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REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
For the period July 1, 2016 – June 30, 2019
Out-of-School Opportunity Youth Services
WORKFORCE INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITY ACT (WIOA)
Release Date; December 8, 2015
Due Date: February 12, 2016 by 3:00 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time)
SCPa Works is an equal opportunity employer.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to persons with disabilities.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
To accommodate a more streamlined application and evaluation process, this RFP has been
organized into sections. Sections I and III provide general background information, while the
remaining sections address the RFP intent, process and other general information.
I. General Information 3 1. Purpose of Request for Proposal 3 2. Estimated Allocations 4 3. Schedule for RFP Submission, Review, and Awards 5
II. Application 6
III. Provisions & Disclaimers 23
IV. Background Information 26 1. SCPa Works Overview 26 2. Labor Market Dynamics in South Central Workforce Investment Area 28 3. SCPa Works Program Committee Youth Vision 28 4. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Overview 30 5. WIOA Youth Service Delivery 32 6. Performance and Case Management Tracking 34 7. Desired Program Models 34 8. Universal Program Design Elements 37 9. Eligible Applicants 39 10. Payment Options to Participating Youth 40 11. Performance Measures 40 12. Contract Requirements 42
V. Solicitation Process and Terms 43 1. RFP Inquiries, Questions, and Answers 43 2. Bidder’s Conference 43 3. Proposal Review and Evaluation Process 43 4. Proposal Review Criteria 44
VI. RFP Response Instructions 45 1. Submission Requirements 45 2. Withdrawals 45 3. General Preparation Instructions 46
VII. Appendices and Attachments 47 1. Attachment A – Required forms 59
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Section I: General Information
1. Purpose of Request for Proposal South Central Pennsylvania’s economic growth over the past decade has seen a dramatic increase in the demand for skilled workers. Employers today demand more skills than they did in the past. Employers have reported that their greatest challenge is finding workers to fill skilled jobs. In an effort to increase responsiveness to local businesses, SCPa Works is soliciting specific industry based training and placement services and academic programs through this RFP for out-of-school youth.
Out-of-school youth are defined as those youth, who meet the WIOA general eligibility
requirements, and:
Are no longer engaged or connected to secondary education, a school dropout, disconnected from traditional school;
Have graduated or have a GED but have no post-secondary education or career targets;
Not in the workforce;
Have either graduated from high school or secured a GED, have no sustainable plans, are basic skills deficient, leaving them either unemployed or underemployed.
Each Respondent should design their program to provide seamless pathways to education and
industry specific training, enabling youth to earn a degree and/or an industry-recognized
certification in a high growth occupation. The industry specific activities may connect to other
programs to provide basic education skills, remediation, orientation to occupational skills
training, and other necessary supports, and continues through enrollment into a community
college or other advanced skills training opportunities that leads to occupational certifications,
credentials and/or employment.
Respondents should address the needs of youth with barriers, such as foster care youth, youth
aged out of foster care, high school dropouts, and gang-involved, homeless and adjudicated
youth. The proposed program shall provide these youth access to meaningful careers through
multiple pathways such as basic education skills, GED attainment, adult education, and short-
term certification programs as stepping stones to further education and training. It is expected
that youth will attain a post-secondary degree and/or industry-recognized certification/credential
that is part of a career pathway that may lead towards more advanced certifications/credentials,
career advancement, and/or employment.
Respondents must clearly indicate how the program design will support educational activities
with workforce activities such as paid work-based experiences and internships, support services,
and case management.
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NOTE: As Respondents identify and recruit industry specific employers, and educational
institutions, there must be a letter of commitment or Memorandum of Understanding from each
supporting partner included as attachments.
2. Estimated Allocations Funding for youth programs under this Request for Proposal is contingent upon the availability of
federal and state allocations. As of the RFP’s release date, SCPa Works has not been notified of
the allocation for local WIOA Youth funds for Program Year (PY) 2016-2017. Since it is unlikely
that there will be an increase in youth funding, this solicitation will be a highly competitive
procurement process for a limited amount of funding. The type(s) and quality of proposals
submitted will determine the amount of funds to be awarded.
Respondents may devise their proposal budgets on the estimated figures below, which
represents possible youth services for PY 2016-2017 amounts. These estimates are solely for the
purpose of offering guidance and are subject to change based upon the actual allocation(s).
Estimated funding availability for the twelve month period of performance is:
Funding Stream Amount
Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act
(WIOA) Youth
1,900,000
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3. Schedule for RFP Submission, Review, and Awards
RFP Released: December 8, 2015
Available on SCPa Works website: www.scpaworks.org
Respondents Questions to SCPa Works: December 21, 2015 Must be received at SCPa Works by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard
Time
Bidders’ Conferences
January 6, 2016 10:00 a.m. SCPa Works, 4201 Crums Mill Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112
January 7, 2016 10:00 a.m.
PA CareerLink® Lebanon County 243 Schneider Drive, Lebanon, PA 17046
January 8, 2016 10:00 a.m.
PA CareerLink® 600 Norland Ave, Suite 1, Chambersburg, PA 17201
Proposals Due: February 12, 2016
Must be received at SCPa Works (electronically at [email protected]) by 3:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time
Evaluation Committee Review: February 15 to March 11, 2016
Contract Awards: March 21, 2016
Program Committee makes recommendation to SCPa Works Board. SCPa Works Board of Directors’ Executive Committee selects contractors.
Contract Development and Transition Plan: April-June 2016
Contract(s) Starts: July 1, 2016
SCPa Works reserves the right to make changes to the above timeline.
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Section II: Application
1. PROPOSAL COVER PAGE
Lead Agency Name:
Mailing Address:
Contact Person:
Phone :
Fax : E- mail:
Out-of-School Youth (Check type of
Program you are applying for):
OSY Youth Placement Model
OSY Industry Pipeline
OSY Academic Pathways
All OSY Program Models*
*If proposing programs for all OSY models, please indicate very clearly within the prescribed page limits differences between proposed models and program structures.
Applying As: Single Agency/Organization Consortium of (#) Partners
Partner Agency Name(s):
Indicate specific area to be served________________________________________________
BUDGET SUMMARY:
Total Amount Requested in this proposal:
Number of participants to be served:
Cost per participant served1:
1 Divide proposed number of participants to be served by proposed program costs
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Key Partners Please provide names of the partner organizations with which you will have a contractual relationship for the provision of services.
Contact Name:
Agency:
Email:
Phone:
Contact Name:
Phone:
Agency:
Email:
Contact Name:
Phone:
Agency:
Email:
Contact Name:
Phone:
Agency:
Email:
To the best of my knowledge and belief, all information in this application is true and correct. The document has been duly authorized by the governing body of the applicant, and the applicant will comply with the attached assurances if the assistance is awarded.
Typed Name of Authorized Representative Title of Authorized Representative
Signature of Authorized Representative Telephone Number Date
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2. Proposal Checklist It is the Respondents responsibility to make sure that all required elements and forms are
included in the proposal. Proposals that do not include the required elements and forms will be
automatically disqualified. No exceptions will be granted. If you have questions about the
requirements or feel that special circumstances apply to your proposal, please submit all
questions in writing to SCPa Works ([email protected]) by 5:00 pm EST on December 21,
2015.
Before submitting your proposal, check the following:
Electronic copy of Proposal Response Package emailed to [email protected]
A. Proposal Response Package Requirements
1. Proposal Cover Page and List of Key Partners
2. Proposal Checklist
3. Proposal Summary (Maximum 2 Pages) + Program Logic Model
4. Baseline Requirements
5. Capacity and Relevant Experience (Maximum 5 Pages) + Requested Attachments
6. Program Components (Maximum 10 Pages; 15 for OSY Industry Pipeline and OSY
Academic Pathways) + Requested Attachments
7. Connection to Industry (Maximum 4 Pages)
8. Anticipated Challenges (Maximum 1 Page)
9. Program Cost: Budget Summary, Detail Forms and Budget Narrative (Maximum 2
pages for each workforce area) + Requested Attachments
10. Planned Performance Forms & Performance Narrative (Maximum 5 Pages) July 1, 2016-June 30, 2017
July 1, 2017-June 30, 2018 July 1, 2018-June 30, 2019
11. Past Performance (Maximum 4 Pages)
12. Statement of Compliance Form
13. Partner MOUs (if applicable; employers, education/training providers, service
providers)
B. One copy each of the last two years’ audited financial statements
C. One copy of your business license (if applicable)
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3. Proposal Summary Please provide an executive summary of your proposal. (Maximum 2 pages.)
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4. Baseline requirements
Successful Respondents to this RFP must demonstrate a commitment to several program
elements deemed by the SCPa Works to be required components of the WIOA Youth program
design.
Please indicate your commitment below to implementing these elements into your program
design:
Yes No
Agree that the most money possible will be spent directly on participants
without compromising the success and realistic costs associated with the
system.
Yes No Agree to provision of services that will at a minimum: incorporate an intensive case management system, including educational and
career counseling, educational supports, and supportive services or referrals; incorporate career exploration, academic supports, and work experience as a
means to connecting participants to sustainable, career path employment; achieve or surpass negotiated performance measures; and follow the Program Committee’s vision of youth workforce development
system
Yes No Agree to enable SCPa Works staff to maintain regular, ongoing personal contact and communication with the contractor staff and, as needed, with customers at all locations.
Yes No Agree to collaborate with the PA Department of Labor and Industry on system
changes and partner with SCPa Works to plan and implement the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Yes No Agree to collaborate and connect with key SCPa Works initiatives, including but not limited to participating in SCPa Works, assisting in addressing systemic barriers affecting youth programming and employment, and identifying and applying for funding opportunities as appropriate.
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5. Organizational Capacity and Relevant Experience: 10 Points (Maximum 5 pages.)
1. Provide a profile of your organization (including mission and vision statements). Describe
the relevant experience of the organization and partners/sub-contractors within the past five years in providing comparable youth services as described in this RFP.
2. Identify all of the partners and briefly identify their capacity, the services they will provide, their area of expertise, and rationale for participation in the program model.
3. Describe how the proposed program will integrate into the organization’s current structure and services through the alignment of staff, physical, and financial resources. Indicate the number of staff positions that will be utilized to provide the program. Please attach an organizational and functional chart that illustrates how the proposed program and staff fit into the lead organization and how the program partners will collaborate together (include this chart as an attachment; it does not count towards the page limit).
4. Document relevant experience, if any, with administering performance-based contracts. Please demonstrate the organization’s capacity to manage financial risk due to poor performance.
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6. Program Components: 25 points (Maximum 10 pages for OSY Youth Placement Models; Maximum 15 pages for OSY
Industry Pipeline and OSY Academic Pathways)
1. Describe in detail how your proposed program will provide all parts of the program
model as described in Sub sections 7 and 8 of Section IV– Desired Program Models and Universal Program Design Elements.
2. Provide a typical one-month calendar of the services the program proposes to provide and a typical weekly schedule. (Include these as attachments; they do not count towards the page limit).
3. Describe the anticipated duration of and justification of duration of your program. SCPa Works is open to programs that last up to a year or longer, but wants to ensure that youth will receive the maximum benefits from any program, regardless of duration.
4. Attach a program logic model (logic model does not count toward page limit). 5. Identify how the proposed program follows evidence-based program models and best
practices in youth services. 6. Please also include detail on the following:
Recruitment & Retention (All Models) Describe in detail your strategies for recruitment, enrollment, and orientation of the
students that will participate in this program. What role will each partner play in this process?
