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DYS Bridging the Opportunity Gap (BOG)
FY16 Request for Proposals
Summer and Year Round Funding
BOG is an initiative to support the positive development of youth
through a variety of community and employment activities.
April 3, 2015
Commonwealth Corporation & the
Massachusetts Department of Youth Services
Request for Proposals
FY15 DYS Bridging the Opportunity Gap Initiative
(July 1, 2015 – June 30, 2016)
Contents
Overview and Details of Funding ........................................................................................ 1
Instructions for Request for Proposal Submission ............................................................... 9
Project Narrative Components .......................................................................................... 11
Budget and Budget Narrative ............................................................................................. 20
Proposal Evaluation Criteria ............................................................................................... 23
Directory of DYS Regional Contacts .................................................................................. 24
A separate document includes templates for these proposal components:
Part 1 – Cover Sheet
Part 3A – Budget and Part 3B – Budget Narrative
Part 5 – Memorandum of Agreement
Overview and Details of Funding
A. Purpose of funding: The Bridging the Opportunity Gap (BOG) initiative provides funding for
workforce development training, education (HiSET and tutoring), arts and cultural programming, and
mentoring programming that support the success of youth committed to the Department of Youth
Services (DYS). DYS is the juvenile justice agency for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the
agency’s mission is to promote positive change for youth who are in their care. Through
Commonwealth Corporation’s contractual partnership with DYS, the BOG initiative was introduced in
2006 through funds from the Massachusetts State Legislature and has supported innovative transition
and re-entry programming for youth ever since.
The BOG initiative has two funding components – a BOG Summer Program, which runs from July –
September 2015, and a BOG Year-Round program that runs from October 2015 – June 2016. The
BOG program (summer and year-round) allows applicants to seek funding for one of five different
program options including:

Option 1: Work-based learning (career readiness and subsidized employment)

Option 2: Vocational training (career readiness and training in a vocational skill or trade at a
vocational school or other training venue)

Option 3: HiSET and Tutoring Services at DYS District Offices

Option 4: Arts and Cultural Activities

Option 5: Mentoring Programs
The BOG initiative is based on a positive youth development model that is asset-based, culturally
responsive, and delivered by personnel with experience in operating youth programs. Programming
should be interactive and engaging to youth, and be delivered in a way that addresses a variety of
learning styles. BOG grantee organizations include (but are not limited to) human services
organizations, community- and faith-based organizations, workforce investment boards and career
centers, and vocational technical high schools across the state. Grantees work with Commonwealth
Corporation staff to build and expand program services and resources that result in access to a
variety of pathways for DYS clients.
B. Target Population: These funds are targeted to youth committed to the Department of Youth
Services who are transitioning from residential facilities or living in the community.
Eligibility Requirements for Youth Participants:
•
Eligible Youth: Grant funds must be targeted to youth committed to the care of DYS. Youth who
have aged-out of DYS (age 18) must have signed a voluntary Assent of Ward agreement with
DYS to be eligible for services under this grant. If a youth is going to age-out prior to program’s
end date, the grantee program coordinator should confirm with DYS staff that an Assent of Ward
agreement has been signed.
•
Pre-Work Documentation. Youth receiving a wage must complete pre-work documentation.
Program staff must collect all relevant employment documentation (i.e., birth certificate, SSN,
etc.) for youth participants and complete Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form, and obtain
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation
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work permits for youth ages 14-17. The work permit applications can be found at the
www.mass.gov website. All supporting documentation must be completed on or before the
orientation day or before youth attend career readiness training. More information on the I-9 form
and other program tools can be found in the BOG Grantee Handbook available from
Commonwealth Corporation at www.commcorp.org
C. Focus of Services: We invite proposals from youth-serving organizations that can deliver
programming for youth that builds pro-social behaviors, engages them in creative and productive
activities (as defined in the first paragraph of this section), and that builds skills and attitudes that will
ultimately improve each youth’s ability to function productively in the workplace and community. The
applicant’s program design should be based on a positive youth development approach that is assetbased and is staffed with personnel that have demonstrated success working effectively with youth
from a diverse range of backgrounds (economically, racially, culturally and ethnicity) and social
identities.
D. Funding Requests: Applicants can submit funding requests for a variety of program periods:

