinated services to the child and family.

9. Please affirm that the organization will fulfill the following requirements:

a. Dedicated Workspace: Provide a designated space for the Specialist to conduct family meetings, perform data entry, and store materials.

b. Supervision: Ensure the Specialist receives monthly supervision (reflective supervision is ideal).

c. Active Engagement: Ensure the Specialist participates in ABCD technical assistance calls as needed, annual site visits, and the annual professional development day.

d. Program Fidelity: Engage with targeted technical assistance to support site growth and sustainability.

10. Please affirm that the organization possesses the following attributes:

a. A Physician Champion (an advanced practice provider such as a nurse practitioner or physician assistant may be acceptable but should be discussed with the National Office) in a pediatric primary care practice who actively supports the program’s implementation and growth.

b. Ability to have the appropriate clinic team members attend the HealthySteps Institute training.

c. Commitment to deliver all eight Core Components and the capacity to offer team-based, interdisciplinary health care, with parents and family members viewed as integral members of the health care team.

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d. Universal implementation of all five required screenings, including Development, Social- Emotional Development, Behavior/Autism, Maternal Mood, and Family Needs.

11. Accessibility Requirements. Vendors should describe how their proposed solution will meet accessibility requirements detailed in this solicitation as referenced in the attached contract terms and conditions.

12. Mandatory. Exhibit A Statement of Work. Vendor acknowledges that they have reviewed Exhibit A Statement of Work. Please provide an attestation that the organization will adhere to the project requirements as outlined in Exhibit A Statement of Work.

13. Mandatory. Exhibit B - Budget Template. Vendors are required to submit cost information via Exhibit B - Budget Template. Please refer to the comments within the document and the guidelines listed below for assistance with completing the budget.

a. Note: Past awards generally cover a portion of the HealthySteps Specialist’s salary can sometimes include a small amount of funds for travel or program supplies.

Guidelines. Please complete and submit the Budget Template (Exhibit B). Please refer to the items listed below as guidance to complete your budget.

a. Do not edit formulas in the template. Revision of formulas in template may result in a proposal being considered non-responsive.

b. Review the instructions in the comments listed in the document.

c. The de minimis indirect cost rate is 15%.

d. Justify expenses for personnel, operating and other categories using the

“description” column.

e. Align expenses with the Statement of Work (Exhibit A).

f. Vendors may expect a cost-reimbursement contract.

6.0 How Proposals are Evaluated

i. In General. Vendors are encouraged to review the solicitation and related attachments in their entirety to assure understanding of and compliance with requirements that may be included in these documents. To facilitate evaluation of proposals, a proposal should be thorough yet brief. A proposal should address the requirements set forth in the RFP and should provide sufficient details to allow the evaluation committee(s) to determine whether the proposal evidences:

● Understanding of the State’s needs, requirements and contracting terms and conditions;

and

● Ability to meet the State’s needs, including the experience and resources necessary to carry out the work towards meeting the State’s needs; and

● Costs that are reasonable and consistent with the industry.

The Department will identify the proposal(s) most advantageous to the State through an objective and competitive process. A committee will review all acceptable proposals in accordance with §24-103-203(7), C.R.S, and may request more information or clarifications from any vendor. The committee will then recommend one or more proposals for the

Page 12 of 18 RFP12-2025A award. The Single Point of Contact will notify all vendors of the final decision.

ii. Mandatory Criteria. The Department may identify mandatory criteria. However, the

Department reserves the right to waive mandatory requirements pursuant to Rule 24-103- 301-03.

iii. Evaluation Committee. The purpose of the Evaluation Committee is to review the submitted proposals, engage in candid and thorough discussions, and recommend a Vendor for the award.

The Evaluation Committee will utilize measures to ensure the integrity of the evaluation process. These measures include the following:

● Selecting committee members who possess no conflicts of interest related to this solicitation.

● Facilitating independent reviews of proposals.

● Requiring the evaluations of the proposals to be based strictly on the content of the proposals.

● Ensuring the fair and impartial treatment of all Vendors.

iv. Evaluation of Factors. An evaluation committee will evaluate proposals against all evaluation factors set forth in the RFP. The evaluation, including the results of any discussions, will result in determination by the committee of the competitive range of vendors reasonably susceptible to receiving an award. Factors that would allow for success in meeting the responsibilities outlined in this RFP:

● Completeness and accuracy of the proposal in addressing stated needs and requirements as outlined in Section 6.0 - Proposal Content, above.

