260032-CONTRACT-EMPOWERING SERVICES, LLC DBA EMPOWERING SERVICES, LLC.PDF
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CONTRACT ARIZONA@WORK MARICOPA COUNTY YOUTH PROGRAM SERVICES 260032-RFP This contract is entered into this 11th day of February, 2026 by and between Maricopa County (“County”), a political subdivision of the State of Arizona, and Empowering Services, LLC., an Arizona limited liability company (“Contractor”) for the purchase of services for the Arizona@Work Maricopa County Youth Program to include element(s) awarded in this contract from the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Program service elements that address employment and educational needs of the County youth served by the County. Contractor shall provide services to youth participants from one or more of the following categories: high school dropouts, justice involved, pregnant or parenting; in or aged out of foster care, homeless/runaway, have a disability, low income and basic skills deficient, low income and/or an English Language Learner (ELL). The program services youth throughout the County except youth residing in the City of Phoenix. 1.0 CONTRACT TERM This contract is for a term of one year, beginning on the 1st of July, 2026 and ending the 30th of June, 2027. 2.0 OPTION TO RENEW The County may, at its option and with the concurrence of the Contractor, renew the term of this contract up to a maximum of four additional years (or at the County’s sole discretion, extend the contract on a month-to-month basis for a maximum of six months after expiration). The Contractor shall be notified in writing by the Office of Procurement Services of the County’s intention to renew the contract term at least 60 calendar days prior to the expiration of the original contract term. 3.0 CONTRACT COMPLETION In preparation for contract completion, the Contractor shall make all reasonable efforts for an orderly transition of its duties and responsibilities to another provider and/or to the County. This may include, but is not limited to, preparation of a transition plan and cooperation with the County or other providers in the transition. The transition includes the transfer of all records and other data in the possession, custody, or control of the Contractor that are required to be provided to the County either by the terms of this agreement or as a matter of law. The provisions of this clause shall survive the expiration or termination of this agreement. 4.0 PRICE ADJUSTMENTS Any requests for reasonable price adjustments must be submitted 60 calendar days prior to contract expiration. Requests for adjustment in cost of labor and/or materials must be supported by appropriate documentation. The reasonableness of the request will be determined by comparing the request with the Consumer Price Index or by performing a market survey. If County agrees to the adjusted price terms, County shall issue written approval of the change and provide an updated version of the contract. The new change shall not be in effect until the date stipulated on the updated version of the contract. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 5.0 FUNDING 5.1 The ARIZONA@WORK – Maricopa County Youth Workforce Services funds are authorized under the WIOA Title 1B ALN 17.259 (Youth). 5.2 Services are funded by Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) WIOA Title I Youth-CFDA 17.259 and in accordance with 29 CFR 97.21. 5.3 WIOA rules for this funding source state no more than 25 percent of funds will be spent on activities for In-School youth, and at least 75 percent will be spent on activities for Out-of- school youth. 6.0 PAYMENT STRUCTURE 6.1 Payments to contractors for services performed will be made on a cost reimbursement basis. 6.2 Referrals for services will only be placed when County case managers identify a need for contractor to deliver service element(s) to a specific youth. Case managers will issue a purchase order or a written notice to contractor to proceed with services. 6.2.1 Issuance of a purchase order for services is not a guarantee of payment for services. The County will only pay for services received. 6.2.2 The County case managers reserve the right to cancel purchase orders or notice to proceed with services, at any time after issuance if participants do not attend or fail to progress. 6.2.2.1 Contractor shall notify the County case manager and continue to provide services if a participant does not attend or fails to progress unless County career advisor notifies the contractor that services for the participant are cancelled. 6.2.3 Should a purchase order or notice to proceed be canceled after contractor has begun to provide services, the County agrees to reimburse the contractor for actual and documented costs incurred by the contractor prior to the cancellation. 6.3 Element #3 Budget Requirements: Contractor agrees that no more than forty percent of the total funds received under a contract for provision of Element #3 Paid and Unpaid Work Experiences may be expended on administrative costs. For the purposes of this contract, “administrative costs” shall include staff salaries, expenses related to management, general office operations, and overhead not directly attributable to program service delivery. Any administrative expenditures exceeding this limit shall be deemed unallowable and subject to repayment or offset at the discretion of the Funding Agency. 7.0 PAYMENTS 7.1 As consideration for performance of the duties described herein, County shall pay Contractor the sum(s) stated in Exhibit A – Vendor Information and Pricing. 7.2 Payment shall be made upon the County’s receipt of a properly completed invoice. 7.3 INVOICES 7.3.1 Invoices for contracted services provided shall be submitted to Maricopa County on a monthly basis and submitted no later than the 15 calendar day of each month. Invoices shall be submitted to HSDFinance@maricopa.gov SERIAL# 260032-RFP 7.3.2 Request for reimbursement of all expenditures must be submitted within the same fiscal year in which the expenditures are incurred: 7.3.2.1 The fiscal year runs July 1st through June 30th 7.3.2.2 Invoices for June must be submitted no later than 10th calendar day of July. 7.3.3 Final Reimbursement Upon Contract Termination 7.3.3.1 Final reimbursement requests must be submitted no later than 30th calendar days after the termination date except if the termination date is between June 10 and June 30, in which case the final reimbursement request shall be submitted no later than 10th calendar day of July. 7.3.3.2 Invoices not received within 45 days following the last day of the service month may result in forfeiture of payment for services related to that invoicing cycle. 7.4 Payment shall be made upon the County’s receipt of a properly completed invoice. 7.4.1 The Contractor shall submit one legible copy of their detailed invoice before payment(s) will be made. Incomplete invoices will not be processed. At a minimum, the invoice must provide the following information: • Company name, address and contact • County bill-to name and contact information • Contract serial number • County purchase order number • Unique invoice number and • Invoice date • Payment terms • Date or date range of service delivery • Description of purchase (product or services) • Total amount due 7.4.2 Program staff will provide training on the formatting for the invoice backup detail for awarded vendors. Information needed on the invoice backup detail includes but is not limited to: • Service element • Youth’s name • Youth’s AJC participant ID • Staff hours worked • Youth hours worked (for work experience activities) • Hourly rate • Date(s) of service • Total cost per client • Total cost of services for invoice 7.4.3 Contractors must provide a cost per unit of service and shall be reimbursed after services have been provided. 7.4.4 Problems regarding billing or invoicing shall be directed to the department as listed on the purchase order. 7.4.5 Problems regarding billing or invoicing shall be directed to the department as listed on the purchase order. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 7.4.6 Payment shall only be made to the Contractor by Accounts Payable through the Maricopa County Vendor Express Payment Program. This is an electronic funds transfer (EFT) process. Prior to award, the Contractor shall be registered in the County’s Finance system. For vendors who are not already registered, the Contractor shall complete the Vendor Registration Form accessible from the County Department of Finance Vendor Registration Web Site https://www.maricopa.gov/5169/Vendor-Information. 7.4.7 Discounts offered in the contract shall be calculated based on the date a properly completed invoice is received by the County. 7.4.8 EFT payments to the routing and account numbers designated by the Contractor shall include the details on the specific invoices that the payment covers. The Contractor is required to discuss remittance delivery capabilities with their designated financial institution for access to those details. 7.4.9 Invoices shall be submitted to: HSDFinance@Maricopa.gov 7.5 APPLICABLE TAXES 7.5.1 It is the responsibility of the Contractor to determine any and all applicable taxes and include those taxes in their proposal. The legal liability to remit the tax is on the entity conducting business in Arizona. Tax is not a determining factor in contract award. 7.5.2 The County will look at the price or offer submitted and will not deduct, add, or alter pricing based on speculation or application of any taxes, nor will the County provide Contractor any advice or guidance regarding taxes. If you have questions regarding your tax liability, seek advice from a tax professional prior to submitting your bid. You may also find information at https://www.azdor.gov/Business.aspx. Once your bid is submitted, the offer is valid for the time specified in this solicitation, regardless of mistake or omission of tax liability. If the County finds overpayment of a project due to tax consideration that was not due, the Contractor will be liable to the County for that amount, and by contracting with the County agrees to remit any overpayments back to the County for miscalculations on taxes included in a bid price. 7.5.3 Tax Indemnification: Contractor and all subcontractors shall pay all Federal, State, and local taxes applicable to their operation and any persons employed by the Contractor. Contractor shall, and require all subcontractors to, hold Maricopa County harmless from any responsibility for taxes, damages, and interest, if applicable, contributions required under Federal and/or State and local laws and regulations, and any other costs including: transaction privilege taxes, unemployment compensation insurance, Social Security, and workers’ compensation. Contractor may be required to establish, to the satisfaction of County, that any and all fees and taxes due to municipality or the State of Arizona for any license or transaction privilege taxes, use taxes, or similar excise taxes are currently paid (except for matters under legal protest). 8.0 AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS 8.1 The provisions of this contract relating to payment for services shall become effective when funds assigned for the purpose of compensating the Contractor as herein provided are actually available to County for disbursement. The County shall be the sole judge and authority in determining the availability of funds under this contract. County shall keep the Contractor fully informed as to the availability of funds. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 8.2 If any action is taken by any State agency, Federal department, or any other agency or instrumentality to suspend, decrease, or terminate its fiscal obligations under, or in connection with, this contract, County may amend, suspend, decrease, or terminate its obligations under, or in connection with, this contract. In the event of termination, County shall be liable for payment only for services rendered prior to the effective date of the termination, provided that such services are performed in accordance with the provisions of this contract. County shall give written notice of the effective date of any suspension, amendment, or termination under this section, at least 10 days in advance. 9.0 INTENTIONALLY OMITTED 10.0 INTENTIONALLY OMITTED 11.0 DUTIES 11.1 The Contractor shall perform all duties stated in Exhibit B – Scope of Work, or as otherwise directed in writing by the procurement officer. 11.2 Contractor’s programs and services must be accessible to all eligible participants within the County. 11.3 Contractor must be able to provide services (except work experiences) at their own facility, a facility provided by the County, or virtually within the County. Location may be negotiated after award. 11.4 Contractor’s programs and services offered through this contract must not be services that are already free to the public, or already covered by state or federal funds. 11.5 Contractor’s programs and service elements offered must be available to both In-School and Out-of-School Youth. 11.6 YOUTH PROGRAM ELEMENTS 11.6.1 Contractors providing services must comply with all program element requirements as identified in EXHIBIT C - WIOA Youth Program Element Requirements for the element(s) they provide. 11.6.2 Contractors shall provide services as per the contract award (Element 1, Element 2, Element 3 and/or Element 10 of the WOIA Youth Program Elements. If providing services for Elements 1, 2, and/or 3, contractor shall also provide services for Element 7): 11.6.2.1 ELEMENT 1: Tutoring, study skills training, instruction and evidence- based dropout prevention. 11.6.2.1.1 Includes recovery strategies that lead to completion of the requirements for a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent (including a recognized certificate of attendance or similar document for individuals with disabilities) or for a recognized postsecondary credential. 11.6.2.2 ELEMENT 3: Paid and unpaid work experiences. 11.6.2.2.1 Contractor providing Element 3 services agrees that a minimum of sixty percent of the total funds received under this contract shall be expended towards non-administrative SERIAL# 260032-RFP work experience services (see section 6.3 regarding maximum allowable percentage for administrative costs for Element #3). 11.6.2.2.2 Work experiences are planned, structured learning experiences that take place in a workplace for a limited period of time. 11.6.2.2.3 Work experiences provide the youth participant with opportunities for career exploration and skill development. 11.6.2.2.4 Work experiences must include academic and occupational education. The educational component may occur concurrently or sequentially with the work experience. Further academic and occupational education may occur inside or outside the work site. 11.6.2.2.5 A work experience may take place in the private for-profit sector, the non-profit sector, or the public sector. 11.6.2.2.6 Work experience may be paid or unpaid, as appropriate. 11.6.2.2.6.1 Minimum wage for paid work experiences shall meet minimum wage requirements for the Maricopa County Youth Program (at time of contract, minimum of $16/hour) 11.6.2.2.7 Labor standards apply in any work experience where an employee/employer relationship, as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act or applicable State law, exists. Consistent with § 680.840 of this chapter, funds provided for work experiences may not be used to directly or indirectly aid in the filling of a job opening that is vacant because the former occupant is on strike, or is being locked out in the course of a labor dispute, or the filling of which is otherwise an issue in a labor dispute involving a work stoppage. 11.6.2.2.8 Types of work experiences offered by the contractor shall fall into the following categories: 11.6.2.2.8.1 Summer employment opportunities and other employment opportunities available throughout the school year 11.6.2.2.8.2 Internships and job shadowing 11.6.2.2.8.3 On-the-job training (OJT) opportunities as defined in WIOA sec. 3(44) and in § 680.700 of this chapter 11.6.2.2.8.4 Paid and unpaid work experiences that have academic and occupational education as a component of the work experience, including pre-apprenticeship programs, meaning a program designed to prepare individuals to enter and succeed in an apprenticeship program registered under the Act of August 16, 1937 (commonly known as the “National SERIAL# 260032-RFP Apprenticeship Act”; 50 Stat.664, chapter 663; 29 U.S.C. 50 et. seq.) (referred to in this part as a “registered apprenticeship” or “registered apprenticeship program”) and includes the following elements: 11.6.2.2.8.4.1 Access to educational and career counseling and other supportive services, directly or indirectly 11.6.2.2.8.4.2 Hands-on, meaningful learning activities that are connected to education and training activities, such as exploring career options, and understanding how the skills acquired through coursework can be applied toward a future career 11.6.2.2.8.4.3 A partnership with one or more registered apprenticeship programs that assists in placing individuals who complete the pre-apprenticeship program in a registered apprenticeship program. 11.6.2.3 ELEMENT 7: Supportive Services 11.6.2.3.1 Contractors providing youth program services for Element 1 and Element 3 must also provide Element 7 – Supportive Services. 11.6.2.3.2 Supportive services include the following services listed in 20 CFR § 681.570. 11.6.2.3.2.1 Linkages to community services 11.6.2.3.2.2 Assistance with transportation 11.6.2.3.2.3 Assistance with educational testing 11.6.2.3.2.4 Reasonable accommodations for youth with disabilities 11.6.2.3.2.5 Referrals to health care 11.6.2.3.2.6 Assistance with uniforms or other appropriate work attire and work-related tools, including such items as eyeglasses and protective eye gear 11.6.2.3.2.7 Assistance with books, fees, school supplies, and other necessary items for students enrolled in postsecondary education classes SERIAL# 260032-RFP 11.6.2.3.2.8 Payments and fees for employment and training-related applications, tests, and certifications 11.6.2.3.3 Any youth requesting assistance with childcare and dependent care, or assistance with housing, shall be referred back to their assigned Career Advisor for appropriate support and follow-up. 11.7 YOUTH PROGRAM OVERVIEW 11.7.1 The ARIZONA@WORK - Maricopa County Youth Program is responsible for conducting outreach to youth who are high school dropouts, justice involved, pregnant or parenting; in or aged out of foster care, homeless/runaway, have a disability, low income and basic skills deficient, low income and/or an English Language Learner (ELL). 