Only BOG Summer Program (July 1, 2015 – September 30, 2015)

Only BOG Year Round Program (October 1, 2015 – June 30, 2016)

Both BOG Summer and Year Round Program (July 1, 2015 – June 30, 2016)
Applicants seeking funds may submit proposed designs for any of the five program options:
Option 1: BOG Work-based Learning Program: A program that provides youth with career
readiness and youth development training and participation in a minimum of 48 hours of
subsidized employment. Desired outcomes for this option include a completed youth portfolio
(per Commonwealth Corporation’s BOG Portfolio requirements – see below) and supporting each
youth in obtaining unsubsidized employment by the end of the grant period.
Career Readiness and Youth Development Training: The Work-based Learning program option
must include a youth development and career readiness component that results in a set of
employability skills and competencies and a career portfolio. The training should use the
Commonwealth Corporation’s BOG Empower Your Future Career Readiness Curriculum Guide.
Your program will be required to provide youth with a minimum of 10 hours of orientation training.
The orientation training should cover the following:

program expectations (including a review of the agency’s Guidelines or Code of Conduct
for youth and staff, program criteria, attendance requirements, and accessing an “assent
of ward” if the youth will be turning 18 prior the end of the program):

development or review of a career interest inventory;

setting short- and long-term career and workplace readiness goals;

documentation for employment (I-9, work permits, W-4 forms, etc.); and

norms and expectations for workplace settings and dress code; and

initial work on the Youth Career Portfolio.
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After the initial career readiness orientation, youth should participate in a minimum of 10 biweekly or weekly workforce readiness sessions totaling a minimum of 20 hours that provide youth
with an opportunity to come together as a group and discuss employment progress and
challenges. The purpose of these sessions is to provide youth with an opportunity to:

discuss their work experience (including successes and challenges they have
encountered), brainstorm ideas and solutions to workplace issues the youth have
encountered and engage in discussions that support their overall growth as “employees”;

gain youth development skills including leadership, advocacy and community
engagement;

provide an opportunity for additional skills training in topics such as financial literacy
(managing your money), workplace communications, habits and skills, and teambuilding
skills/exercises;

provide youth with at least one or more group employer field trips, and at least one or
more mock interviews with a local employer along with at least one job shadow; and

provide time for youth to complete the Youth Career Portfolio requirements.
Youth Career Portfolio: By the end of the grant period, each youth must have a portfolio (in
hard copy and electronic format) that includes:

a resume;

two cover letters;

one sample thank you note;

copies of certifications and/or training certificates;

two reference letters (preferably from employers and program staff);

a listing of vocational competencies earned (if applicable);

one writing sample;

a completed job application; and

a sample employment e-mail inquiry.
If a youth has previously been enrolled in a BOG program, the current enrollment should provide
a continuation of career development that allows each youth to update an existing Portfolio.
Copies of BOG Youth Career Portfolios must also be uploaded to the Commonwealth
Corporation BOG database.
Work-based Learning Program Element: Youth should be placed for a minimum of 48 hours in a
subsidized work placement that matches the youth’s career interest as closely as possible. Each
youth enrolled in a subsidized work placement should receive a minimum of 8 weeks of work
experience, working a minimum of at least 6 hours per week. Youth should receive wages for
subsidized employment based on Massachusetts minimum wage ($9 per hour through December
31, 2015 and $10 per hour beginning January 1, 2016). The majority of employment should take
place at organizations outside of the grantee’s organization, as the intent of the funding is to
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation
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provide experiences with employment or work experiences in real world and/or community
settings. Project staff are required to connect with employers, and each youth’s DYS
caseworkers on a bi-weekly basis (at a minimum) to discuss the progress of each youth.
Option 2: BOG Vocational Training: A program that provides youth with career readiness and
youth development training, and 96 hours of vocational training. Desired outcomes for this
program include completion of an industry recognized credential, a completed youth portfolio and
a referral to an unsubsidized job placement or continued vocational training.
Career Readiness and Youth Development Training: The Vocational Training option must
include a youth development and career readiness component (a 10 hour orientation and a
minimum of 10 follow up sessions that equal a minimum of 20 hours) that result in a set of
employability skills and competencies and a career portfolio, using the Commonwealth
Corporation’s BOG Empower Your Future Career Curriculum Guide. Your program will be
required to provide youth with a minimum of 10 hours of orientation training that should cover the
following:

program expectations (including a review of the agency’s Guidelines or Code of Conduct
for youth and staff, program criteria, attendance requirements, and accessing an “assent
of ward” if the youth will be turning 18 prior the end of the program);

development or review of a career interest inventory;

setting short- and long-term career and workforce goals;

documentation for employment (I-9, work permits, W-4 forms, etc.); and

workplace habits and dress code; and

initial work on the Youth Career Portfolio.
After the initial career readiness orientation, youth should participate in regular bi-weekly or
weekly workforce readiness sessions totaling a minimum of 20 hours that provide youth with an
opportunity to come together as a group and discuss employment progress and challenges. The
purpose of these sessions is to:

provide youth with an opportunity to gain youth development skills including leadership,
advocacy and community engagement;

provide an opportunity for additional skills training in topics such as financial literacy
(managing your money), workplace communications, habits and skills, and teambuilding
skills/exercises;

provide youth an opportunity to complete the Youth Career Portfolio requirements.
Youth Career Portfolio: By the end of the grant period, each youth must have a portfolio (in
hard copy and electronic format) that includes:

a resume;

two cover letters;

one sample thank you note;
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation
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
copies of certifications and/or training certificates;

two reference letters (preferably from employers and program staff);

a listing of vocational competencies earned (if applicable);

one writing sample;

a completed job application; and

a sample employment e-mail inquiry.
If a youth has previously been enrolled in a BOG program, the current enrollment should provide
a continuation of career development that allows each youth to update an existing Portfolio.
Copies of BOG Youth Career Portfolios must also be submitted to Commonwealth Corporation by
uploading components of the portfolio to the BOG database.
Vocational Training Element: In this program option, youth should participate in vocational
training to provide both an exploratory experience and specific vocational training, and to prepare
youth for employment and/or future postsecondary education and/or training. Vocational
instruction must be taught by professionally certified instructors from a vocational technical high
school or an individual with a professional license or specific expertise in the private sector and
with access to appropriate vocational equipment (e.g., vocational high school, vocational
community site (such as Youth Build or a Housing Authority) or similar training facility. The
vocational training component must include obtaining an industry-recognized credential and
provide at least 96 hours of vocational training time.
Vocational training competencies should be identified in this grant and tied to the Massachusetts
Vocational Frameworks (see http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/frameworks). A one page outline of the
proposed vocational competencies to be attained by youth in the program must be included with
your proposal – a separate outline for each proposed vocational shop. At the completion of the
vocational training, the specific competences from these Frameworks should be listed in each
youth’s BOG Student Career Portfolio
Programs may provide vocational training that enables youth to focus on one shop of their choice
or can be organized to rotate youth through two or more vocational shops during the duration of
the grant period. Programs should pay youth stipends for training at the Massachusetts
minimum wage rate ($9 per hour through December 31, 2015 and $10 beginning January 1,
2016) per classroom hour.
We encourage a subsidized employment component be added to this program option to provide
youth with work experience relevant to the training they received in the vocational shop. A
minimum of 6 weeks of subsidized employment at a minimum of 6 hours a week is recommended
for this option. The subsidized employment can be concurrent or sequential with the vocational
training.
Option 3: HiSET and Tutoring Services: A program that enables youth to receive tutoring, preHiSET and HiSET services at a DYS District Office by a provider with staff and capacity to
implement a HiSET program consistent with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and
Secondary Education’s HiSET approach and DYS’s policies and procedures for HiSET services.
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In this option, provider staff are responsible for coordination with the DYS Assistant Regional
Education Coordinator

to ensure compliance with the DYS HiSET policy regarding student eligibility for HiSET
pathway;

to provide access to DYS educational programs and their staff (related to identification of
potential HiSET and tutoring students); and