Note that WIOA requires follow up with students for at least 12 months after program completion. Describe how the program will create and implement an innovative retention strategy, including detail on how the program will maintain contact with and collect information on the status of youth after program completion.
Partnerships (All Models) Explain the role of partners in delivering services, how those services will lead to
desired outcomes, and how the partnership will be managed. Provide a memorandum of understanding detailing the relationship and services that will be provided. (Include these as attachments; they do not count towards the page limit).
Direct Services (All Models) Please describe how youth participants will be assessed upon enrollment. What tools
will the program use? How will assessment results inform the creation of individual goal plans and service strategies for students? How will the development of individual service strategies and objective assessments for every participant be carried out to ensure that all youth are receiving the services needed?
Detail the specific services the program will provide, including the duration of services, and how they will lead to desired outcomes. Please include all services and activities. If occupational training will be provided by the lead agency or by a partner, please describe how it fits in a specific career pathway and include the training curricula
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outline and expected credential (include this curricula outline as an attachment; it does not count towards the page limit).
Describe the experience youth will have in your program. Be specific in describing how many staff people the youth will see, when and how the youth will be referred for other services, and how long will they participate in the program before attaining desired outcomes.
Describe how the program will achieve the integration of the 14 WIOA elements and ensure provision of appropriate support services for WIOA youth based on individual need.
Postsecondary Transition & Ongoing Support (OSY Industry Pipeline and OSY Academic Pathways only) Introductory programming – Describe what experiences the program will provide to
introduce young people to post-secondary education, including activities such as interaction with faculty and staff, introduction to course offerings, immersion programs, and exposure to the general college culture, campus, and system.
Test preparation – Describe how the program will prepare students to take and perform, at an acceptable level, on post-secondary entrance exams.
Post-secondary counseling and admissions – Describe how the program will help students apply to and gain admission to college or advanced training.
Financial aid and planning – Detail how the program will help students acquire financial aid, scholarships and income generating opportunities such as work study or part- time employment.
Student supports – Describe what other supports the program will provide and how it will provide them, including but not limited to, social services, barrier removal, and financial literacy specific to the college process. Include discussion of ongoing supports after students earn admission to a college or advanced training to help students navigate the social, financial, academic, and bureaucratic challenges students may encounter once they matriculate.
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7. Connection to Industry: 17 points (Maximum 4 pages)
a. Describe in detail the extent of your relationship with employers in key industry clusters
(e.g. business and finance, building and construction, energy, health and human services, manufacturing, professional and technical services, and retail services) and what specific role these employers play in your program.
b. Provide a history of your relationship with these employers by listing outcomes within, but not limited to, the following categories: Internships, Job shadows, Occupational skill training, Apprenticeships, Work experience, Sustainable placement in employment, Engagement of the employer in advisory groups or other ongoing programming.
c. Describe your approach to job placement and how dedicated staff and employer contacts
will be used to identify employment openings that can be filled by your program’s participants.
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8. Anticipated Challenges: 3 Points (Maximum 1 page)
a. Describe the greatest challenges that you anticipate in delivering this program. How do
you hope to resolve them? What support, professional development, and/or capacity building will this program need? What support can SCPa Works provide to help address these challenges?
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9. Program Cost and Performance: 10 points
Summarize your total budget for all areas for which you are proposing to serve in Section 1. Complete a separate budget detail form for each area you are proposing to serve in Section 2.
Section 1: Budget Summary
Summarize total WIOA funds requested from Section 2 below that you are proposing to
serve.
Summarize total non-WIOA funds from Section 2 below that you are proposing to serve. State the sources and specific purpose of the funds in Section 3 – Budget Narrative. U se real dollars, not in-kind services.
Budget Summary
SCPa Works
Out-of-school
Youth
Total
WIOA
Non-WIOA (other leveraged funds)
Total
TOTAL WIOA
TOTAL Non-WIOA
GRAND TOTAL
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Section 2: Budget Detail Form
WIOA Overall Budget Section 2 - Budget Detail Form - Complete one budget detail form for the area. Indicate planned project expenditures for the period of this agreement. Expenditures must conform to the cost definitions for allowable administrative and program costs and activities as defined in the WIOA Guidelines.
Expense Item
Administrative Costs Program Costs Combined Total
Expenditures
PERSONNEL
Staff Salaries/Wages (4)
Staff Fringe Benefits _______________% of Salaries
Total Salaries & Benefits
Staff Development
Staff Travel
FACILITY
Building
Utilities/Maintenance/Security
OPERATIONS
Communications - Telephone
Marketing/Outreach
Office Supplies
Consumable Program Supplies
Equipment (Purchased or Leased)
Indirect Costs ______________% of ICR (5)
Profit
DIRECT SERVICES CLIENT EXPENSES
Projected In-House Skills Training Expenses:
Projected Paid Work Experience Wages:
Projected Paid Work Experience Fringe Benefits
Projected Subsidized Employment Wages
Projected Individual Training Account Expenses
Projected Supportive Services/Incentives Expenses
Leveraged (or Non-WIOA) Funds
Percentage of Cost Category Exp. To Total Combined
Total Expenditures
(4) Attach a list of staff positions and the number of Full-Time Equivalent staff assigned to and the respective salary budgeted for each position assigned to the project. Attach job descriptions for the budgeted positions.
(5) If using an Indirect Cost Rate, a copy of the rate agreement must be attached.
Administrative expenditure lines are limited to 10% of the combined total costs.
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Section 3 – Budget Narrative Complete one budget detail form. (2 pages maximum)
This section should describe your:
1. Justification of the percent of total funds spent on participant expenses 2. Budget assumptions 3. Sources of other resources 4. In-kind resources 5. Other budget information you would like the review committee to know
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10. Planned Performance: 15 Points
Section 1 – Performance Form Complete one performance form for each of the next three program years in each area for which you are submitting a proposal.
Performance Measure Out-of-School Youth PY 2016-2017
Out-of-School Youth PY 2017-2018
Out-of-School Youth PY 2018-2019
Participants Served
Number of Exits
Number of Carryovers
Placement in
Employment/Education/Training
2nd
quarter after exit
Retention in
Employment/Education/Training
2nd
quarter after exit
Credential Rate
In-Program Skills gain
Program Retention Rate
Cost Per Participant
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Section 2 – Performance Narrative Use this space to define the results in your proposed program (Maximum 5 pages):
a. Describe the specific outcomes to be achieved by the proposed project and the measures that will be used to determine the degree to which the outcomes are being accomplished.
b. Describe the system you will use internally to monitor and verify that performance measures are met.
c. Describe how you will evaluate the effectiveness of the program on an ongoing basis. Will you collect information beyond SCPa Works mandated outcomes?
d. Describe how you will ensure that all outcome data is submitted to SCPa Works in an accurate and timely manner. Who in the program will be responsible for data and reporting?
e. Contractors are responsible for closely and formally monitoring performance. Describe your internal monitoring plan. Contractors are subject to SCPa Works formal monitoring.
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11. PAST PERFORMANCE: 20 POINTS (Maximum 4 pages)
Describe specific relevant quantitative outcomes that your organization achieved in delivering
your services as described in this RFP, including, but not limited to, placement in employment or
education, attainment of a degree or certificate, literacy and numeracy gains, and any other
factors that indicate program efficiency.
Provide a list of references including the identification of all contracts with any Workforce
Investment Board, including SCPa Works. For all contacts with any Workforce Investment Board,
the applicant must provide the dates of the contract. For each reference, please list the name of
the organization, the address, and the appropriate contact person with phone number and e- mail
address where applicable. SCPa Works may use any information provided or obtained as part of
this RFP process to assist in the evaluation of any portion of the proposal and assist in any
particular scoring section. By submitting its proposal, the applicant expressly authorizes any
Workforce Investment Board or any other identified reference to release any and all information
regarding the performance of the Applicant to SCPa Works.
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STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE FORM
As the authorized signatory official for:
Submitting Lead Organization
I hereby certify:
That the above named proposer is legally authorized to submit this application requesting funding under the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act
That the above-named proposer does hereby agree to execute all work related to this
application in accordance with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, U.S. Department of Labor, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry issuances, SCPa Works policies and guidelines, and other administrative requirements issued by the Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The vendor shall notify SCPa Works within 30 calendar days after issuance of any amended directives if it cannot so comply with the amendments; and
That the above named proposer will ensure special efforts to prevent fraud and other program
abuses, such as, but not limited to, deceitful practices, intentional misconduct, willful misrepresentation, and improper conduct which may or may not be fraudulent in nature; and
That the contents of the application are truthful and accurate and the above named proposer
agrees to comply with the policies stated in this application and that this application represents a firm request subject only to mutually agreeable negotiations; and that the above named proposer is in agreement that SCPa Works reserves the right to accept or reject any proposal for funding; and that the above-named proposer has not been debarred or suspended from receiving federal grants, contracts, or assistance; and that the above-named proposer waives any right to claims against the members and staff of SCPa Works.
Typed Name of Authorized Representative Title of Authorized Representative
Signature of Authorized Representative Date
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Section III: Provisions & Disclaimers 1. All solicitations are contingent upon availability of funds. 2. This RFP is for three years and is renewable at the discretion of the board. The contract
awarded resulting from this RFP are for one year, with additional years contingent upon successful contractual outcomes.
3. SCPa Works reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received and to negotiate with any and all Respondents on modifications to proposals.
4. SCPa Works reserves the right to waive informalities and minor irregularities in the proposals received.
5. This RFP does not commit SCPa Works to award a contract. 6. This RFP is for WIOA services and other related programs and funding streams which may
become available to SCPa Works during this funding period. 7. SCPa Works may accept any item or group of items of any proposal, unless the proposal
qualified its offer by specific limitations. 8. SCPa Works may select a service provider based on its initial proposal received, without
discussion of the proposal. Accordingly, each proposal should be submitted on the most favorable terms from a price and technical standpoint that the Respondent can submit to SCPa Works.
9. It is expected that the selected contractor will be required to maintain, at a minimum, one Full Time Equivalency (FTE) at the PA CareerLink® office that is based in the county of operation. In the event there is no local PA CareerLink® office, the expectation is that a full time presence will be maintained at a community partner location.
10. Proposals should follow the format set forth in the RFP Response Package section of the RFP and adhere to the minimum requirements specified therein.
11. SCPa Works retains the right to request additional information from any applicant, request oral presentations from applicants, or conduct site visits from any applicant before a contract award. Provide a list of references including the identification of all contracts with any Workforce Investment Board including SCPa Works. For all contracts with any Workforce Investment Board, the applicant must provide the dates of the contract. For each reference, list the name of the organization, the address and the appropriate contact person with phone number and e-mail address where applicable. SCPa Works may use any information provided or obtained as part of this RFP process to assist in the evaluation of any portion of the proposal and assist in any particular scoring section. By submitting its proposal, the applicant expressly authorizes any Workforce Investment Board or any other identified reference to release any and all information regarding the performance of the Applicant to SCPa Works.
12. No costs will be paid to cover the expense of preparing a proposal or procuring a contract for services or supplies.
13. All data, material, and documentation originated and prepared by the Respondent pursuant to the contract shall belong exclusively to the SCPa Works and be subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, Right to Know Law, or other applicable legislation.
14. The final award and execution of a contract is subject to receipt of funds, SCPa Works satisfactory negotiation of the terms of the contract, and the continued availability of funds.
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15. Any changes to the WIOA program, performance measures, funding level, or SCPa Works direction may result in a change in contracting. In such instances, SCPa Works shall not be liable for any damage arising from this Request for Proposals package or subsequent contract.
