WALGREENS TRAINING PROGRAM

Request for Proposals (RFP)

The United Way of Connecticut, Inc. (United Way) is requesting submissions from qualified community rehabilitation programs to provide training for individuals with disabilities for potential employment at the new Walgreens distribution center in Windsor, Connecticut. One bidder, which may either be a single organization or a consortium of qualified community rehabilitation programs, will be chosen to provide services under this Request for Proposals. The resultant contract period for the first year of this program is projected to begin on June 1, 2008 and end on May 31, 2009, with the anticipation that a contract will be awarded to the winning bidder for a second year. The total available funding through this procurement is not anticipated to exceed $1,250,000 for the two-year period. The Issuing Office for this RFP is: United Way of Connecticut, Inc. 1344 Silas Deane Highway Rocky Hill, CT 06067 Att: Jennifer Johnson E-mail: WalgreensRFP@ctunitedway.org Tel: 860-571-7520 Fax: 860-571-6899 Interested bidders must submit a mandatory Letter of Intent which must be received by the Issuing Office no later than 3:00 p.m. local time on Friday, January 18, 2008. A mandatory bidders’ conference will be held: Monday January 28, 2008 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. United Way of Connecticut, Inc. 1344 Silas Deane Highway Rocky Hill, CT 06067 In the event of inclement weather, the Bidders’ Conference will be held the following day, January 29, 2008 at the same time and location. The complete application package must be received by the Issuing Office no later than 3:00 p.m. local time on Monday, February 18, 2008. Submissions received after the stated due date and time will not be considered. All submissions must be in sealed envelopes or sealed boxes clearly identified as “Walgreens Training Program RFP.” All questions outside of the bidders’ conference must be submitted to the Issuing Office via fax or e-mail no later than 3:00 p.m. local time on Monday, February 1, 2008. To download this Request for Proposals (RFP), access the State’s Procurement/Contracting Portal at the State of Connecticut Department of Administrative Services’ Procurement Services Home Page at: www.das.state.ct.us/Purchase/Portal/Portal_Home.asp or contact the Issuing Office.

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Walgreens Training Program Request for Proposals

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Project Background……………………………………………………………. 1 Project Design………………………………………….………………………. 2 Training Process……………………………….…………………..…. 2 Project Staffing and Funding Design…………………………….…… 4 Staff Training and Program Curricula………………………………… 5 Project Funding and Administration………………………………….. 5 Contractor Requirements……………………………………………………….. 6 Proposal Contents……………..………………………….…………………….. 8 Proposal Submission and Format Requirements……………………………….. 12 Proposal Evaluations…………………………………………………………… 14

Appendices Glossary of Terms, Abbreviations and Acronyms…………………………... App. A §1 Application Forms..……………………………………………..…… App. B §3(a) BRS Criteria for Approval of Community Rehabilitation Programs (Description and Form)……...…………………………..…………… App. C §3(b) Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Qualified Provider Form………..……………………………….…… App. D §6(g) Profile of Bidder’s Experience-Vocational Services for Persons with Disabilities Form………………………………………. App. E §14 Other Required Forms….…………………..………………..……….. App. F §16 Project Budget Forms………………………………..………………. App. G 2008 Projected Timeline………...………………………………………….... App. H Rights Reserved……………………………………………………………… App. I Bidder Assurances…………………………………………………………… App. J

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______________________________________________________________________________

Project Background ______________________________________________________________________________

The nation’s largest retail drug store chain, Walgreens, is in the process of opening new distribution centers in locations throughout the United States in order to meet the needs of its expanding business. An 800,000 sq. ft. Walgreens Distribution Center is scheduled to open in phases beginning November 2008. The facility will be located in the New England Tradeport industrial park in Windsor, Connecticut. The company anticipates employing a total of 200 workers at the Windsor facility when it begins operations and between 600 to 800 workers within five to six years of the facility opening. The facility will also house a 9,500 sq. ft. Training Center which is scheduled to be available for the training of prospective employees in Spring 2008. Walgreens has made a commitment to hiring a significant proportion of employees with disabilities at the new Distribution Center, with a goal that 30% of its workforce will come from this group. While the company is interested in hiring persons with cognitive, physical and/or mental disability(s), they are placing particular emphasis on providing employment opportunities for persons on the autism spectrum and/or with mental retardation. Walgreens will be installing new high-speed, high-tech equipment in the Distribution Center that is designed to increase output and efficiency, as well as accommodate for many of the functional limitations faced by persons with disabilities. Walgreens Distribution Center employees, regardless of whether or not they have a disability, will be: 1.) expected to work full- time, 2.) paid at rates above the state minimum wage and 3.) expected to meet Walgreens’ established performance standards. In order to enable persons with disabilities, particularly those with more significant disabilities, to meet Walgreens’ production and performance standards, the company is providing an opportunity for these individuals to participate in pre-employment training at the Distribution Center Training Center, to be conducted by a qualified community rehabilitation program. The Windsor Distribution Center will be the second in a series of new distribution centers to be opened under this new employment initiative. The first such facility was opened in Anderson, South Carolina in Fall 2006, where currently more than 40% of its workforce are persons with disabilities in positions throughout the Distribution Center. In the first 9 months of operations, 140 employees with disabilities were hired at the Anderson Distribution Center. Approximately 70% of these employees were hired through regular recruitment methods. The remaining 30% required preparation before they met the job qua lifications and therefore received training similar to the program outlined in the Project Design section of this RFP. It is the goal of Walgreens that the Connecticut Distribution Center will recruit a greater proportion of individuals with more significant disabilities who will likely require the services outlined below. Walgreens has requested that in Connecticut, one primary community rehabilitation program be responsible for this training, to simplify the company’s security procedures and communications between the employer and training provider. For more than two years, Walgreens has been working closely with officials from various state agencies in preparation for the opening of the Connecticut Distribution Center and the hiring of a substantial number of persons with disabilities. A task force headed by the Office of Workforce Competitiveness (OWC), with representatives of the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS),

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Department of Developmental Services (DDS), Department of Education, Board of Education and Services for the Blind and the Department of Labor, has been meeting to develop a plan for recruitment and training of persons with disabilities. The design of the program outlined in this proposal is the result of the work of this task force in close collaboration with representatives from Walgreens. In a separate initiative, representatives of the Connecticut Department of Transportation, Capital Region Council of Governments and Connecticut Transit have entered into discussions regarding the feasibility of offering public transportation for employees working in the new industrial park. Currently, there are plans to provide one round-trip bus run between the Distribution Center and downtown Hartford during times that will accommodate all or most project participants during their pre-employment period and those who will work on the first shift. ______________________________________________________________________________

Project Design ______________________________________________________________________________ Training Process Walgreens is interested in hiring persons with disabilities at all levels and job classifications within the Distribution Center. They have, however, initially identified three job categories where they believe persons with cognitive and other disabilities may have the greatest opportunity for success, “Case Check-In,” “De-Trash,” and “Pick-to-Light.” (See Glossary and the Walgreens website, www.walgreensoutreach.com, for job descriptions.) In order to determine appropriate candidates for these and other positions, as well as enable those candidates who do not have the prerequisite social and/or work skills to successfully enter these jobs, Walgreens and the OWC task force have developed the following process for training at the Windsor, Connecticut site: Phase I (Initial Screening): Prospective job candidates will be identified by sponsoring agencies and Connecticut high schools, based on candidates’ interest and an initial screening conducted by the referring entity. This screening will include an assessment of the individual’s requisite skills relative to employment at the Distribution Center. All referrals to the pre-employment training will be made through a single point of entry, the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services. Therefore, candidates deemed appropriate for training and employment at the Distribution Center will be referred to the BRS counselor responsible for coordinating all referrals to the Contractor under this project. As appropriate, the BRS counselor may: a.) formally register the individual as a BRS consumer, b.) directly refer the individual to the Walgreens program without formal BRS registration, or c.) in consultation with the referral source and Contractor, recommend further evaluation or alternative services for the individual. To the extent feasible, individuals being referred to the program will tour the Distribution Center prior to Phase II in order to further evaluate their interest in and the feasibility of employment at the Center. Phase II (Contractor Screening and Walgreens Training Center Instruction): The Contractor will review applications submitted to the Walgreens training program by BRS, to determine the appropriateness of the referral for training and employment at the Distribution Center. Those candidates determined to require and be appropriate for the program will participate in a training program conducted by the Contractor at the Training Center. Candidates will be involved in