11.7.2 ARIZONA@WORK Maricopa County Youth Program staff are responsible for the following: 11.7.2.1 Determining participant eligibility, participant intake and enrollment, conducting intake assessments, delivering WIOA orientation to participants and developing the individual service strategy (ISS) for a participant. 11.7.2.2 Generating referrals to contractors which include sending encrypted, electronic referrals for services for individual participants directly to a contracted contractor. 11.7.2.3 Maintaining an electronic record of participants, services, and outcomes in the Arizona Job Connection system for active files. 11.7.2.4 Monitoring contractor’s compliance with, and performance under, the terms and conditions of the agreement and service referrals. 11.7.3 Case Management: The County will provide comprehensive case management for program participants. 11.8 CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES 11.8.1 The contractor will deliver specific services to program youth as designated by the County and within the budget limits provided. 11.8.2 Contractors shall assist eligible out-of-school youth (OSY) and eligible in-school youth (ISY), who are seeking assistance in achieving academic and employment success, with effective and comprehensive services and activities that include a variety of options for improving educational and skill competencies and provide an effective connection to educational institutions and employers, including small employers in in-demand industry sectors and occupations in the local and regional markets. 11.8.3 Contractor will have primary responsibility for ensuring that each participant receives the full continuum of services. Services accessed by a WIOA youth participant will depend upon the needs and goals identified by the participant and case manager as documented in the participant’s ISS. 11.8.4 Contractor shall be responsible for timely program delivery in a safe environment that has been tailored for the participant, reporting, quality control, maintaining SERIAL# 260032-RFP licensure, compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations including Americans with Disabilities Act and Child Labor Laws. 11.8.5 Activities and outcomes provided by the contractor shall meet the minimum requirements contained in Exhibit C - WIOA Youth Program Element Requirements. 11.8.6 Contractor shall be responsible for the following work experience action items for youth participating in paid and unpaid work experiences: 11.8.6.1 Coordinate worksite agreements for each participant with the participant’s work experience jobsite. 11.8.6.2 Monitor worksites for program compliance where participants are engaged in work experience activities. 11.8.6.3 Ensure participant timesheets are accurate and that timesheets are received by the County for each calendar month no later than the fifth business day of the following month. Final timesheets must be received within 10 business days after the participant’s final day. 11.8.6.3.1 The County reserves the right to receive timesheets upon request. 11.8.7 Evaluate each participant’s work experience. The County will work with the contractor to establish the parameters of the evaluation: 11.8.7.1.1 Ensure ongoing evaluation of each participant at a jobsite is carried out, at a minimum, once a month, and that evaluations are provided to the County within three business days of the evaluation. 11.8.7.1.2 Provide a final participant evaluation about each participant’s overall jobsite experience within five business days of the last day of each participant’s work experience. 11.9 PROGRAM PERFORMANCE MEASURES 11.9.1 The Workforce Development Board (WDB) negotiates WIOA performance indicators annually which are then communicated to the contractor. All services provided to youth from county staff and contractors impact program performance. 11.9.2 Contractors shall be assessed against five primary indicators of performance: 11.9.2.1 Employment/Education/Training Rate – 2nd Quarter After Exit – the percentage of participants who are in education or training activities, or in unsubsidized employment during the second quarter after exit from the program. 11.9.2.2 Employment/Education/Training Rate – 4th Quarter After Exit - the percentage of participants who are in education or training activities, or in unsubsidized employment during the fourth quarter after exit from the program. 11.9.2.3 Median Earnings – 2nd Quarter After Exit – the median earnings of participants who are in unsubsidized employment during the second quarter after exit from the program. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 11.9.2.4 Credential Attainment - the percentage of those participants enrolled in an education or training program who attain a recognized postsecondary credential or a secondary school diploma, or its recognized equivalent, during participation or within one year after exit from the program. 11.9.2.5 Measurable Skill Gains – the percentage of program participants who, during a program year, are in an education or training program that leads to a recognized postsecondary credential or employment and who are achieving measurable skill gains, defined as documented academic, technical, occupational, or other forms of progress, towards such a credential or employment. 11.10 PROGRAM MONITORING AND EVALUATION 11.10.1 Monitoring and Oversight: The County will provide monitoring and oversight of contractors. Contractors will be evaluated on an ongoing basis to verify services are provided as contracted. Evaluations will include a review of the quality of services provided, youth outcomes, program costs, adherence to budgets, and adherence to the terms of the contract. 11.10.2 Contractor shall make available for inspection and/or copying by the department's monitors, all records and accounts relating to the work performed or the services provided under this contract. 11.10.3 Contractor shall be monitored for fiscal, program delivery and contract compliance annually, or more often if the program staff determine a need. 11.10.4 Monitoring shall occur during contractor’s normal business hours, announced or unannounced. 11.10.5 If a Contractor is found to be deficient in any area, they will receive written notification of findings and required corrective actions. A contractor receiving such notification shall provide a written response outlining corrective actions and steps to ensure findings are corrected and resolved to preclude future issues. 11.11 REPORTING AND RECORDKEEPING 11.11.1 Contractors shall provide case note reports and backup documents to Youth Program staff bi-weekly or monthly, and other reports in a timely manner as needed. 11.11.2 Contractors shall be held accountable for ensuring successful outcomes/goals for the services they provide. Contractor shall submit quarterly reports detailing the outcomes of services rendered to youth referrals. Such reports must include measurable results, progress indicators, and any relevant supporting documentation as required by the contracting agency. 11.11.3 Contractor shall maintain all records in an accurate and organized manner and ensure that all records are kept in a secure location. 11.11.3.1 Participant records maintained by the contractor shall include the following: 11.11.3.2 Documentation of the participant’s receipt of his/her participant rights 11.11.3.3 Documentation of participants’ receipt of program rules and policies 11.11.3.4 Referral form and summary, if applicable, including the reason for referral SERIAL# 260032-RFP 11.11.3.5 A service plan, including any additional requirements such as a worksite agreement, if applicable 11.11.3.6 Documentation of any service plan reviews and updates 11.11.3.7 Progress notes, signed and dated by the staff providing the services 11.11.3.8 Documentation of the services provided to the participant in accordance with the service plan, duration of service, level of involvement and the progress made toward goals and measurable objectives. This includes at minimum, documenting participant behavior, participation, significant events or other items of note 11.11.3.9 Progress reports 11.11.3.10 Evaluation reports 11.11.3.11 Notations of communications pertinent to the participant’s required services 11.12 VISITATION WITH CLIENTS Contractor shall allow the County youth program staff or other County representatives, to visit with the client at any reasonable time during the normal hours of operation under this agreement. County staff may direct that visits be outside the presence of any other contractor’s personnel or their subcontractors. If the County youth staff requests, the contractors shall identify a location for visits which assures communication in complete privacy. 11.13 CONFIDENTIALITY OF CLIENT INFORMATION 11.13.1 The contractor, it’s personnel, volunteers, interns and subcontractors unless otherwise exempt, shall adhere to all federal, state and local laws regarding confidentiality including, but not limited to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Pub. L. No. 1-4-191 (1996) and regulations promulgated there under. 11.13.2 Personally Identifiable Information. Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is any data that could potentially identify a specific individual. Contractors shall ensure information containing participants’ PII is only transmitted securely via electronic method or hard copy. 11.13.3 Prohibition. Contractor, and contractor’s personnel, subcontractors, volunteers and interns shall not divulge or release information provided by youth program staff about any participant to anyone without a court order, except to the youth program staff, or anyone authorized by the County to receive it. Violation of this paragraph or applicable law shall constitute grounds to terminate the contract. 11.13.4 Release Authorization. Release of records containing participant information requires a signed authorization/release form executed in accordance with current state licensing and federal standards. All release authorization forms shall be maintained by the contractor and shall indicate the person or agency to receive the information, the specific information to be released, and the expiration date or event that will trigger the expiration date of the release, and shall be signed by the participant and the participant’s parent, guardian, or designated representative. Release forms shall meet all federal and state requirements, as applicable and including, but not limited to, 42 CFR Part 2 and 45 CFR 164.508. Unless the entity is otherwise exempt, disclosures must be accounted for within 45 CFR 164.528. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 11.13.5 Record Dissemination. Except for requests by the County youth program staff, the contractor shall refer persons requesting records or written documentation containing participant information relating to this contract to County youth program staff. The contractor shall maintain release authorization forms to track the dissemination of information in each participant’s record, except for the release of record to the program staff. 11.13.6 Research Data. Notwithstanding any other provision of this agreement, the contractor shall not provide to anyone other than County youth program staff any information, including information about clients in any form, for research purposes without the prior written approval of the County. The contractor shall refer any requests for such information to the County and such requests shall be in writing. Approval shall be within the discretion of the County. 11.13.7 Subpoenas. If the contractor receives a subpoena requesting records relating to the contract, the contractor, shall immediately notify the County, and supply a copy of the subpoena before complying with the subpoena. 11.14 INCIDENT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS 11.14.1 Contractor shall ensure mandatory reporting to Law Enforcement and/or Child Protective Services is conducted pursuant to A.R.S. §13-3620 and shall report incidents identified as required by law, licensing regulations and agency policy (as applicable). 11.14.2 Contractor shall ensure incidents involving participants served under the agreement are reported to program staff. 11.14.3 Contractor shall report to the youth program supervisor, any incidents impacting the health, safety and welfare of participants. Contractors shall complete incident reports and shall exclude identifying information if report is provided to agencies or individuals not funded under the County contract. 11.14.4 Law Enforcement. Contractor shall report incidents to law enforcement as required by law and according to the contractor’s policies and procedures. 11.14.5 Parent/Guardian. Contractor shall notify the parent or guardian of any incidents set forth and as deemed appropriate. 11.14.6 Health, Safety and Welfare Incidents. Contractor shall report all incidents to the youth program supervisor impacting the health, safety and welfare of participants whether or not the incidents involved participants served under this contract. 11.14.7 Contractor shall follow the guidelines/timeframes identified in the reporting and documenting section. 11.14.8 Significant Incidents. Contractor shall report the following significant incidents by telephone to the youth program supervisor no later than 12:00 noon, MST on the next business day after the incident occurs or after becoming aware of the incident. Contractor shall also submit a written incident report to the youth program supervisor no later than 24 hours after the occurrence of any incidents. The following are considered Significant Incidents: 11.14.8.1 Homicidal or suicidal attempt or threat with a plan 11.14.8.2 Physical assault (whether or not an injury occurs) 11.14.8.3 Medical treatment beyond first aid as a result of an injury while in a contract service SERIAL# 260032-RFP 11.14.8.4 Emergency room or urgent care visits 11.14.8.5 Request for emergency mental health stabilization provided by first responders and/or crisis intervention teams 11.14.8.6 Sexual behavior involving staff and/or clients/youth (consensual or not) 11.14.8.7 Emergency safety response (ESR), locked seclusion and/or restraint 11.14.8.8 Weapons possession 11.14.8.9 Possession of any quantity of illicit drugs or alcohol or of medications not prescribed to the participant 11.14.8.10 Prescription medication errors 11.14.8.11 Any missed medication dosages and/or medication refusals that exceed two consecutive days. Note: Refusals must be discussed with the case manager officer and documented 11.14.8.12 Acts by participants or staff where the contractor involves law enforcement, excluding runaway youth 11.14.8.13 Self-harming behavior (with or without injury) 11.14.8.14 Reported acts of inappropriate discipline and/or inappropriate behavior management involving clients by staff 11.14.8.15 Traffic accidents involving clients transported by the contractor, it’s personnel, transport contractor, volunteers or interns 11.14.9 Incident Report Form. All incident reports must be legible and be signed by the staff who prepared the report as well as by the staff who approved the report. The completed report must be sent to the youth program supervisor. Contractor shall maintain a file of written incident reports that are available for review by County youth program staff. 11.14.10 County response to incident reports or complaints. The County youth program supervisor shall take the following steps upon notification of an incident in this paragraph: 11.14.10.1 Review the written information to determine if the incident requires investigation. The County youth program supervisor may direct the contractor to initiate an internal review and/or request additional information and/or require specific action. 11.14.10.2 If the contractor’s actions are such as to warrant the concern, the County youth program supervisor shall investigate further or forward the information to the appropriate authorities. 11.14.10.3 If the County youth program supervisor is not satisfied with the contractor’s response to an incident, the County may take any appropriate action. 11.15 FUNDING 11.15.1 The ARIZONA@WORK – Maricopa County Youth Workforce Services funds are authorized under the WIOA Title 1B ALN 17.259 (Youth). 11.15.2 WIOA rules for this funding source state no more than 25 percent of funds will be spent on activities for In-School youth, and at least 75 percent will be spent on activities for Out-of-school youth. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 12.0 TERMS AND CONDITIONS 12.1 INDEMNIFICATION To the fullest extent permitted by law, and to the extent that claims, damages, losses, or expenses are not covered and paid by insurance purchased by the contractor, the contractor shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the County (as Owner), its agents, representatives, officers, directors, officials, and employees from and against all claims, damages, losses, and expenses (including, but not limited to attorneys' fees, court costs, expert witness fees, and the costs and attorneys' fees for appellate proceedings) arising out of, or alleged to have resulted from, the negligent acts, errors, omissions, or mistakes of the contractor, a subcontractor, anyone directly or indirectly employed by them, or anyone for whose acts they may be liable relating to the performance of this contract. 