Innovative Services for Emerging Adults in the Criminal Justice System FY 2028

The Massachusetts Probation Service is requesting proposals for direct service programming serving 18–25 year-old males and females involved in the criminal justice system, with proposals due October 2, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. EST. Eligible applicants are Massachusetts non-profit service providers only.

The scope covers evidence-based or promising-practice programming to reduce recidivism and deliver education and employment services to high-risk young adults on probation. Applicants must demonstrate expertise in serving this population and submit comprehensive plans showing collaboration with probation, law enforcement, criminal justice agencies, schools, and community-based organizations, supported by written partnership commitments and baseline data with measurable outcomes.

The anticipated award is $2.3 million for the initial one-year contract term beginning July 1, 2027, with four optional one-year renewal periods available at the sole discretion of the Massachusetts Probation Service, for a maximum five-year duration. Vendors must submit pricing proposals for all four optional renewal periods. Administrative costs are capped at 5 percent of total direct costs, not to exceed $50,000. The funding derives from Massachusetts Fiscal Year 2027 Budget line 0330-0613 and addresses findings from the Council of State Governments Justice Center's Criminal Justice Review, which identified that 18–25 year-olds released from Houses of Correction facilities have a 76 percent recidivism rate within three years.

Vendor questions are due August 31, 2026. The anticipated vendor selection date is November 6, 2026, with an estimated presentation date of October 16, 2026 if requested. Contracts will use the Commonwealth's standard contract form and terms, requiring electronic funds transfer payment within 45 days of invoice receipt.