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training for 8 hours per day, to simulate Distribution Center job requirements. Half of the training day will consist of classroom training on Office of Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rules, travel training (if needed), product identification and completion of Walgreens’ social skill training program utilizing a curriculum developed by the company. For those candidates who will be considered for any of the three job categories listed above, the remaining half of the day will consist of training on the specific equipment utilized for each of the three identified jobs. A total of five machines will be available in the Training Center on which three candidates can be trained at one time, with one job coach assigned to each machine. It is anticipated that, as needed, up to 30 candidates can be trained at one time within the Training Center, with half of the candidates participating in classroom activities while the other half is learning to operate the machinery. A participant may progress to Phase III at such time as s/he demonstrates competency on the job, as measured by Walgreens directives and guidelines. Factors to be considered will include the individual’s production rate, accuracy, ability to work an eight-hour work shift, knowledge of the company’s work culture, ability to follow all safety procedures and appropriate engagement with others in the workplace. Project staff will work closely with Walgreens employees to determine participants’ readiness for Phase III or direct hire by the employer. The length of time to complete Phase II will vary, depending on the individual’s abilities and needs. Experience at the Anderson, South Carolina Distribution Center is showing that most candidates are capable of completing this phase in less than 45 workdays, with an estimated average of 15 workdays. Phase III (Transitional Work Group Training): Job candidates meeting the standards set for Phase III will begin transitional work at the Distribution Center in the job for which they are being considered. A 1:3 coach-to-candidate ratio is anticipated to be needed during this phase. Candidates will be evaluated at 15, 30 and 45-day intervals for their readiness for hire by Walgreens. The Contractor will be responsible for payment of a training wage to candidates in Phase III. Reimbursement of these costs will be made by Walgreens through a separate contract with Walgreens. The candidate may be hired by Walgreens after s/he demonstrates appropriate work behaviors and meets Walgreens’ production standards. Based on Walgreens’ prior experience, it is anticipated that most candidates will be able to complete Phase III in less than 45 days. Phase IV (Walgreens Hire): Those job candidates successfully completing Phase III or otherwise meeting Walgreens’ employment standards will be hired by the company as vacancies occur and paid at the regular starting wage for that position. After an individual has been hired, support or accommodation needs will be provided by Walgreens’ job coaches, supplemented as needed by services through sponsoring agencies. However, during the contract period, the Contractor will be responsible for assessing the need for any ongoing support or accommodations, as well as facilitating the hiring process and transition of support services to the Walgreens’ job coaches. Job candidates with disabilities who do not require the full array of services may be hired after completing only a portion of the above components, as appropriate. Individuals with disabilities may also be hired through the regular Walgreens recruitment process, provided they meet the prerequisite experience and/or skill requirements.

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As stated above, Walgreens will need to hire approximately 200 workers between November 2008 and January 2009, when it begins operations in several departments. In order to insure that these are filled by as many project participants as possible, the goal is that 40 candidates will be ready for Phase III or Phase IV when the Center opens several work stations in November 2008, and that an additional 20 individuals will be ready by January 2009. Thereafter, the Contractor will be responsible for maintaining a group of at least 30 individuals with disabilities who will be ready for hire (Phase IV) at the Distribution Center throughout the contract period, to account for attrition and expansion of job opportunities at the Center. The Contractor will be responsible for assisting program participants with accessing transportation, as necessary. Indirect transportation services (e.g., travel training, coordination with vanpools, development of natural supports, etc.) will be included in the Contractor’s responsibilities under this RFP. Funding for bus fare, mileage or the direct provision of transportation (if available), will be authorized on an individual-case basis by agreement between the sponsoring agency and the Contractor, with funds other than those authorized as a result of this RFP. Project Staffing and Funding Design In order to accommodate for the fluctuations in the rate of Walgreens recruitment and the needs of potential job candidates, the Contractor will be funded on both a monthly and per diem basis as follows: Part A: A portion of the project funds will be allocated to provide the Contractor with start-up funds to support staff responsible for Phases II and III of the program. Part A staff may also be used to provide additional support to participants in Phase IV, in the event of a reduced number participants in Phases II and III. During Year I, Part A funding will support five full-time equivalent direct service staff responsible for providing applicant screening, job coaching, and classroom training, of whom one full-time staff person must be designated to also serve as a program supervisor. For Year II, the Part A staffing level will be based on the projected needs during the second year. The Contractor will be paid a monthly rate dependent upon expenses incurred and project income, reconciled quarterly with financial reports and in accordance with the terms of the contract between the United Way and the Contractor. Part B: To the extent that additional job coaches are needed beyond the level funded under Part A, United Way will reimburse the Contractor on a per diem basis. Depending on the number of appropriate job candidates and the hiring rate by Walgreens, there exists the potential for significant fluctuation in the need for additional coaches during the contract period. In order to fulfill this need, the Contractor may utilize full-time, part-time or contracted staff. Because of the certification requirements for Phase II staff as described below, it is likely that job coaches hired on a per diem basis will only be used for Phase III services. Funding After Year II: It is anticipated that funding for Walgreens training through the United Way will be limited to no more than two years. Services needed after Year II by prospective Walgreens employees would be purchased on a fee-for-service basis through agreements with sponsoring agencies.

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One bidder, which may either be a single organization or a consortium of qualified community rehabilitation programs, will be chosen to provide services under this Request for Proposals. Bidders must demonstrate the ability to work with a variety of disability populations, including but not necessarily limited to persons with mental retardation, autism, mental illness, physical disabilities, deafness and visual impairments. If the bidder is a consortium of organizations, all members of the consortium must meet the qualifications outlined in this RFP. The consortium must designate a lead organization, which would be the signatory on necessary contracts and would be responsible for communications with Walgreens, the United Way and the Project Administrator, as well as general oversight and supervision of the project and staff funded as a result of a contract with the United Way. Staff Training and Program Curricula Walgreens is requiring that Contractor staff working at the Distribution Center will receive training in and, to the extent appropriate, utilize the TEACCH (Training and Education of Autistic and Related-Communication Handicapped Children) methodology, in order to parallel the skills and training planned for Walgreens personnel. As part of the project, Contractor staff will participate in training on the TEACCH methods in the beginning of Year I, anticipated to be a two-day program conducted at the Walgreens Training Center or other location within the Greater Hartford area. The Contractor will be responsible for training any project staff hired thereafter. In addition, project funds will be made available for ongoing consultation on the implementation of TEACCH methodologies, as outlined in the budget section of this Request for Proposals (RFP). Job coaches providing Phase II training will be required to know all aspects of the jobs for which they assist participants, based on instruction from Walgreens personnel, and will be certified on each piece of equipment upon successful completion of training. Project staff will work closely with Walgreens personnel to maintain an up-to-date knowledge of the job and an understanding of the work culture at the Distribution Center. Phase III coaches will be required to have a basic knowledge of the jobs for which they will be providing training. Project Funding and Administration Financial support for the project will primarily come from funds allocated from the State of Connecticut Bond Commission, to be distributed by the United Way which will issue the primary contract with the successful bidder. The Department of Social Services’ Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) will serve as the Program Administrator for this project. BRS will be responsible for coordinating all project referrals, general oversight of the Contractor’s performance and for approval of all payments by the United Way. In addition, participating state agencies are expected to contribute to a portion of the program costs. Funding through the contract with the United Way is not anticipated to exceed a total of $1,250,000 over a two-year period for Parts A and B, as described in the “Project Staffing and Funding Design” section of this RFP.

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______________________________________________________________________________

Contractor Requirements ______________________________________________________________________________ The applicant awarded a contract under this RFP shall have the following responsibilities:

1. To hire and maintain qualified project staff The Contractor shall:

a. Hire and maintain qualified project staff, in accordance with the requirements set forth in this RFP and the job descriptions outlined in the bidder’s proposal;

b. Maintain a staffing level consistent with the bidder’s proposal and requirements under Part A;

c. Secure a sufficient number of additional job coaches, as needed, for which it will be paid on a per diem basis under Part B;

d. Insure that all staff hired through this project are employees of a qualified community rehabilitation program;

e. Establish and implement, as needed, a plan for coverage in the event of staff absenteeism and attrition;

f. Submit a police background check for all project staff members who will work directly with program participants; and

g. Ensure that project staff receive training in TEACCH techniques, as well as Walgreens’ equipment and procedures prior to the provision of services to program participants, as outlined in the Project Design.

. 2. To manage program referrals

The Contractor will only accept referrals for this project which are generated from the BRS counselor assigned to the project. The Contractor will be responsible for managing the flow of referrals between Phase I (Initial Screening) and Phase II (Contractor Screening and Training Center Instruction).

3. To designate a lead agency, in the case of a consortium In the situation where two or more organizations form a consortium for the purposes of

conducting the program outlined in this RFP, one organization must serve as the lead agency. The lead agency shall be the signatory on all necessary contracts and shall be responsible for the oversight of the project and supervision of all project staff, as well as communications with Walgreens, the Program Administrator and the United Way.

4. To provide evaluations and training to qualified job candidates

The Contractor shall be responsible for screening prospective job candidates referred for the project to determine the appropriateness of the referral for the training program and employment at the Distribution Center. The Contractor will be responsible for conducting classroom and on-the-job training, as needed by project participants and outlined in the Project Design section of this RFP. The training will include, but not necessarily be limited to, use of Distribution Center equipment, social skills, OSHA requirements, product identification and appropriate work behaviors. During the classroom training, the Contractor will utilize the social skill training curriculum developed by Walgreens.