to coordinate data on student progress and outcomes related to tutoring and HiSET
services.
Provider staff will also work with the DYS Education and Career Counselor to identify youth who
would benefit from tutoring and HiSET services prior to release from DYS educational residential
settings as well as clients already back in community settings.
Option 4: Arts and Culture Activities: A program that provides youth with youth development
and employability training and at least 48 hours of arts and culture programming, such as the
development of murals, art products or engagement with experiences focused on the “Creative
Industries”. Desired outcomes include the completion of an individual or group art project.$9 per
hour through December 31, 2015 and $10 per hour beginning January 1, 2016).
Youth Development Program Element: All youth need to participate in 10 hours of orientation
training using the Commonwealth Corporation’s BOG Empower Your Future Career
Curriculum Guide. Grantees should design a set of activities that will enhance the youth’s
leadership skills, ability to function effectively as productive men and women in their community,
support youth advocacy and “voice” and ability to meet minimum requirements of “employability”
(dress, attitude, timeliness and handling responsibility for conducting themselves in a pro-social
manner). In addition, the orientation and trainings should include:
 program expectations (including a review of the agency’s Guidelines or Code of Conduct
for youth and staff, program criteria, attendance requirements, and accessing an “assent
of ward” if the youth will be “aging out” prior the end of the program);
 completion of documentation for employment, if applicable (I-9, work permits, W-4 forms,
etc.); and
 any other skill training that supports the youth’s emotional and social development.
After the initial 10 hour training, youth should participate in regular bi-weekly or weekly youth
development sessions totaling a minimum of 20 hours that provide youth with an opportunity to
come together as a cohort and give and receive feedback while discussing progress and
challenges in the program. The purpose of these professional development sessions is to
provide youth with an opportunity to develop the skills and resources that they will need to be
successful in the community and to increase interpersonal communication skills.
Arts and Culture Program Element: In this program option, youth participate in activities that
focus on deepening skills and awareness of arts and culture for a minimum of 48 hours. Projects
can be performance-based, visual or hands-on in nature and seek to support each youth’s sense
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation
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of self and connection to arts, educational organizations, and cultural institutions that serve youth.
This programming should strive to:




Nurture, develop, and promote the artistic potential of youth;
Ensure and encourage networking and collaborative opportunities between youth, artists,
and individuals that reach youth;
Serve as a catalyst for art education;
Be responsive to youth.
Option 5: Mentoring Activities: A program that provides education and career readiness
training that result in a set of employability and youth leadership skills and competencies in the
context of a formalized mentoring relationship (30 hours of mentoring). Desired outcomes include
a reduced re-offense and revocation rate, as well as an increase in the number of youth who
become attached to other education and/or workforce development programs through a rigorous
referral process.
Mentoring Program Element: Grantees should design a formalized mentoring program utilizing
Commonwealth Corporation’s AIM Mentoring model (described below). The program should
incorporate Mass Mentoring Partnerships “Elements of Effective Practice” including activities that
support mentee and mentor recruitment, mentee and mentor screening, mentor orientation and
training, matching, structured group mentoring activities (that relate to education and career
readiness), match support, mentee and mentor incentives, and closure activities. The AIM
Mentoring model specifically includes:

1:1 matches that meet as a group to participate in teambuilding, career readiness, and
education awareness activities;

