DFSS: Youth Services: Out-of-School Time Programs RFP

The City of Chicago Department of Family and Support Services is soliciting proposals for high-quality out-of-school time programs serving youth aged 6 to 21. The initiative focuses on two primary models, Year-Round and Project-Based Learning, designed to foster safety, belonging, and skill development through evidence-informed positive youth development practices. The contract term runs from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2029, with programming officially launching on March 1, 2027. DFSS may extend the term for up to two additional one-year periods based on performance and funding availability. Funding decisions are determined through a three-phase process involving scoring, deliberation, and final decisions. Proposals are evaluated on a scale of 0 to 100 based on program model alignment, target population service, past performance, and fiscal health. Awardees must adhere to strict performance metrics, including maintaining a 90 percent youth slot fill rate and meeting specific attendance and programming hour requirements. Compliance is monitored through performance reviews, and all staff must pass background checks and maintain annual mandated reporter and biennial CPR/First Aid certifications. Contractors must meet comprehensive insurance requirements, including Professional Liability of at least 1 million dollars per claim, Medical Professional Liability of 5 million dollars, and specific Sexual Abuse or Molestation coverage. The agreement requires the use of the DFSS Cityspan database system and adherence to a Labor Peace Agreement. Proposals must be submitted via the eProcurement system by November 5, 2026, at 12:00 PM Central Time, and must include a budget using the official City of Chicago template, job descriptions for key staff, and any necessary partnership MOUs.