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5. To provide project participants with assistance in securing transportation to the Distribution Center The Contractor shall be responsible for assisting project participants in identifying, coordinating and/or securing transportation to the Distribution Center, as needed. Contractor responsibilities will include the provision of travel training, coordination with Rideshare or other vanpools, facilitation of natural supports and, to the extent available, assistance with accessing public transportation. If applicable, direct assistance with transportation will be made available to program participants in accordance with the bidder’s proposal.

6. To pay participants wages during Phase III In accordance with Department of Labor rules, participants must be paid wages starting at Phase III, Transitional Work Group. The Contractor will be responsible for establishing a contract with Walgreens by which: a) the Contractor will pay program participants a training wage and all applicable fringe benefits as required by law, while they are in Phase III and b) Walgreens will reimburse the Contractor in accordance with that agreement. Whichever bidder is selected and signs a contract with the United Way will have to sign a contract with Walgreens concerning wages reimbursement within 45 days of signing the contract with the United Way. The United Way reserves the right to render the effectiveness of the contract between the CRP and United Way null and void should this requirement not be met.

7. To submit required reports The Contractor shall be required to submit progress reports on each program participant within 15 days of completion of Phase II and III, in accordance with requirements set forth by the Program Administrator. The Contractor shall be required to submit monthly bills for administration of the project, in accordance with the terms of the contract. As may be required by the Program Administrator, the Contractor shall also submit a monthly report of the attendance for each program participant being served in Phases II and III. The Contractor shall submit quarterly cumulative financial reports. These reports shall include the actual cost of personnel and overhead expenses incurred in the implementation of this project, and be submitted in a manner and form as may be required by the United Way.

8. To provide liability insurance Prior to each participant’s employment by Walgreens, the Contractor will be responsible for supervision of that individual while at the Distribution Center. Therefore, the Contractor shall be responsible for liability insurance in the event of injury of project participants during Phases II and III of that individual’s program. This insurance may be in the form of Workers’ Compensation or other liability insurance, as appropriate and adequate to cover any injuries to participants while under the supervision of the Contractor at the Distribution Center.

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______________________________________________________________________________

Proposal Contents

______________________________________________________________________________ A responsive proposal shall include each of the following, submitted in order: §1. Completed application form

a. The bidder must complete and submit an Individual Provider Application or Consortium Application, as applicable. See Appendix B of this RFP.

§2. Executive summary – Limit one (1) page

The bidder shall describe why it believes it is uniquely qualified to administer and provide the services outlined in this project.

§3. Verification that the bidder meets the minimum qualifications as both a Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) community rehabilitation program (CRP) and Department of Developmental Services (DDS) provider Only those providers which meet the requirements set by BRS and DDS for the provision of services outlined in this RFP will be considered. In addition to documentation outlined in other sections: a. For BRS approval, the bidder must complete Appendix C and submit any additional

documentation required for the applicable option(s). At the bidder’s discretion, it may also submit up to one (1) additional page in order to further clarify its qualifications under Options II or III.

b. For DDS approval, the bidder must complete Appendix D. Further information regarding becoming a DDS-qualified provider can be found in the “Proposal Submission and Format Requirements” section of this RFP.

§4. Organization summary – Limit two (2) pages The bidder shall submit: a. Date of the establishment of the organization;

b. The organization mission; c. A listing of the organization’s programs, with a brief description of the major

programs; and d. Organizational changes within the last two (2) years, including any reorganization

and/or turnover of key personnel, acquired grants for current programs and lost grants, including the reasons for loss of grants.

§5. Organization governance The bidder shall submit:

a. The bidders’ current organizational chart; and b. A list of the bidders’ Board of Directors, with names and affiliations of each member.

§6. Evidence of experience in the provision of vocational services for persons with disabilities – Limit five (5) pages, including the form required in subsection (g)

The bidder shall submit:

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a. A description of the bidder’s methodology and experience in providing vocational assessments, including community-based situational assessments;

b. A description of the bidder’s programs and methodology for placement in and provision of community-based vocational services for persons with disabilities, including the length of experience in providing these services;

c. A brief description of the bidder’s current program(s), if any, in which persons with disabilities are paid sub-minimum wages and the number of persons currently served in each such program;

d. A brief description of any classroom training developed and/or provided by the bidder for persons with disabilities during the past 12 months;

e. A description of the bidder’s vocational program for persons with disabilities that the bidder believes to be the most innovative, including an explanation of why the program is innovative;

f. A description of any innovative natural supports and workplace accommodations that the bidder has been responsible for developing or securing for employed persons with disabilities;

g. Completion of the “Profile of Bidder’s Experience - Vocational Services for Persons with Disabilities,” Appendix E; and

h. If applicable, other information not listed above that provides evidence of the bidder’s qualifications relative to the services outlined in the Project Design.

§7. Qualifications of the bidder’s administrative staff

The bidder shall submit the resume or curriculum vitae of the bidder’s Chief Executive Officer and any other current administrative staff who will be responsible for supervision and oversight of the staff to be assigned to this project.

§8. Qualifications of project staff – Limit two (2) pages As applicable, the bidder shall submit:

a. The job description(s), including required qualifications, for all staff that would be funded under Part A and Part B of this project;

b. A description of training that is routinely provided or required for job coaches employed by the bidder; and

c. A description of additional skills or training for any project staff that may be relevant to this project (e.g., fluency in sign language or Spanish, prior training/experience in TEACCH or other strategies for working with individuals on the autism spectrum, etc.)

§9. Evidence of the bidder’s capacity to hire and maintain adequate staff for the

project, as outlined in the Project Design – Limit one (1) page The bidder shall submit:

a. The number of full and part-time job coaches serving persons in community-based employment who are currently employed by the bidder;

b. Number of full and part-time job coaches that have resigned or otherwise been terminated from employment with the bidder during the past 12 months;

c. Plan for recruitment and training of project staff, if contract is awarded to the bidder; d. Job titles for staff to be funded under Part A of this project and number of staff to be

hired under each job title;

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e. Job title(s) and the number of full- time equivalent Contractor employees for each job

title who will provide direct service to program participants under Part B; f. If applicable, agreements or other plans for collaboration between members of a

consortium or other organizations; and g. Plan for refilling temporary or permanent vacancies of project staff.

§10. Evidence of bidder’s capacity to assist participants with transportation – Limit two

(2) pages The bidder shall submit:

a. A description of how the bidder has previously assisted persons whom it serves with securing transportation for employment, including any innovative solutions to resolving transportation issues;

b. A description of what resources the bidder will make available to assist project participants with securing transportation during Phases II and III and/or after the individual is hired by Walgreens; and

c. If the bidder is capable of providing transportation to participants, a detailed description of the transportation service(s) to be made available, including but not limited to: the method(s) to be used; overall and per person costs; and any limitations or restrictions such as distance, routes, number of persons served, duration of the service or hours of operation.

§11. Bidder’s references

The bidder shall submit the names of three (3) programmatic references. References are individuals who are able to comment on the performance of the bidder’s capacity to provide vocational services for persons with disabilities and perform the services outlined in the Project Design. References should include managers or administrators of state agencies, public schools, or other entities having awarded grants to, purchased services from or otherwise evaluated the bidder. The application must also include a written reference for the bidder’s Executive Director. In cases where the bidder is either: 1) a sole proprietor or 2) an organization that has been in operation for less than two years, the application must include reference(s) for both the Executive Director and, if applicable, the Director of Vocational Services from a director or senior manager of the individual's most recent employer(s).

§12. Notarized statement The bidder shall submit a notarized statement attesting that the Administrative/Executive Director, Director of Vocational Services and individuals providing direct services to project participants: a. Have not had a professional license or certification revoked; b. Have not been found guilty of fraud, abuse or ethics violations; or c. Are not currently under investigation for fraud, abuse or ethics violations

Within that notarized document, the bidder must also include a statement that indicates whether the organization, Administrative/Executive Director, Director of Vocational Services and/or other known staff member who would be involved with the Walgreens

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project have been investigated in connection with allegations of fraud or ethics violations within the past ten (10) years. If such an investigation has taken place, the bidder must submit a copy of the official disposition of the investigation or a description of the circumstances, if an official disposition of the investigation is no t available.

§13. Verification of financial stability The bidder shall submit:

a. A copy of the bidder’s financial audits and management letter, if applicable, for the past two fiscal years Bidders who do not have a financial audit must submit a business plan and personal financial statements of the Director or Chief Executive Officer including evidence of financial resources or a line of credit sufficient to cover estimated operating expenses for sixty days; Audited Financial Statements do not count toward the total page limit of the submission.

b. The bidder’s budget for the current fiscal year; and c. If the bidder currently carries an accumulated deficit, a statement of the amount and

the bidder’s plans for elimination of that deficit. §14. Other Required Forms

a. The bidder must provide a signed Acceptance Statement, without qualification, of all Mandatory Terms and Conditions on the bidder’s letterhead.

b. The bidder must complete the Workforce Analysis form (Appendix F). c. The bidder must complete the Notification to Bidder’s form (Appendix F).