12.1.1 Contractor's duty to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the County, its agents, representatives, officers, directors, officials, and employees shall arise in connection with any claim, damage, loss, or expense that is attributable to bodily injury, sickness, disease, death, or injury to, impairment of, or destruction of tangible property, including loss of use resulting therefrom, caused by negligent acts, errors, omissions, or mistakes in the performance of this contract, but only to the extent caused by the negligent acts or omissions of the contractor, a subcontractor, anyone directly or indirectly employed by them, or anyone for whose acts they may be liable, regardless of whether or not such claim, damage, loss, or expense is caused in part by a party indemnified hereunder. 12.1.2 The amount and type of insurance coverage requirements set forth herein will in no way be construed as limiting the scope of the indemnity in this section. 12.1.3 The scope of this indemnification does not extend to the sole negligence of County. 12.2 INSURANCE 12.2.1 Contractor, at Contractor’s own expense, shall purchase and maintain, at a minimum, the herein stipulated insurance from a company or companies duly licensed by the State of Arizona and possessing an AM Best, Inc. category rating of B++. In lieu of State of Arizona licensing, the stipulated insurance may be purchased from a company or companies, which are authorized to do business in the State of Arizona, provided that said insurance companies meet the approval of County. The form of any insurance policies and forms must be acceptable to County. 12.2.2 All insurance required herein shall be maintained in full force and effect until all work or service required to be performed under the terms of the contract is satisfactorily completed and formally accepted. Failure to do so may, at the sole discretion of County, constitute a material breach of this contract. 12.2.3 In the event that the insurance required is written on a claims-made basis, Contractor warrants that any retroactive date under the policy shall precede the effective date of this contract and either continuous coverage will be maintained, or an extended discovery period will be exercised for a period of two years beginning at the time work under this contract is completed. 12.2.4 Contractor’s insurance shall be primary insurance as respects County, and any insurance or self-insurance maintained by County shall not contribute to it. 12.2.5 Any failure to comply with the claim reporting provisions of the insurance policies or any breach of an insurance policy warranty shall not affect the County’s right to coverage afforded under the insurance policies. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 12.2.6 The insurance policies may provide coverage that contains deductibles or self- insured retentions. Such deductible and/or self-insured retentions shall not be applicable with respect to the coverage provided to County under such policies. Contractor shall be solely responsible for the deductible and/or self-insured retention and County, at its option, may require Contractor to secure payment of such deductibles or self-insured retentions by a surety bond or an irrevocable and unconditional letter of credit. 12.2.7 The insurance policies required by this contract, except Workers’ Compensation and Errors and Omissions, shall name County, its agents, representatives, officers, directors, officials, and employees as additional insureds. 12.2.8 The policies required hereunder, except Workers’ Compensation and Errors and Omissions, shall contain a waiver of transfer of rights of recovery (subrogation) against County, its agents, representatives, officers, directors, officials, and employees for any claims arising out of Contractor’s work or service. 12.2.9 If available, the insurance policies required by this contract may be combined with Commercial Umbrella Insurance policies to meet the minimum limit requirements. If a Commercial Umbrella insurance policy is utilized to meet insurance requirements, the Certificate of Insurance shall indicate which lines the Commercial Umbrella Insurance covers. 12.2.9.1 Commercial General Liability Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance and, if necessary, Commercial Umbrella insurance with a limit of not less than $2,000,000 for each occurrence, $4,000,000 Products/Completed Operations Aggregate, and $4,000,000 General Aggregate Limit. The policy shall include coverage for premises liability, bodily injury, broad form property damage, personal injury, products and completed operations and blanket contractual coverage, and shall not contain any provisions which would serve to limit third party action over claims. There shall be no endorsement or modifications of the CGL limiting the scope of coverage for liability arising from explosion, collapse, or underground property damage. 12.2.9.2 Automobile Liability Commercial/Business Automobile Liability insurance with a combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage of not less than $2,000,000 each occurrence with respect to any of the Contractor’s owned, hired, and non-owned vehicles assigned to or used in performance of the Contractor’s work or services or use or maintenance of the premises under this contract. 12.2.9.3 Workers’ Compensation 12.2.9.3.1 Workers’ compensation insurance to cover obligations imposed by Federal and State statutes having jurisdiction of Contractor’s employees engaged in the performance of the work or services under this contract; and Employer’s Liability insurance of not less than $1,000,000 for each accident, $1,000,000 disease for each employee, and $1,000,000 disease policy limit. 12.2.9.3.2 Contractor, its subcontractors, and sub-subcontractors waive all rights against this contract and its agents, officers, SERIAL# 260032-RFP directors, and employees for recovery of damages to the extent these damages are covered by the workers’ compensation and Employer’s Liability or Commercial Umbrella Liability insurance obtained by Contractor, its subcontractors, and its sub-subcontractors pursuant to this contract. 12.2.9.4 Errors and Omissions/Professional Liability Insurance Errors and Omissions (Professional Liability) insurance which will insure and provide coverage for errors or omissions or professional liability of the contractor, with limits of no less than $2,000,000 for each claim. 12.2.9.5 Sexual Molestation and Physical Abuse The policy shall be endorsed to include coverage for sexual molestation and physical abuse at limits not less than $2,000,000.00 per occurrence and $4,000,000.00 aggregate. These limits may be included within a General Liability policy, Professional Liability policy or provided by separate endorsement with its own limits as required. Contractor must provide the following statement on their Certificate(s) of Insurance: “Sexual molestation and physical abuse coverage is included.” Policies/certificates stating that “Sexual molestation and physical abuse coverage is not excluded” do not meet this requirement. 12.2.10 Certificates of Insurance 12.2.10.1 Prior to contract award, Contractor shall furnish the County with valid and complete Certificates of Insurance, or formal endorsements as required by the contract in the form provided by the County, issued by Contractor’s insurer(s), as evidence that policies providing the required coverage, conditions and limits required by this contract are in full force and effect. Such certificates shall identify this contract number and title. 12.2.10.2 In the event any insurance policy(ies) required by this contract is (are) written on a claims-made basis, coverage shall extend for two years past completion and acceptance of Contractor’s work or services and as evidenced by annual certificates of insurance. 12.2.10.3 If a policy does expire during the life of the Contract, a renewal certificate must be sent to County 15 calendar days prior to the expiration date. 12.2.10.4 Certificates of Insurance shall identify Maricopa County as the certificate holder as follows: Maricopa County c/o Risk Management 301 W Jefferson St, Suite 910 Phoenix, AZ 85003 12.2.11 Cancellation and Expiration Notice Applicable to all insurance policies required within the insurance requirements of this contract, Contractor’s insurance shall not be permitted to expire, be suspended, be canceled, or be materially changed for any reason without 30 days prior written notice to Maricopa County. Contractor must provide to Maricopa County, within two business days of receipt, if they receive notice of a policy that has been or will be suspended, canceled, materially changed for any reason, has expired, or will be expiring. Such notice shall be sent directly to Maricopa County SERIAL# 260032-RFP Office of Procurement Services and shall be mailed, or hand delivered to 301 W. Jefferson, Suite 700, Phoenix, AZ 85003, or emailed to the procurement officer noted in the solicitation. 12.3 FORCE MAJEURE 12.3.1 Neither party shall be liable for failure of performance, nor incur any liability to the other party on account of any loss or damage resulting from any delay or failure to perform all or any part of this contract, if such delay or failure is caused by events, occurrences, or causes beyond the reasonable control and without negligence of the parties. Such events, occurrences, or causes include, but are not limited to, acts of God/nature (including fire, flood, earthquake, storm, hurricane, or other natural disaster), war, invasion, act of foreign enemies, hostilities (whether war is declared or not), civil war, riots, rebellion, revolution, insurrection, military or usurped power or confiscation, terrorist activities, nationalization, government sanction, lockout, blockage, embargo, labor dispute, strike, and interruption or failure of electricity or telecommunication service, and pandemic. 12.3.2 Each party, as applicable, shall give the other party notice of its inability to perform and particulars in reasonable detail of the cause of the inability. Each party must use best efforts to remedy the situation and remove, as soon as practicable, the cause of its inability to perform or comply. 12.3.3 The party asserting Force Majeure as a cause for non-performance shall have the burden of proving that reasonable steps were taken to minimize delay or damages caused by foreseeable events, that all non-excused obligations were substantially fulfilled, and that the other party was timely notified of the likelihood or actual occurrence which would justify such an assertion, so that other prudent precautions could be contemplated. 12.4 ORDERING AUTHORITY Any request for purchase shall be accompanied by a valid purchase order issued by a County department or directed by a Certified Agency Procurement Aid (CAPA) with a purchase card for payment. 12.5 INTENTIONALLY OMITTED 12.6 NO MINIMUM OR MAXIMUM PURCHASE OBLIGATION This contract does not guarantee any minimum or maximum purchases will be made. Orders will only be placed under this contract when the County identifies a need and proper authorization and documentation have been approved. 12.7 PURCHASE ORDERS 12.7.1 County reserves the right to cancel purchase orders within a reasonable period of time after issuance. Should a purchase order be canceled, the County agrees to reimburse the Contractor for actual and documentable costs incurred by the Contractor in response to the purchase order. The County will not reimburse the Contractor for any costs incurred after receipt of County notice of cancellation, or for lost profits, or for shipment of product prior to issuance of purchase order. 12.7.2 Contractor agrees to accept verbal notification of cancellation of purchase orders from the County procurement officer with written notification to follow. Contractor specifically acknowledges to be bound by this cancellation policy. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 12.8 SUSPENSION OF WORK The procurement officer may order the Contractor, in writing, to suspend, delay, or interrupt all or any part of the work of this contract for the period of time that the procurement officer determines appropriate for the convenience of the County. No adjustment shall be made under this clause for any suspension, delay, or interruption to the extent that performance would have been so suspended, delayed, or interrupted by any other cause, including the fault or negligence of the Contractor. No request for adjustment under this clause shall be granted unless the claim, in an amount stated, is asserted in writing as soon as practicable after the termination of the suspension, delay, or interruption, but not later than the date of final payment under the contract. 12.9 BACKGROUND CHECK Respondents may be required to pass multiple background checks (e.g. Sheriff’s Office, County Attorney's Office, Courts, as well as Maricopa County general government) to determine if the respondent is acceptable to do business with the County. This applies to, but is not limited to, the company, subcontractors, and employees, and the failure to pass these checks shall deem the respondent non-responsible. 12.10 BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR EMPLOYMENT THROUGH THE CENTRAL REGISTRY By providing direct services to children or vulnerable adults, the following shall apply: 12.10.1 The provisions of A.R.S. § 8-804 (as may be amended) are hereby incorporated in its entirety as provisions of this Award. 12.10.2 The Awardee will conduct Central Registry Background Checks and will use the information contained in the Central Registry as a factor to determine qualifications for positions that provide direct service to children or vulnerable adults for: 12.10.2.1 Any Agency who applies for a contract with the County and that Agency's employees. 12.10.2.2 All employees of an Awardee. 12.10.2.3 Prospective employees of the Awardee at the request of the prospective employer. 12.10.3 Volunteers who provide direct services to children or vulnerable adults shall have a Central Registry Background Check which is to be used as a factor to determine qualifications for volunteer positions. 12.10.4 A person who is disqualified because of a Central Registry Background Check may apply to the Board of Fingerprinting for a Central Registry exception pursuant to A.R.S. § 41-619.57.A person who is granted a Central Registry exception pursuant to A.R.S. § 41-619.57 is not entitled to a Contract, employment, licensure, certification or other benefit because the person has been granted a Central Registry exception. 12.10.5 Before being employed or volunteering in a position that provides direct services to children or vulnerable adults, persons shall certify on forms that are provided by the MCHSD CSD whether an allegation of abuse or neglect was made against them and was substantiated. The completed forms are to be maintained by the Awardee as confidential. 12.10.6 A person awaiting receipt of the Central Registry Background Check may provide direct services to clients after the Awardee completes and submits to MCHSD CSD, formal confirmation on each employee the following information: SERIAL# 260032-RFP 12.10.6.1 Name of Employee 12.10.6.2 Position Employee holds 12.10.6.3 Date of Hire 12.10.6.4 The person is not currently the subject of an investigation of child abuse or neglect in Arizona or another state or jurisdiction; and 12.10.6.5 The person has not been the subject of an investigation of child abuse or neglect in Arizona, or another state or jurisdiction, which resulted in a substantiated finding. 12.10.7 If the Central Registry Background Check specifies any disqualifying act and the person does not have a Central Registry exception, the person shall be prohibited from providing direct services to clients. 12.10.8 The Awardee shall maintain the Central Registry Background Check results and any related forms or documents in a confidential file for five (5) years after termination of this Award. For information on requesting a Search of Central Registry for Background Check visit this website: http://www.azdps.gov/ 12.11 FINGERPRINTING 12.11.1 Awardee shall comply with, and shall ensure that all of Agency's employees, independent contractors, subcontractors, volunteers and other agents comply with all applicable (current and future) legal requirements relating to fingerprinting, fingerprint clearance cards, certifications regarding pending or past criminal matters, and criminal records checks that relate to Award performance. 12.11.2 Applicable legal requirements relating to fingerprinting, certification, and criminal background checks may include, but are not limited, to the following: A.R.S. §§ 36- 594.01, 36-3008, 41-1964, and 46-141. All applicable legal requirements relating to fingerprinting, fingerprint clearance cards, certifications regarding pending or past criminal matters, and criminal records checks are hereby incorporated in their entirety as provisions of this Award. The Awardee is responsible for knowing which legal requirements relating to fingerprinting, fingerprint clearance cards, certifications regarding pending or past criminal matters, and criminal records checks relate to Award performance. 12.11.3 To the extent A.R.S. § 46-141 is applicable to contract performance or the services provided under this Award, the following provisions apply: 12.11.4 Personnel who are employed by the Agency, whether paid or not, and who are required or allowed to provide services directly to juveniles or vulnerable adults shall have a valid fingerprint clearance card or shall apply for a fingerprint clearance card within seven working days of employment. 12.11.5 Except as provided in A.R.S. § 46-141, this Award may be cancelled or terminated immediately if a person employed by the Agency and who has contact with juveniles certifies pursuant to the provisions of A.R.S. § 46-141 (as may be amended) that the person is awaiting trial or has been convicted of any of the offenses listed therein in this State, or of acts committed in another state that would be offenses in this State, or if the person does not possess or is denied issuance of a valid fingerprint clearance card. 12.11.6 Federally recognized Indian tribes will submit and the MCHSD CSD shall accept certifications that state that no personnel who are employed or who will be employed during the Award term have been convicted of, have admitted SERIAL# 260032-RFP committing or are awaiting trial on any offense as described in A.R.S. § 36-594.01 (as may be amended). 