16. Proposals submitted for funding consideration must be consistent with, and if funded operated according to, the federal WIOA legislation, all applicable federal regulations, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania policies, and SCPa Works policies and procedures.
17. Respondents selected for funding must also ensure compliance with the following, as applicable: U.S. DOL regulations as set forth in final rule related to WIOA.
18. Respondents will be expected to adhere to SCPa Works procedures to collect, verify, and submit required data and submit monthly invoices to SCPa Works.
19. Additional funds received by SCPa Works may be contracted by expanding existing programs or by consideration of proposals not initially funded under this RFP. These decisions shall be at the sole discretion of SCPa Works.
20. SCPa Works may decide not to fund part or all of a proposal even though it is found to be in the competitive range if, in the opinion of SCPa Works, the services proposed are not needed, or the costs are higher than SCPa Works finds reasonable in relation to the overall funds available, or if past management concerns lead SCPa Works to believe that the Respondent has undertaken more services than it can reasonably provide.
21. SCPa Works has a right to fund a lower ranked proposal over a higher ranked proposal because of valid policy considerations, including but not limited to, organizational experience, geographical considerations, leveraging of outside resources, and target populations.
22. Any proposal approved for funding is contingent on the results of a pre-award site visit that may be conducted by SCPa Works staff. This site visit will establish, to SCPa Works satisfaction, whether the Respondent is capable of conducting and carrying out the provisions of the proposed contract. If the results of the site visit indicate, in the opinion of SCPa Works, that the Respondent may not be able to fulfill contract expectations, SCPa Works reserves the right not to enter into contract with the organization, regardless of SCPa Works approval of the Respondents proposal.
23. SCPa Works is required to abide by all WIOA or legislation and regulations. Therefore, SCPa Works reserves the right to modify or alter the requirements and standards set forth in this RFP based on program requirements mandated by state or federal agencies.
24. All contractors must ensure equal opportunity to all individuals. No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any WIOA or funded program or activity because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or political affiliation or belief.
25. All contractors must ensure access to individuals with disabilities pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
26. Contractors must accept liability for all aspects of any program conducted under contract with SCPa Works. Respondents will be liable for any disallowed costs or illegal expenditures of funds or program operations conducted.
27. Reductions in the funding level of any contract resulting from this solicitation process may be considered during the contract period when a Respondent fails to meet expenditure, participant, and/or outcome goals specified in the contract or when anticipated funding is
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not forthcoming from the federal or state governments.
28. Contractors will allow local, state, and federal representatives access to all WIOA records, program materials, staff, and participants. In addition, Respondents are required to maintain all WIOA records for three years, beginning on the last day of the program year. (29 CFR Part 95)
29. The contract award will not be final until SCPa Works and the successful Respondents have executed a mutually satisfactory contractual agreement. SCPa Works reserves the right to make an award without further discussion of the proposal submitted. No program activity may begin prior to final SCPa Works approval of the award and execution of a contractual agreement between the successful Respondent and SCPa Works.
30. SCPa Works reserves the right to cancel an award immediately if new state or federal regulations or policy makes it necessary to change the program purpose or content substantially, or to prohibit such a program.
31. SCPa Works reserves the right to determine both the number and the funding levels of contracts awarded. Such determination will depend upon overall fund availability and other factors arising during the proposal review process. Bids submitted which are over the maximum amount of funds specified for this RFP will be rejected.
32. The submission of the proposal warrants that the costs quoted for services in response to the RFP are not in excess of those that would be charged any other individual for the same services performed by the Respondent.
33. All Respondents shall purchase annually an organization-wide audit according to the requirements of the Single Audit Act and Office of Management and Budget Circular A- 128 or A-133, as appropriate. Commercial organizations will purchase A-128 audits. Include audit costs in the proposed budget detail.
34. Each party shall be responsible for the negligence of its own employees or agents in the performance of this contract. All successful Respondents shall provide a certificate of liability insurance, providing commercial general liability coverage in the amount of $1,000,000.00 for each occurrence, automobile liability, workers compensation and professional liability insurance, if applicable. The Respondent will provide a certificate of insurance satisfactory to SCPa Works.
35. Applicants are advised that most documents in the possession of SCPa Works are considered public records and subject to disclosure.
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Section IV: Background Information
1. SCPa Works Overview
South Central PA Works (SCPa Works) in cooperation with its Program Committee is issuing a
Request for Proposal (RFP) to seek organizations to serve WIOA eligible connected and/or
disconnected high risk Out-of-School (Opportunity) youth, ages 16-24, residing in Adams,
Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lebanon, Perry and York Counties to be administered
July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017, supported in part or in whole by funds available from the US
Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration in accordance with the Workforce
Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA).
The Program Committee, a sub-committee of the SCPa Works, is the primary body addressing
youth issues under the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and is the primary body providing
expertise in youth policy and is responsible for oversight of the contracted youth workforce
development services and programs. The required functions of the Program Committee are
straight forward: advise the local Workforce Investment Board on the use of WIOA youth dollars
(allocated by formula to each workforce area and targeted for eligible disadvantaged youth) and
assist in the identification, selection, and monitoring of local service providers. In addition, the
Committee is responsible for:
● Overseeing the regional youth workforce system ● Making youth program policy recommendations to the Workforce Investment Board ● Developing the Five Year Strategic Plan for Youth Services
SCPa Works intends to fund either a single or multiple contracts that demonstrate innovative
and/or improved approaches for services provided to local youth. SCPa Works is interested in
programs that produce positive results and have a measurable impact through programs
emphasizing out-of-school service delivery and providing target industry specific sector and
career pathways based activities.
Proposals showcasing innovative programs, consistent with WIOA rules and regulations, are
highly encouraged. There are no limitations to the types of organizations that may propose for
funding. Existing SCPa Works youth contract organizations may apply and will be in competition
with all other respondents.
Services are for continuous, full-year programs and services, to include summer (or other)
subsidized/unsubsidized employment programs. All respondents are required to recruit and
serve WIOA eligible applicants/participants for their programs, enter data into CWDS, and provide
a full range of WIOA services until participants exit WIOA programs. Outcomes from services
must include combinations of a high school diploma/GED (if applicable), basic skills improvement
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(if applicable), nationally-recognized occupational certification/credentials, employment and
entry into post- secondary/advanced education.
SCPa Works, on behalf of the Program Committee, is releasing this Request for Proposal.
Respondents will be selected through a competitive bid process overseen by the Program
Committee.
Contract awards will be based upon the availability of WIOA formula funding to the local area.
Funding awarded under the terms of this RFP must only be expended on WIOA eligible youth
residing in SCPa Works region. Services must be designed and delivered so that they focus on
youth career development, career pathways, industry based learning, educational
accomplishment and job placement.
● Potential Respondents are strongly encouraged to carefully read the entire RFP and all attachments
● The terms and conditions of this RFP may change based on WIOA Final Rule ● Successful Respondents will be expected to remain informed on WIOA regulations and
requirements ● Funding offered is subject to availability
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2. Labor Market Dynamics in South Central Pennsylvania SCPa Works encourages Respondents to reflect the specific characteristics of the local labor market in their programming and proposals. For key employment trends in SCWIA, see Appendix B. For additional labor market information, visit the SCPa Works website at: www.scpaworks.org.
3. SCPa Works Program Committee Vision
There is an expectation that services for out-of-school youth will be designed in a manner that
best meets the needs of the youth in targeted communities. Programs should feature service
strategies that balance the needs of youth who would benefit from long-term support with those
of youth whose needs are met through more limited interventions (short-term).
Program strategies must offer career pathways, target industry specific activities, post-secondary
and careers in partnerships with higher educational institutions, labor organizations, and
employers that offer long-term self-sufficiency for young people through employment and/or
educational services.
The overall goal of the Opportunity Out-Of-School Youth Program is to connect eligible youth to
gainful employment and educational advancement through academic activities, occupational
skills development and employment activities. To accomplish this, youth skills development
strategies must be fashioned to assist interested youth enroll in and successfully complete critical
skills development activities. Youth who are deficient in basic skills must also participate in
activities designed to improve their reading, writing, math, computer and interpersonal skills.
Out-of-school youth are an at-risk population with complicated needs and face both limited
employment opportunities and uncertain futures. Out-of-school youth are generally defined as
youth, ages 16 to 24, which are not in school, unemployed, underemployed, or lack basic
academic and employment skills. Engaging out-of-school youth in a WIOA program of any sort can
be very difficult. Strong community partnerships are instrumental to the success and
sustainability for out-of-school youth.
Out-of-school youth are typically disconnected from academics and are not interested in a
structured learning environment. This disconnection can make it difficult for youth programs to
identify and enroll prospective participants.
Some out-of-school youth may not advance to post-secondary education, therefore, it is
especially critical to provide these youth with comprehensive employment services, career
pathways/industry specific activities that include a strong connection to the workplace/employer.
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Many out-of-school disconnected youth are currently being left behind in our economy. A well-
designed workforce program through this RFP will offer youth who have become disconnected
from mainstream institutions opportunities to successfully transition into adult roles and
responsibilities.
To improve outcomes for disconnected youth means to increase the rate at which individuals
between the ages of 16 and 24 (who are low income and either homeless, in foster care, involved
in the juvenile justice system, unemployed, or not enrolled in or at risk of dropping out of an
educational institution) achieve success in meeting educational, employment, or other key goals.
Youth within the out-of-school target group are expected to:
• Obtain an employer recognized credential that provides marketable job skills; • Enter employment or advanced/post-secondary training; • Participate in and complete a target industry specific activity that leads to employment
in that industry; • Maintain employment and significant wage increases over a one year period following
exit from the program; and • Increase their pre-program assessment levels.
Service strategies to out-of-school younger youth (16-18) must include activities to encourage them to return to school to complete their secondary education and prepare for post-secondary and/or employment leading to self-sufficiency. Younger youth must achieve measurable gains in one or more of the following categories: basic skills, work readiness/work maturity skills, occupational skills, and industry based training. Service strategies to out-of-school older youth (19-24) must include activities that assist them in
enrolling in occupational skills training, completing a target industry based training, and attaining
a credential/industry certification.
Proposed programs for out-of-school youth must be designed to lead youth to self-sufficiency
through attainment of full-time, long-term employment and post-secondary opportunities or
both. Outcomes will vary depending on the needs, interests and age of the out-of-school youth
participant.
NOTE: Youth who are attending alternative schools do not qualify as an out-of-school youth.
The pathways approach focuses on specific industries that offer employment opportunities at
various skill levels, and clear pathways to progressively higher skill and wage levels within a
specific industry. The goal(s) of this strategic vision is to create pathways for out-of-school youth
participants to ultimately access and attain good jobs, wages, and careers.
Industry Specific Based with Career Pathways Service Model is becoming more common to infuse
education with careers. Career pathways have become an important topic in national, state, and
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local arenas, and this framework is getting a lot of interest from policy makers and funders at all
levels. To address this topic, SCPa Works expects programs focusing on and targeting specific
workforce development toward specific industry based training to include career pathway
activities, educational and work based activities, and job placement activities with the outcome of
unsubsidized employment.
The primary focus of this new approach is to provide disconnected youth with more effective
supports to climb ladders of opportunity. The goal of SCPa Works is to develop a framework that
defines high-quality career pathway systems and programs to include:
● How an out-of-school youth with a high school diploma/GED who is not moving in the direction of pursuing a career, will accomplish the industry specific competencies and outcomes; and
● How an out-of-school youth without a high school diploma/GED, will accomplish the industry specific competencies and outcomes.
