Innovated Services to Support Competitive Integrated Employment and Community Inclusion

Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP 26-09) for innovative services to support competitive integrated employment and community inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism who are transitioning from the educational system. The County seeks proposals for services that extend beyond current Office of Developmental Disabilities (ODP) waiver service definitions to promote employment readiness, facilitate participation in integrated community activities, build peer networks and social capital, and support exploration of civil rights and self-advocacy. Proposed services must foster participation in inclusive community activities, encourage exploration of new interests and experiences, support the development of meaningful relationships, and strengthen community engagement. Additionally, the County seeks a partner to work alongside the Office of Developmental Disabilities to expand the County's Community Collaborative, enhancing connections among diverse individuals, families, and community partners. Applicants must demonstrate strong knowledge of Montgomery County resources and current relationships with multiple stakeholders and must comply with Pennsylvania Chapter 6100 regulations governing base-funded services, including requirements for staff qualifications (minimum three years experience for administrative staff), criminal history checks, annual 12-hour training requirements, and confidentiality and data security protocols. Key performance metrics include 80 percent of individuals served demonstrating increased participation in meaningful activities, 80 percent participant satisfaction with community inclusion and belonging, and 60 percent of participants expressing interest in competitive integrated employment. The contract period begins upon execution and continues through June 30, 2027, with options for four additional one-year renewals for a maximum of five years. Proposals must be submitted electronically through the Bonfire Portal by the April 8, 2026 due date and may not exceed fourteen pages, excluding the title page and attachments. Questions regarding the solicitation must be submitted in writing at least seven days prior to the bid opening.

No specific set-aside designations are mandated; however, Appendix A submission forms require certification of local, small, and diverse business concern status, including minority, women, disability, veteran, or LGBTQ+-owned designations through recognized third-party certifying organizations. All bidders must complete mandatory certifications and representations regarding eligibility, compliance history, suspension or debarment status, conflict of interest, and acceptance of Montgomery County's standard terms and conditions. Failure to include required forms may result in proposal rejection as non-responsive. The contract establishes a fee-for-service payment structure with a maximum cap of $120,000 annually for direct services to participants, supplemented by additional funding for Community Collaborative work, with annual budgets assessed based on outcomes and availability of funds. Funding will be provided through Montgomery County Human Service Block Grants under the Developmental Disabilities allocation. No incumbent vendors or current contractors are identified in the solicitation materials. Contractors must maintain comprehensive general liability insurance with minimum coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, workers' compensation at Pennsylvania statutory rates, with Montgomery County named as additional insured. Value-added considerations include the contractor's ability to secure outside funding and potential to become a qualified waiver provider.