Recruiting Coordinator for Youth Bluegrass Challenge Academy

The Commonwealth of Kentucky Department of Military Affairs is soliciting proposals for a Personal Service Contract (RFP 095 2500000134) to provide recruiting coordinator services for the Youth Bluegrass Challenge Academy, a residential program located at Fort Knox serving at-risk youth ages 15.5 to 18 throughout Kentucky. The scope of work requires up to 140 hours per month of recruiting services across four designated regions of the Commonwealth, with primary responsibilities including developing and maintaining networks with referral sources such as circuit courts and school officials, conducting applicant interviews, coordinating cadet transport, assisting with special outreach events, and providing support across all three program phases (acclimation, residential, and post-residential). Mandatory qualifications include a minimum of five years' recruiting and/or youth challenge experience, submission of a resume detailing recruiting experience within the United States, and two written examples of past work experience assisting applicants. Vendors must complete a KARES background check with fingerprints, with employment contingent on no substantiated findings. The initial contract term is anticipated to run from December 15, 2024, through June 30, 2026, with potential renewal for up to two additional two-year periods subject to Secretary of Finance and Administration Cabinet approval and Legislative Research Commission Government Contract Review Committee review. Proposals were due November 13, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time, and will be evaluated on technical qualifications (100 points maximum), cost (60 points maximum), and possible oral presentations (25 points maximum), for a total of 185 available points.

The solicitation does not identify any set-aside designations or restrictions on organizational types eligible to respond. No incumbent vendors or current contractors are referenced in the available documentation. The Commonwealth will provide all equipment, supplies, marketing materials, and cellphones required for the position, eliminating technology integration or infrastructure concerns for the vendor. No specific pricing structure or award value range is detailed in the solicitation; vendors must submit cost proposals using the designated Attachment A form, with the Commonwealth reserving the right to negotiate fair and reasonable compensation rates and request Best and Final Offers. All responding vendors must comply with Kentucky procurement requirements, including KRS 45A compliance and Executive Branch Code of Ethics certifications, and must provide proof of authorization to conduct business in Kentucky.