The Respondent should establish short-term cohort classroom training with educational institutions, in order to minimize training costs. Enrolling participants in a series of cohorts can promote bonding among the youth as they support each other, due to their striving toward the same goal(s).
Industry specific activities refocuses youth workforce development efforts from trying to randomly find jobs to fit the interests and skills of the out-of-school youth to meeting the employment needs of demand industries. As businesses prosper and the local economy grows, so will employment opportunities. The strategic workforce vision seeks to build and maintain career pathways in growth industries, in occupations requiring skills beyond a high school diploma, through training or education that results in industry-recognized certification or a post-secondary credential/degree/employment.
As SCPa Works invest in skills development for youth, we are also helping youth obtain the measurable and specific skills they need to move along directed career pathways, while giving employers access to the skilled youth they need to compete globally.
4. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Overview
On July 22, 2014, the President signed the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) into law: http://www.doleta.gov/WIOA/. WIOA is a robust piece of legislation designed to deal with crucial issues in the delivery of workforce development, and the passage of the bill represents the benefits of a bicameral and bipartisan approach in addressing the nation's need for a more modern workforce development system. WIOA shifts youth eligibility and program requirements considerably, allowing for models that improve the services given to youth and focusing strongly on the needs of out-of-school, disconnected youth. A large part of the work awarded through this RFP will be partnering with SCPa Works to implement the new law and leverage the flexibility it provides.
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Grantees must adhere to and comply with all WIOA laws and regulations that are prepared, issued, and implemented. In addition, grantees must comply with state and local administrative entities’ instructions, agency policies, and other applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. WIOA provides the framework for a national workforce preparation system that is flexible, responsive, employer-driven, customer-focused, and locally managed. The Act integrates workforce development programs into a workforce investment system designed to better respond to the employment needs of its customers—employers, current workers, unemployed workers, workers laid-off due to restructuring or downsizing, and new entrants to the labor force. The WIOA system is built around seven key principles:
Streamlining Services: Integrating multiple employment and training programs at the “street level” through the one-stop delivery system will simplify and expand services for job seekers and employers.
Empowering Individuals: Customers will be empowered to obtain the services and skills they need to enhance their employability.
Universal Access: Through the one-stop system, every customer will have access to a set of core employment-related services.
Increased Accountability: Providers of service will be held accountable for meeting employment-related performance measures.
Local Oversight: Local boards (such as SCPa Works) with involvement from the private sector will be responsible for program planning and oversight of the local system.
Local Flexibility: WIOA provides local flexibility to improve systems and encourages innovative and comprehensive workforce investment systems. Local partners play a key role in policy development that is customized to meet the needs of the community.
Improved Youth Programs: WIOA seeks to expand youth programs by encouraging a close connection to the local labor market and communities with strong connections between academic and occupational learning.
WIOA places a strong emphasis on Career Pathways, defined in WIOA Section 3 (7) as “a combination of rigorous and high-quality education, training, and other services that:
aligns with the skill needs of industries in the economy of the State or regional economy involved;
prepares an individual to be successful in any of a full range of secondary or postsecondary education options;
includes counseling to support an individual in achieving the individual’s education and career goals;
includes, as appropriate, education offered concurrently with and in the same context as workforce preparation activities and training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster;
organizes education, training, and other services to meet the particular needs of an individual in a manner that accelerates the educational and career advancement of the
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individual to the extent practicable;
enables an individual to attain a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, and at least 1 recognized postsecondary credential; and
helps an individual enter or advance within a specific occupation or occupational cluster.”
Along with its increased focus on accountability, WIOA shifts the metrics on which providers and state and local boards are measured. Most notably, the literacy/numeracy gains measure is eliminated for youth participants and additional measures of retention, median earnings, and skills gains have been added for youth. Retention will measure the percentage of program participants who are in employment or education activities in the fourth quarter after exit, making follow-up services for youth program participants an important component of any successful program model. A change was also made to the performance measure regarding credential attainment requiring any individual who obtains a secondary school diploma or equivalent to be employed or enrolled in a recognized post-secondary program within 1 year after program exit. WIOA performance measures are expected to be implemented July 1, 2016.
5. WIOA Youth Service Delivery Under WIOA Section 129(a)(1)(B), an OSY is defined as an eligible youth between 16-24 years old who is not attending any school and who is one or more of the following:
i. A school dropout. ii. A youth who is within the age of compulsory school attendance, but has not
attended school for at least the most recent complete school year calendar quarter. iii. A recipient of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent who is a low-
income individual and is also basic skills deficient or an English language learner. iv. An individual who is subject to the juvenile or adult justice system. v. A homeless individual, a runaway, in foster care or has aged out of foster care. vi. An individual who is pregnant or parenting. vii. A youth who is an individual with a disability. viii. A low-income individual who requires additional assistance to enter or complete an
educational program or to secure or hold employment.
Section 129(c)(1)(C) of WIOA state that funds allocated for eligible youth should offer youth programs that:
i. Provide an objective assessment of the academic levels, skill levels, and service
needs of each participant; this assessment shall include a review of basic skills, occupational skills, prior work experience, employability, interests, aptitudes, supportive service needs, and developmental needs for the purpose of identifying appropriate services and career pathways for participants.
ii. Develop service strategies for each participant that are directly linked to performance outcomes, and that shall identify career pathways that include education and employment goals, appropriate achievement objectives, and
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appropriate services for the participant identified in the objective assessment. iii. Provide activities leading to the attainment of a secondary school diploma or its
recognized equivalent, or a recognized postsecondary credential. iv. Provide preparation for postsecondary educational and training opportunities. v. Provide strong linkages between academic instruction and occupational education
that lead to the attainment of postsecondary credentials. vi. Provide preparation for unsubsidized employment opportunities. vii. Provide effective connections to employers, including small employers, in in-demand
industry sectors and occupations It is the Program Committee’s expectation that proposals will include the minimum youth service delivery requirements outlined in WIOA.
Enrollment Process Prior to Enrollment, the provider must work with the potential participants to determine eligibility, complete required forms and conduct a math and reading assessment. Additional forms must be completed and/or entered into CWDS by the provider and printed for the case file. ALL documents must be signed, where applicable, and kept in the case file including electronic documents. Required WOIA Enrollment Forms completed or submitted by participant: Application: This form documents the potential participant’s contact and basic demographic information. Support Documents: Copies of all the documents required to prove WIOA eligibility as listed on the WIOA Title I Eligibility Determination Form. More information regarding acceptable support documentation can be found in the WIOA Technical Assistance Guide Required Forms: Release of Information Form; Participant Rights and Responsibilities, and a Math and Reading Assessment All participants are required to complete an appraisal of basic math and reading skills prior to enrollment. This is used to establish the participant’s grade level aptitude in the areas of reading and mathematics. Assessment results also help to determine additional barriers for WIOA eligibility (Basic Skills Deficiency) and help create the participant’s Individual Service Strategy (ISS) Additional forms completed WIA Title I Eligibility Verification Form: This form identifies how youth is determined eligible. Providers must complete and sign document as “Authorized WIOA Eligibility Representative”. WIA Application: Entered electronically into CWDS. SCPa Works reserves the right to include additional required forms.
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6. Performance and Case Management Tracking
The Commonwealth Workforce Development System (CWDS) is an Internet-based system of services for use by customers and potential customers of the PA CareerLink® offices and service providers. CWDS provides online access to job openings; information about employers; services and training opportunities for job seekers; and labor market information. Additionally, CWDS is the system of record for all WIOA funded programs in Pennsylvania. All successful Respondents that are funded through this RFP will be required to report information for use in CWDS to record and track all youth activities and program services. Providers will be required to report information on enrollments, services received, and outcomes. Reports generated from CWDS will be utilized to determine program performance by the Program Committee and PA Department of Labor and Industry. The results of these reports will assist in driving best practice-based solutions to youth needs. Definitions of how performance measures are determined can be found in Appendix C. The Program Committee anticipates sharing findings from analysis of the data with youth providers to help with continuous improvement and evolution of programming.
7. Desired Program Models
SCPa Works and the Program Committee envision several best practice based program models serving out-of-school youth. If proposing programs in more than one model within a cohort (i.e. 2-3 OSY models), Respondents must clearly identify differences between programs and models within prescribed page limits.
Effective OSY programs will incorporate an intensive case management system, including educational and career counseling, educational supports, and supportive services or referrals. At a minimum, programs will incorporate career exploration, academic supports, and work experience as a means to connecting participants to sustainable, career path employment.
Once a youth has been referred, the enrollment process needs to include an orientation process and eligibility determination. Once an objective assessment, TABE, and ISS are completed, then an appropriate pathway is assigned.
7.1. Out-of-School Youth Services (OSY)
Successful program models for OSY should be grounded in the idea that youth learn to work by working. The models will be designed to equip youth with work readiness preparation, academic instruction and occupational skills training and must have distinct start and end points with managed enrollment. The successful models will align with the traditional tenets of WIOA youth service delivery, focusing on developing work readiness skills leading to employment and employer recognized credentials while delivering on the new WIOA demands for launching youth on meaningful career pathways and sustainable employment. Preference will be given to OSY models that incorporate programming allowing youth to gain their GED while earning college credits or beginning post-secondary occupational skills training.
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SCPa Works solicits proposals to fit any or all of the following OSY models:
A: OSY Youth Placement Model – this model will assist individuals interested in gaining employment to attain the work readiness skills necessary to succeed in the workplace, including helping individuals to gain industry recognized credentials, with a focus on finding and retaining unsubsidized employment. Cost per participant: up to $1,800
B: OSY Industry Pipeline Model – this model will incorporate a high rigor of preparation for career path employment, focusing on a GED to Skills pathway. It will place participants into certified occupational skills training or paid work experience while earning their GED. The focus of this model is on preparing students to be successful in career employment, while acquiring their GED as one fundamental step on their career path. To be successful, program providers will require meaningful partnerships with commitments from post-secondary institutions and additional community stakeholders as necessary. Cost per participant: up to $5,500 (including wages to participants)
C: OSY Academic Pathways Model – this model will incorporate a high rigor of preparation for post-secondary success, focusing on a GED to College pathway. It will place participants into credit-bearing, non-remedial, non-developmental college level courses while earning their GED. The focus of this model is on preparing students to be successful in their post-secondary educational pursuits, while acquiring their GED as one fundamental step on their career path. To be successful, program providers will require meaningful partnerships with commitments from post-secondary institutions and additional community stakeholders as necessary. Cost per participant: up to $5,000 (including wages to participants)
Both the OSY Industry Pipeline and OSY Academic Pathways models are intended to build upon the achievements and infrastructure of best practice models in youth services and education/training programs through restructuring and enhancement of services, collaborating with a network of partners to provide key services, and leveraging research based promising practices.
Both the OSY Industry Pipeline and OSY Academic Pathways models will employ a multi- phased approach consisting of the following four (4) phases, most likely implemented through a partnership of several agency partners with one lead organization:
A. Phase 1 – Recruitment & Assessment: Recruiting and assessing students committed to earning
their GED and developing meaningful career pathways.