at least 4 hours of group match meetings per month; and

recruitment, matching, and an initial match meeting (the initial match meeting occurs
outside of the group setting; it should be a 1:1 meeting between the mentor and mentee
facilitated by program staff) that begin while the youth is still in a residential treatment
program.
Education and Career Readiness Program Element: The mentoring option requires all matches
to participate in regular bi-weekly or weekly mentoring meetings (10 hour orientation and a
minimum of 20 hour additional match meetings) that will offer activities to support education and
career readiness for the youth. Activities can include group instruction that offers opportunities
for the matches to interact with the entire group as well as independently, field trips to education
and training programs, and institutions for post-secondary education. The purpose of these
meetings is to provide youth an opportunity to develop skills and resources necessary to be
successful in the community, learn more about the education and career opportunities offered in
their community, and to increase interpersonal communication skills in the context of a nurturing
mentoring relationship. The first few group match meetings should provide orientation training
that focus on team and relationship development of the matches. In subsequent group meetings
matches should participate in activities that focus on deepening employability skills and
awareness of education and career opportunities.
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation
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This programming should strive to:
 Support the development of pro-social behaviors that support healthy relationships with
caring adults and peers; and
 Provide training and activities that develop the “soft skills” necessary to be successful in
the workplace; and
 Serve as a catalyst for more intensive education and career training such as college and
technical training program attendance.
E. Eligible Applicants: This RFP solicits proposals from all youth-serving non-profit or communitybased organizations, including faith-based organizations, Local Workforce Investment Boards, and
One-Stop Career Centers in Massachusetts.
F. Funding Availability: A total of approximately $200,000 will be awarded for Summer Youth
Employment Programming and approximately $600,000 will be awarded for BOG Year Round
funding. Funding is dependent on (a) DYS receiving a fiscal year state budget appropriation and (b)
DYS issuing a contract to Commonwealth Corporation that provides BOG program funds.
Commonwealth Corporation anticipates awarding approximately 10 grants for summer programming
(between $15,000 - $30,000) and 15 to 20 year-round grants (between $20,000 – $90,000 each)
through this competitive process.
G. Duration of Grant Award(s): Grant funds for the BOG Summer Program are anticipated to be
provided for a three month period – July 1 to September 30, 2015. Grant funds for the BOG Year
Round Program will be provided for a nine-month period – approximately October 1 to June 30, 2016.
All contracts will end no later than June 30, 2016, and all funds must be expended by that date.
H. Application Deadline/Funding Status: This is the only RFP that will be issued for FY16 funds.
Applications are due to Commonwealth Corporation by May 6, 2014 at 4:00 p.m. (See below for
further instructions). Decisions regarding funding for Summer Programming will be made on June 6,
2015 and decisions regarding funding for the BOG Year Round Program will be made by September
11, 2015.
I.
Clarification Period: Questions about the DYS Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals
will be accepted in writing from April 6 – April 10, 2015. Please submit questions via e-mail to Danielle
Niedzwiecki, DYS Program Manager at dniedzwiecki@commcorp.org. Commonwealth Corporation
will respond to all questions within three business days.
J. Timeline for Grant Award Process
Request for Proposals Release
April 3, 2015
Webinar Session for Grantees
April 6, 2015
Submit application to DYS for review and
April 29, 2015
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation
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signatures
Responses (Applications) Due
May 6, 2015
Applicants Notified of Grant Award – Summer
BOG Program
June 6, 2015
Applicants Notified of Grant Award – BOG
Year Round Program
Anticipated Contract Start Date – BOG
Summer Program
Contract End Date – BOG Summer t
Program
Anticipated Contract Start Date – BOG Year
Round Program
Contract End Date – BOG Year Round
Program
September 11, 2015
July 1, 2015
September 30, 2015
October 1, 2015
June 30, 2015
K. Grant Administrator: This solicitation is administered by Commonwealth Corporation and funding is
provided by the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services.
Instructions for RFP Submission
Submission Deadline: Proposals (with all six components in Microsoft Word format, not PDF) are due
on May 6, 2014 by 4:00 p.m.
Submission Process:


Applicants should submit one original proposal (hard copy) and 9 copies, with original signatures,
to Danielle Niedzwiecki, DYS Program Manager, Commonwealth Corporation, 4 Bay Road, Suite
100, Building A, Hadley, MA 01035. Please contact Danielle Niedzwiecki for permission to submit
a grant at Commonwealth Corporation’s Boston office.
An electronic copy of all proposal components should be also submitted to Danielle Niedzwiecki
at dniedzwiecki@commcorp.org as well as the appropriate DYS Director of Community Services
(email information provided at the end of the RFP). Electronic submissions should include “DYS
Bridging the Opportunity Gap Grant Submission” in the subject line.
Incomplete or Late Submissions: Applications that are not complete, with all required components
(parts 1-6) will be disqualified. Applications, or any parts thereof, received after the required date and
time will be considered non-responsive and will not be considered. Delivery of applications is the sole
responsibility of the applicant. Commonwealth Corporation is not responsible for irregularities with
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation
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electronic submissions or postal mail delivery on the part of the U.S. Postal Service or private courier
services. Commonwealth Corporation will provide an electronic receipt of proposals received.
Proposal Terms: Commonwealth Corporation reserves the right to contact applicants for clarification or
negotiation, to extend or revise any deadline, and to reject any and all proposals, or to accept any and all
proposals, in whole or in part, if deemed to be in the best interest of the Commonwealth. Commonwealth
Corporation may negotiate the terms of the contract prior to issuing the grant award.
Proposal Directions: Submit the following forms, documents and proposal narrative (for electronic
submissions, submit in Microsoft Word format, not a PDF file) in the order in which they are listed:
Part 1: Application Cover Sheet: Use the Cover Sheet (see the template included in a separate file
released with this Request for Proposal) to identify a key program contact, the authorized
signatory, fiscal agent, and fiscal contact, and partners for your proposal. The Cover Sheet
must be signed by an authorized signatory of the fiscal agent for the organization that will
receive and administer the grant award as well as the DYS Director of Community Services
and local DYS District Manager. The DYS Director of Community Services and the DYS
District Manager should be consulted during the application process in order to ensure that
your proposal is meeting the regional and/or local DYS youth needs. In order to obtain their
signatures and fulfill this requirement for the application cover sheet, all proposals must be
shared with the DYS Director of Community Services and the DYS District Manager by April
29, 2015 to allow ample time for them to review your proposal and negotiate any needed
changes to your proposal in order to address the regional and local needs of the DYS youth.
DYS reserves the right not to provide their signature on any proposal for any reason.
Part 2: Project Narrative: Proposals must include a brief written narrative of no more than ten (10)
pages of text (see Project Narrative instructions in the next section). The narrative must
include the program option as a header and address all of the identified program elements
(A-J) with clear headings and, if the applicant is applying for the BOG Summer Program, the
questions related to the summer program design should also be included in the narrative
clearly marked with a heading as part B of the narrative.
Part 3: Budget (3A) and Budget Narrative (3B): Applicants must submit a detailed budget request
using the provided forms – separating budget requests for the BOG Summer Program from
the BOG Year Round Program (the file released with this RFP includes templates for your
budget and budget narrative). The budget will also become the financial basis for any grant
award, and for making cost reimbursement payments over the course of the project.
Commonwealth Corporation reserves the right to modify application budgets prior to and/or
after grant award.
Part 4: Project Calendar: Applicants must submit a Project Calendar that describes a sequence for
all proposed project activities including training and employment-related services. If the
Applicant is making a request for both BOG Summer Program funds and BOG Year Round
Program funds, a calendar should be included for both funding requests.
Part 5: Memorandum of Agreement (MOA): An MOA template is included in the file released with
this RFP. The MOA is a tool for the lead applicant to formalize communication and project
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 10
roles and responsibilities with DYS and other project partners. The lead applicant should
assume the responsibility of regularly convening DYS regional staff (including the director of
community services and district office staff) and other project partners to create and sustain a
successful partnership. Applicants should customize the sample MOA as appropriate. The
MOA should detail specific partner roles and responsibilities (including those of regional and
district office DYS staff). All partners in the project including the DYS district manager for the
geographic region of the program and the regional DYS Director of Community Services must
sign the Memorandum of Agreement. Submit one MOA signed by all partners.
Part 6: Required Policies and Procedures: Commonwealth Corporation expects that all applicants
will have adopted core operational and management policies and procedures that guide the
effective administration of the organization (to be addressed in section C of program
narrative).
In order to receive funding, grantees must submit one copy of their organization’s:

Code of Conduct (covering both youth and employees); and

Transportation policy related to the procedures for transporting youth in private cars
or vehicles operated by the organization (if youth are transported through the BOG
program).
Sample copies of these types of policies can be obtained through Danielle Niedzwiecki,
Commonwealth Corporation. Please submit only the two required documents. If the
documents are part of a larger handbook, copy only the pages that include the policy
requested for inclusion with the grant application.
Part 2: Project Narrative Components
A. After reviewing each of the five program options in the Overview and Details of Funding, start your
narrative by choosing an option and answering the questions for the Program Option for which you
are seeking funding. Use the option as a heading. Applicants may choose only one funding option
(Work-based Learning, Vocational Training, HISET, Arts and Culture and Mentoring). Clearly mark
all questions using the headings (A-J).
Option 1: BOG Work-based Learning Program:
Your proposal narrative should describe how your staff will provide the 10 hour orientation training
and the additional 10 follow up sessions that equal a minimum of 20 additional hours. Include details
on days and times of the training, including specific supplemental curriculum or content that will be
delivered. Address how your project will implement:

a career readiness component that provides an orientation and follow up sessions;

field trips, employer engagement and job shadowing

any credentials or certifications that will be provided to youth; and
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 11

the delivery mode of instruction with a priority on a group training model that engages
youth as a group and maximizes the efficiency of providing instruction.
Your proposal narrative should provide details of the design and delivery of the program, describing
how your program will outreach to employers and place youth in a work experience that matches
youths’ career interests for a minimum of 48 hours. In your narrative, address:

the days/times these program components will be delivered;

your proposed scope and sequence for the orientation and follow up career readiness
sessions (including the mode of instruction and training materials);

details on the skills of staff to identify employment placements;

the types of employers that will be recruited;

how staff will address challenging client issues (youthful offenders, sex offenders, and
youth who may not have strong work attitudes) in a positive manner;

how staff will communicate and support the subsidized employment experience;

how staff will interact with participating employers and the youth themselves to support
youth success.

How staff will work with youth repeating the BOG program

How staff will orient youth entering the program after initial program start
Option 2: Vocational Training:
Your proposal narrative should describe how your staff will provide the 10-hour orientation training
and 10 follow up career readiness sessions that equal a minimum of 20 additional hours. Include
details on days and times of the training, including specific supplemental curriculum or content that
will be delivered. Address how your project will implement:

a career readiness component that provides an orientation and follow up sessions;

any credentials, certifications that will be provided to youth

the delivery mode of instruction with a priority on a group training model that engages
youth as a group and maximizes the efficiency of providing instruction.
Your proposal narrative should describe how your staff will deliver the vocational training element that
includes a minimum of 96 hours. Include details on the vocational shops to be provided, the hours
and days of training, and how you will track youth progress toward a set of vocational competencies
that are aligned with the Massachusetts Vocational Framework
(http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/frameworks). Vocational options are encouraged to provide
subsidized employment. Please describe in your narrative:

details on the design and delivery of the program

the days/times these program components will be delivered

how the vocational instruction is tied to the Massachusetts Vocational Frameworks
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 12

a one-page outline of the proposed vocational competencies to be attained by youth

your proposed scope and sequence for the orientation and follow up career readiness
sessions (including the mode of instruction and training materials)

details on the skills of staff to identify employment placements

the types of employers that will be recruited

how staff will address challenging client issues (youthful offenders, sex offenders, and
youth who may not have strong work attitudes) in a positive manner

how staff will communicate and support the subsidized employment experience

how staff will interact with participating employers and the youth themselves to support
youth success.

How staff will work with youth repeating the BOG program

How staff will orient youth entering the program after initial program start
Option 3: HiSET and Tutoring Services:
In your proposal narrative, describe how your staff will coordinate tutoring and HiSET services for
DYS clients to ensure each of the following:

who will be responsible for the coordination with the DYS Assistant Regional Education
Coordinator and describe the process for (a) to ensure compliance with the DYS HiSET
policy regarding student eligibility for HiSET pathway; (b) to provide access to DYS
educational programs and their staff (related to identification of potential HiSET and
tutoring students); and (c) to coordinate data on student progress and outcomes related
to tutoring and HiSET services.

the process for working withthe DYS Education and Career Counselor to identify youth
who would benefit from tutoring and HiSET services prior to release from DYS
educational residential settings as well as clients already back in community settings.

pre-testing of youth who are close to re-entry as well as those who are already in the
community, to assess skill level and to identify appropriate tutoring/HiSET services.

post-testing of youth to assess their readiness to take the official HiSET test.

coordinating testing at a HiSET testing site for individual components of the HiSET with
DYS district office staff (transportation, payment of fees, paperwork completion).

coordination with DYS Education and Career Counselor and DYS Caseworkers to ensure
that all pre-post practice test scores and results of the formal HiSET test are entered into
DYS’s client management system (JJEMS) and the Collaborative for Educational
Service’s student information system (Aspen).