§15. Organizational chart for the project The bidder shall submit the proposed organizational chart if the bidder is awarded a contract under this RFP, including the names of staff members who will oversee this project, in whole or in part. For consortiums, the chart will also designate the name of the agency for each position listed.

§16. Project Budget

The bidder must complete the attached budget forms for Part A and Part B of the project. See RFP Appendix G. The budgetary information included in the bidder’s response to this RFQ must comply with the Statewide Cost Standards published by the State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management. The cost standards are available online at http://opm.state.ct.us/finance/pos_standards/coststandards.htm. No cost information or other financial information may be included in any other portion of the submission. Any submission that fails to adhere to this requirement may be disqualified as non-responsive.

§17. Additional instructions and documentation for consortiums In the case of any bidder that is applying as a consortium, the relevant information of only the lead agency must be included as part of Sections 3 through 14, inclusive. Section 17 of the application must include all of the information required in Sections 3 through 14, as applies to each of the members of the consortium. Applicants must respond to each section in order, separating the set of responses by consortium member.

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______________________________________________________________________________

Proposal Submission and Format Requirements ______________________________________________________________________________ 1. Letter of Intent All prospective bidders must submit a non-binding Letter of Intent (LOI) addressed to the

Issuing Office. The LOI must contain the following information: • Organization name. If the bidder plans to apply as a consortium, the lead agency

would be listed. • Complete mailing address • Executive Director – Name, telephone number and e-mail address. • Contact Person (if different from Executive Director) – Name, title, telephone

number and e-mail address. • A statement that indicates that the organization intends to apply for funding to

administer and provide services for the Walgreens Training Program. • If known, whether the bidder plans to apply as a consortium and the name(s) of

the other organizations that will be part of the consortium. The LOI must be received by the Issuing Office no later than 3:00 p.m. local time on

Friday, January 18, 2008. The LOI may be faxed, e-mailed or sent via U.S. Postal Service. The bidder is responsible for confirming that the Letter of Intent was received in advance of the deadline. The United Way reserves the right to disqualify any and all bidders failing to submit a Letter of Intent by the required submission date and time.

2. Mandatory Bidders’ Conference All potential bidders are required to attend a mandatory Bidders’ Conference to be held: Date: Monday, January 28, 2008 Time: 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Location: United Way of Connecticut, Inc. 1344 Silas Deane Highway Rocky Hill, CT 06067 Because of limited space, bidders may bring no more than three (3) representatives to the

Bidders’ Conference. In the event of inclement weather, the meeting will be held on the following day, Tuesday

January 29, 2008, at the same time and location. If the meeting is postponed, notification will be made via phone and/or e-mail to the contact person listed on the bidder’s Letter of Intent. If bidders have further questions regarding whether the meeting is postponed, contact should be made with the Issuing Office.

The United Way reserves the right to reject the application of any bidder that fails to have a

representative in attendance at the Bidders’ Conference. 3. Additional Questions To be considered, questions outside of the Bidders’ Conference must be received by the

Issuing Office no later than 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 1, 2008. It is preferred that questions be e-mailed to the Issuing Office, however faxed copies will also be accepted.

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Official responses to all questions will be in Questions/Answers Addenda to this RFP posted on the State Procurement/Contracting Portal at:

www.das.state.ct.us/Purchase/Portal/Portal_Home.asp To the extent feasible, answers to questions received by this deadline will be posted within

five business days of receipt. It is solely the bidder’s responsibility to:

a. Ensure and verify the receipt of questions by the Issuing Office, which will only respond to those questions that are received in the prescribed manner and timeframe; and

b. Access the State Procurement/Contracting Portal to obtain any and all addenda or official announcements pertaining to this RFP.

4. Proposal Due Date All proposals must be received by the United Way no later than 3:00 p.m. local time on

Monday, February 18, 2008. No proposal received after this date and time will be considered.

Proposals must be addressed to the Issuing Office: United Way of Connecticut, Inc. 1344 Silas Deane Highway Rocky Hill, CT 06067 Att: Jennifer Johnson In addition, a copy of all portions of the bidder’s application which are available

electronically must be e-mailed by midnight of the due date, February 18, 2008, to: WalgreensRFP@ctunitedway.org

5. Number of Submissions An organization is limited to one application as either a sole provider or as the lead agency of

a consortium. However, an organization may be a member one or more consortium applications, regardless of whether or not they have filed an application as a sole or lead agency.

6. Proposal Format

a. Proposals must be submitted on 8½” x 11”, three-hole punched paper b. All proposals must be typewritten, with font size no smaller than 12 point. Times New

Roman or Arial font is preferred. c. Proposal margins must be at least 1” on each side. d. Proposals must be submitted in the order outlined in the Proposal Contents section of this

RFP. Each section and subsection of the proposal must be clearly numbered, corresponding to the designated numbering in the Proposal Contents section.

e. Page limits outlined in the Proposal Contents section of this RFP will be strictly enforced. f. Each page of each part of the proposal must be numbered consecutively from the

beginning of the submission through all appended materials g. The proposal must include a table of contents, designating the beginning page number of

the response to each of the major sections of the Proposal Contents and any appendices.

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7. Copies a. Bidders must submit one clearly marked original and six (6) copies of the proposal,

including any attachments. The original and each copy must be separated by a colored sheet of paper.

b. In the interest of conservation, original and copies may be double-sided c. No part of the submission may be stapled or otherwise bound

8. As stated above, the Contractor must be a Department of Developmental Services (DDS)

qualified provider. Bidders must notify United Way in writing that it has met this requirement. United Way reserves the right to reject the application of any bidder for which it has not received this notification by February 25, 2008. Any action concerning obtaining this approval is solely the responsibility of the applicant.

For further information on becoming a DDS-qualified provider, contact:

Peter Mason, Operations Manager Department of Developmental Services

460 Capital Avenue Hartford, Connecticut 06106 Tel: (860) 418-6077 E-mail: peter.mason@ct.gov Additional information regarding DDS qualifications can be found on the DDS website, http://www.ct.gov/dds/cwp/view.asp?a=3166&q=401002 ______________________________________________________________________________

Proposal Evalua tions ______________________________________________________________________________ United Way will conduct a comprehensive, fair, and impartial evaluation of submissions received in response to this RFP. An Evaluation Team will be chosen from among the members of the project task force, including the Connecticut Office of Workforce Competitiveness, Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, Department of Developmental Services, Board of Education and Services for the Blind, Department of Education and Department of Labor. United Way and the Program Administrator reserve the right to alter the composition of the Evaluation Team. The United Way will notify the selected bidder that the organization has been awarded the right to negotiate a contract for the Walgreens Training Program. All information provided to United Way will inform the decision of the Evaluation Team. United Way reserves the right to verify any information submitted by the bidder with the applicable state agency or authority. The evaluation will be conducted in five stages, as follows: 1. Stage One - Evaluation of General Submission Requirements

The purpose of this stage is to determine whether each submission is sufficiently responsive to the requirements outlined in the “Proposal Contents” and “Proposal Submission and Format Requirements” sections above, in order to permit a complete evaluation of the

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submission. Submissions must comply with the instructions to bidders contained throughout. Failure to comply with the instructions may deem the submission non-responsive and subject to rejection without further consideration. United Way reserves the right to waive minor irregularities.

2. Stage Two - Evaluation of whether the bidder meets the minimum qualifications as

both a Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) community rehabilitation program (CRP) and Department of Developmental Services (DDS) provider. As stated elsewhere in this RFP, only those proposals from bidders which meet both the minimum qualifications as a BRS community rehabilitation program CRP and DDS qualified provider will be considered. See Appendices C and D. Bidders not meeting this requirement will not be further evaluated.

3. Stage Three – Evaluation of the bidder’s ability to provide the services outlined in the Project Design section of this RFP. Proposals will be evaluated based on the quality and capacity of the bidder to administer and deliver project services, as follows:

a. Bidder Quality, Experience and Structure – Total Points: 30

Factors to be considered will include, but not necessarily limited to: i. Quality of the bidder’s current administration and key personnel ii. Quality of the bidder’s administrative structure iii. Experience in the provision of vocational services for people with disabilities iv. Breadth of experience/expertise in working with various disability groups v. Financial stability of the bidder

b. Project Quality and Capacity – Total Points: 50

Factors to be considered will include, but not necessarily limited to: i. Quality of proposed project staff ii. Expertise of project staff in working with a variety disability groups iii. Evidence that the bidder will plan and be able to hire and maintain a sufficient

number of quality staff to administer and provide project services, as outlined in the Project Design section of this RFP

iv. Innovations in the delivery of vocational services v. Breadth and quality of the indirect and, if applicable, direct transportation

services. In those cases where the bidder proposes to provide direct assistance with transportation, the reasonableness of the cost of this service will also be considered.

