Only established evidence-based or research-based programs aligned with national best practices for OST programming will be considered . Qualified providers must clearly identify and share in their proposal the: program design, method of program delivery, age range targeted, any specific space requirements for the programming proposed evidence of previous successful program outcomes assessment tools used to monitor and evaluate the program – including a participant assessment and a program observation a recruitment and retention plan, including at least two community organizations or events targeted for recruitment a calendar of events, including any program orientation nights before the start of a program season, culminating events or community service projects a membership or registration form to be completed by the caregivers of youth participants (must include: birthdates, addresses with zip codes, health concerns, and emergency contact numbers) expected outcomes and alignment with City objectives, including the priorities of the Municipal Cabinet for Children and Youth In addition, program providers will be expected to: provide seasonal reports that clearly identify the high-quality programming outcomes, and how those outcomes are measured keep attendance updated on a daily basis conduct recruiting efforts, supply flyers and participate in registration activities share data as requested, such as in-kind funding, costs per participant, annual reports, and assessment data communicate any program closures to the MPIO point-person and the community space point-person both via phone and email, as soon as possible provide testimony and be available for council and council committee hearings share success stories each season that highlight the benefits of the program to the participant(s), the family, or the community participate in any MPIO-led trainings and/or orientations The proposal must also demonstrate the provider's capacity to provide services in six NRRCs with trained staff on site during program hours. Programs should be high-quality and designed to support youth ages 8-18. Providers are not required to address all ages, but should identify specific age groups they anticipate serving if it's more restrictive than ages 8-18. Programs should support and champion participation by youth with disabilities, and share how they will do so in their proposals. Proposed programs should be inclusive OST programs which provide the opportunity for all individuals to improve their social skills while gaining new experiences in a safe environment. The goal is that all people—regardless of race, ethnicity, age, income level, physical ability, sexual orientation, gender identification, or religion—can take advantage of high-quality programs, facilities, places and spaces that make their lives and communities great. Programs should be offered year-round, for 38 weeks during the following sessions: Fall Session: September 2026 – December 2026 Winter Session: January 2027 – March 2027 Spring Session: March 2027 – May 2027 Summer Session: June 2027 – August 2027 Awards will be based on the following factors: Funding availability Capacity of providers Identification of hosting site Community needs Program quality Expected Outcomes: Youth and emerging adults will have access to year-round evidence-based programs, resources and services that will: Increase participation in programming, especially in repeated participation Improve resiliency skills Support violence reduction and prevention Connect Esports programming to future college and career opportunities and experiences Align programs to the priorities identified by the Municipal Cabinet for Children and Youth