12.12 STOP WORK ORDER 12.12.1 The procurement officer may, at any time, by written order to the Contractor, require the Contractor to stop all, or any part, of the work called for by this contract for a period of 90 calendar days after the order is delivered to the Contractor, and for any further period to which the parties may agree. The order shall be specifically identified as a stop work order issued under this clause. Upon receipt of the order, the Contractor shall immediately comply with its terms and take all reasonable steps to minimize the incurrence of costs allocable to the work covered by the order during the period of work stoppage. Within a period of 90 calendar days after a stop work order is delivered to the Contractor, or within any extension of that period to which the parties shall have agreed, the procurement officer shall either: 12.12.1.1 cancel the stop work order; or 12.12.1.2 terminate the work covered by the order as provided in the Termination for Default or the Termination for Convenience clause of this contract. 12.12.1.3 The procurement officer may make an equitable adjustment in the delivery schedule and/or contract price, and the contract shall be modified, in writing, accordingly, if the Contractor demonstrates that the stop work order resulted in an increase in costs to the Contractor 12.13 TERMINATION FOR CONVENIENCE Maricopa County may terminate the resultant contract for convenience by providing 60 calendar days advance notice to the Contractor. 12.14 TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT 12.14.1 The County may, by written Notice of Default to the Contractor, terminate this contract in whole or in part if the Contractor fails to: 12.14.1.1 deliver the supplies or to perform the services within the time specified in this contract or any extension; 12.14.1.2 make progress, so as to endanger performance of this contract; or 12.14.1.3 perform any of the other provisions of this contract. 12.14.2 The County’s right to terminate this contract under these subparagraphs may be exercised if the Contractor does not cure such failure within 10 business days (or more if authorized in writing by the County) after receipt of a Notice to Cure from the procurement officer specifying the failure. 12.15 PERFORMANCE It shall be the Contractor’s responsibility to meet the proposed performance requirements. Maricopa County reserves the right to obtain services on the open market in the event the Contractor fails to perform, and any price differential will be charged against the Contractor. 12.16 ACCEPTANCE Upon completion of services, service delivery shall be deemed accepted and the warranty period shall begin when the department has deemed all service/work completed, including but not limited to, any inspection, repair, installation, design, development, deployment, SERIAL# 260032-RFP operation, and initial training, (as applicable). Additionally, all documentation shall be completed prior to final acceptance. 12.17 CONTRACTOR EMPLOYEE MANAGEMENT 12.17.1 Contractor shall endeavor to maintain the personnel proposed in their proposal throughout the performance of this contract. 12.17.2 County reserves the right to immediately remove from its premises any Contractor personnel it determines to be a risk to County operations. 12.17.3 County reserves the right to request the replacement of any Contractor personnel at any time, for any reason. 12.18 WARRANTY OF SERVICES 12.18.1 The Contractor warrants that all services provided hereunder will conform to the requirements of the contract, including all descriptions, specifications, and attachments made a part of this contract. County’s acceptance of services or goods provided by the Contractor shall not relieve the Contractor from its obligations under this warranty. 12.18.2 In addition to its other remedies, County may, at the Contractor's expense, require prompt correction of any services failing to meet the Contractor's warranty herein. Services corrected by the Contractor shall be subject to all the provisions of this contract in the manner and to the same extent as services originally furnished hereunder. 12.19 INSPECTION OF SERVICES 12.19.1 The Contractor shall provide and maintain an inspection system acceptable to County covering the services under this contract. Complete records of all inspection work performed by the Contractor shall be maintained and made available to County during contract performance and for as long afterwards as the contract requires. 12.19.2 County has the right to inspect and test all services called for by the contract, to the extent practicable at all times and places during the term of the contract. County shall perform inspections and tests in a manner that will not unduly delay the work. 12.19.3 If any of the services do not conform to contract requirements, County may require the Contractor to perform the services again in conformity with contract requirements, at no cost to the County. When the defects in services cannot be corrected by re-performance, County may: 12.19.3.1 require the Contractor to take necessary action to ensure that future performance conforms to contract requirements; and 12.19.3.2 reduce the contract price to reflect the reduced value of the services performed. 12.19.4 If the Contractor fails to promptly perform the services again or to take the necessary action to ensure future performance in conformity with contract requirements, County may: 12.19.4.1 by contract or otherwise, perform the services and charge to the Contractor, through direct billing or through payment reduction, any cost SERIAL# 260032-RFP incurred by County that is directly related to the performance of such service; or 12.19.4.2 terminate the contract for default. 12.20 USAGE REPORT The Contractor shall furnish the County a usage report, upon request, delineating the acquisition activity governed by the contract. The format of the report shall be approved by the County and shall disclose the quantity and dollar value of each contract item by individual unit of measure. 12.21 STATUTORY RIGHT OF CANCELLATION FOR CONFLICT OF INTEREST Notice is given that, pursuant to A.R.S. § 38-511, the County may cancel any contract without penalty or further obligation within three years after execution of the contract, if any person significantly involved in initiating, negotiating, securing, drafting, or creating the contract on behalf of the County is at any time, while the contract or any extension of the contract is in effect, an employee or agent of any other party to the contract in any capacity or consultant to any other party of the contract with respect to the subject matter of the contract. Additionally, pursuant to A.R.S. § 38-511, the County may recoup any fee or commission paid or due to any person significantly involved in initiating, negotiating, securing, drafting, or creating the contract on behalf of the County from any other party to the contract arising as the result of the contract. 12.22 OFFSET FOR DAMAGES In addition to all other remedies at Law or Equity, the County may offset from any money due to the Contractor any amounts Contractor owes to the County for damages resulting from breach or deficiencies in performance of the contract. 12.23 SUBCONTRACTING 12.23.1 The Contractor may not assign to another Contractor or subcontract to another party for performance of the terms and conditions hereof without the written consent of the County. All correspondence authorizing subcontracting must reference the bid serial number and identify the job or project. 12.23.2 The subcontractor’s rate for the job shall not exceed that of the prime Contractor’s rate, as bid in the pricing section, unless the prime Contractor is willing to absorb any higher rates. The subcontractor’s invoice shall be invoiced directly to the prime Contractor, who in turn shall pass-through the costs to the County, without mark- up. A copy of the subcontractor’s invoice must accompany the prime Contractor’s invoice. 12.24 AMENDMENTS All amendments to this contract shall be in writing and approved/signed by both parties. Maricopa County Office of Procurement Services shall be responsible for approving all amendments for Maricopa County. 12.25 ADDITIONS/DELETIONS OF REQUIREMENTS The County reserves the right to add and/or delete materials and services to a contract. If a service requirement is deleted, payment to the Contractor will be reduced proportionately, to the amount of service reduced in accordance with the bid price. If additional materials or services are required from a contract, prices for such additions will be negotiated between the Contractor and the County. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 12.26 RIGHTS IN DATA 12.26.1 The County shall have the use of data and reports resulting from a contract without additional cost or other restriction except as may be established by law or applicable regulation. Each party shall supply to the other party, upon request, any available information that is relevant to a contract and to the performance thereunder. 12.26.2 Data, records, reports, and all other information generated for the County by a third party as the result of a contract are the property of the County and shall be provided in a format designated by the County or shall be and remain accessible to the County into perpetuity. 12.27 ACCESS TO AND RETENTION OF RECORDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF AUDIT AND/OR OTHER REVIEW 12.27.1 In accordance with Section MC1-372 of the Maricopa County Procurement Code, the Contractor agrees to retain (physical or digital copies of) all books, records, accounts, statements, reports, files, and other records and back-up documentation relevant to this contract for six years after final payment or until after the resolution of any audit questions, which could be more than six years, whichever is longest. The County, Federal or State auditors and any other persons duly authorized by the department shall have full access to and the right to examine, copy, and make use of, any and all said materials. 12.27.2 If the Contractor’s books, records, accounts, statements, reports, files, and other records and back-up documentation relevant to this contract are not sufficient to support and document that requested services were provided, the Contractor shall reimburse Maricopa County for the services not so adequately supported and documented. 12.28 AUDIT DISALLOWANCES If at any time it is determined by the County that a cost for which payment has been made is a disallowed cost, the County shall notify the Contractor in writing of the disallowance. The course of action to address the disallowance shall be at sole discretion of the County, and may include either an adjustment to future invoices, request for credit, request for a check, or a deduction from current invoices submitted by the Contractor equal to the amount of the disallowance, or to require reimbursement forthwith of the disallowed amount by the Contractor by issuing a check payable to Maricopa County. 12.29 STRICT COMPLIANCE Acceptance by County of a performance that is not in strict compliance with the terms of the contract shall not be deemed to be a waiver of strict compliance with respect to all other terms of the contract. 12.30 VALIDITY The invalidity, in whole or in part, of any provision of this contract shall not void or affect the validity of any other provision of the contract. 12.31 SEVERABILITY The removal, in whole or in part, of any provision of this contract shall not void or affect the validity of any other provision of this contract. 12.32 RELATIONSHIPS SERIAL# 260032-RFP 12.32.1 In the performance of the services described herein, the Contractor shall act solely as an independent Contractor, and nothing herein or implied herein shall at any time be construed as to create the relationship of employer and employee, co- employee, partnership, principal and agent, or joint venture between the County and the Contractor. 12.32.2 The County reserves the right of final approval on proposed staff. Also, upon request by the County, the Contractor will be required to remove any employees working on County projects and substitute personnel based on the discretion of the County within two business days, unless a different time period was previously approved by the County. 12.33 NON-DISCRIMINATION Contractor agrees to comply with all provisions and requirements of Arizona Executive Order 2009-09, including flow down of all provisions and requirements to any subcontractors. Executive Order 2009-09 supersedes Executive Order 99-4 and amends Executive Order 75-5 and is hereby incorporated into this contract as if set forth in full herein. During the performance of this contract, contractor shall not discriminate against any employee, client, or any other individual in any way because of that person’s age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, disability, or national origin. (Arizona Executive Order 2009-09 can be viewed at https://apps.azsos.gov/public_services/register/2009/46/governor.pdf) 12.34 WRITTEN CERTIFICATION PURSUANT to A.R.S. § 35-393.01 If vendor engages in for-profit activity and has 10 or more employees, and if this agreement has a value of $100,000 or more, vendor certifies it is not currently engaged in, and agrees for the duration of this agreement to not engage in, a boycott of goods or services from Israel. This certification does not apply to a boycott prohibited by 50 U.S.C. § 4842 or a regulation issued pursuant to 50 U.S.C. § 4842. 12.35 CERTIFICATION REGARDING DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION 12.35.1 The undersigned (authorized official signing on behalf of the Contractor) certifies to the best of his or her knowledge and belief that the Contractor, its current officers, and directors: 12.35.1.1 are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from being awarded any contract or grant by any United States department or agency or any state, or local jurisdiction; 12.35.1.2 have not within a three-year period preceding this contract: 12.35.1.2.1 been convicted of fraud or any criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or as the result of performing a government entity (Federal, State or local) transaction or contract; or 12.35.1.2.2 been convicted of violation of any Federal or State antitrust statutes or conviction for embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property regarding a government entity transaction or contract; 12.35.1.3 are not presently indicted or criminally charged by a government entity (Federal, State or local) with commission of any criminal offenses in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or as the result of SERIAL# 260032-RFP performing a government entity public (Federal, State or local) transaction or contract; 12.35.1.4 are not presently facing any civil charges from any governmental entity regarding obtaining, attempting to obtain, or from performing any governmental entity contract or other transaction; and 12.35.1.5 have not within a three-year period preceding this contract had any public transaction (Federal, State or local) terminated for cause or default. 12.35.2 If any of the above circumstances described in the paragraph are applicable to the entity submitting a bid for this requirement, include with your bid an explanation of the matter including any final resolution. 12.35.3 The Contractor shall include, without modification, this clause in all lower tier covered transactions (i.e. transactions with subcontractors or sub-subcontractors) and in all solicitations for lower tier covered transactions related to this contract. If this clause is applicable to a subcontractor or sub-subcontractor, the Contractor shall include the information required by this clause with their bid. 12.36 VERIFICATION REGARDING COMPLIANCE WITH A.R.S. § 41-4401 AND FEDERAL IMMIGRATION LAWS AND REGULATIONS 12.36.1 By entering into the contract, the Contractor warrants compliance with the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA using E-Verify) and all other Federal immigration laws and regulations related to the immigration status of its employees and A.R.S. § 23-214(A). The Contractor shall obtain statements from its subcontractors certifying compliance and shall furnish the statements to the procurement officer upon request. These warranties shall remain in effect through the term of the contract. The Contractor and its subcontractors shall also maintain Employment Eligibility Verification forms (I-9) as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, as amended from time to time, for all employees performing work under the contract and verify employee compliance using the E-Verify system and shall keep a record of the verification for the duration of the employee’s employment or at least three years, whichever is longer. I-9 forms are available for download at www.uscis.gov. 12.36.2 The County retains the legal right to inspect documents of Contractor and subcontractor employees performing work under this contract to verify compliance with paragraph 12.36.1 of this section. Contractor and subcontractor shall be given reasonable notice of the County’s intent to inspect and shall make the documents available at the time and date specified. Should the County suspect or find that the Contractor or any of its subcontractors are not in compliance, the County will consider this a material breach of the contract and may pursue any and all remedies allowed by law, including, but not limited to: suspension of work, termination of the contract for default, and suspension and/or debarment of the Contractor. All costs necessary to verify compliance are the responsibility of the Contractor. 12.37 CONTRACTOR EMPLOYEE WHISTLEBLOWER RIGHTS AND REQUIREMENT TO INFORM EMPLOYEES OF WHISTLEBLOWER RIGHTS 12.37.1 The parties agree that this contract and employees working on this contract will be subject to the Contractor employee whistleblower protections established by Title 41 U.S.C. § 4712 and Section 3.908 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation. 