YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING

Erie County’s Department of Social Services is seeking proposals from local non‑profits or municipal youth bureaus to deliver a one‑year Youth Development Program for at‑risk youth (under 21) throughout Erie County. The contract runs from October 1 2026 to September 30 2027, with a maximum award of $30,000 per agency and a 15 % cap on administrative costs. Programs must align with approved OCFS Life Area categories, incorporate Positive Youth Development and Trauma‑Informed Care principles, maintain a staff‑to‑youth ratio of no more than 15:1, and provide free participation (or a scholarship model). Quarterly reimbursement claims are required, and annual reporting follows the County’s forms. • Eligible services include work readiness, career development, life skills, mental health supports, dropout prevention, youth leadership/empowerment, and juvenile delinquency prevention. • Proposals must include three appendices (proposal, fiscal cover sheet, audit/financial documents), be signed on Schedule A, and submitted via OnBase or mailed by March 18 2026. • The County will evaluate compliance, program design, performance measurement, staffing, equity, and cost; award notification expected Summer 2026, with possible renewal based on performance and funding.