B. Phase 2 – Enriched Preparation: Integrating high-quality college and/or occupational training ready instruction with strong academic and social supports. Includes providing high quality instruction, academic and social support aimed at preparing students for successful entry into and progress through post-secondary education and training. Enriched preparation includes creation of a college and/or occupational training culture with the expectation that all students will go on to some form of post-secondary education; college and career-ready
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curriculum and instruction (including pre‐college math, research papers, homework); substantial reading and writing across the curriculum; and use of time in a way that maximizes instruction and accelerates learning. The goal: Develop a set of skills that enable students to enter post-secondary education or training with minimal or no developmental coursework.
C. Phase 3 – Post-secondary Bridging: Building college-ready skills and/or occupational training skills and providing informed transition counseling. Postsecondary transition support should
be designed to enhance college/training‐ready skills and provide transition counseling. Bridge programming includes college/career planning; “college/training knowledge” (e.g. orientation to post-secondary campuses and how they work, financial aid planning and assistance, college survival and success skills); and supported dual enrollment. Bridge activities also include individual counseling and information so students can make informed choices on the most appropriate programs of study. The goal: Develop the skills and information necessary to make a smooth transition to post-secondary education or advanced training, the ability to make informed choices about their program of study or training, and the knowledge and skills needed to overcome obstacles and persist in education or training.
D. Phase 4 – First-Year Supports: Offering appropriate support in the critical first year of college or occupational training to help students accumulate credits predictive of completion. Support for at least the first year of post-secondary education/training (and in some cases through completion) to promote persistence and completion. Post-secondary support includes frequent check‐ins; academic supports; use of incentives to support key goals; just in time supports (e.g., emergency funds, transportation or child care) to quickly address barriers; and efforts to build attachment to post-secondary education (access to college resources and development of ‘cohort’ groups). The goal: Supporting the often-fragile attachment that first‐time students have to the educational and training process and fostering persistence and success.
Beyond the structural elements listed above, professional experience and research also suggests an inclusive, supportive, and results driven culture helps to propel program success. Key elements include:*
An expectation of high rates of consistent attendance and focused effort (for both students and staff)
Substantial and challenging academic work, within and outside of the classroom Consistency of daily instructional practice, such as starting classes on time and collecting
student work for review
Regular assessment of student and staff skills and performance, with results shared through conferences and written progress reports
Cultivation of an intellectually curious environment (for both students and staff), using techniques such as bringing in guest lecturers and including non-remedial college coursework as part of the curriculum
Meaningful and substantial program of professional development for staff members
*Adapted from Jobs For the Future – From GED to College Degree, 2011
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The OSY Industry Pipeline and OSY Academic Pathways models place a strong emphasis on
Career Pathways, whereby individuals are often co-enrolled in education and training programs
leading to employment in high-priority occupations with opportunities for upward mobility. In line
with new WIOA demands, this Career Pathways model expects applicants to connect the
individuals they serve to educational and training programs with clear career pathway
connections. Funding for the OSY Industry Pipeline and OSY Academic Pathways models can be
used to cover (in full or in part) the cost of approved occupational skills training. SCPa Works can
provide assistance with the identification of in-demand occupations and the development of
career pathways.
8. Universal Program Design Elements It is expected that all successful OSY programs will include the following program design elements:
1. Focus on accountability for outcomes, especially the obtainment of a certificate/ degree,
placement in post-secondary education/ employment in career pathways, and retention.
2. Focus on building a youth workforce development system that leverages the strengths of multiple organizations and funding streams, both through partnerships and through tracking/reporting of outcomes.
3. Target and serve high need areas – Proposals are encouraged to find ways to align their recruitment strategies and participant cohorts with the geographic areas of highest need, while keeping in mind that youth must be served with the associated geographic region that the funding is allocated to.
4. Focus on youth with barriers to employment – WIOA requires programs to serve youth who have one or more of the following barriers to employment. While all barriers to employment are important to address, SCPa Works encourages proposals to focus specifically on barriers listed below as they have been identified as the highest risk youth:
a) Out-of-school youth b) Basic skills deficient c) An English language learner d) An offender e) A homeless individual, a runaway or in foster care or has aged out of the foster care
system, currently a John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program recipient, or in an out-of-home placement
f) Pregnant or parenting g) Youth with a disability
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5. Coordinate and collaborate to ensure that youth have access to the required WIOA elements. WIOA reinforces the importance of the required program elements. The Program Committee places the highest emphasis on adult mentoring and employment opportunities/work experience as core components of all youth programs. Programs must identify which of the 14 WIOA elements their program will focus on and which elements they will rely on referral agencies to provide. Through partnering with other organizations, Respondents must ensure that youth have access to all 14 WIOA elements:
a) Tutoring, study skills training, and instruction, leading to completion of secondary
school, including dropout prevention strategies b) Alternative secondary school services, as appropriate c) Paid and unpaid work experience that link academic and occupational education,
which may include 1. Summer employment opportunities and other employment opportunities
throughout the year 2. Pre-apprenticeship programs 3. Internships and job shadowing 4. On-the-job training
d) Occupational skills training, as appropriate, particularly training that leads to industry recognized credentials aligned with in-demand industry sectors
e) Education offered concurrently with and in the same context as workforce preparation activities and training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster
f) Leadership development opportunities, which may include community service and peer-centered activities encouraging responsibility and other positive social behaviors during non-school hours, as appropriate
g) Supportive services h) Adult mentoring for the period of participation and a subsequent period, for a total
of not less than 12 months i) Follow-up services for not less than 12 months after the completion of participation,
as appropriate j) Comprehensive guidance and counseling, which may include drug and alcohol abuse
counseling and referral, as appropriate k) Financial literacy education l) Entrepreneurial skills training m) Career awareness, counseling, and exploration n) Activities that help youth prepare for and transition to postsecondary education and
training
6. Partner with employers within industry clusters that are conducive to youth employment/ entry-level opportunities: business and finance, building and construction, energy, health and human services, manufacturing, professional and technical services, and retail services. Programs must build relationships with employers from these industry clusters so youth can experience career exploration, workplace learning opportunities, summer employment, and ultimately garner sustainable employment.
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7. Partner with school districts and career and technology centers by articulating and providing evidence of how school districts and CTCs will be leveraged as an integral resource to ensure youth are graduating high school on time, receiving a wealth of career exploration resources and experiences, and are successfully placed in sustainable employment/post-secondary education.
8. Develop innovative intake activities with creative recruitment strategies to ensure that
programs operate at capacity and achieve the proposed targets for enrollment. Vendors are expected to meet enrollment benchmarks at each quarter of the program year based on proposed new enrollments.
9. Collaborate with the Program Committee Initiatives and SCPa Works – The Program
Committee is seeking innovative ideas for connecting youth programs and participants to other publicly funded workforce development programs. Successful Respondents will be expected to engage in collaboration with other organizations within the SCWIA to ensure collective efficiencies and effectiveness in youth service and strong returns on all investments in youth services.
10. Utilize the resources available through PA CareerLink®- Programs should leverage the
resources available through PA CareerLink® offices, which can be used to assist job seekers in finding job openings, preparing resumes and cover letters, job training opportunities and gaining computer training skills.
9. Eligible Applicants
Proposals will be accepted from any private for-profit entity, private non-profit entity, government agency, or educational institution that can demonstrate the capacity to successfully provide the services identified in this RFP, including, but not limited to, employers, non-profit or for-profit service providers, Career and Technical Education Centers, and Institutions of Higher Education. The OSY Industry Pipeline and OSY Academic Pathways models are specifically directed toward a team of Out-of-School Youth Service Organizations in partnership with Secondary and Post-Secondary Education Partner(s), including, but not limited to, training providers, Career and Technical Education Centers, and for-profit and non- profit colleges; Employers; and other appropriate Community Partners as necessary. Proposals from consortia, partnerships or other combinations of organizations are therefore encouraged; they must, however, identify one organization as the lead agency and prime contractor and must specify the assignment of subcontracting relationships.
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10. Payment Options to Participating Youth
Where applicable, Respondents may designate a youth wage allocation in the form of wages, stipends, or incentive payments. The single form of payment (wage or incentive) must be broken down for all youth participants for the period of the contract. SCPa Works will negotiate the type and frequency of youth payment at the point of the contract award.
Incentives: Incentives are performance-based payments tied to the successful attainment of benchmark measures. Incentives must go beyond payment for attendance or participation in the program. A programmatic incentive plan must be documented and an individual incentive plan must be submitted for each youth participant to substantiate payment.
Wage: Wages must be commensurate with work performed and with salaries paid to others doing similar work. Timesheets must be kept for all participants within the program.
All payments to participating youth must be included in the final calculation of the cost per participant.
11. Performance Measures
WIOA establishes core measures for Adult and Dislocated Worker Funding (including Title II, Title III, and Title IV), which includes the revision of the three WIA measures and two additional measures. WIOA establishes Youth measures which eliminates one measure, revises three WIA measures and adds two new measures. Still to be determined is an employer measure that is expected to be implemented in year two of the law. 1. Placement in Employment/Education/Training 2nd quarter after exit.
Of those not employed, enrolled in post-secondary education or training at program enrollment the qualifying outcome is placement in post-secondary education or advanced training/occupational skills training in the 2nd quarter after program exit.
2. Retention in Employment/Education/Training 4th quarter after exit
Of those employed, enrolled in post-secondary education or training in the 2nd quarter after exit, the number of youth in employment or in post-secondary education or advanced training/occupational skills training in the 4th quarter after exit.
3. Earnings
Of those employed in the 2nd quarter after exit, the total earnings in the 2nd quarter after exit quarter.
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4. Credential Rate
Of those enrolled in education at participation or any time during the program, the number attaining a diploma, GED or certificate by the end of the 4thd quarter after exit. 5. In-Program Skills Gain Percentage of participants in education leading to credential or employment during the program year. Achievement of measureable gains will be measured in real time, measure not exit based. Employer Measure to be determined. Performance goals are at 100%. Expectations are that vendors will be at the required quarterly enrollment benchmarks throughout the program year. At any time, should the Proposing contractor(s) performance fall below 80% of the planned enrollment or performance goals, the Proposing contractor(s) may be subject to corrective action and/or recapture of funds, in accordance with SCPa Works policy. Related Alliance Metric(s) WIOA measures are the primary indicators of performance. Alliance measures are necessary in determining the effectiveness of pathway programs. In addition to the common measures, contractors will be responsible for reporting the following additional measures to SCPa Works monthly. SCPa Works reserves the right to modify the list of data needed to provide continuous improvement to our programs. High School Diploma attained GED attained Developmental/remedial education completion College-level pathway course completion College-level Math or English course completion Retention in pathway coursework in subsequent term Pathway credit accumulation Semester College credits Earnings progression Pathway license, industry certification, or apprenticeship certificate attainment Pathway certificate and diploma attainment Pathway Associate Degree attainment Initial employment in pathway (identify) Subsequent retention in pathway Employment in targeted industry sector Initial earnings Initial earnings change
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WIOA requires extensive data collection to validate eligibility, provision of services, and performance.
The documentation of efforts and outcomes is critically important. SCPa Works will be responsible for
evaluation and reporting to the State. Successful Respondents, in turn, will be required to produce
timely documentation that clearly tracks youth participation, progress, and outcomes throughout the
contract period. No participant may begin a program or be counted as a participant unless full
eligibility is determined. Failure to do so will result in unallowable costs.
12. Contract Requirements
This RFP is issued for a three year period, July 1, 2016, through June 30, 2019, whereby SCPa Works will enter into an initial contract for one twelve (12) month period ending June 30, 2017 with an option to renew depending on available funding and successful performance outcomes.