12.37.2 Contractor shall inform its employees in writing, in the predominant language of the workforce, of employee whistleblower rights and protections under 41 U.S.C. § 4712, as described in Section 3.908 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation. SERIAL# 260032-RFP Documentation of such employee notification must be kept on file by Contractor and copies provided to County upon request. 12.37.3 Contractor shall insert the substance of this clause, including this paragraph, in all subcontracts over the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000 as of fiscal year 2018). 12.38 CONTRACTOR LICENSE REQUIREMENT The Contractor shall procure all permits, insurance, and licenses, and pay the charges and fees necessary and incidental to the lawful conduct of his/her business, and as necessary complete any requirements, by any and all governmental or non-governmental entities as mandated to maintain compliance with and remain in good standing. The Contractor shall keep fully informed of existing and future trade or industry requirements, and Federal, State, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations which in any manner affect the fulfillment of a contract and shall comply with the same. Contractor shall immediately notify both the Office of Procurement Services and the department of any and all changes concerning permits, insurance, or licenses. 12.39 INFLUENCE 12.39.1 As prescribed in MC1-1203 of the Maricopa County Procurement Code, any effort to influence an employee or agent to breach the Maricopa County Ethical Code of Conduct or any ethical conduct, may be grounds for disbarment or suspension under MC1-902. 12.39.2 An attempt to influence includes, but is not limited to: 12.39.2.1 A person offering or providing a gratuity, gift, tip, present, donation, money, entertainment or educational passes or tickets, or any type of valuable contribution or subsidy that is offered or given with the intent to influence a decision, obtain a contract, garner favorable treatment, or gain favorable consideration of any kind. 12.39.3 If a person attempts to influence any employee or agent of Maricopa County, the chief procurement officer, or his designee, reserves the right to seek any remedy provided by the Maricopa County Procurement Code, any remedy in equity or in the law, or any remedy provided by this contract. 12.40 CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 12.40.1 Any information obtained in the course of performing this contract may include information that is proprietary or confidential to the County. This provision establishes the Contractor’s obligation regarding such information. 12.40.2 The Contractor shall establish and maintain procedures and controls that are adequate to assure that no information contained in its records and/or obtained from the County or from others in carrying out its functions (services) under the contract shall be used by or disclosed by it, its agents, officers, or employees, except as required to efficiently perform duties under the contract. The Contractor’s procedures and controls, at a minimum, must be the same procedures and controls it uses to protect its own proprietary or confidential information. If, at any time during the duration of the contract, the County determines that the procedures and controls in place are not adequate, the Contractor shall institute any new and/or additional measures requested by the County within 15 business days of the written request to do so. 12.40.3 Any requests to the Contractor for County proprietary or confidential information shall be referred to the County for review and approval, prior to any dissemination. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 12.41 PUBLIC RECORDS Under Arizona law, all offers submitted and opened are public records and must be retained by the County at the Maricopa County Office of Procurement Services. Offers shall be open to public inspection and copying after contract award and execution, except for such offers or sections thereof determined to contain proprietary or confidential information by the Office of Procurement Services. If an offeror believes that information in its offer or any resulting contract should not be released in response to a public record request, under Arizona law, the offeror shall indicate the specific information deemed confidential or proprietary and submit a statement with its offer detailing the reasons that the information should not be disclosed. Such reasons shall include the specific harm or prejudice which may arise from disclosure. The records manager of the Office of Procurement Services shall determine whether the identified information is confidential pursuant to the Maricopa County Procurement Code. 12.42 INTEGRATION This contract represents the entire and integrated agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior negotiations, proposals, communications, understandings, representations, or agreements, whether oral or written, expressed, or implied. 12.43 UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS By entering into this contract, the Contractor agrees to comply with all applicable provisions of Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200—UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS, COST PRINCIPLES, AND AUDIT REQUIREMENTS FOR FEDERAL AWARDS contained in Title 2 C.F.R. § 200 et seq. 12.44 GOVERNING LAW This contract shall be governed by the laws of the State of Arizona. Venue for any actions or lawsuits involving this contract will be in Maricopa County Superior Court, Phoenix, Arizona. 12.45 FORCED LABOR 12.45.1 By submitting a bid for this solicitation and/or entering into a contract as a result of this solicitation, contractor agrees to comply with all applicable portions of Arizona Revised Statutes Section 35-394. Contracting; procurement; prohibition; written certification; remedy; termination; exception; definitions. 12.45.2 Contractor certifies that it does not currently, and agrees for the duration of the contract, that it will not use: 12.45.2.1 The forced labor of ethnic Uyghurs in the People’s Republic of China. 12.45.2.2 Any goods or services produced by the forced labor of ethnic Uyghurs in the People’s Republic of China. 12.45.2.3 Any contractors, subcontractors or suppliers that use the forced labor or any good or services produced by the forced labor of ethnic Uyghurs in the People’s Republic of China. 12.45.3 If contractor becomes aware during the term of the agreement that contractor is not in compliance with this paragraph, the contractor shall notify the County within five business days after becoming aware of the noncompliance. If the contractor fails to provide a written certification to the County that the contractor has remedied the noncompliance within 180 days after notifying the County of its noncompliance, SERIAL# 260032-RFP then the agreement terminates, except that if the agreement termination date occurs before the end the 180 day period, the agreement terminates on the agreement termination date. 12.46 PRICES Contractor warrants that prices extended to County under this contract are no higher than those paid by any other customer for these or similar services. 12.47 ORDER OF PRECEDENCE In the event of a conflict in the provisions of this contract and Contractor’s license agreement, if applicable, the terms of this contract shall prevail. 12.48 UNIQUE ENTITY IDENTIFIER (UEI) AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT REGISTRATION All contractors that receive funding must have a UEI number through https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration. Contractor must also remain maintain current information and active registration with the System for Award Management (www.sam.gov) throughout the term of the contract. 12.49 RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES The contractor agrees that costs, planned or claimed, including costs incurred, shall not include any expense for any religious activity. 12.50 POLITICAL ACTIVITY PROHIBITED None of the funds, materials, property, or services contributed by the County or the contractor under the agreement shall be used in the performance of this agreement for any partisan political activity, or to further the election or defeat of any candidate for public office. 12.51 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 12.51.1 The contractor shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, age, disability, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The contractor shall take affirmative action to ensure applicants are employed and that employees are treated during employment without regard to their race, age, disability, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Such action shall include but is not limited to the following: employment, upgrading, demotion or transfer, recruitment, or recruitment advertising, lay-off or termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training, including apprenticeship. 12.51.2 Contractor shall comply with the following provisions: 12.51.2.1 Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended (42 U.S.C. §§ 2000a, et seq.); 12.51.2.2 The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. §§ 701, et seq.); 12.51.2.3 The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, as amended (29U.S.C. §§ 621, et seq.); 12.51.2.4 The Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. §§ 12101, et seq.); and Arizona Executive Order 2009-09, as amended, et seq. which mandates that all persons shall have equal access to employment opportunities. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 12.51.2.5 Contractor understands that the United States has the right to seek judicial enforcement of this assurance. 12.52 CERTIFICATION REGARDING LOBBYING 12.52.1 Contractor certifies, to the best of their knowledge and belief, that: 12.52.1.1 No federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the contractor, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency. This applies to 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. Including 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. 12.52.2 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 or employee of any agency, member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with this federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, “Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying,” in accordance with its instructions. 12.52.3 Contractor shall include Lobbying Certification language in the award documents for all subcontractors (including sub-grants, and contract under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all sub-recipients shall certify and disclose accordingly. 12.52.3.1 The Lobbying Certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this transaction is made or entered into. Submission of this certification is prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by section 1352, Title 31, U.S. Code. Any successful proposer(s) who fail to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000.00 and not more than $100,000.00 for each such failure. 12.53 CLEAN AIR ACT & CLEAN WATER ACT Contractor must comply with all applicable standards, orders, or requirements issued under section 306 of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7606), section 508 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1368) Executive Order 11738, and Environmental Protection Agency regulations. 12.54 ENERGY POLICY AND CONSERVATION ACT Contractor must adhere to the standards and policies relating to energy efficiency, which are contained in the State energy conservation plan issued in compliance with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (Pub. L. 94-163, 89 Stat.871). 12.55 CONTRACT DISPUTES All Contract disputes will be handled in accordance with the Maricopa County Procurement Code, MCI-906 12.56 INCORPORATION OF DOCUMENTS SERIAL# 260032-RFP 12.56.1 The following are to be attached to and made part of this Contract: 12.56.1.1 Exhibit A – Vendor Information and Pricing 12.56.1.2 Exhibit B – Scope of Work 12.56.1.3 Exhibit C – WIOA Youth Program Element Requirements. 12.56.1.4 Exhibit D – Arizona@Work Maricopa County Youth Program Structure 12.57 NOTICES All notices given pursuant to the terms of this contract shall be addressed to: For County: Maricopa County Office of Procurement Services 301 W. Jefferson St. Suite 700 Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2164 For Contractor: Empowering Services, LLC. 719 E. Northern Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85020 12.58 INQUIRIES 12.58.1 Administrative telephone/email inquiries shall be addressed to: ELIZABETH KUTTNER, SENIOR PROCUREMENT OFFICER TELEPHONE: (602) 506-0099 elizabeth.kuttner@maricopa.gov 12.58.2 Inquiries may be submitted by telephone but must be followed up in writing. No oral communication is binding on Maricopa County. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 02/02/2026 SERIAL# 260032-RFP EXHIBIT A – VENDOR INFORMATION AND PRICING COMPANY NAME: Empowering Services, LLC DOING BUSINESS AS (dba): MAILING ADDRESS: 719 E. Northern Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85020 REMIT TO ADDRESS: 719 E. Northern Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85020 TELEPHONE NUMBER: 623-271-7502 WWW ADDRESS: www.Empoweringservicesaz.com CONTACT NAME: Jennifer Maxey CONTACT TELEPHONE NUMBER: 623-271-7502 CONTACT EMAIL ADDRESS: J.maxey@empoweringservicesaz.com UNIQUE ENTITY IDENTIFIER (UEI): FT5YR3EEWAU8 YES NO REBATE WILL ALLOW OTHER GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES TO PURCHASE FROM THIS CONTRACT: X WILL ACCEPT PROCUREMENT CARD FOR PAYMENT: X NET THIRTY (30) DAYS Maricopa County requires that Overhead plus Profit will NOT exceed 10 percent of the total cost of service. ELEMENT 1 PRICING Tutoring, Study Skills Training, Instruction & Dropout Prevention Costs proposed for Element 1 reflect direct labor required to deliver individualized tutoring, study skills instruction, and dropout prevention services aligned with participant Individual Service Strategies (ISS) and County referrals. Program Coordinator and Academic Tutor/Learning Specialist labor includes direct instructional services and required service preparation activities such as academic assessments, individualized learning plan development, curriculum alignment, progress monitoring, and coordination with County Career Advisors to ensure timely service initiation. All costs are directly attributable to participant service delivery. CONTRACTOR - DIRECT LABOR ELEMENT 1 Classification Hourly Rate Overhead Profit Proposed Total Hourly Rate President – Student Services & Operations $16.20 $.80 $1.00 $18.00 Manager- Program Services $20.70 $1.00 $1.30 $23.00 Support Coordinators $22.50 $1.00 $1.50 $25.00 Client Services Coordinator $18.00 $1.00 $1.00 $20.00 $86.00 SERIAL# 260032-RFP ELEMENT 3 PRICING Paid & Unpaid Work Experience (WEX) Costs proposed for Element 3 support the delivery of paid and unpaid work experience services, including employer engagement, worksite development, participant placement, monitoring, and evaluation. Workforce Program Manager, Job Developer, and Program Coordinator labor includes direct service delivery and required work experience preparation activities such as employer outreach, worksite vetting, work experience agreement development, participant orientation, timesheet coordination, and ongoing worksite monitoring. Administrative labor and overhead remain within the allowable forty percent (40%) limit, with the majority of funds supporting direct participant work experience activities. ELEMENT 7 PRICING Supportive Services Costs proposed for Element 7 reflect direct labor and direct non-salary expenses necessary to assess, coordinate, authorize, and document supportive services based on participant needs and County approval. Program Coordinator and Case Manager/Supportive Services labor include participant engagement, supportive service planning, coordination with County Career Advisors, documentation, and verification required to issue direct supports such as transportation assistance, work attire, testing fees, and educational supplies. All supportive services are billed at direct cost only. CONTRACTOR - DIRECT LABOR ELEMENT 3 Classification Hourly Rate Overhead Profit Proposed Total Hourly Rate President – Student Services & Operations $16.20 $.80 $1.00 $18.00 Manager- Program Services $20.70 $1.00 $1.30 $23.00 Support Coordinators $22.50 $1.00 $1.50 $25.00 Client Services Coordinator $18.00 $1.00 $1.00 $20.00 $86.00 CONTRACTOR - DIRECT LABOR ELEMENT 7 Classification Hourly Rate Overhead Profit Proposed Total Hourly Rate President – Student Services & Operations $16.20 $.80 $1.00 $18.00 Manager- Program Services $20.70 $1.00 $1.30 $23.00 Support Coordinators $22.50 $1.00 $1.50 $25.00 Client Services Coordinator $18.00 $1.00 $1.00 $20.00 $86.00 SERIAL# 260032-RFP EXHIBIT B – SCOPE OF WORK Empowering Services, LLC (Empowering Services) is a for-profit organization focusing on employment, advocacy, work readiness, skill building, and social service support for high school age students, transition- aged youth, and adults. Our mission is empowering individuals in emerging markets to create independence and improve career development within economic security. We operate under three basic principles: ethical standards, client success, and independence. We believe that each person has in them the ability to be successful, with support and guidance. Through our community and partners, Empowering Services builds a success team and remains with our clients each step of the way. We work with youth who have dropped out of high school or are in danger of dropping out, youth who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, youth from low-income families, youth with basic skills deficiencies, and English language learners. Empowering Services shall contract with Maricopa County to address employment and educational needs of the County youth and provide service strategies for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Elements 1, 3 and 7 as noted in the Scope of Work for this Request for Proposal (RFP). We propose to serve an annual total of 300-500 youth who are high school dropouts, justice involved, pregnant or parenting, in, or aged out of, foster care, homeless/runaway, have a disability, low-income and basic skills deficient, and