DYS Arts Initiative Rolling Request For Responses

The Massachusetts Department of Youth Services (DYS) is seeking to develop and expand its DYS Arts Initiative Arts Roster of qualified arts partners, both organizations and individuals, from which it will draw for arts-based programming, performance and production supports, technical assistance, consultation, and arts administration supports across the DYS continuum. The procurement includes a range of arts program categories such as Arts Residencies, Arts in Community, Arts Mentorship, Music Studios, Mural & Space Beautification Projects, Creative & Technical Production Supports, Arts Programming Training, Consultation & Arts Administration, and a general Arts category. Responses will be evaluated on criteria like the respondent's arts-based expertise, approach to racial equity and justice, and comfort working within DYS parameters. This is a rolling RFR with no specific due date, and successful respondents will be placed on the Arts Partner Roster to contract with DYS as needed.

The RFR does not mention any set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond. It also does not provide details on incumbent vendors, current contractors, or existing infrastructure and technology requirements. The RFR states that the amounts available to DYS for these services may increase or decrease based on the availability of funds allocated to the Department by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and other special grant funds, but it does not specify any award values or budget ranges.