Under this contract, performance measures are based on 100% enrollment. To that end, successful Respondents will receive a percentage of their contract operating award via cost- reimbursement invoicing, fulfillment of its enrollment targets, and monthly data entry. The balance of the funds will be accessible upon the achievement of negotiated outcomes. The structure of the hybrid cost- reimbursement/performance-based contracts will be finalized during final contract negotiations with successful Respondents. SCPa Works reserves the option to modify contracts on a year-to-year basis.
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Section V: Solicitation Process and Terms
1. RFP Inquiries, Questions, and Answers The primary mode of communication between SCPa Works and potential Respondents will occur at their website (www.scpaworks.org). Beginning December 8, 2015, interested parties can access the Request for Proposals at www.scpaworks.org . After the Regional Bidders’ Conferences, scheduled for January 6, 7 and 8, 2016, a question-and-answer page will be available on the website and will be updated through February 11, 2016. All questions must be submitted in writing to [email protected]. All questions and answers will be posted to SCPa Works website (www.scpaworks.org). After the Bidders’ Conference, questions and answers will be posted online. It is the bidder’s responsibility to check the web page frequently to stay connected and apprised throughout the process. Questions will not be answered over the phone or in person. Questions received after December 21, 2015 will not be answered.
2. Bidders Conference There will be three regional Bidders Conferences. SCPa Works encourages all interested parties to attend one of the Bidders Conferences located at the following locations: Wednesday January 6, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at SCPa Works offices at 4201 Crums Mill Road, Harrisburg PA 17112; Thursday January 7, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at the PA CareerLink® Lebanon County, 249 Schneider Drive, Lebanon, PA 17046, and Friday January 8, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at the PA CareerLink® Franklin County, 600 Norland Ave., Suite 100, Chambersburg, PA 17201. All interested parties wishing to attend must register by sending their name and contact information to [email protected] by 5:00 p.m. EST on Monday, January 4, 2016. All questions for the Bidders’ Conference must be submitted in writing to: [email protected] by 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday December 21, 2015. SCPa Works has selected this forum to present detailed, non-competitive information on the RFP and answer questions so that all interested parties will have the benefit of the same answer at the same time; however, no answers are final until posted on the website (scpaworks.org). If Respondents wish to participate via phone, please notify SCPa Works in writing at [email protected] by 5 p.m. EST Monday, January 4, 2016. Information of the Bidders’ Conference will be posted on SCPa Works website (www.SCPaWorks.org).
A brief amount of time will also be set aside during each Bidder’s Conference for additional questions. Every effort will be made at the Bidder’s Conference to answer questions submitted that day; however, all questions will be answered and posted on the Website. No answers are final until posted on the website (www.scpaworks.org)
3. Proposal Review and Evaluation Process
Phase I: SCPa Works staff will initially evaluate each proposal for acceptability, with emphasis placed on completeness and responsiveness to requisite program criteria. The following minimum criteria will be used to determine which proposals will continue on to Phase II:
All required services for the program for which they are bidding are addressed;
All requested information and documentation is included in application package; and
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The proposal is submitted in accordance with the RFP.
Phase II: Proposals that have met the minimum criteria, as stated above, will then be reviewed and ranked by the SCPa Works Program Committee’s Review Committee. The review committee is comprised of members of the Board and Program Committee members who have no fiduciary interest in bidding for any of the WIOA programs and SCPa Works staff.
Proposals will be ranked based on evaluation criteria outlined in the next section. These rankings will be used as a guide for discussion and determination of recommendations. Note: The Program Committee retains the right to request additional information from any applicant, request a site visit to the proposed locations in which services will be provided or request oral presentations from the applicants. If no response adequately addresses the services and outcomes requested, the committee may recommend that no award be made.
Phase III: The recommendations of the Program Committee’s Review Committee will be presented to the Executive Committee of the SCPa Works and then to SCPa Works Board of Directors for approval. All contract awards will be considered provisional pending receipt of any additional documentation regarding administrative qualifications and/or any other areas of concern and the successful completion of contract negotiations.
4. Proposal Review Criteria:
The Review Committee will evaluate each submitted proposal based on the following:
1. Cover Page
2. Proposal Checklist
3. Proposal Executive Summary & Program Logic Model – 10 Points
4. Program Narrative (Organizational Capacity and Experience, Program components, Connection to Industry and Anticipated Challenges) – 55 Points
5. Program Budget & Budget Narrative – 10 Points 6. Planned Performance & Performance Narrative – 15 Points 7. Past Performance—20 Points 8. Partner MOUs (employers, education/training providers, service providers) – 10 Points
9. Financial Reference Listings
10. Statement of Compliance Form
The maximum number of points available is 120 points and will be awarded across the above criteria.
Note: The budget that is proposed may not necessarily be the amount funded. Final budget amounts will be reconciled based on amount of funding award, pending available funding.
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Section VI: RFP RESPONSE INSTRUCTIONS
1. Submission Requirements
All proposals must be received electronically at SCPa Works by 3 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on
February 12, 2016. Proposals not received by this time will be automatically disqualified from
competition—no exceptions. Please submit your proposals by email with the subject line of Youth
Request for Proposals to: [email protected]
Include all of the required forms, narrative answers and attachments that pertain to your
proposal. Failure to do so will disqualify your proposal from competition.
Proposals are limited to a maximum allowable narrative page limit. Responses must follow the outline and use the forms provided in the Application Package
(Section II). Unsolicited attachments and additional forms are discouraged.
Please use 12-point Times New Roman type, 1-inch margins and double spacing.
Staple your proposal but do not bind it in any other way, or use dividers with tabs. Letters of recommendation will not be accepted.
All proposals are to be submitted in accordance with the terms, conditions and procedures stated in the RFP.
Any submitted proposal shall remain a valid proposal for one year after the closing date of the RFP.
2. Withdrawals
A submitted application may be withdrawn prior to the application due date. A written request to withdraw the application must be submitted to SCPa Works. If a Respondent does not withdraw a proposal by the due date, the proposal becomes the property of SCPa Works and may be subject to public disclosure.
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3. General Preparation Instructions
The RFP response is divided into thirteen components as follows:
Section Format Required Attachment
1. Cover Page Form None
2. Proposal Checklist Form None
3. Proposal Summary Narrative Program Logic Model
4. Baseline Requirements Form None
5. Organizational Capacity and Relevant Experience Narrative Organizational and
Functional Chart
6. Program Components Narrative Program Calendar,
Partner MOUs,
Curriculum Outline
7. Connection to Industry Narrative None
8. Anticipated Challenges Narrative None
9. Program Cost Form and Narrative None
10. Planned Performance Form and Narrative None
11. Past Performance Narrative None
12. Statement of Compliance Form Form None
13. Partner MOUs Narrative None
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Section VII: Appendices
Appendix A: Eligibility Criteria
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Eligibility
A. General Eligibility
● US Citizen or eligible to work in the US ● Between the ages of 16-24 ● Must be Out-of-school” at the time of eligibility ● Selective Service (if applicable)
B. Any one of the following must apply
1. School dropout; or 2. Youth who (a) received HS Diploma/equivalent and (b) is low-income and (c) is
Deficient in Basic Literacy Skills or is an English language learner; or 3. Required to attend school but has not attended for at least the most recent complete
school year’s calendar quarter; or 4. Homeless or Runaway; or 5. In foster care or aged out of foster care; or 6. Pregnant/Parenting; or 7. Subject to the juvenile or adult justice system; or 8. Has a disability; or 9. Requires additional assistance to complete an educational program, or to secure and
hold employment (must also meet low income requirements) Low income required only if using B. 2. or B. 9. ● Family income at or below 100% of poverty line or 70% lower living standard or ● Meets one of the following criteria
Customer receives or is a member of a family that receives (currently or in the past six months) one of the following
TANF, or
SNAP, or
SSI, or
Other public assistance; or
Foster Child; or
Homeless; or
Receives or is eligible to receive free or reduced-price lunch; or
Lives in a high poverty census tract.
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Note: Individual with a disability may be considered family of one for income determination purposes if family income exceeds youth income criteria and 1-5 above do not apply. Up to 5% of customers may exceed the income level and not meet one of the other low-income criteria identified in 1-5 above. Contractor management approval required.
* Definition of a low income individual:
A) Receives, or in the past 6 month has received, or is a member of a family that is receiving or in the past 6
months has received assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Temporary Assistance
for Needy Families, or the Supplemental Security Income program established under title XVI of the Social
Security Act.
B) Is in a family with family income that does not exceed the higher of the poverty line or 70 percent of the
lower living standard of income level
C) Is a homeless individual
D) Receives or is eligible to receive a free of reduced price lunch
E) Is a foster child on behalf of whom State or local government payments are made
F) Is an individual with a disability whose own income meets the income requirement of part B, but who is a
member of a family whose income does not meet this requirement
Income and Poverty Guidelines
The following table reflects the current Income Eligibility Criteria for Youth under the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act. These criteria must be used in determining Youth low income eligibility.
It is also important to know that the Poverty (effective 1/22/15) & LLSIL (effective 3/27/15) Income Guidelines help to define Low Income Status for Adults.
Family Size
Cumberland, Dauphin, Lebanon, Perry and
York County Annualized Income
Levels
Adams, Franklin and Juniata County
Annualized Income Levels
235% TANF Guidelines (all counties)
1 $11,770 $11,770 $27,660
2 $17,334 $17,350 $37,436
3 $23,790 $23,818 $47,212
4 $29,368 $29,396 $56,988
5 $34,660 $34,693 $66,764
6 $40,530 $40,567 $76,540
7 $46,400 $46,441 $86,316
8 $52,270 $52,315 $96,092
Add $5,870 for each additional member
Add $5,874 for each additional member
For additional members, refer to the Poverty Income Level Chart effect. 1-22-15
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Appendix B: Youth Labor Market Dynamics in South Central Pennsylvania The information contained in this appendix is intended to set context for programs bid for under the SCPa Works Request for Proposals for Out-of-School Youth Services. SCPa Works encourages Respondents to reflect the specific characteristics of the local labor market in their programming and proposals. This section includes Occupational and Industry projects; SCPa Works encourages Respondents to utilize these projections to understand the future needs of employers in the region and help youth prepare to meet the impending demands of the workforce. Labor Force Participation
The South Central Workforce Development Area (SCWDA) is the largest active labor force in the
state, with 737,600. There are 28,600 unemployed people in the region and an unemployment
rate of 3.9%
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Labor Force Statistics from 2010-2015
The following chart shows county specific employment data from 2010-2015, including the
volume and percent change of employment rates by county.
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South Central Workforce Development Area Population by County
Adams Cumberland Dauphin Franklin Juniata Lebanon Perry York Pennsylvania
Total 101,714 243,762 271,453 152,892 24,796 136,359 45,634 440,755 12,787,209
Male 49.3% 49.4% 48.4% 49.0% 49.9% 49.1% 50.3% 49.5% 48.9%
Female 50.7% 50.6% 51.6% 51.0% 50.1% 50.9% 49.7% 50.5% 51.1%
White 95.5% 90.2% 74.1% 92.9% 97.5% 93.6% 97.2% 89.7% 82.9%
Black 1.9% 3.8% 18.7% 3.9% 0.8% 3.3% 0.8% 6.5% 11.6%
Other 2.6% 6.0% 7.2% 3.3% 1.7% 3.1% 1.9% 3.9% 5.5%
Hispanic 6.6% 3.4% 8.3% 5.0% 3.1% 11.4% 1.7% 6.5% 6.6%
0-14 16.8% 16.7% 18.6% 18.9% 18.6% 19.0% 17.9% 18.5% 17.4%
15-19 6.8% 6.8% 6.1% 6.3% 5.9% 6.3% 6.3% 6.3% 6.5%
20-34 17.2% 19.8% 19.8% 17.3% 16.3% 17.5% 16.9% 18.0% 19.6%
35-49 18.6% 18.9% 18.7% 18.9% 18.4% 18.2% 19.7% 19.7% 18.5%
50-64 22.3% 20.7% 21.6% 20.4% 21.0% 20.6% 23.3% 21.5% 21.2%
65 and Older 18.3% 17.0% 15.3% 18.2% 19.8% 18.4% 15.9% 15.9% 16.7%
Blue = Highest between areas Pink = Lowest across all areas
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2014 Population Estimates
Many areas of the commonwealth are challenged by an aging workforce and South Central is no
different. The South Central WDA does have a large population of older persons (65+) but not
many of them were in the workforce. In contrast, a sizable portion of younger persons (16-24)
were employed.