low-income and/or and English Language Learning (ELL). Services will be provided at our corporate office located in Maricopa County, virtually or at a facility provided by the county. Empowering Services understands the emerging markets and need to stabilize the Arizona economy with a skilled and driven workforce ready to succeed. As a minority owned company, Empowering Services supports underserved, diverse communities to ensure employment skills are taught and secondary education or trades are highlighted to offer a path to stability and self-sufficiency for individuals and their families. Our service teams reflect the culture and backgrounds of the diverse communities served throughout Arizona. Service team members get to know, and guide, program participants with knowledge and creative ideas to support them. This includes working with a multitude of employment goals, while understanding barriers and how to navigate them. Empowering Services has contracts as a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) vendor and an Arizona Developmental Disabilities Division (DDD) provider. ELEMENT 1: TUTORING, STUDY SKILLS TRAINING, INSTRUCTION, AND DROPOUT PREVENTION: 1.1 Tutoring, study skills training, instruction and evidence-based dropout prevention and recovery strategies that lead to completion of the requirements for a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent (including a recognized certificate of attendance or similar document for individuals with disabilities) or for a recognized post-secondary credential. Dropping out of school programs is a cumulative process that begins in the primary grades, not a single event. Early intervention can mitigate dropping out of school by fostering positive academic and personal developments before students settle into negative academic routines. Identifying and knowing the stereotypes that come with program dropout rates are crucial factors. Many youth feel they are falling behind and will not catch up, while others feel a sense of burden or responsibility to those outside of school, older parents, or younger siblings and are distracted by the need. Empowering Services’ training and developmental intervention programs work closely to help identify youth at risk of dropping out of high school and to realign them with a plan that fits their abilities and offers strategies that lead to completion of the requirements for a secondary school diploma, or its recognized equivalent, or for a recognized post-secondary credential. Creating a strong support base is essential, as is implementing program topics such as SOAR (Skills, Opportunities, and Recognition) and STEP (School Transitional Environment Program). These topics and secessions help the student understand the importance of the programs, as well as the consequences one may face without the proper training as they work toward independence. To help the students achieve success, it is essential that we maintain constant communication with school counseling teams and program leaders, along with parents. We establish a sense of comfort and trust within the team to work through tough times. Key focus areas that help re-engage students into Empowering Services’ program include: • Communication • Understanding why they cannot commit SERIAL# 260032-RFP • Looking at alternative supportive options • Moving barriers for the student/family • Discussing the impact and importance of program participation 1.2 In addition to secondary school tutors, ARIZONA@WORK also requests proposals from organizations that can access subject matter experts in specific occupations for post-secondary credential tutoring. Empowering Services provides support for students in a variety of post-secondary credentials and can access subject matter experts in different occupations. Our focus is technical training that is essential for a variety of careers, including high-demand and high-growth industry clusters. One example is our Clerical Technology Program, necessary for all industries, which enables participants to learning Microsoft Office Suites, keyboarding, customer service skills, office, phone, and email etiquette. We also provide support for specific training in the Healthcare & Social Assistance cluster with certification in Non-Medical Home Healthcare, provided through a DBA, Family First Homecare of Arizona. Non-medical home healthcare can include assistance with eating, bathing, maintaining personal hygiene, dressing, toileting, basic mobility, preparing meals, transportation assistance, light housecleaning, laundry, and shopping for essentials, as well as companionship and supervision. Empowering Services has a certified trainer who can provide tutoring if needed. In addition, our wide network of training partners including Heart Savers, Practical Training Solutions, and Elite Training, enabling us to access qualified tutors in a variety of fields. 1.3 Minimum requirements for delivering this service: Tutor Support Coordinators are the program facilitators working closely with program participants in need of tutoring services. All Tutor Support Coordinators are required to have Level I fingerprint clearance cards. We conduct in-depth reference checks, state background checks, and require disclosure of any felonies or misdemeanors in a notarized document. 1.3.1 Tutors must possess a high school degree or equivalent; associate or bachelor’s degree a plus. All Empowering Services’ Tutor Support Coordinators have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. 1.3.2 Be proficient in the subjects they are tutoring. Our coordinators have demonstrated proficiency in the subjects they are tutoring, with a minimum of 3-5 years’ experience. 1.3.3 Have experience assessing the progress of students to ensure effective processes. Our coordinators have demonstrated proficiency in the subjects they are tutoring, with a minimum of 3-5 years’ experience assessing student progress. Coordinators ensure that the pace of workshops and discussions are adaptable for all learning levels. 1.3.4 Have experience preparing lesson plans and personalized instruction. Our coordinators have demonstrated proficiency in the subjects they are tutoring, with a minimum of 3-5 years’ experience preparing lesson plans and offering personalized instruction. 1.4 As a result of engagement in the serve, youth will: As a result of engaging in Element 1 services, youth will increase proficiency, grade level, or Educational Functioning Level (EFL) in a specific academic skill area, remain in school, working towards their high school diploma or post-secondary credential, and attain a high school diploma or post-secondary credential. Empowering Services works with youth to help them establish their goals, monitor the participants’ progress, and help remove barriers to achieving their goals. Barriers include, but are not limited to, the following: High School Dropout; Justice Involved; Pregnant or Parenting; In, or Aged out of, Foster Care; Homeless/Runaway; Has a Disability; Low-Income and Basic Skills Deficient; and Low-Income and ELL. Empowering Services has had much success working with students in other DES (Department of Economic Security) programs, as well. In 2023-2024, we had over 150 students enrolled in post-secondary education programs. Our participant success is due to our experience and our efficient and comprehensive supported services. We strive to keep participants engaged, achieving positive outcomes to ensure independence and success. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 1.4.1 Increasing proficiency, grade level or Educational Functioning Level (EFL) in a specific academic skill area. Empowering Services will work with students and their alternative education provider to ensure that they increase grade level or EFL in the academic areas where they have need. Empowering Services has an outstanding relationship with the Arizona Department of Education (DOE) and all schools within Maricopa County. Currently, we serve as a program provider for PRE-ETS (Employment Transition Services) for the Arizona Department of Economic Security/Arizona Department of Education (ADES/ADOE). Our team works directly with school counselors, school principals, secondary education facilitators, and students to develop soft skills building and secondary education in schools throughout many school districts that include Deer Valley School District, Glendale Union, Agua Fria, Mesa Public Schools, Gilbert/Chandler, Tempe Union, Peoria District, Phoenix Union, and Scottsdale/Cave Creek District. This allows Empowering Services the ability to implement additional programs and services and quickly assess proper program readiness for identified students with minimal startup time and effective services. Empowering Services has a long-standing relationship in these districts as the subject matter expert working directly with school officials. 1.4.2 Remain in school, working towards their high school diploma or post-secondary credential. Empowering Services will work with students and their school to ensure that they remain in school, working toward their high school diploma or post-secondary credential. 95% of youth that Empowering Services has worked with have obtained their high school diploma or post-secondary credential. 1.4.3. Attain a high school diploma or post-secondary credential. Empowering Services will work with students and their school to ensure that they obtain their high school diploma or post-secondary credential. 99% of youth that Empowering Services has worked with have obtained their high school diploma or post- secondary credential. 1.5 Service Tasks to be performed by the vendor: Empowering Services tailors our services to the individual. Empowering Services will provide the following service tasks through participants’ engagement with our Tutor Support Coordinators: Tutor Support Coordinators: 1.5.1 Help youth identify areas of academic concern. Tutor Support Coordinators work one-on-one to help youth identify areas of academic concern, by assessing grades and transcripts and by discussing concerns. 1.5.2 Assist youth with overcoming learning obstacles. Tutor Support Coordinators work directly with youth, as well as with schools, workplaces, and support services to help youth overcome learning obstacles, whether these learning obstacles are academic, like lack of basic skills or learning differences, or external, such as lack of transportation, food insecurity, or need for childcare. 1.5.3 Provide resources, tools, and instruction to develop effective learning strategies. Tutor Support Coordinators adapt to the individuals they work with to provide resources, tools, and instruction to develop effective learning strategies. They may work one-on-one with participants or, if they have several clients with similar needs, may offer group instruction. In all cases, Tutor Support Coordinators focus on the best interests of individuals and provide resources in the context that is most effective for individual students. 1.5.4 Provide active learning experiences to keep participating youth engaged. Tutor Support Coordinators provide active learning experiences that include self-assessments and exercises to engage youth. Learning experiences may take place individually or in a group setting. 1.5.5 Monitor individual student learning progress. Tutor Support Coordinators focus on individual student progress through all interaction. They keep detailed records and check in with students on a regular basis. In group settings, there is time for individual questions and interaction. 1.6 Vendor Accountability and Performance Measurements 1.6.1 Provide monthly reports indicating student progress and achievement levels. SERIAL# 260032-RFP Empowering Services will provide monthly reports indicating student progress and achievement levels. The performance and outcomes of participants’ success within our program will be monitored and data captured as part of an audit that senior management will conduct randomly. Empowering Services will conduct client satisfaction surveys for this solicitation. Empowering Services believes performance outcomes are key components to our success and will ensure client success is at the forefront of our service agreement. 1.6.2 Youth will be matched with a tutor within 14 days of referral. Empowering Services commits to matching youth with a tutor within 14 days of referral. 1.6.3 Adhere to budgeted amounts and receive approval for increases prior to exceeding budgets. Empowering Services has extensive experience working as a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) vendor and an Arizona Developmental Disabilities Division (DDD) provider. Therefore, we are required to adhere to budgeted amounts, and, if needed, receive approval for increases prior to exceeding budgets. Empowering Services’ President, Terrell Maxey, has more than 20 years’ experience managing budgets for corporations and service contracts. 2.0 ELEMENT 3: PAID AND UNPAID WORK EXPERIENCE 2.1 WIOA identifies four types of work experience for youth: summer employment and other employment opportunities available throughout the school year, pre-apprenticeship programs, internships and job shadowing, and on-the-job training. WIOA requires that a minimum of 20 percent of local area funds for the Title I Youth program be spent on work experience. WIOA funds are used to pay the youth’s wages and for staff time spent developing and monitoring work experience activities. For youth placed in a work experience, the expectation is that the majority of the funds will be spent on youth wages. Empowering Services currently provides work experiences to youth through the Youth Program Work Experience (WEX) as well as Trial Work Experience (TWE) and Work Adjustment Training (WAT) for individuals enrolled in DES programs. Trial Work Experience (TWE) is an exploration of a client’s ability and capacity to perform work duties in a single realistic, integrated work setting for the purposes of eligibility decision, and is used for those clients who require further assessment to determine eligibility for Vocational Rehabilitation services. The process begins as such: • Client Service Planning Meeting: which, among other things, the purpose is to develop and agree upon the client’s service objectives that are documented on the Client Service Plan. In addition, the meeting serves to identify an appropriate location in which to conduct the WEX or TWE. Such a location should be in the most competitive and integrated setting, consistent with the client’s needs and choices. • The services will consist of short-term learning work experience with a maximum of 320 hours • Once the setting of the WEX or TWE is identified, Empowering Services Job Developers will start the evaluation process within (3) days of the start date. Empowering Services works with individuals with the following general disabilities: physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, mental illness, learning disabilities, deafness/hard of hearing, blindness/visual impairments, and traumatic brain injuries. Our services include a comprehensive assessment of each client’s work skills, work habits, and work behaviors in the following areas: communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving, task/time management and organization, attendance, appearance/hygiene, and self-management. The assessment will also include a thorough analysis of how the specific disabilities documented above affect functional limitations. Work Adjustment Training (WAT) is a process to help individuals adjust to work environments and develop skills for the modern work world. These experiences can test a person’s analytical thinking, ability to work under stress, proper behaviors, work readiness, and task retention in the workplace. The environments in which WAT services can be provided vary and are based upon the individual needs and choices of the person receiving WAT services. We can provide such services in over 80 community partnered environments, depending on clients’ needs. We can also service WAT in our facility in a clerical environment. Our experience with these programs enables us to provide a wide variety of opportunities for work experience for youth. SERIAL# 260032-RFP 2.2 Work experiences are planned, structured learning opportunities that take place in a workplace for a limited period of time. This element is designed to enable youth to gain exposure to the world of work and its requirements, explore careers, and may include internships and job shadowing. Through WEX, TWE and WAT, Empowering Services has established partnerships with a variety of workplaces in high-demand industries, including Healthcare & Social Assistance, Transportation & Warehousing, Finance & Insurance, and Information Technology, with planned, structured learning opportunities in the workplace. 2.3 Work experience may be paid or unpaid, as appropriate. A work experience may take place in the private for-profit sector, the non-profit sector, or the public sector. Labor standards apply in any work experience where an employee/employer relationship, as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act or applicable State law, exists. Consistent with § 680.840 of this chapter, funds provided for work experiences may not be used to directly or indirectly aid in the filling of a job opening that is vacant because the former occupant is on strike, or is being locked out in the course of a labor dispute, or the filling of which is otherwise an issue in a labor dispute involving a work stoppage. Work experiences provide the youth participant with opportunities for career exploration and skill development. Empowering Services has existing WEX sites that can be used to focus on career exploration and skill development. Empowering Services is committed to following the Fair Labor Standards Act. 2..4 Providers shall develop work experiences that help youth acquire the personal attributes, knowledge, and skills needed to obtain a job and advance in employment. To support their successful transition into the work experience, Providers shall provide formal work readiness training in person, or virtually to the youth prior to placing them with an employer, and throughout the work experience as needed. Providers will be the employer of record for the youth, administer their payroll, and must provide insurance and other necessary protections for the youth adults. Adherence to Child Labor Laws and work permits are required. Empowering Services will provide formal work readiness training in person, or virtually, to the youth prior to placing them with an employer, and throughout the work experience as needed. In our current programs, we evaluate all participants’ soft skills to ensure that they are suitable to work in a competitive work environment. As a result of these evaluations, we provide training to all program participants on soft skills such as task management, time management, organization, communication, hygiene/appearance, self- management and much more. Our in-depth Workplace Readiness Workshop consists of 30 hours, depending on program participants. During this training, we strive to ensure that program participants develop an understanding of workplace competencies, soft skills and work culture. Our ability to place participants into work experiences of all types speaks to our team experience and ability to be an efficient service provider. 