Chaplain Services

The Delaware Department of Correction (DDOC) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Chaplain Services, seeking a professional services contractor to provide comprehensive religious support for its approximately 2,600 employees. The selected chaplain will be required to deliver 29.5 hours of service per week, focusing on planning and conducting religious services, providing staff counseling, offering moral and spiritual support, and coordinating volunteer programs. Minimum qualifications for the vendor include education in Divinity or a related field, ecclesiastical endorsement from a recognized religious denomination, approval for institutional ministry, and knowledge of clinical/institutional pastoral work. The RFP (Contract No. DOC17049A-CHAPLAIN) outlines specific requirements such as submitting proof of education, training, experience, and references, along with a detailed cost proposal. Proposals are due by July 20, 2017, at 1:00 PM local time, with an estimated award notification date of October 20, 2017. The State will evaluate proposals based on criteria including experience, expertise, demonstrated ability, references, location, and cost.

The RFP does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The contract term is structured for one year with the potential for three optional one-year extensions. The total budget for these services is capped at $31,500 per 12-month period, with payment to be based on the vendor's proposed hourly rates. Successful bidders must pass a DDOC criminal history background investigation and adhere to all safety and security policies. The RFP indicates a preference for vendors with prior experience in law enforcement organizations, though this is not a mandatory requirement. Vendors are required to submit separate electronic pricing files from their technical proposals, and the selected chaplain will be expected to work collaboratively with other staff professionals to provide holistic care within the correctional environment.