United Way reserves the right to deny further consideration of any proposal that scores less than 75% of the total points (i.e., less than 60 points) for Stage Three. The Evaluation Team may require an interview of the bidder(s) scoring the highest number of points for Stage Three.

4. Stage Four - Evaluation of the Business Cost Section – Total Points: 20 Proposals will be evaluated for the reasonableness and appropriateness of costs attributed to

Parts A and B of the project.

15

5. Stage Five - Ranking of the Submissions Proposals evaluated in Stage Four will be ranked, based on the combined number of points

awarded for Stage Three and Stage Four of this evaluation process. After the ranking stage, United Way may invite one or more of the top three (3) ranked bidders to make an oral presentation to assist United Way in its determination of award. United Way further reserves the right to limit the number of attendees per bidder.

Following the oral presentations, United Way expects to select one or more of the top three (3) bidders to commence negotiations of a possible Agreement. If more than one bidder is selected to enter into negotiations, United Way may conduct negotiations in such order and manner as United Way determines. Such negotiations shall not be limited by reference to the RFP or the bids and may include discussion of other or different items. If United Way fails to reach an agreement with any of the top three (3) bidders then it reserves the right to open negotiations with anyone who originally submitted a bid for this RFP or to reissue the RFP.

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______________________________________________________________________________

Glossary of Terms, Abbreviations and Acronyms ______________________________________________________________________________ The following acronyms, abbreviations, and definitions apply to this procurement: 1. AbilityOne – Formerly Javits-Wagner-O’Day (JWOD), AbilityOne is a program that

requires government agencies to contract with non-profit organizations employing persons with disabilities for the provision of goods or services.

2. BRS – The Connecticut Department of Social Services’ Bureau of Rehabilitation

Services. 3. Case Check-In – One of the three Walgreens jobs for which training will be provided

during Phase II of the program. The Case Check-In positions are found in the receiving department of the warehouse. Duties include removing cases of merchandise from a machine, utilizing a scanner to check the cases and sending the case to the next workstation. The position requires use of a computer screen which utilizes both pictures and words to aid in the ease of its use.

4. Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) – Certification awarded to qualified vocational

rehabilitation counselors by the Council on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification, located in Carol Stream, IL.

5. Classroom training – Instruction provided to a group of persons with disabilities,

primarily through verbal means and generally without the benefit of hands-on experience. 6. Community rehabilitation program (CRP) – For purposes of this RFP, “community

rehabilitation program" means a program that provides vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities, and that provides, singly or in combination, for an individual with a disability to enable the individual to maximize opportunities for employment: (A) vocational services; (B) assessments of vocational potential and vocational rehabilitation needs; (C) job development, placement, and retention services; (D) supported employment services and/or (E) services similar to the services described in paragraphs (A) through (E) of this definition. For the purposes of this definition, the word “program” means an agency, organization, or institution, or unit of an agency, organization, or institution, that provides directly or facilitates the provision of vocational rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities as one of its major functions.

7. Contractor – The bidder awarded a contract through this Request for Proposals process.

The Contractor may be an individual organization or a consortium of providers that meets the qualifications of both BRS and DDS, as outlined in this RFP.

8. DDS – The Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (formerly the

Department of Mental Retardation).

RFP Appendix A (Pg. 1 of 4)

9. De-Trash – One of the three Walgreens jobs for which training will be provided during Phase II of the program. The duties of the position include determining the correct lane from which to pull products based on blinking lights, removing packaging from products, putting the products in tubs and sending the tubs to the next station.

10. Direct Transportation Services – Transportation provided directly or paid for by the Contractor.

11. Group employment – Employment in the community in which a group of two or more persons with disabilities work at the same company, during the same shift and under the supervision of the same job coach. In group employment, participants are generally paid by the community rehabilitation program providing the support services, rather than by the host company. The most common examples of group employment are enclaves and work crews. For purposes of this RFP, the term does not include work that is completed under an AbilityOne or NISH contract.

12. Indirect Transportation Services – Assistance with securing transportation from other

sources. Examples may include: travel training; assisting an individual in accessing Rideshare or an alternative vanpool; or development of natural supports for the provision of transportation.

13. Individualized job placements – An employment position held by a person with a

disability where the individual does not work in a group with or adjacent to other persons with disabilities. Persons in individualized job placements are paid competitive wages and work for employers other than a community rehabilitation program providing support services to the individual.

14. Issuing Office – The office responsible for issuing and communications regarding this

RFP, United Way of Connecticut, Inc., 1344 Silas Deane Hwy., Rocky Hill, CT 06067; Att: Jennifer Johnson.

15. Natural supports – Natural supports are any assistance, relationships or interactions that

allow a person to secure, maintain and advance in a job or in the community in ways that correspond to the typical routines and social actions of other people and that enhance the individual’s relationships. The use of natural supports involves assisting an individual to develop a sense of social belonging, dignity and self-esteem. Examples include: a co-worker or supervisor assisting an individual on the job; a neighbor, friend, or co-worker providing transportation.

16. OSHA – The United States Department of Labor’s Office of Safety and Health

Administration, which establishes and enforces workplace safety and health standards.

17. Person or individual with a disability – An individual, a.) with a physical or mental impairment which for such individual constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to

RFP Appendix A (Pg. 2 of 4)

employment and b) who can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from the provision of vocational rehabilitation services.

18. Pick-to-Light – One of the three Walgreens jobs for which training will be provided

during Phase II of the program. Duties include picking items from tubs, matching a series of letters on a computer screen with totes, and placing the items in the correct totes, based on this match.

19. Program Administrator – The Department of Social Services’ Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS).

20. RFP – Request for Proposals issued by United Way for prospective bidders of the

Walgreens training project.

21. Sheltered employment – Employment within a community rehabilitation program facility whereby the majority of the workers are persons with disabilities. In sheltered employment, the workers are generally paid under a wage certificate in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act.

22. Situational assessments – An assessment of an individual’s work skills and behaviors in a

real, rather than simulated, work environment. 23. Sponsoring agency – State agency or other entity assuming responsibility for referring

individuals to the Walgreens program and/or providing other services required by the program participant.

24. Supported Employment – Competitive work in an integrated work setting or employment

in integrated work settings in which individuals are working toward competitive work with ongoing support for individuals with the most significant disabilities, for whom competitive employment has not traditionally occurred or has been interrupted or intermittent as a result of a significant disability, and who because of the nature and severity of the disabilities, need initial and extended services to perform this work.

25. Training and Education of Autistic and Related-Communication Handicapped Children

(TEACCH) method – A method of systematized instruction for the provision of supported employment services developed by the University of North Carolina, designed for persons with autism.

26. United Way – United Way of Connecticut, Inc., not in its individual capacity but solely

as a contract administrator and funding conduit for the program described in this RFP. The obligations of United Way of Connecticut, Inc. shall in all cases be limited to the sources of funding made available to United Way of Connecticut, Inc. for the specific purposes of such program and its express agreements as contract administrator.

27. Vocational assessment – An evaluation specifically designed to assess an individual’s

strengths and needs related to employment.

RFP Appendix A (Pg. 3 of 4)

28. Vocational services – For purposes of this RFP, “vocational services” means services that

are specifically designed to enable a person with a disability to enter, gain or maintain employment. The term may include vocational assessments, job placement, job coaching, vocational counseling, job skill training or vocationally-related classroom training for persons with disabilities.