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Age Breakdown of South Central PA’s Workforce
Age Group Employees Percent
14-18 15,664 2.4%
19-21 28,308 4.4%
22-24 36,913 5.8%
25-34 125,649 19.6%
35-44 128,780 20.1%
45-54 149,490 23.3%
55-64 118,359 18.5%
65-99 38,266 6.0%
Youth Unemployment in South Central PA
Nationally, youth unemployment (those age 16-24) is significantly higher than unemployment for
the general population. In October 2015, youth unemployment was 11.1%, while unemployment
for all age groups stood at 5%. This youth unemployment rate is in line with historic trends.
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Across the country, there are approximately 6.7 million young adults between the ages of 16-24 who are disconnected from educational programs and the labor market. Some have chronic challenges – they have never been in school or at work after the age of 16. Others are “marginally attached” – they have had some school or work experience beyond the age of 16, but have not progressed through post-secondary education or secured stable attachment to the labor force. The economic burden felt by Opportunity Youth is also felt by society at large: each costs society more than $1 million over the course of their lifetime, totaling $4.75 trillion in aggregate over the lifetime of this population. While it is difficult to get an exact number of how many opportunity youth there are in the South Central region,
estimates place that number at more than 20,000 in the eight-county region.
Income Profiles for South Central Workforce Development Area - County
Adams Cumberland Dauphin Perry Franklin Juniata Lebanon York PA
Per Capita GDP1 $2,814 $31,784 $4,603 N/A $4,360 $16,667 $46,846
GDP
(in Millions)1 $25,857 $53,714 $28,189 N/A $29,621 $36,055 $640,294
Total Personal
Income
(in thousands)1
$3,699,110 $11,399,224 $12,299,382 $1,741,547 $5,684,467 $836,012 $5,689,624 $17,988,529 $590,170,522
Median
Household
Income2 $59,492 $60,826 $54,066 $57,375 $52,637 $46,163 $54,818 $58,745 $52,548
Per Capita
Income2 $27,284 $31,791 $29,234 $26,048 $25,741 $21,628 $27,074 $28,132 $28,502
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Educational Attainment in South Central PA
Educational expectations for many jobs are increasing and the incoming workforce is generally better prepared to fill these positions.
South Central’s age profile does parallel the U.S. closely for those with a bachelor’s degree. Overall, the region has fewer people in the prime working ages of 25-64 that do not have a high school diploma. In addition, 55% of the current workforce has some type of on-the-job training (including short and long-term training), which represents the largest percentage of the workforce by educational attainment.
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Employment Distribution by Educational Attainment in South Central WDA
South Central Employment by Industry Sector
Pennsylvania defines industry clusters to serve as the basis for data-driven workforce development policies. Clusters include industries that are closely linked by common products, labor pools, technologies, supplier chains, and training needs. There are currently twelve clusters defined by the Commonwealth of PA:
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The health care & social assistance supersector had the most establishments (4,515) and employed the most people (92,533) in the WDA, followed by manufacturing (79,485). In 2014, the South Central WDA was home to more than 31,680 establishments employing more than 628,600 individuals. The average weekly wage was $863.
Management of companies & enterprises supersector had the highest average weekly wage
($2,318); accommodation & food service the lowest ($294).
Sector Strategy SCPa Works, in partnership with the PA Department of Labor & Industry, has compiled a list of the
fastest growing occupations across the state and the workforce region. SCPa Works is currently
undergoing a significant strategic planning process to implement a comprehensive sector strategy
that will provide a framework for business and job seeker services, alignment of programs and
investments, developing community partnerships and board governance/structure.
Through research, data and labor market intelligence, SCPa Works has identified key sectors in
the region that are critical to driving economic growth for businesses and job seekers. These
sectors include advanced manufacturing, healthcare and logistics & transportation, which
represents a majority of our region’s total economic output and employment. SCPa Works is
aligning the majority its resources, programs, investment and initiatives around these sectors in
order to achieve a stronger return on investment for the community as a whole.
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Appendix B: Performance Measures
WIOA Common Measures There are five measures required by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act that apply to workforce development programs serving youth. These measures must be met annually to be in compliance with the federal law. Successful Respondents will work with the Program Committee to define the appropriate path for individuals aged 16-24 who may qualify for WIOA as adults or youth.
These measures will be stated in the contracts of the successful Respondents and can be expected to increase by the time contracts are issued. The Program Committee may request different performance measures then those negotiated with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Additional years’ contracts will be dependent upon successful achievement of the contracted performance measures.
Youth (16-24) Measures 1. Participants who are in education, training or unsubsidized employment during the second quarter after the exit from the program 2. Participants who are in education, training or unsubsidized employment during the fourth quarter after the exit from the program 3. Median earning of program participants in unsubsidized employment 4. Diploma or its recognized equivalent or a recognized postsecondary credential 5. Skill gains relating to the credential SCPa Works negotiates WIOA performance levels with PA Department of Labor and Industry
annually. Below are the common measures for the current contractors in the SCWIA. Currently
the levels are being negotiated and new WIOA performance levels are not known.
Measure Rate of Attainment
Placement in
Employment/Education/Training 2nd quarter
after exit
Retention in
Employment/Education/Training during the
4th quarter
Median Earnings
Credential Rate
In-Program Skills Gain
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Attachment A
CERTIFICATION REGARDING DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE REQUIREMENTS
A. Contractor certifies that it will or will continue to provide a drug-free workplace by:
1. Publishing a statement notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution,
possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in the contractor’s workplace and
specifying the actions that will be taken against employees for violation of such
prohibition;
2. Establishing an ongoing drug-free awareness program to inform employees about;
a. The dangers of drug abuse in the workplace;
b. The grantee’s policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace;
c. Any available drug counseling, rehabilitation, and employee assistance programs; and
d. The penalties that may be imposed upon employees for drug abuse violations
occurrence in the workplace.
3. Making it a requirement that each employee to be engaged in the performance of the grant
be given a copy of the statement required by paragraph (1)
4. Notifying the employee in the statement required by paragraph (1) that, as a condition of
employment under the grant, the employee will;
a. Abide by the terms of the statement; and b. Notify the employer in writing of his or her conviction for a violation criminal drug
state occurring in the workplace no later than five calendar days after such conviction;
5. Notifying the agency/consortium in writing, within ten calendar days after receiving notice
under subparagraph (4)(b) from an employee or otherwise receiving actual notice of such
conviction. Employers of convicted employees must provide notice, including position
title, to every grant officer or other designee on whose contract activity the convicted
employee was working, unless the Federal agency has designated a central point for the
receipt of such notices. Notice shall include the identification number (s) of each affected
grant. 6. Taking one of the following actions, within 30 calendar days of receiving notice under
subparagraph (4)(b), with respect to any employee who is so convicted; a. Taking appropriate personnel action against such an employee, up to and including
termination, consistent with the requirements of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as
amended; or
60
b. Requiring such employee to participate satisfactory in a drug abuse assistance or
rehabilitation program approved for such purpose by Federal, State or Local health,
law enforcement, or other appropriate agency;
7. Making a good faith effort to continue to maintain a drug-free workplace through
implementation of paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), and (6).
B. The Contractor should insert in the space provided below the site(s) for the
performance of work done in connection with the specific grant, if other than that
address stipulated on the front of this agreement.
Place of Performance (Street Address, City, County, State, Zip Code) ____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
______ Check if there are workplaces that are not identified here. ______________________________________________________________________________ Name of Contractor ______________________________________________________________________________ Name and Title of Authorized Signatory _____________________________________________________________________________ Signature Date
61
CERTIFICATION REGARDING LOBBYING
Certification for Contracts, Grants, Loans and Cooperative Agreements:
The undersigned certifies, to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, that:
(1) No federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the
undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or
employee of any agency, a member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or
an employee of a member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any federal
contract, the making of any federal grant, the making of any federal loan, the entering
into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation renewal,
amendment, or modification of any federal contract, grant, loan or cooperative
agreement.
(2) If any funds other than federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any
person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer of employee of any agency,
a member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a
member of Congress in connection with the federal contract, grant, loan or cooperative
agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form – LLL,
“Disclosure of Lobbying Activities,” in accordance with its instructions.
(3) The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the
award documents for all sub-awards at all tires (including subcontracts, sub-grants and
contracts under grant, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all sub-recipients
shall certify and disclose accordingly.
This certification is a material representation of fact which was placed when this transaction was
made or entered into. Submission of this certification is a prerequisite for making or entering into
this transaction imposed under Section 1352, Title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the
required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than
$100,000 for such failure. Contractor
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Name and Title of Authorized Representative
_________________________________________________________________________ Signature Date
62
CERTIFICATATION REGARDING DEBARMENT, SUSPENSION AND INELIGIBILITY
Contractor:
______________________________________________________________________________
Employer Identification Number or Social Security Number:
____________________________________
For your contract to be finalized, this form must be completed in full.
___ The contract you are entering into involves the payment of State funds.
Complete and sign the State-funded Contract Certification.
___ The contract you are entering into involves the payment of Federal funds.
Complete and sign the Federal-funded Contract Certification.
_X _ The contract you are entering into involves both Federal and State funds. Please
complete and sign both verifications.
STATE-FUNDED CONTRACT VERIFICATION
This certificate is required by Management Directive 215.9, which implements Executive Order
1990-3. The prospective recipient of State funds certifies, by submission of this proposal, that
neither it nor its principals are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, or declared
ineligible from participation in this transaction by any State or Federal department or agency.
______________________________________________________________________________ Name and Title of Authorized Representative Signature Date
FEDERALLY FUNDED CONTRACT CERTIFICATION
This certification is required by the regulations implementing Executive Order 12549, Debarment
and Suspension, 29CFR Part 98, Section 98.510, Participants’ Responsibilities. The regulations
were published as Part VII of the May 26, 1988 Federal Register (pages 19160-19211).
1. The prospective recipient of Federal assistance funds certifies, by submission of this
proposal, that neither it nor its principals are presently debarred, suspended,
proposed for disbarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from
participation in this transaction by any Federal department or agency.
2. Where the prospective recipient of Federal assistance funds is unable to certify to
any of the statements in this certification, such prospective contractor shall attach an
explanation to this certification.
