Sole Source Public Review - Inner City Muslim Action Network Student Recruitment and Support Services

The City Colleges of Chicago, specifically Richard J. Daley College, is conducting a sole source procurement for student recruitment and support services with the Inner City Muslim Action Network (IMAN) through a grant-funded program. The procurement focuses on comprehensive student support services targeting violence and justice-involved, underprivileged, and underserved individuals, primarily in Chicago's South Side neighborhoods. Specific services include student recruitment, counseling, case management, artistic programming, on-site coordination, transportation, food provision, therapy sessions, laptop provisions, and student success stipends. The program, known as the Weekend Warriors Program, aims to support up to 15 students per semester, providing culturally relevant enrichment and trauma-informed wraparound services to remove participants from potential violence and recidivism. The contract term runs from 07/11/2024 to 12/31/2024, with a public review and sole source justification period open from July 16, 2025, to July 30, 2025. Potential vendors can file objections using the provided objection template if they believe they can provide comparable services at an equal or lower price.

The sole source procurement is specifically designated for IMAN, a Federally Qualified Health Center with extensive experience working with returning citizens and marginalized communities. While no explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are mentioned, the program demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting underserved populations, particularly in the Englewood and Chicago Lawn neighborhoods. The total contract value is $150,000, funded through the ICCB WEI Grant, with IMAN being the recommended exclusive service provider based on their established track record, including over 300 program applicants in 2024 and an 80+% program completion rate. The procurement team has determined the pricing fair and reasonable, considering the vendor's expertise and the specialized nature of services. Alternative suppliers have been considered in past agreements, but IMAN is deemed most appropriate due to their deep understanding of the targeted demographic and prior successful collaborations with the college. Future funding potential exists, with the document referencing a potential grant agreement extending through December 31, 2026, with a total value of $300,000.