WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program

I. Introduction: The Oregon Workforce Partnership (OWP), a nonprofit workforce organization, is soliciting proposals from qualified entities to implement the WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program in collaboration with the Department of Corrections (DOC). This initiative aims to provide comprehensive workforce development services to incarcerated individuals both pre-and post-release, with the goal of promoting successful reintegration into society and reducing recidivism.

II. Background: The WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program will build upon the successful pilot project led by East Cascades Works (EC Works) LWDB, which integrated WorkSource Oregon Reentry Programs within the Deer Ridge Correctional Institution (DRCI) in Madras, Oregon, and the Warner Creek Correctional Facility (WCCF) in Lakeview, Oregon. The pilot project demonstrated positive outcomes in terms of enrollment, employment placement, and access to education and training services for incarcerated individuals.

III. Scope of Work: The selected entity will be responsible for implementing the WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program across all 12 prisons within the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) system. The program shall include the following components:

  • Identification and Engagement: Establish a process to identify and engage incarcerated individuals who are within 180 days of release. Conduct assessments to determine individual needs, skills, and career goals.

  • Workforce Development Services: Provide a range of workforce development services, including but not limited to job readiness training, career counseling, job placement assistance, access to education and training programs, and connections to support services.

  • Post-Release Support: Offer ongoing support and services to individuals upon their release, including assistance in securing employment, accessing training and education, and navigating community resources.

  • Data Collection and Reporting: Implement a robust data collection and reporting system to track participant outcomes, program effectiveness, and compliance with federal regulations (2 CFR 200.320).

  • Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborate with Oregon’s 9 Local Workforce Development Boards (LWDBs), the Oregon Employment Department (OED), and other relevant partners to ensure seamless service delivery and comprehensive support for participants.

IV. Eligibility Criteria: Qualified entities eligible to submit proposals include nonprofit organizations with experience in workforce development, reentry services, and partnerships with correctional institutions. Applicants must demonstrate a proven track record of successfully implementing similar programs and complying with federal regulations. Successful applicants will fill out the administrative checklist and supply a written proposal to do the work.

V. Proposal Evaluation Criteria: The rubric for scoring is attached to this email. Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Experience and Qualifications: Demonstrated expertise in workforce development, reentry services, and collaboration with correctional institutions.

  • Program Design and Approach: Clear and comprehensive strategy for implementing the WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program, including participant engagement, service delivery, and post-release support by retaining the same case manager.

  • Partnerships and Collaboration: Evidence of strong partnerships with Oregon’s 9 Local Workforce Development Boards (LWDBs), the Oregon Employment Department (OED), and other relevant stakeholders.

  • Data Collection and Reporting: Robust data collection and reporting plan to track participant outcomes and program performance in accordance with 2 CFR 200.320.

  • Budget and Cost Effectiveness: Realistic budget proposal that demonstrates efficient use of funds and compliance with federal cost principles.

VI. Timeline:

  • RFP Release Date: August 16, 2023

  • Proposal Submission Deadline: August 23, 2023; Extended to Sept 1, 2023

  • Proposal Review and Evaluation: August 30, 2023; Extended to Sept 8, 2023

  • Contract Award: September 1, 2023; Extended to Sept 15, 2023

  • Program Implementation: September 15, 2023; Extended to Sept 30, 2023

VII. Proposal Submission: Interested entities must submit their written proposals and required documents outlined in the attached administrative checklist by the specified deadline to the following address:

Georgia Conrad; georgia@oregonworkforcepartnership.org

VIII. Selection: Per policy, Proposals are reviewed and scored by a panel of subject matter experts who are not board members or employees of Oregon Workforce Partnership.

IX. Inquiries and Appeals: All inquiries related to this RFP should be directed to Georgia Conrad at georgia@oregonworkforcepartnership.org or 503-530-0405. Appeals to the decision should be made no later than 7 days after the award has been announced. If an appeal has been made, the contract award date and program implementation dates will be suspended. The scoring committee will review the appeal within 7 days and make a final determination. This may or may not include a meeting with the appealing organization.

X. Conclusion: OWP is excited to collaborate with a qualified entity to advance the WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program and support the successful reintegration of incarcerated individuals into the workforce and their communities. This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering thriving communities and promoting economic growth in Oregon. The selected entity will require board approval prior to initiating a contract.