● Cost-Effectiveness: Reasonableness of the proposed budget in relation to the scope of work. The State will consider price in determining the competitive range and the apparent successful vendor.

● The State reserves the right to determine a vendor's responsibility based on factors such as financial, material, personnel resources and expertise; satisfactory record of performance; satisfactory record of integrity; and status of debarment. Reference §24- 101-301(43) C.R.S.

● Note: It is the vendor’s responsibility to assure all required materials are included with the proposal. Failure of a vendor to provide required information and/or failure to follow the response format for this RFP may result in reduced scoring and/or exclusion from the competitive range of vendor proposals reasonably susceptible of receiving an award.

v. References. The Department may contact references, whether provided or not, and consider them as part of the evaluation. Past Performance and feedback from references and the success of previous projects may be evaluated.

vi. Demonstrations and Discussions. The Evaluation Committee’s initial evaluation will be based on the written proposals. Vendors should confirm that their proposal adequately conveys the soundness of their approach and their understanding of the solicitation requirements. The Evaluation Committee may, if it deems necessary, request clarifications, conduct discussions or oral presentations, or request best and final offers. Per R-24-103-203-03, discussions may be held with responsible vendors whose proposals are determined to be reasonably susceptible to be selected for award to:

• Promote understanding of the state’s requirements and the vendors’ proposals; and;

• Facilitate a contract that will be most advantageous to the state taking into

Page 13 of 18 RFP12-2025A consideration price and the other evaluation factors set forth in the request for proposals.

• The Evaluation Committee may adjust its scoring based on the results of such activities. However, proposals may be reviewed and determinations made without such activities. Vendors should be aware that the opportunity for further explanation might not exist; therefore, Vendors should ensure that their submission is complete, and are encouraged to submit their best possible proposal, including pricing.

• CDEC may request that clarifications resulting from discussions be submitted in writing by the vendor(s) to the State. Vendors will be given a reasonable timeframe in which to submit written clarifications and to provide any related revisions to their initial proposal. Such revisions will be limited to the guidelines included within the State’s requested clarifications. As discussions are at the State’s discretion, vendors should not rely on the opportunity for discussions to clarify their proposal.

vii. Best and Final Offer. The State reserves the right to give vendor(s) in the competitive range an opportunity to submit a best and final offer (BAFO) at any point during the negotiations process.

viii. Exceptions to State of Colorado Terms and Conditions. The standard terms and conditions in the Model CDEC Personal Services Contract shall govern this procurement and are hereby incorporated by reference. Vendors must submit any requested changes to the state’s contract template in redline format with their proposal. Please note that the section of the Contract identified as the Colorado Special Provisions are considered non-negotiable.

● The state does not agree to accept any requested changes to the state’s contract template and will only consider changes proposed by potential vendors. While the state will work with a potential vendor on requested changes, none are guaranteed.

Additionally, Vendors are cautioned that modifications to any of the provisions in the CDEC Personal Services Contract Template as well as other standard state exhibits, are considered to constitute an increased risk as well as increased costs to the State.

Therefore, Vendor’s noted exceptions may be considered in any evaluation. The state will not accept or consider any requests to modify the Colorado Special Provisions, and the state reserves the right to deem proposals as unresponsive if this request is made.

● Any changes requested to the Model CDEC Personal Services Contract or Exhibits accompanying this solicitation will constitute an increased timeline to contract execution as approvals may need to be obtained by multiple State Agencies (e.g., Department of Personnel and Administration, Attorney General, Colorado Department of Early Childhood, etc.). Therefore, any requested changes will take several weeks to review.

● If no exceptions are noted, Vendor indicates their intent to accept the State of Colorado Terms and Conditions as-is.

7.0 Professional Ethics and Fair Business Practices

i. Any person involved in the purchasing process for the State, any end users of such goods and services, any vendor that does business with the state, and any other interested third parties to the procurement process shall enhance the proficiency and stature of the purchasing process by adhering to the highest standards of ethical behavior.

Page 14 of 18 RFP12-2025A

ii. The State of Colorado believes that all employees and community partners, whatever their gender, race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, education, disability, socio-economic status, or any other identity, feel valued and respected. We are committed to nondiscriminatory practices and providing equitable opportunities for employment and advancement in all our departments, programs, services, and worksites. We respect and value diverse life experiences and work to ensure that all voices are heard so that a person’s future success is not determined by their identity.

iii. Vendors acknowledge that even the appearance of a conflict of interest may be harmful to the State’s interests. Vendors shall disclose in their Proposals whether there currently is, or potentially could be, the appearance of a conflict of interest regarding this solicitation, its staff, any proposed subcontractors or partners, or any related business with the State.