RFP Appendix A (Pg. 4 of 4)

Section 1 United Way of Connecticut

Walgreens Training Program Individual Provider Application

Legal Name of Applicant: _____________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Mailing Address (if different): ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Telephone Number: ________________________ Fax: _______________________ EIN or SSN: ________________________ Executive Director: ______________________________________ __________________ (Name) (Title) ______________________________________ __________________ (Phone) (E-Mail) Contact Person: ______________________________________ __________________ (if other than Exec. Dir.) (Name) (Title) ______________________________________ __________________ (Phone) (E-Mail) Project Budget: Part A (Total budget – Year I): _____________ Part B (Per-diem rate): _____________/day Certification: I have read the Walgreens Training Program Request for Proposals. All of the information submitted as part of this bidder’s application, including all supporting materials, is complete and correct. If awarded a contract through this RFP process, I agree that the organization which I represent will comply with the requirements outlined in this RFP and the proposal submitted by my organization. _____________________________________ _________________ ____________ Exec.Director/CEO (Signature) Title Date

RFP Appendix B

Section 1 United Way of Connecticut

Walgreens Training Program Consortium Application

(Pg. 1 of 2)

Lead Agency: ______________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Mailing Address (if different): ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Telephone Number: ________________________ Fax: _______________________ EIN or SSN: ________________________ Executive Director: ______________________________________ __________________ (Name) (Title) ______________________________________ __________________ (Phone) (E-Mail) Contact Person: ______________________________________ __________________ (if other than Exec. Dir.) (Name) (Title) ______________________________________ __________________ (Phone) (E-Mail) Project Budget: Part A (Total budget – Year I): _____________ Part B (Per-diem rate): _____________/day Other consortium members (add additional page(s), if needed): Agency Name: ______________________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________________

__________________________ Telephone: ________________ Agency Name: ______________________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________________

__________________________ Telephone: ________________ Agency Name: ______________________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________________

__________________________ Telephone: ________________

RFP Appendix B

Section 1 United Way of Connecticut

Walgreens Training Program Consortium Application

(Pg. 2 of 2)

Certification: I have read the Walgreens Training Program Request for Proposals. All of the information submitted as part of this bidder’s application, including all supporting materials, is complete and correct as it relates to the organization which I represent. If awarded a contract through this RFP process, I agree that the organization I represent will comply with the requirements outlined in this RFP and the proposal as it relates to my organization. _____________________________________ ____________________ ____________ Lead Agency Exec. Director/CEO (Signature) Title Date Other consortium members (add additional lines, as needed): ____________________________________________ ________________________ ______________ Exec.Dir./CEO (Sign & print name) Agency Name Date ____________________________________________ ________________________ ______________ Exec.Dir./CEO (Sign & print name) Agency Name Date ____________________________________________ ________________________ ______________ Exec.Dir./CEO (Sign & print name) Agency Name Date

RFP Appendix B

Section 3(a)

Organization Name _______________________________

BRS Criteria for Approval of Community Rehabilitation Programs

In order to qualify for funding under the Walgreens Training Program, the bidder must meet the criteria for one of the options below. Any additional documentation beyond that outlined in other sections of this RFP are specified under the applicable options, below. (Check as applicable) ____ Option I - The organization/provider is accredited in relevant areas by CARF.

Additional documentation requirements: Under this option, the bidder must provide proof of current accreditation from the Council of Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).

Option II - The organization/provider is able to demonstrate, through its

organizational chart, a business infrastructure that it will be capable of managing project referrals and providing high quality services to project participants.

Under this option, the Executive Director assumes the dual role of being responsible for all administrative oversight of the organization, as well as the direct supervision of all staff who will be providing services under this project, as evinced through the bidder’s organizational chart. In order to qualify under Option II, the Executive Director must meet either of the following criteria:

____ a. The Executive Director is currently a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and has a minimum of two years experience (minimum 1,000 documented service hours per year) in providing community-based vocational services to persons with disabilities. This experience must include providing services specifically related to those outlined in the Project Design of this RFP.

or ____ b. The Executive Director has a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant area and a minimum

of five years experience (minimum 1,000 documented service hours per year) in providing community-based vocational services to persons with disabilities. This experience must include providing services specifically related to those outlined in the Project Design of this RFP.

Additional documentation requirements: If the entity is eligible under paragraph (a) of Option II, the bidder must submit proof of the CRC certification for the Executive Director.

RFP Appendix C (Pg. 1 of 2)

(Check as applicable) Option III - The organization/provider is able to demonstrate, through its

organizational chart, a business infrastructure that will be capable of managing project referrals and providing high quality services under this project.

Under this option, the Executive/Administrative Director assumes the role of being responsible for all administrative oversight of the organization. The Executive/Administrative Director must have a combination of experience and education (minimum of a Bachelor’s degree) deemed sufficient to effectively manage the operations of the business entity. In addition, the organizational chart must demonstrate that all direct service staff who will be providing services to project participants will report to a “Director of Vocational Services,” who must meet either of the following criteria:

____ a. The Director of Vocational Services is currently a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and has a minimum of two years experience (minimum 1,000 documented service hours per year) in providing community-based vocational services to persons with disabilities. This experience must include the provision of services specifically related to those outlined in the Project Design.

or ____ b. The Director of Vocational Services has a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant area and

a minimum of five years experience (minimum 1,000 documented service hours per year) in providing community-based vocational services to persons with disabilities. This experience must include the provision of services specifically related to those outlined in the Project Design.

Additional documentation requirements: If the entity is eligible under paragraph (a) of Option III, the bidder must submit proof of the CRC certification for the Director of Vocational Services.

RFP Appendix C (Pg. 2 of 2)

Section 3(b) Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Qualified Provider

Organization Name _____________________________________ 1. Is your organization currently a DDS-qualified provider? Yes ____ No ____ 2. If the organization is currently a DDS-qualified provider, please specify any of the following

services for which it has been found to be qualified (check all that apply): _____ Supported Employment _____ Group Day Services _____ Transportation

3. Organizations that are not currently a DDS-qualified provider must obtain approval by DDS prior to further consideration of their application. See “Proposal Submission and Format Requirements” section of the RFP for further information.

RFP Appendix D

Section 6(g) Organization Name __________________________

Profile of Bidder’s Experience - Vocational Services for Persons with Disabilities

For each of the following questions, please provide the number of individuals with disabilities served by your organization during the past 12 months . A definition of the terms followed by an asterisk (*) is provided in the Glossary.

1. Total number of persons provided vocational services* by the bidder. _______

2. The primary disability of persons listed in #1 (indicate % in each category). Combined total of all disabilities must equal 100%:

Cognitive and mental disabilities Mental retardation _______% Autism _______% Mental illness _______% Learning disability _______% Substance abuse _______% Acquired brain injury _______% Other cognitive or mental disabilities ____% Sensory disabilities Blindness _______% Deafness _______% Other visual disabilities _______% Other hearing loss _______% Physical disability Orthopedic _______% Other physical disabilities _______% Other disabilities not elsewhere classified (specify) ___________________________ _______% ___________________________ _______% 3. Number of individuals provided each of the following services (as applicable, more than one

service may be indicated for each individual served): Individualized situational assessments* ________ Job coaching in individualized job placements* ________ Group employment* ________ Classroom training* ________ Sheltered employment* ________ Employment at a federal building or agency as part of an AbilityOne* contract ________ Other vocational services (specify) ___________________________________ ________

___________________________________ ________ ___________________________________ ________ 4. For those persons working in group employment*:

a. In those sites where persons with disabilities work in the same or adjacent work stations as other persons with disabilities served by your organization, the number of such work sites and the average number of individuals in each group :

Number of work sites ________ Average number of individuals in each group ________

b. For sites where the individual performs his/her duties at a work station separate from other persons with disabilities, number of persons served in these sites. ________

RFP Appendix E

Section 14(b) WORKFORCE ANALYSIS

Contractor Name: Total Number of CT employees: Address: Full Time: Part Time: Complete the following Workforce Analysis for employees on Connecticut worksites who are:

Job Categories

Overall Totals (sum of all cols. male & female)

White (not of Hispanic Origin)

Black (not of Hispanic Origin)

Hispanic Asian or Pacific Islander

American Indian or Alaskan Native People with

People with Disabilities

Male Female Male Female Male Male Female Male Female Male FemaleOfficials & Managers

Professionals Technicians Office & Clerical Craft Workers (skilled)

Operatives (semi-skilled)

Laborers (unskilled)

Service Workers Totals Above Totals 1 year Ago FORMAL ON-THE-JOB TRAINEES (Enter figures for the same categories as are shown above) Apprentices Trainees EMPLOYMENT FIGURES WERE OBTAINED FROM:

Visual Check:

Employment Records Other:

1. Have you successfully implemented an Affirmative Action Plan? ?YES ?NO Date of implementation:__________________If the answer is “No”, explain. 1a. Do you promise to develop and implement a successful Affirmative Action? ?YES ?NO ?Not Applicable Explanation: 2. Have you successfully developed an apprenticeship program complying with Sec. 46a-68-1 to 46a-68-18 of the Connecticut Department of Labor Regulations, inclusive: ?YES ?NO ?Not Applicable Explanation: 3. According to EEO-1 data, is the composition of your work force at or near parity when compared with the racial and sexual composition of the work force in the relevant labor market area? ?YES ?NO Explanation: 4. If you plan to subcontract, will you set aside a portion of the contract for legitimate minority business enterprises? ?YES ?NO Explanation: _______________________________________ ________________________ Contractor’s Authorized Signature Date

RFP Appendix F (Pg. 1 of 2)