2.5 Work experiences should be focused around high demand occupations and industry clusters. The vendor will work with participants to identify opportunities that align with their goals, taking into consideration, location, job skills, interests, and barriers. Empowering Services conducts intensive intake sessions, called Client Service Planning Sessions, to determine clients’ location, job skills, interests, and barriers, in addition to their salary requirements. During these Client Service Planning Sessions, clients take self-assessments to help determine interests and skills and speak one-on-one with their Youth Support Coordinator. Empowering Services has existing partners in high demand occupations and industry clusters, including Healthcare & Social Assistance, Finance & Insurance, Transportation & Warehousing, and Information Technology. Our experience with state contracts in both Nevada and Arizona, as well as our existing partnerships, enable us to secure partners in additional occupations and industry clusters. 2.6 Work experiences must include academic and occupational education. The educational component may occur concurrently or sequentially with the work experience, inside or outside the work site. The work experience employer or vendor can provide the academic and occupational component. The academic and occupational education component refers to contextual learning that accompanies a work experience. It includes the information necessary to understand and work in specific industries and/or occupations. SERIAL# 260032-RFP Empowering Services provides academic and educational training. We provide training in hard skills, such as computer software, as well as soft skills training, including workplace readiness, high-demand industries, desirable characteristics in the workplace, and considerations in workplace size and location. Our existing partners provide on-the job training, and Youth Support Coordinators monitor and document both soft and hard skill development. Youth Support Coordinators also help with identifying and addressing any barriers to a successful work experience for our clients. 2.7 Minimum requirements for delivering this service include: 2.7.1 Businesses selected as work sites for paid and unpaid work experiences must be licensed by the State of Arizona and be in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. Empowering Services commits to selecting work sites that are licensed by the State of Arizona and be in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. Existing partners who provide work sites for our programs include C-A-L Ranch Stores, several warehouses, R.K.S. Plumbing, Smart & Final, DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, State Farm Insurance, TPC Scottsdale, McCormick Ranch Golf Club, JW Marriott, Hertz Car Rental, and a variety of small businesses to name a few. 2.8 As a result of engagement in the service, youth will: Empowering Services conducts surveys for our WEX, Pre-ETS and DES clients. Based on past results, youth engaged in our Work Experience, Trial Work Experience and Work Adjustment Training (WAT) have increased knowledge of career opportunities, improved work readiness skills, and increased workplace competencies. 2.8.1 Increase knowledge of career opportunities. Survey results from 2024 indicate that 98% of participants in our work experience programs increased knowledge of career opportunities. 2.8.2 Improve work readiness skills. Survey results from 2024 indicate that 96% of participants in our work experience programs increased their work readiness skills. 2.8.3 Increase workplace competencies. Survey results from 2024 indicate that 97% of participants in our work experience programs increased their workplace competencies. 2.9 Service tasks to be performed by the vendor: Empowering Services will provide the following service tasks through participants’ engagement with our Youth Support Coordinators: 2.9.1 Develop and place youth in work experience opportunities in high demand occupations related to their occupational interests. Using our Client Service Planning Session process, we will determine the occupational interests of the youth in the program. We will use our existing partnerships with high demand occupations and industry clusters both to place youth and to leverage additional placements to match their interests with high- demand occupations. We ensure that opportunities are streamlined to ensure quick onboarding once participants are trained and acquire the skills needed for their work experience. 2.9.2 Develop and document competency checklists for each youth’s work experience. We have existing WEX, TWE and WAT Assessment rating forms, which Youth Support Coordinators can use to assess the client’s abilities, capabilities and learning of the tasks, along with the client on a weekly basis. In the Assessment, competencies include attendance, punctuality, grooming, following direction, quality of work, dependability, working relationships, work behavior, following rules, accepting of supervision, and problem solving. Assessments also evaluate core work readiness, communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving, task/time management, attendance, managing symptoms or effects of a disability, appearance/hygiene, and self-management. Using these templates, and individual Career Planning Sessions, Youth Support Coordinators will develop and document competency checklists individualized to each youth’s work experience. 2.9.3 Collect signed time sheets from youth. Youth Support Coordinators will collect signed time sheets from youth bi-weekly or monthly, as required by ARIZONA@WORK. SERIAL# 260032-RFP Empowering Services will: 2.9.4 Develop and execute formal worksite agreements stipulating: 2.9.4.1 the roles and responsibilities of each party; 2.9.4.2 the duration, tasks, duties, and expectations for the job; 2.9.4.3 the terms, conditions, stipulations, and assurances related to the relationship; 2.9.4.4 the participant’s orientation, wage, hours, work schedule and supervisor; 2.9.4.5 health and safety standards; 2.9.4.6 identification of the academic and educational component, including how it will be provided; 2.9.4.7 a termination clause. Based on templates created through our existing work experience programs, Empowering Services’ Youth Support Coordinators will develop and execute formal worksite agreements with every site where youth are placed. These agreements will include the roles and responsibilities of each party, the duration, tasks, duties, and expectations for the job, the terms, conditions, stipulations, and assurances related to the relationship, the participant’s orientation, wage, hours, work schedule and supervisor, health and safety standards, identification of the academic and educational component and a termination clause. 2.10 Maintain ongoing monitoring/oversight through in-person visits with worksite employers to provide support, technical assistance, ensure worksite agreements are upheld, ensure adequate supervision is provided, ensure quality mentoring and work experience is provided and ensure worksites are in compliance with ADA, Equal Opportunity, workplace safety and child labor laws. Empowering Services providers currently maintain ongoing monitoring/oversight through in-person visits with worksite employers for WEX. We provide support, technical assistance, ensure worksite agreements are upheld, ensure adequate supervision is provided, ensure quality mentoring and work experience is provided and ensure worksites are in compliance with ADA, Equal Opportunity, workplace safety, and child labor laws. 2.11 Vendor Accountability and Performance Measurements 2.11.1 Adhere to budgeted amounts and receive approval for increases prior to exceeding budgets. Empowering Services has extensive experience working as a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) vendor and an Arizona Developmental Disabilities Division (DDD) provider. Therefore, we are required to adhere to budgeted amounts, and, if needed, receive approval for increases prior to exceeding budgets. Empowering Services’ President, Terrell Maxey, has more than 20 years’ experience managing budgets for corporations and service contracts. 2.11.2 Placement of the youth in a work experience within 30 days of referral. Our team looks to place participants in work experiences within 10-12 days of receiving the authorization and commits to doing so within 30 days of the referral. 2.11.3 Placement in a work experience aligned with the youth’s career goals. Empowering Services works with participants to determine their career goals. Our extensive network of partners enables us to provide employment opportunities that align with those goals. We have a 95% placement rate and 97% retention rate, which illustrates our success in creating work experiences that match each youth’s skills and career goals with employer needs. 2.11.4 Provide final copy of youth’s competency evaluation to ARIZONA@WORK. Employment Services commits to providing a final copy of each youth’s competency evaluation to ARIZONA@WORK. 2.11.5 Provide Certificate of Completion for work readiness classes. Employment Services commits to providing a Certificate of Completion for work readiness classes for each youth enrolled in the program to ARIZONA@WORK. 4.0 ELEMENT 7: SUPPORTIVE SERVICES 4.1 Supportive services remove barriers and enable a youth to participate in WIOA activities. Examples of support services include transportation assistance (bus passes, gas cards, Uber/Lyft SERIAL# 260032-RFP gift cards), work related expenses (such as clothing, work shoes, uniforms, tools, etc.), childcare, testing fees, books and other training related expenses, rental and utility assistance, car repairs and reasonable accommodations for individuals with a disability. Empowering Services currently works with program participants that need support in enrolling into social services and may need short-term supported service. For transportation, we have partnered with Uber and Lyft in the past. We have also helped participants apply for gas cards, reduced bus fare cards, Paratransit and Dial-A-Ride services. We purchase monthly, weekly and daily bus passes for youth as well as add funds directly to youth metro bus account. We have assisted with work-related expenses, such as computers and training related expenses. We also provide debt remediation support. If a participant has fallen behind on a bill due to being unemployed or underemployed, we can assist the participant with these payments. We will also guide the participant in asking for an extended grace period to assist in alleviating the burden of such debt. For training-related expenses, we offer financial support for licensure/certification testing fees, books, and other necessary supplies to obtain and maintain employment. We also understand all participants are not the same and some may need accommodations. Work accommodations may include physical accessibility, assistive technology, communications such as sign language or braille, and policy enhancements. We assist clients with such needed accommodations to ensure their success before being hired and in the workplace. 4.2 ARIZONA@WORK staff shall assess program participants and determine the type of support services needed prior to authorizing support service distribution by a vendor. Services should be appropriate and justified as well as be delivered effectively and efficiently. Empowering Services has experience providing a variety of support services and commits to following ARIZONA@WORK’s guidance prior to distributing support services to participants in our programs. 4.3 ARIZONA@WORK will reimburse the vendor for the direct cost of the support service in addition to an hourly rate for the administrative cost of delivering the service. Administrative costs may include the time it takes to issue a check or purchase a gift card, delivery of services to the youth, contacts with the youth to arrange payment for services etc. Flexibility in issuing support services to youth will be necessary in order to deliver the service in a way that makes the most sense for the individual youth. Empowering Services has successful experience working with youth and providing flexible, individualized supportive services. 4.4 Minimum requirements for delivering this service include: Providers must have enough liquid cash to issue support services immediately and be reimbursed later. Empowering Services has adequate liquid cash to issue support services immediately and be reimbursed later. 4.5 As a result of engagement in the service, youth will: 4.5.1 Receive support services quickly to remove immediate barriers. Empowering Services experience providing support services will enable us to provide services quickly to remove barriers. 4.5.2 Continue participation in WIOA services and activities. Empowering Services will partner with ARIZONA@WORK to ensure that barriers to participation in WIOA services and activities are removed and clients continue participating in WIOA services and activities. 4.6 Service tasks to be performed by the vendor: 4.6.1 Purchase support services in person, over the phone or online. We will use funds to purchase services in person, over the phone or online to remove barriers from program participants. 4.6.2 Arrange or facilitate delivery of services to youth. Empowering Services will arrange or facilitate delivery of all purchased services to youth to ensure that they can participate in our programs. 4.6.3 Collect and submit receipts and other backup documentation to County staff. SERIAL# 260032-RFP Our finance department keeps ledgers on all monies paid to all participants and ensures that all monies paid is for approved services. Empowering Services commits to providing receipts and backup documentation to County staff as required by the program solicitation. 4.6.4 Notify County staff if youth identifies need for additional support services. Empowering Services commits to notifying County staff if, and when, any youth identifies a need for additional support services. 4.7 Vendor Accountability and Performance Measurements 4.7.1 Adhere to budgeted amounts and receive approval for increases prior to exceeding budgets. Empowering Services has extensive experience working as a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) vendor and an Arizona Developmental Disabilities Division (DDD) provider. Therefore, we are required to adhere to budgeted amounts, and, if needed, receive approval for increases prior to exceeding budgets. Empowering Services’ President, Terrell Maxey, has more than 20 years’ experience managing budgets for corporations and service contracts. 4.7.2 Limit administrative cost of providing support services to youth through use of refillable gift cards and online purchasing when available. Administrative costs should not exceed the cost of the item being purchased. Empowering Services strives to limit administrative costs where possible and currently provides support services through gift cards and online purchasing. 4.7.3 Compare prices at multiple providers, where appropriate to ensure cost is reasonable and competitive. Empowering Services commits to comparing prices of at least three to five vendors to ensure that cost is reasonable and competitive. 4.7.4 Issue support service to youth within five business days. Empowering Services commits to issuing support services to youth within five business days. Project Personnel PROJECT PERSONNEL ASSIGNMENTS/ RESPONSIBILITIES PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE TIME/EFFORT Program Manager Manager will have responsibility to oversee program services while developing best practices for client services with review and assignment of all client services. Manager will maintain business relationships while ensuring work environments are safe and ethical. Minimum 8-10 Years experience and/or a bachelor's degree in a related field of study 100% Team Leader 1 Team leader will be responsible for caseload management for all employment support coordinators. Reviewing of case notes and ensuring client services are of program standards and efficiency. Being a frontline support to all clients. Minimum 5-7 Years experience in related field of study and/or a bachelor's degree in a related field of study 100% Youth Support Coordinator Youth Support Coordinator will be responsible for caseload management for all employment support coordinators. Reviewing of case notes and ensuring client services are of program standards and efficiency. Being a frontline support to all clients. 2-3 years' experience with client services 100% SERIAL# 260032-RFP TBH/Tutor/ Youth Support Coordinators Tutor/Youth Support Coordinators are the front-line service providers that will work directly with clients on their learning goals and program support services. Minimum 2-3 Years experience and a bachelor's degree in a related field of study 100% Clerical Technology Instructor The trainer will conduct program services for the technical program with all client participants. 