Reference §24-18-201, CRS, et seq. (Proscribed Acts Related to Contracts and Claims); §24- 50-507, CRS (Conflict of Interest); §18-8-301, CRS, et seq. (Bribery and Corrupt Influence);

§18-8-401, CRS, et seq. (Abuse of Public Office); §6-4-101, CRS, et seq., (Colorado Antitrust Act of 1992); §24-109-105, CRS (Debarment and Suspension); and Procurement Rule R-24- 101-107-01 (Ethics).

iv. Vendors must disclose in their proposal any potential or actual conflict of interest in connection with a response to this solicitation. A conflict of interest may include, but is not limited to, access to any non-public information by the Vendor regarding the solicitation or its subject matter. Proposal submission and signature constitute the vendor's acknowledgment and binding acceptance of all solicitation requirements, terms, and conditions.

8.0 Administrative Information

i. Acceptance of Solicitation Terms. A proposal submitted in response to this solicitation shall constitute a binding offer and acknowledgment that all terms and conditions of this solicitation are accepted. Vendors must identify any variations between its proposal and the solicitation. Failure to do so shall be deemed a waiver of any rights to subsequently modify the terms of performance.

ii. Accessibility Requirements. All work performed as a result of this solicitation must comply with all applicable provisions of §24-85-101, of the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.), et seq., and the Accessibility Standards for Individuals with a Disability, as established by the Office Of Information Technology (OIT) pursuant to §24-85-103 (2.5), C.R.S. and all State of Colorado technology standards related to technology accessibility and with Level AA of the most current version of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), incorporated in the State of Colorado technology standards.

● https://oit.colorado.gov/standards-policies-guides/technical-standards-policies

iii. Award. The Department will notify all Vendors who submitted a proposal when it issues a Notice of Intent to Award via BidNet and VSS sites. The State reserves the right to award to multiple offerors if applicable, and if it is determined to be in the best interest of the State. The awarded Vendor(s) must act in good faith to execute an agreement on or before the Anticipated Contract https://oit.colorado.gov/standards-policies-guides/technical-standards-policies

Page 15 of 18 RFP12-2025A

Start Date. If this date is not met, through no fault of the State, the State, at its sole discretion, may cancel the Notice of Intent to Award.

● The State may negotiate with any Vendor to clarify the Vendor’s Proposal or to effect modifications that will make the Proposal acceptable or more advantageous to the State in alignment with the requirements as identified in this solicitation;

however, any requirements identified in this solicitation may not be negotiated.

● All awarded vendors are hereby notified that they must return the attached Vendor Customer Information Sheet (incorporated into this RFP as an exhibit) to the Single Point of Contact listed in the Schedule of Activities section no more than three business days after notification of award. Failure to provide this required documentation may result in cancellation of award. Alternatively, proposers may submit this exhibit as a component of their proposal.

iv. Background Checks. Pursuant to C.R.S. §27-90-111 and Department policy, any vendor, and its agent(s), who has direct contact with vulnerable persons in a state-operated facility, or who provides state-funded services that involve direct contact with vulnerable persons in the vulnerable person’s home or residence, shall:

● submit to and successfully pass a criminal background check, and

● report any arrests, charges, or summonses for any disqualifying offense as specified by C.R.S. §27-90-111 to the Department.

v. Cancellation. A solicitation may be canceled only when there are cogent and compelling reasons to believe that the cancellation of the solicitation is in the state's best interest. An award of a contract under a solicitation may be canceled, in whole or in part, when the procurement official determines in writing that such action is in the state's best interest.

The reason and documentation supporting the decision to cancel the solicitation or reject Proposal(s) shall remain confidential for the lesser of six months or until a Contract or purchase order is awarded by the State.

vi. Communication. All communication regarding this solicitation must be done through the Single Point of Contact identified above. Unauthorized contact with any Department personnel other than the Single Point of Contact regarding this solicitation is prohibited and may result in disqualification.

vii. Confidentiality. Anything submitted by a vendor is likely to become public information.