Section 14(c) NOTIFICATION TO BIDDERS

The contract to be awarded is subject to contract compliance requirements mandated by Sections 4a-60 and 4a-60a of the Connecticut General Statutes; and, when the awarding agency is the State, Sections 46a-71 (d) and 46a-81i (d) of the Connecticut General Statutes. There are Contract Compliance Regulations codified at Section 46a-68j-21 through 46a-68j-43 of the Regulations of Connecticut State agencies, which establish a procedure for the awarding of all contracts covered by Sections 4a-60 and 46a-71 (d) of the Connecticut General Statutes. According to Section 46a-68j-30 (9) of the Contract Compliance Regulations, every agency awarding a contract subject to the contract compliance requirements has an obligation to “aggressively solicit the participation of legitimate minority business enterprises as bidders, contractors, subcontractors and suppliers of materials.” “Minority Business Enterprise” is defined in Section 4a-60 of the Connecticut General Statutes as a business wherein fifty-one percent or more of the capital stock, or assets belong to a person or persons: “(1) Who are active in the daily affairs of the enterprise; (2) Who have the power to direct the management and policies of the enterprise; and, (3) Who are members of a minority, as such term is defined in subsection (a) of Section 32-9n.” “Minority” groups are defined in Section 32-9n of the Connecticut General Statutes as “(1) Black Americans ... (2) Hispanic Americans ... (3) Women ... (4) Asian Pacific Americans and Pacific Islanders; or (5) American Indians.” The above definitions apply to the contract compliance requirements by virtue of Section 46a-68j-21 (11) of the Contract Compliance Regulations. The awarding agency will consider the following factors when reviewing the bidder’s qualifications under the contract compliance requirements.

a) the bidder’s success in implementing an affirmative action plan;

b) the bidder’s success in developing an apprenticeship program complying with Sections 46a-68-1 to 46a-68-18 of the Connecticut General Statutes, inclusive;

c) the bidder’s promise to develop and implement a successful affirmative action plan;

d) the bidder’s submission of EEO-1 data indicating the composition of its workforce is at or near parity when compared to the racial and sexual composition of the workforce in the relevant labor market area; and,

e) the bidder’s promise to set aside a portion of the contract for legitimate minority business enterprises. See Section 46a-68j-30 (10) (E) of the Contract Compliance Regulations.

INSTRUCTION: Bidder must sign acknowledgment below line and return acknowledgment to Awarding Agency along with the bid proposal. _____________________________________________________________________________________ The undersigned acknowledges receiving and reading a copy of the “Notification to Bidders” form. _______________________________________ ___________________________ Signature Date On behalf of: ________________________________________________________________________________

RFP Appendix F (Pg. 2 of 2)

Section 16

Walgreens Training Program Project Budget

Part A (Add additional lines as necessary)

Year I Year II Direct Support (list job titles) FTE’s 1. Salaries/wages

_______________________________________ _________ $________ $________ _______________________________________ _________ $________ $________ _______________________________________ _________ $________ $________ _______________________________________ _________ $________ $________ _______________________________________ _________ $________ $________

2. Direct Support – fringe benefits $________ $________ 3. Total Direct Support Costs (add line 1 + line 2) $________ $________

Administrative & General (A&G)(include only costs

associated with Part A of this project):

Salaries, wages and fringe 4. Administration _________ $________ $________ 5. Business _________ $________ $________ 6. Secretarial/clerical _________ $________ $________ 7. Other (specify)_________________________________ _________ $________ $________ 8. Fringe $________ $________ 9. Subtotal A&G salary, wages & fringe

(add lines 4 through 8)

$________ $________ Other A&G

10. Accounting/auditing $________ $________ 11. Office supplies (including postage) $________ $________ 12. TEACCH Consultants $ 8,000 $ 8,000 13. Staff development $________ $________ 14. Insurance (specify) _____________________________ $________ $________ 15. Employee mileage $________ $________ 16. Other (specify)

___________________________________________ $________ $________ ___________________________________________ $________ $________ ___________________________________________ $________ $________ ___________________________________________ $________ $________ ___________________________________________ $________ $________

17. Subtotal - other A&G (add lines 10 through 16) $________ $________ 18. Total A&G (add line 9 + line 17) $________ $________ 19. Administrative and General percentage (line 18 ÷ line 3) ______% ______% 20. TOTAL COSTS (add line 3 + line 18) $________ $________

.

RFP Appendix G (Pg, 1 of 4)

Section 16

Walgreens Training Program Project Budget

Part B – Per Diem Rate

# FTE’s Year I Year II Direct Support 1. Salaries/wages _______ $____________ $___________ 2. Fringe $____________ $___________ 3. Subtotal (add line 1 + line 2) $____________ $___________ Administrative and General (A&G) 4. A&G percentage (from Part A, line 19) ______% ______% 5. Part B Administrative & General costs

(multiply line 3 by line 4)

$____________

$___________ 6. Total annual costs (add line 3 + line 5) $____________ $___________ 7. Days open per year 250 . 250 . 8. Total potential days [multiply line 1 (# FTE’s)

by line 7]

_________

_______ 9. Per diem rate (line 6 ÷ line 8) $____________ $___________

RFP Appendix G (Pg. 2 of 4)

Walgreens Training Program

Part A and Part B – Budget Instructions

For both the Part A and Part B budgets, include only those direct and indirect expenses attributable to the Walgreens Training Program. All costs for salaries/wages and fringe benefits must be prorated, based on the number of FTE’s involved in this project. Additional lines may be added as needed. The costs associated with providing transportation to program participants, if applicable, may not be included within the Part A or Part B budget, as this service would be funded outside of this procurement. Part A Line 1 Salaries

Include the job title(s) and the number of full- time equivalent (FTE) personnel and salaries/wages for each job title for staff providing direct services under Part A of this project.

Line 2 Direct support - fringe benefits Include the employee benefits of staff listed in Line 1. Line 4 Administration

The FTEs and budgeted costs associated with the salaries of the Executive Director/Administrator, Assistant Administrators and Other Directors (Program Managers). Section 20 of Public Act 91-11 (June Special Session) states that the total cost allowance for the salary of the director of the organization shall not exceed $75,000. Therefore, the dollar figure for the salary of the director of the organization upon which the cost attributable to this project is calculated should not be greater than $75,000.

Line 5 Business

This category is for the number of FTE’s and salaries associated with the business functions such as Business Manager, Finance Director, Accountant, Bookkeeper and Personnel Director.

Line 6 Secretarial/clerical The number of FTE’s and salaries/wages of secretarial and/or clerical staff associated with the

administrative function of the Walgreens Project. Line 7 Other Use this line to budget any administrative and general salaries not included in the lines above.

List job title(s) or categories included in this line. Line 8 Fringe Fringe benefits for the staff listed in Lines 4 through 7, prorated based on the number of staff

involved with the Walgreens project.

RFP Appendix G (Pg. 3 of 4)

Line 10 Accounting/Auditing Enter any amounts associated with accounting and auditing expenses not included in Line 5.

Examples of accounting services providers might include payroll services and quarterly tax preparation attributable to this project.

Line 11 Office Supplies This line includes office supplies, postage and other sundry items associated with the

administrative activities of the bidder related to this project. Line 12 TEACCH Consultants The amount included is the estimated cost for contracting for ongoing consulting regarding

TEACCH implementation/methods, based on approximately five hours per month of consultant time.

Line 14 Insurance Umbrella, liability, property, self- insurance, other insurance associated with the project. List

the types of insurance included in this line. The cost of payroll insurance for clients/program participants (e.g., Workers Compensation and Unemployment Insurance) should not be included, as these costs will need to be included in the bidder’s contract with Walgreens.

Line 15 Employee Mileage Employee mileage reimbursement for use of personal vehicles as associated with the

administrative function of the Walgreens project. Line 16 Other Administrative expenses not covered in the above categories, Specify the type(s) of expenses

listed. Part B Line 1 The number of FTE staff and the associated salaries/wages for personnel that will provide

direct services under Part B of the project. Line 2 The fringe benefits for the staff listed in Part B Line 1.

RFP Appendix G (Pg. 4 of 4)

Walgreens Project – 2008 Projected Timeline

1/08 2/08 3/08 4/08 5/08 6/08 7/08 8/08 9/08 10/08 11/08 12/08 RFP released 1/7/08 Letter of Intent due 1/18/08 Bidders’ Conference 1/28/08 Additional questions due 2/1/08 Outreach to referral sources by BRS and partnering agencies

(ongoing)

Proposals due 2/18/08 Proposals reviewed & CRP chosen

Contract negotiations w/successful bidder

BRS Counselor chosen to coordinate Walgreens referrals

Referrals to BRS counselor

(ongoing)

Contract w/CRP signed Referrals to CRP/Walgreens

(ongoing)

Contract w/CRP begins TEACCH training 1st group of participants screened

1st group trained - Phase II

2nd group screened 2ndgroup - Phase II 3rd group screened 3rd group - Phase II 4th group screened

4th group - Phase II

5th group screened

5th group – Phase II

6th group screened

Phase III training (ongoing)

6th group – Phase II

RFP Appendix H

______________________________________________________________________________

RIGHTS RESERVED ______________________________________________________________________________

Upon determination that its best interests or the interests of the individuals who will participate in the program would be served, United Way shall have the right to do the following:

1. Cancellation - Cancel this procurement at any time prior to the contract award. 2. Amendment of procurement - Amend this procurement at any time prior to contract award. 3. Refusal to accept - Refuse to accept or return accepted submissions: a.) that do not comply

with procurement requirements or b.) from those bidders that have failed to submit a Letter of Intent or attend the mandatory bidders’ conference.

