8834 Mentoring Program

Grade Level: High Schools

The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) seeks respondents to implement in-school and out-of-school mentoring programs for youth ages 12-24 in Chicago who are at risk of not transitioning successfully into adulthood. This Request for Proposals (RFP) requires cohort-based,
trauma-informed mentoring for 45 hours annually per youth that need additional supports with a focus on youth with complex needs. Mentoring offers youth critical emotional, cognitive, and behavioral support through consistent interaction to promote their social, emotional, and cognitive growth into adulthood.

Priorities that DFSS is focusing on for this RFP include:
- Enrollment of underserved youth.
- Healthy Chicago Equity Zone (HEZ) Program Location.
- Programming Hours.
- Trauma-Informed Curriculum.
- Prioritize continuous improvement, focusing on using data to make programmatic decisions.
- Youth Centrism.
- Support and Training for Mentors.

RYE Note: The term of contract(s) executed under this RFP will be from January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2024. Based on need, availability of funds and contractor performance, DFSS may extend this term for up to one additional year.