Vendors may submit, as a part of its solicitation response, a written request for classification of certain portions of the response as confidential information. This information will help ensure that all submitted materials are handled appropriately and in accordance with state confidentiality standards. The Procurement Official or his or her designee shall determine if the information identified in the Vendor's request is exempt from disclosure in accordance with §24-72-204, C.R.S., and shall inform the Vendor in writing of the final determination.

● When submitting a confidentiality request, materials for which confidentiality has been requested shall be readily identifiable and separable from other portions of the solicitation to facilitate public inspection of the non-confidential portion of the solicitation response. Please include a complete redacted proposal response

Page 16 of 18 RFP12-2025A along with an unredacted version of the proposal with associated confidentiality justifications. Commingling of confidential and non-confidential information is not acceptable.

● Please provide a crosswalk of information related to the material you wish to be confidential and the reasons why the information should be considered as confidential. Vendors must include the rationale for any request to classify portions as a trade secret or confidential or proprietary, including references to the authority that allows for such treatment.

● In no event shall price information or an entire solicitation response, nor any information that will be included in a resulting Contract, be classified as confidential.

viii. Contract. Vendors must agree to the State’s agreement terms as outlined in the CDEC Personal Services Contract Template. Please note that any referenced or attached model Agreement lists the State’s standard required legal provisions but may not include the specific scope of work and other specific terms or requirements for this solicitation. Vendors must review any attached Agreement terms and note any exceptions. Modifications to the State’s Agreement terms constitute increased risk and costs to the State. Therefore, Vendor’s noted exceptions may be considered in any evaluation. If no exceptions are noted, the Vendor indicates an intent to accept the terms as-is.

ix. CORE Registration. Unless otherwise noted, before the Department can execute a contract for any vendor, that vendor must be registered in CORE, which can be completed through Vendor Self Service at www.colorado.gov/vss.

x. Debarment and Suspension. The vendor shall disclose in its proposal, to the best of its knowledge and belief whether it, its principals and any proposed subcontractors:

● Are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for disbarment, or declared ineligible.

● Any convictions or civil judgments rendered against them for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public transaction; violation of Federal or State antitrust statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements or receiving stolen property.

● Are presently under investigation for, indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity (Federal, State or local) with commission of any of the offenses enumerated in the previous bulleted item; and

● Within a three-year period preceding this proposal, had one or more public transactions (Federal, State, or local) terminated for cause or default.

Failure of a vendor to disclose any information in this section may result in the State’s determination that the vendor is not reasonably susceptible to the award.

xi. Electronic Funds Transfers (EFT). Awarded Vendors are encouraged to sign up for EFT.

xii. Incurred Costs. The Department is not liable for any cost incurred by vendors prior to any formal contract, purchase order, or other agreement. No property interest of any nature shall occur until a contract is signed by all parties concerned.

xiii. Insurance Requirements. The awarded Vendor will be required to submit a certificate(s) of http://www.colorado.gov/vss

Page 17 of 18 RFP12-2025A insurance evidencing insurance coverage for the types and amounts of insurance as required by the Insurance provision in the Contract or Purchase Order Terms and Conditions, included in this solicitation as an exhibit, prior to execution of a Contract or Purchase Order.

xiv. Modifications of Proposals. Proposals may be modified or withdrawn by the vendor prior to the established due date and time. Vendors may be asked by the Department to modify or clarify their proposals after the due date.

xv. News Releases. Vendors may not issue any news releases pertaining to this solicitation without the Department’s prior written approval.

xvi. Notice to Nonresident Bidders. If a nonresident vendor is from a state that provides a bidding preference to vendors from that state, then a comparable percentage disadvantage will be applied to the bid of that nonresident vendor pursuant to C.R.S. §24-103-908. The vendor may obtain additional information from the department of personnel's website.

xvii. Notices. The Department will post any changes to this solicitation via the BidNet Direct website at: https://www.bidnetdirect.com/register and the Colorado VSS website at:

www.colorado.gov/vss. All communications will be posted on both the BidNet Direct site and the VSS site and/or through a direct email from the Single Point of Contact.

● Any modifications, amendments or supplemental information to the solicitation will be published on BidNet and VSS sites. A modification may be published in the event that it becomes necessary to revise any part of this solicitation.

● It is the Vendor’s sole responsibility to check BidNet or VSS on a regular basis, prior to the proposal submission deadline, as this is the primary means for communicating any clarifications or changes to solicitation content,…