2-3 years' experience with client services 100% SERIAL# 260032-RFP EXHIBIT C – WIOA YOUTH PROGRAM ELEMENT REQUIREMENTS ELEMENT 1: TUTORING, STUDY SKILLS TRAINING, INSTRUCTION, AND DROPOUT PREVENTION: 1.1 Tutoring, study skills training, instruction and evidence-based dropout prevention and recovery strategies that lead to completion of the requirements for a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent (including a recognized certificate of attendance or similar document for individuals with disabilities) or for a recognized postsecondary credential. 1.2 In addition to secondary school tutors, ARIZONA@WORK also requests proposals from organizations that can access subject matter experts in specific occupations for post- secondary credential tutoring. For example: 1.2.1 Medical Assisting 1.2.2 Dental Assisting 1.2.3 Pharmacy Technician 1.2.4 Information Technology (A+, Net+, Sec+ etc.) 1.2.5 Nursing Assisting 1.3 Minimum requirements for delivering this service include: 1.3.1 Tutors must possess a high school degree or equivalent; associate or bachelor’s degree a plus 1.3.2 Be proficient in the subjects they are tutoring 1.3.3 Have experience assessing the progress of students to ensure effective processes 1.3.4 Have experience preparing lesson plans and personalized instruction 1.4 As a result of engagement in the service, youth will: 1.4.1 Increase proficiency, grade level or Educational Functioning Level (EFL) in a specific academic skill area 1.4.2 Remain in school, working towards their high school diploma or post-secondary credential 1.4.3 Attain a high school diploma or post-secondary credential 1.5 Service tasks to be performed by the vendor: (The list below is not intended to be all inclusive.) 1.5.1 Help youth identify areas of academic concern 1.5.2 Assist youth with overcoming learning obstacles 1.5.3 Provide resources, tools and instruction to develop effective learning strategies 1.5.4 Provide active learning experiences to keep the youth engaged 1.5.5 Monitor individual student learning progress 1.6 Vendor Accountability and Performance Measurements SERIAL# 260032-RFP 1.6.1 Provide monthly reports indicating student progress and achievement levels 1.6.2 Youth will be matched to a tutor within 14 days of referral 1.6.3 Adhere to budgeted amounts and receive approval for increases prior to exceeding budgets. ELEMENT 3: PAID AND UNPAID WORK EXPERIENCE 3.1 WIOA identifies four types of work experience for youth: summer employment and other employment opportunities available throughout the school year, pre-apprenticeship programs, internships and job shadowing, and on-the-job training. WIOA requires that a minimum of 20 percent of local area funds for the Title I Youth program be spent on work experience. WIOA funds are used to pay the youth’s wages and for staff time spent developing and monitoring work experience activities. For youth placed in a work experience, the expectation is that the majority of the funds will be spent on youth wages. 3.2 Work experiences are planned, structured learning opportunities that take place in a workplace for a limited period of time. This element is designed to enable youth to gain exposure to the world of work and its requirements, explore careers, and may include internships and job shadowing. 3.3 Work experience may be paid or unpaid, as appropriate. A work experience may take place in the private for-profit sector, the non-profit sector, or the public sector. Labor standards apply in any work experience where an employee/employer relationship, as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act or applicable State law, exists. Consistent with § 680.840 of this chapter, funds provided for work experiences may not be used to directly or indirectly aid in the filling of a job opening that is vacant because the former occupant is on strike, or is being locked out in the course of a labor dispute, or the filling of which is otherwise an issue in a labor dispute involving a work stoppage. Work experiences provide the youth participant with opportunities for career exploration and skill development. 3.4 Providers shall develop work experiences that help youth acquire the personal attributes, knowledge, and skills needed to obtain a job and advance in employment. To support their successful transition into the work experience, Providers shall provide formal work readiness training in person, or virtually to the youth prior to placing them with an employer, and throughout the work experience as needed. Providers will be the employer of record for the youth, administer their payroll, and must provide insurance and other necessary protections for the youth adults. Adherence to Child Labor Laws and work permits are required. 3.5 Work experiences should be focused around high demand occupations and industry clusters. The vendor will work with participants to identify opportunities that align with their goals, taking into consideration, location, job skills, interests, and barriers. 3.6 Work experiences must include academic and occupational education. The educational component may occur concurrently or sequentially with the work experience, inside or outside the work site. The work experience employer or vendor can provide the academic and occupational component. The academic and occupational education component refers to contextual learning that accompanies a work experience. It includes the information necessary to understand and work in specific industries and/or occupations. 3.7 Minimum requirements for delivering this service include: 3.7.1 Businesses selected as work sites for paid and unpaid work experiences must be licensed by the State of Arizona and be in good standing with the Better Business Bureau SERIAL# 260032-RFP 3.8 As a result of engagement in the service, youth will: 3.8.1 Increase knowledge of career opportunities 3.8.2 Improve work readiness skills 3.8.3 Increase workplace competencies 3.9 Service tasks to be performed by the vendor: (The list below is not intended to be all inclusive.) 3.9.1 Develop and place youth in work experience opportunities in high demand occupations related to their occupational interests 3.9.2 Develop and document competency checklists for each youth’s work experience 3.9.3 Collect signed time sheets from youth 3.9.4 Develop and execute formal worksite agreements stipulating: 3.9.4.1 the roles and responsibilities of each party 3.9.4.2 the duration, tasks, duties, and expectations for the job 3.9.4.3 the terms, conditions, stipulations, and assurances related to the relationship 3.9.4.4 the participant’s orientation, wage, hours, work schedule and supervisor 3.9.4.5 health and safety standards 3.9.4.6 identification of the academic and educational component, including how it will be provided 3.9.4.7 a termination clause 3.10 Maintain ongoing monitoring/oversight through in-person visits with worksite employers to provide support, technical assistance, ensure worksite agreements are upheld, ensure adequate supervision is provided, ensure quality mentoring and work experience is provided and ensure worksites are in compliance with ADA, Equal Opportunity, workplace safety and child labor laws. 3.11 Vendor Accountability and Performance Measurements 3.11.1 Adhere to budgeted amounts and receive approval for increases prior to exceeding budgets. 3.11.2 Placement of the youth in a work experience within 30 days of referral 3.11.3 Placement in a work experience aligned with the youth’s career goals 3.11.4 Provide final copy of youth’s competency evaluation to ARIZONA@WORK 3.11.5 Provide Certificate of Completion for work readiness classes SERIAL# 260032-RFP ELEMENT 7: SUPPORTIVE SERVICES 7.1 Supportive services remove barriers and enable a youth to participate in WIOA activities. Examples of support services include transportation assistance (bus passes, gas cards, Uber/Lyft gift cards), work related expenses (such as clothing, work shoes, uniforms, tools, etc.), childcare, testing fees, books and other training related expenses, rental and utility assistance, car repairs and reasonable accommodations for individuals with a disability. 7.2 ARIZONA@WORK staff shall assess program participants and determine the type of support services needed prior to authorizing support service distribution by a vendor. Services should be appropriate and justified as well as be delivered effectively and efficiently. 7.3 ARIZONA@WORK will reimburse the vendor for the direct cost of the support service in addition to an hourly rate for the administrative cost of delivering the service. Administrative costs may include the time it takes to issue a check or purchase a gift card, delivery of services to the youth, contacts with the youth to arrange payment for services etc. Flexibility in issuing support services to youth will be necessary in order to deliver the service in a way that makes the most sense for the individual youth. 7.4 Minimum requirements for delivering this service include: 7.4.1 Providers must have enough liquid cash to issue support services immediately and be reimbursed later. 7.5 As a result of engagement in the service, youth will: 7.5.1 Receive support services quickly to remove immediate barriers 7.5.2 Continue participation in WIOA services and activities 7.6 Service tasks to be performed by the vendor: (The list below is not intended to be all inclusive.) 7.6.1 Purchase support services in person, over the phone or online 7.6.2 Arrange or facilitate delivery of services to youth 7.6.3 Collect and submit receipts and other backup documentation to County staff 7.6.4 Notify County staff if youth identify need for additional support services. 7.7 Vendor Accountability and Performance Measurements 7.7.1 Adhere to budgeted amounts and receive approval for increases prior to exceeding budgets. 7.7.2 Limit administrative cost of providing support services to youth through use of refillable gift cards and online purchasing when available. Administrative costs should not exceed the cost of the item being purchased. 7.7.3 Compare prices at multiple Providers where appropriate to ensure cost is reasonable and competitive. 7.7.4 Issue support service to youth within five business days SERIAL # 260032-RFP EXHIBIT D – ARIZONA@WORK MARICOPA COUNTY YOUTH PROGRAM STRUCTURE Maricopa County (County) is the largest county in Arizona, the second largest government in the State, and one of the largest counties in the United States with the geographic area covering 9,226 square miles. The County is one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. The County is governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors (BOS). The County is a designated Local Workforce Development Area (LWDA) ARIZONA@WORK-Maricopa County. The five-member BOS sets policy as the governing body for the WIOA activities. WIOA funds are provided by the United States Department of Labor (USDOL) Employment, Training Administration. Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) contracts with the County for delivery of WIOA services. DES is the state agency responsible for WIOA activities throughout the state of Arizona. The LWDA has two functioning parts related to the program delivery: 1.0 Maricopa County Workforce Development Board (MCWDB): The MCWDB is a local workforce development board appointed by the BOS and certified by the Workforce Arizona Council (WAC). The MCWDB is charged with providing strategic guidance and direction for federal, state, and local workforce development funds and programs. The MCWDB, in partnership with the BOS, performs those functions necessary and appropriate to implement WIOA, including setting policy and providing direction and overseeing employment and training programs. The Maricopa County Workforce Development Board has identified the following industry clusters in Maricopa County to be high-growth and in high-demand: • Construction • Information Technology • Healthcare & Social Assistance • Transportation & Warehousing • Finance & Insurance • Manufacturing 2.0 Maricopa County Human Services Department (HSD), Workforce Development Division administers service delivery in two ARIZONA@WORK - Maricopa County Comprehensive One- Stop Career Centers and in several community-based locations. The County staff are located in the Career Centers and community-based locations and provide WIOA services: • Adult Program; • Dislocated Worker Program; and • Youth Program MARICOPA COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTERS East Valley One-Stop Career Center 1001 W Southern Ave., Suite 101 Mesa, AZ 85210 West Valley One-Stop Career Center 4425 West Olive Avenue Suite 190 Glendale, Arizona, 85302 Specialized Centers are community-based locations where ARIZONA@WORK WIOA activities and services are provided. Site locations can be found at the website: https://arizonaatwork.com/locations/maricopa-county. SERIAL# 260032-RFP WIOA YOUTH PROGRAM OVERVIEW INCLUDING YOUTH PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY ARIZONA@WORK-Maricopa County Youth Program is responsible for conducting WIOA Youth Program activities for Arizona WIOA Youth Program. The following information from the United States Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, Division of Youth Services summarizes the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act WIOA Youth Program.1 WIOA Program Description: Under Title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014, the WIOA Youth program provides funds to states and outlying areas. States provide local workforce development areas resources to deliver comprehensive youth services that focus on assisting out-of- school youth and in-school youth, with one or more barriers to employment, prepare for employment and postsecondary education opportunities; attain educational and/or skills training credentials; and secure employment with career/promotional opportunities. Services: The WIOA Youth program includes the following program elements: tutoring; alternative secondary school services; paid and unpaid work experiences, which include: summer and year round employment opportunities, pre-apprenticeship programs, internships and job shadowing, and on-the-job training; occupational skill training; education offered concurrently with workforce preparation and training; leadership development opportunities; supportive services; mentoring; follow-up services; comprehensive guidance and counseling; financial literacy education; entrepreneurial skills training; services that provide labor market and employment information; and postsecondary education and training preparation activities. Eligibility/Target Population: Out-of-school youth (OSY) and in-school youth (ISY) An OSY is an individual who is: (1) Not attending any school (as defined under State law); (2) Not younger than age 16 or older than age 24 at time of enrollment; and (3) One or more of the following: a. A school dropout; b. 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; c. A recipient of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent who is a low-income individual and is either basic skills deficient or an English language learner; d. An offender; e. A homeless individual, a homeless child or youth, or a runaway; f. An individual in foster care or who has aged out of the foster care system or who has attained 16 years of age and left foster care for kinship guardianship or adoption, a child eligible for assistance under sec. 477 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 677), or in an out-of-home placement; g. An individual who is pregnant or parenting; h. An individual with a disability; or i. A low-income individual who requires additional assistance to enter or complete an educational program or to secure or hold employment. An ISY is an individual who is: (1) Attending school (as defined by State law), including secondary and postsecondary school; (2) Not younger than age 14 or (unless an individual with a disability who is attending school under State law) older than age 21 at time of enrollment; (3) A low-income individual (4) One or more of the following: a. Basic skills deficient; b. An English language learner; c. An offender; d. A homeless individual, a homeless child or youth, or a runaway; e. An individual in foster care or who has aged out of the foster care system or who has attained 16 years of age and left foster care for kinship guardianship or adoption, a child eligible for assistance under sec. 477 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 677), or in an out-of-home placement; SERIAL # 260032-RFP f. An individual who is pregnant or parenting; g. An individual with a disability; or h. An individual who requires additional assistance to complete an educational program or to secure or hold employment. Priorities: Out-of-School Youth – A minimum of 75 percent of the Youth funds allocated to States and local areas, except for the local area expenditures for administration, must be used to provide services to OSY. Work Experience – Not less than 20 percent of Youth funds allocated to the local area, except for the local area expenditures for administration, must be used to provide paid and unpaid work experiences. Focus on Partnering – Co-enrollment encouraged where appropriate with Titles II and IV. Allotments: The allotment is based on formula provisions including three factors: (1) the number of unemployed in areas of substantial unemployment; (2) the number of excess unemployed individuals; and (3) the number of economically disadvantaged youth. WIOA Youth Appropriation by Program Year PY 2024 $948,130,000 PY 2023 $948,130,000 PY 2022 $933,130,000 PY 2021 $921,130,000 WIOA Youth Results for PY 2023 • 132,402 youth participants served • Employment, education, or training during the 2nd quarter after exit: 72.7% • Employment, education, or training during the 4th quarter after exit: 73.4% • Median earnings during the 2nd quarter after exit: $4,839 • Credential Attainment Rate: 61.8% • Measurable Skill Gains: 63.2% • Effectiveness in serving employers (system-wide measure, not program specific) 1. US Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, Division of Youth Services. Last updated January 2025. See https://youth.workforcegps.org/resources/2017/08/29/08/48/FactSheet