_______________________________________________________________________________ Name and Title of Authorized Representative Signature Date
63
CONCURRENCE OF THE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGENT To ensure the most effective development of employment and training opportunities, the
Contractor must obtain written acknowledgement from the appropriate bargaining agent where a
collective bargaining agreement exits with the participation employer covering occupations in
which training or subsidized employment is proposed. Such acknowledgement shall apply to the
elements of the proposed activity which affect the bargaining agreement, such as occupations,
wages, and benefits. In the occupation, in which employment and training is to be offered, subject to a collective
bargaining agreement? Yes _____ No _____ If yes, has there been acknowledgment by the appropriate bargaining representative as to the
employment and training activities associated therewith? Yes _____ No _____ If no, please comment: _______________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________ Please indicate the name, title and union affiliation of the appropriate bargaining representative. Bargaining Unit Information/Signature _______________________________________________________________________________ Union Affiliation ______________________________________________________________________________ Name of Union Representative Title _______________________________________________________________________________ Signature Date Contractor Signature: _______________________________________________________________________________ Name of Contractor _______________________________________________________________________________ Name and Title of Authorized Signature Signature Date
64
UNION COMMENTS NAME OF UNION:
______________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS:
____________________________________________________________________________ CONTACT PERSON: __________________________________ PHONE #: _____________ UNION COMMENTS: _________________________________________________________________________ Name of Union Representative Title _________________________________________________________________________ Signature Date
65
GRIEVANCE POLICY FOR TRAINEES/PARTICIPANTS
Grievance procedures give the trainees/participants the means to appeal any unfair labor
conditions, adverse management actions and Equal Opportunity complaints while enrolling in any
of the SCWIB funded employment and/or training programs. Grievance Procedures: The aggrieved trainee/participant will verbally present the grievance to his/her immediate
supervisor/instructor within ten (10) working days of its occurrence. The supervisor/instructor will
verbally provide his/her answer within three (3) working days of the trainee/participant
presentation of the grievance. If the grievance is not satisfactorily settled verbally, the trainee/participant may submit his/her
grievance in writing to the appropriate supervisor/instructor within two (2) working days of the
supervisor/instructor’s response. The supervisor/instructor must respond within two (2) working
days of the receipt of the grievance. If the grievance is not satisfactorily settled, the trainee must make a written appeal to the SCPa
Works Executive Vice President within three (3) working days of the supervisor/instructor’s
decision. SCPa Works Executive Vice President will reply in writing within five (5) days of the
receipt of the written appeal. At any step beyond the verbal appeal listed above, the trainee/participant may be accompanied
and/or represented by an individual, including legal counsel, of his/her choice. Any such
representation shall be at the expense of the trainee/participant. At any time the trainee/participant, training site or employer may request and receive technical
assistance from the Equal Opportunity Officer located at SCPa Works. All of the above mentioned
procedures must be exhausted prior to filing a grievance. I hereby agree to institute the above policy unless a suitable Contractor policy is approved and on
file with the Department of Contracts & Procurement. Contractor:
_____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Name and Title of Authorized Representative ___________________________________________________________________________ Signature Date
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CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT THIS CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT (this "CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT") is dated as of
July 1st, 2016 (the "Effective Date") and is made pursuant to, and from and after the Effective Date, is
hereby incorporated into and made a part of SCPa Works. SCPa Works shall develop, obtain and use certain Confidential Information (defined herein) of third
parties during the course of its research and operations. Consultants of SCPa Works will receive and have
access to this Confidential Information. This Confidential Information includes but is not limited to
employment records, personal financial information, personal identifiers, such as name, address and tax
identification number, operating data, personnel files, marketing data, customer lists and any other
information of a private or sensitive nature. Consultants are not to use or disclose any such Confidential
Information unless specific permission to do so has been granted by the Chief Executive Officer of SCPa
Works. This obligation exists even after the employee/contractor leaves the employment/service of SCPa
Works. The unauthorized disclosure of Confidential Information can subject an individual employee and SCPa
Works to liability. Disclosure of Confidential Information to unauthorized persons, or unauthorized
access to, or misuse, theft, destruction, alteration, or sabotage of such Confidential Information, may
result in the employee's immediate revocation of working privileges and may lead to legal action.
Applicable federal and state laws related to protection of such Confidential Information shall be followed
should an employee fail to seek permission for any use or disclosure of any Confidential Information. NOW, THEREFORE, CONFIDANT, intending to be legally bound, agrees as follows:
1. "CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION" mean all information in SAID FIELD supplied to CONFIDANT by
or on behalf of SCPa Works, except such information which:
a. prior to CONFIDANT's receipt thereof; (i) was generally publicly available or; (ii) was in CONFIDANT's possession, free of any restrictions on its use or disclosure and from a source other than SCPa Works; or
b. after CONFIDANT's receipt thereof; (i) becomes publicly available without the fault of
CONFIDANT, or (ii) is acquired by CONFIDANT from a third party free of any restrictions on its use or disclosure.
It is understood, however, that CONFIDANT shall keep confidential the fact that any SCPa Works disclosed information is similar or identical to any such excepted information.
2. For a period of one (1) year from the project conclusion, CONFIDANT shall:
a. utilize such CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION only for SAID PURPOSE.
b. not disclose CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION to any third party, except as may be
authorized in writing by SCPa Works. The dissemination of such CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION within CONFIDANT's internal organization shall be limited to those employees whose duties justify their need to know such information and then only on the basis of clear understanding by such employees of their obligation to maintain the
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confidentiality of such information and to restrict the use thereof solely for SAID PURPOSE, and
c. promptly disclose to SCPA Works any inventions or developments conceived or made
during this period based on or derived from CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION, and CONFIDANT hereby grants to SCPa Works an irrevocable, royalty-free, non-exclusive, worldwide license, with the right to sublicense, with respect to any such inventions or developments.
3. No license to CONFIDANT under any SCPa Works patents, CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION, or
other proprietary interests is specifically or impliedly granted by this Agreement.
4. CONFIDANT acknowledges that CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION supplied by SCPa Works in written or other tangible form is the property of SCPa Works and, upon written request, shall be promptly returned to SCPa Works, together with all reproduction thereof, in any form, which CONFIDANT may have in its possession or control.
5. This Agreement shall be governed by the law of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, U.S.A.,
exclusive of its provisions regarding conflict of laws.
Execution of the acceptance below shall bind CONFIDANT to all the conditions of this
Agreement, effective as of the date below.
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RIGHT TO KNOW LAW - GRANT PROVISIONS (Form # 8-K-1580)
a. Grantee or Subgrantee understands that this Grant Agreement and records related to or arising
out of the Grant Agreement are subject to requests made pursuant to the Pennsylvania Right- to-Know Law, 65 P.S. §§ 67.101-3104, ("RTKL"). For the purpose of these provisions, the term "the Commonwealth" shall refer to the granting Commonwealth agency.
b. If the Commonwealth needs the Grantee's or Subgrantee's assistance in any matter arising out
of the RTKL related to this Grant Agreement, it shall notify the Grantee of Subgrantee using the legal contact information provided in the Grant Agreement. The Grantee or Subgrantee, at any time, may designate a different contact for such purpose upon reasonable prior written notice to the Commonwealth.
c. Upon written notification from the Commonwealth that it requires Grantee's or Subgrantee's
assistance in responding to a request under the RTKL for information related to this Grant Agreement that may be in Grantee's or Subgrantee's possession, constituting, or alleged to constitute, a public record in accordance with the RTKL ("Requested Information"), Grantee or Subgrantee shall:
1. Provide the Commonwealth, within ten (10) calendar days after receipt of written
notification, access to, and copies of, any document or information in Grantee's or Subgrantee's possession arising out of this Grant Agreement that the Commonwealth reasonably believes is Requested Information and may be a public record under the RTKL; and
2. Provide such other assistance as the Commonwealth may reasonably request, in order
to comply with the RTKL with respect to this Grant Agreement.
d. If Grantee or Subgrantee considers the Requested Information to include a request for a Trade Secret or Confidential Proprietary Information, as those terms are defined by the RTKL, or other information that Grantee or Subgrantee considers exempt from production under the RTKL, Grantee or Subgrantee must notify the Commonwealth and provide, within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the written notification, a written statement signed by a representative of Grantee or Subgrantee explaining why the requested material is exempt from public disclosure under the RTKL.
e. The Commonwealth will rely upon the written statement from Grantee or Subgrantee in
denying a RTKL request for the Requested Information unless the Commonwealth determines that the Requested Information is clearly not protected from disclosure under the RTKL. Should the Commonwealth determine that the Requested Information is clearly not exempt from disclosure, Grantee or Subgrantee shall provide the Requested Information within five (5) business days of receipt of written notification of the Commonwealth's determination.
f. If Grantee or Subgrantee fails to provide the Requested Information within the time period
required by these provisions, Grantee or Subgrantee shall indemnify and hold the Commonwealth harmless for any damages, penalties, costs, detriment or harm that the
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Commonwealth may incur as a result of Grantee's or Subgrantee's failure, including any statutory damages assessed against the Commonwealth.
g. The Commonwealth will reimburse Grantee or Subgrantee for any costs associated with
complying with these provisions only to the extent allowed under the fee schedule established by the Office of Open Records or as otherwise provided by the RTKL if the fee schedule is inapplicable.
h. Grantee or Subgrantee may file a legal challenge to any Commonwealth decision to release a
record to the public with the Office of Open Records, or in the Pennsylvania Courts, however, Grantee or Subgrantee shall indemnify the Commonwealth for any legal expenses incurred by the Commonwealth as a result of such a challenge and shall hold the Commonwealth harmless for any damages, penalties, costs, detriment or harm that the Commonwealth may incur as a result of Grantee's or Subgrantee's failure, including any statutory damages assessed against the Commonwealth, regardless of the outcome of such legal challenge. As between the parties, Grantee or Subgrantee agrees to waive all rights or remedies that may be available to it as a result of the Commonwealth's disclosure of Requested Information pursuant to the RTKL.
i. The Grantee's or Subgrantee's duties relating to the RTKL are continuing duties that survive the
expiration of this Grant Agreement and shall continue as long as the Grantee or Subgrantee has Requested Information in its possession.
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Dear Chief Executive Officer:
DISCLOSURE LETTER
I, the undersigned certify that the information provided herein is true and correct as of the date hereof and am enclosing the documents and/or information listed below. Capitalized terms are defined in the Agreement between the undersigned Agency and SCPa Works
A. CONTACTOR'S Data Universal Number System ("DUNS") number, or the DUNS+4
number if applicable, together with the address of the primary location of performance of the Services.
B. Unless a waiver has been granted in accordance with Section 17 of the Agreement,
Certificates of Insurance. Agency Name: Authorized Signee Name: Signature: Date:
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Dear Chief Executive Officer:
SCPa Works NOTIFICATION FORM
This notification is provided pursuant to that certain Agreement entered into by SCPa Works and FSD QA Base, dated the 23rd day of October, 2014, with the Agreement reference number SCPa Works 647.0. The undersigned has checked the box below indicating the type of disclosure being made hereby and has provided a brief description of the reportable events.
❑ A suspension or debarment by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or any other
governmental agency
❑ Agency name change
❑ Violations of the anti-discrimination or sexual harassment provisions provided in Section 12 of the Agreement
❑ Violations of the Contractor Integrity Provisions as provided in Section 13 of the
Agreement ❑ Lobbying activities that are registerable or reportable under the Lobbying Disclosure Act
❑ Other
Description of events, including relevant dates:
Agency Name: _________________________________
Authorized Signee Name: ________________________
Signature: ____________________________________ Date:
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SCPa Works
Kevin Perkey
Chief Executive Officer
Date
CONTRACTOR:
Signature
Print Name
Print Title
Date
