Mayor's Office of Prevention, Intervention and Opportunity: Out-of-School Time Programs & Youth Employment Opportunities RFP

Background
The Mayor’s Office of Prevention, Intervention, and Opportunity (MPIO) was established in Cleveland to address the root causes of violence and help community members develop resilience. This initiative is particularly focused on youth aged 15 to 24 from urban poor communities, especially communities of color, who are disproportionately affected by trauma and violence.

The City aims to provide high-quality Out-of-School Time (OST) programs and employment opportunities that promote healing, wellness, and community engagement.

Work Details
The City of Cleveland seeks proposals for OST programs and youth employment opportunities that will be hosted in trusted community spaces. Programs must address the root causes of violence and support areas such as:
1) Prenatal to Early Childhood (ages 0-4), focusing on early literacy and development;
2) Overall Wellbeing for youth grades K-12 and emerging adults, including health and wellness programs;
3) Educational Outcomes through K-12 intervention programs like tutoring and STEM activities;
4) College and Career Readiness for ages 12-24, offering job readiness training, internships, and lifelong learning opportunities.

Providers must demonstrate evidence-based program design, delivery methods, targeted age ranges, successful outcomes, recruitment strategies, event calendars, and alignment with city objectives.

Period of Performance
Programs will be offered during seasonal sessions: Winter (January - March 2026), Spring (March - May 2026), Summer (June - August 2026), Fall (September - December 2026).

Place of Performance
Services will be performed in various trusted community spaces throughout the City of Cleveland.

Bidder Requirements
Proposals must include a good-faith effort to utilize certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), Female Business Enterprises (FBEs), or Cleveland-area small businesses (CSBs). The standard subcontracting goal is set at 10% CSB participation.

Providers must also comply with the Cleveland Area Business Code and submit required forms including the Office of Equal Opportunity Notice to Bidders.