4. Rejection of incomplete submission - Reject any submission in which any part of the

submission is incomplete or in which there are significant inconsistenc ies or inaccuracies. 5. Rejection as result of negative reference - Reject the application of any bidder that receives a

negative reference. 6. Prior contract default - Reject the submission of any bidder in default of any prior contract or

for the misrepresentation of material presented. 7. Receipt of submissions after stated due date and time - Reject or refuse to evaluate any

submission that is received after the stated due date and time. 8. Written clarification - Require bidders, at their own expense, to submit written clarification of

submissions in a manner or format that United Way may require. 9. Verification of materials submitted - Verify any information submitted by the bidder with the

applicable state agency or authority. 10. Oral clarification - Require bidders, at their own expense, to make oral presentations at a time

selected and in a place provided by United Way. United Way may invite bidders, but not necessarily all, to make an oral presentation to assist

United Way in its determination of award. United Way further reserves the right to limit the number of bidders invited to make such a presentation and the number of attendees per bidder.

RFP Appendix I (Pg. 1 of 4)

11. Onsite visits - Make onsite visits to the operational facilities of bidders to further evaluate the bidder’s ability to perform the duties required in this RFP.

12. Consider all information - In reviewing each proposal, take into consideration all information

submitted in the application, obtained through references or gained through verification of submitted materials with state agencies or authorities.

13. Allowance of submission changes - Except as may be authorized by United Way, allow no

additions or changes to the original submission after the stated due date and time.

14. Deadline Extension - Extend the deadline for the submission of notification that bidders have been approved by DDS as a qualified provider.

15. Property of United Way - Own all submissions provided in response to this procurement upon

receipt by United Way. 16. All or any portion - Contract for all or any portion of the services or tasks contained in this

RFP. 17. One or more bidders - Contract with one or more bidders. 18. Submission most advantageous - Consider cost and all factors in determining the most

advantageous submission for United Way when awarding a bidder the right to negotiate a contract with United Way (while cost is a factor in determining the bidder to be awarded the right to negotiate a contract with United Way, price alone shall not determine the successful bidders).

19. Technical defects - Waive technical defects, irregularities, and omissions, if in its judgment the

best interest of United Way and the project will be served. 20. Privileged and confidential information - Share the contents of any submission with any of its

designees for the purpose of evaluating submissions to make an award. 21. Best and Final Offers - Seek Best and Final Offers (BFO) on price from bidders upon review of

the scored criteria (in addition, United Way reserves the right to set parameters on any BFOs it receives).

22. Unacceptable submissions - Reopen the bidding process if advantageous to the project.

23. No Rights Conferred on Bidder; Release - This RFP process is for the exclusive benefit of

United Way, does not constitute an offer or commitment by United Way, and confers no rights on any bidder, including any short-listed bidder, unless and until a contract is approved, entered into and becomes effective with respect to such bidder. By submitting a response to

RFP Appendix I (Pg. 2 of 4)

this RFP, a bidder waives, releases and relinquishes any claim against United Way or any official thereof relating in any way to the RFP process.

24. United Way Reserved Rights - United Way reserves the right, in its sole and absolute

discretion, to (1) to reject any or all bids received in response to this RFP for any reason and at any time; (2) to waive any irregularities or deficiencies in any bid; (3) to discuss a bid or enter into negotiations with any bidder without notice to other bidders; (4) to suspend or discontinue any such discussions or negotiations at any time; (5) to extend, reopen, modify, cancel and/or reissue this RFP; (6) to enter into discussion or negotiations with respect to the Walgreens Training Program with parties not responding to the RFP without first rejecting all bidders received in response to this RFP; (7) to use the bids as a basis for negotiation and to negotiate with one or more bidders on terms other than set forth in this RFP or in any bid.

25. Consent to United Way Inquiries - By submitting a bid, the bidder consents to inquiries by

United Way to any person or party, including but not limited to the listed references, identified by bidder in its bid for the purpose of verifying information concerning the bidder or the bid.

26. Timing and Sequence of Events - The timing and sequence of events in the RFP process shall

ultimately be determined by United Way. 27. Legal Compliance - This RFP and any Agreement or other contractual arrangement resulting

from this RFP shall be subject to and in full conformity with all applicable federal, state and local statutory, regulatory, administrative and other legal requirements.

28. Bidder’s Expenses - All costs incurred by a bidder in responding to the RFP and participating

in the RFP process, including all costs of bidder’s due diligence, shall be borne by the bidder. In no event will United Way of be responsible for any such costs.

29. Signatures; Certification - Bids should be signed by a duly-authorized officer of the bidder.

Submission of a bid constitutes the representation of warranty of the bidder (1) that the information set forth in the bid is true, accurate and complete; (2) that the bid is not made in connection with any competing bidder submitting a separate response to this RFP (except as provided for in Section 5 in the context of a consortium application), and all bids must be certified to be in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud; (3) that the bidder did not participate in the RFP development process; (4) that no employee, representative or official of United Way participated directly or indirectly in the preparation of the bid ; and (5) that no principal of bidder (including any officer, director, partner or member) has been convicted of bribery or fraud in connection with any public contract procurement or award. In the event that United Way becomes aware of any material misrepresentation in the information supplied by a bidder or such other party, United Way shall have the right to immediately reject the bid, to refuse to negotiate or continue negotiations, and to take such other action to be appropriate and equitable in the circumstances.

RFP Appendix I (Pg. 3 of 4)

30. Freedom of Information - Due regard will be given to the protection of proprietary information contained in all submissions received; however, bidders shall be aware that all materials associated with this procurement are subject to the terms of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), the Privacy Act, and all rules, regulations, and interpretations resulting there from. The bidder must provide convincing explanation and rationale to justify each exception from release consistent with CGS §1-210 to claim proprietary exemption.

It will not be sufficient for bidders to merely state generally that the submission is proprietary in nature and therefore not subject to release to third parties to claim an exemption. Price and cost alone do not meet exemption requirements. The particular pages or sections of the submission that a bidder believes are proprietary must be specifically identified as such. The rationale and explanation must be stated in terms of the prospective harm to the bidder’s competitive position that would result if the identified material were to be released and the reasons why the materials are legally exempt from release pursuant to the above-cited statute. In any case, the narrative portion of the submission may not be exempt from release. Between the bidder and United Way, the final administrative authority to release or exempt any or all material so identified rests with United Way.

31. State of Connecticut Notices/Contractor Compiliance Forms - The resultant contract will be awarded, entered into and administered by United Way, which is not an agency or instrumentality of state government. If, however, it is later determined that contracting requirements applicable to contracts to which the state is a party are nevertheless applicable as a result of state program funding or state participation in the program, then it will be a requirement of the resultant contract that Contractor comply with all such applicable requirements, including the completion of any necessary affidavits or certifications with respect to gifts, campaign contributions, consulting agreements, non-discrimination resolutions or or other matters. Non-compliance by Contractor with any such applicable legal requirements shall be grounds for termination of the resultant contract.

RFP Appendix I (Pg. 4 of 4)

______________________________________________________________________________

BIDDER ASSURANCES ______________________________________________________________________________ 1. Independent price determination - By provision of a submission, the bidder certifies that in

connection with this procurement the following requirements have been met:

a) Costs - The costs proposed have been arrived at independently, without consultation, communication, or agreement, for restricting competition, as to any matter relating to such process with any other organization (excluding members of the bidder’s consortium formed for purposes of this application) or with any competitor.

b) Disclosure - Unless otherwise required by law, the costs quoted have not been knowingly

disclosed by the bidder on a prior basis directly or indirectly to any other organization (excluding members of the bidder’s consortium formed for purposes of this application) or to any competitor.

c) Competition - No attempt has been made or will be made by the bidder to induce any person

or firm to respond or not to respond for restricting competition. d) Prior knowledge - The bidder has no prior knowledge of RFP contents prior to actual receipt

of this RFP and had no part in RFP development. 2. Valid and binding offer - The submission represents a valid and binding offer to provide services

in accordance with the terms and provisions described in this RFP and any amendments or attachments hereto.

3. Press releases - The bidder agrees to obtain prior written consent and approval of United Way

and the Program Administrator for press releases that relate in any manner to this RFP or any resultant contract.

4. Restrictions on communications with United Way staff - The bidder agrees that from the date of

release of this RFP until the United Way makes an award that it shall not communicate with United Way’s staff on matters relating to this RFP except as provided herein. Any other communication concerning this RFP with any of United Way’s staff may, at the decision of the United Way, result in disqualification of that bidder’s submission.

RFP Appendix J