development of a reward or incentive system based on key learning/student outcome
milestones (that mirrors a Positive Youth Development approach) for participants.

maintaining and entering participant data for the Commonwealth Corporation database.
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 13

oversight and supervision of the classroom instructor and assuring the fidelity of
curriculum and instruction, student outcomes data and overall program integrity.
In your proposal narrative, describe how your staff will deliver tutoring, pre-HiSET, and/or HiSET
services for DYS clients, including:

development of a class schedule that meets the needs of DYS clients (male and female)
and is cost effective.

identification of an instructor(s) with appropriate tutoring and HiSET experience and
credentials for classroom instruction (approval by DYS Assistant Regional Education
Coordinator, Statewide HiSET Coordinator and DYS district office staff).

use of Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education approved
HiSET curriculum.

use of an instructional approach that blends classroom and individual instruction as well
as the use of technology when possible.

detailed record keeping on student progress, including individual progress as well as
testing milestones.

instructional approach that will allow between 7-10 individuals to participate in tutoring or
HiSET instruction at any time.

“open entry-open exit” instructional approach to allow for flexibility of participants to enter
classes as needed.
Option 4: Arts and Culture Activities:
Your proposal narrative should describe how your staff will provide arts and culture training, including:

the days/times these program components will be delivered

how the 10 hour orientation will be delivered and what topics will be covered

the specific 10 follow up youth development session topics that will be delivered and their
scope and sequence

the names and artistic modality of the participating artists and projects that will be
implemented

a description of specific supplemental curriculum or content that will be delivered for ongoing youth development training sessions;

the delivery mode of instruction with a priority on a group training model that engages
youth as a group and maximizes the efficiency of providing instruction.

how staff will interact with participating artists and the youth themselves to support youth
success.

How staff will work with youth repeating the BOG program

How staff will orient youth entering the program after initial program start
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 14
Option 5: Mentoring Initiatives: Your proposal narrative should describe how your organization will
provide mentoring activities, including:
 Recruitment
o describe how your organization will collaborate with local DYS community and residential
staff to recruit youth who are 90 days from their return to the community.
o develop a mentor recruitment plan that details the development of marketing materials
and target people, organizations and strategies for recruiting volunteers. Mentors should
be similar in gender, racial, ethnic and linguistic backgrounds of the mentees.
 Screening
o grantees should provide an extensive screening process for all potential mentors. The
screening process should include a detailed overview of the program including time
commitment, a structured interview with program staff, as well as a reference check with
one professional and one personal reference. DYS will provide an extensive background
check for all mentors who are screened in to participate in the program before they move
on to training. Describe the materials that your organization will use to support the
screening process.
 Orientation and Training
o please describe your organization’s approach to orienting youth to the program while they
are in residential treatment programs.
o all grantees will be provided a training curriculum from Commonwealth Corporation that
was developed in collaboration with DYS and Mass Mentoring Partnership. The mentor
training should be co-facilitated by a grantee staff member, and DYS district staff
member. Tell us who will be responsible for providing the training both from DYS and the
grantee organization.
 Matching
o grantees should only match same gender mentees and mentors. In addition to that
requirement, outline the criteria your organization will use to match mentors and
mentees.
 Structured mentoring activities, including;
o list the days/times the program components will be delivered. Also describe the topics
and/or activities planned for the first few group match meetings (10 hours orientation
training) including a description of any specific curriculum or content that will be
delivered, and the topics and/or activities planned for the subsequent 20 hours of group
match meetings including a description of any specific curriculum or content that will be
delivered

Match support
o grantees should check in individually with mentees and mentors regularly (at least
monthly) to determine if the match needs extra support. Describe your organization’s
match support plans.

Incentives
o describe how your organization will provide incentives to matches at key milestones in
their relationship and in the program. Examples of incentives include quarterly
recreational field trips that matches with perfect attendance participate in as a group, gift
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 15
cards for attendance and participation, gas cards for mentors who visit with a youth while
they are in a facility, etc.

Closure activities
o describe how your organization will celebrate match successes at the end of the program
and bring closure to their relationship. Grantees should also include a plan for gathering
feedback about the program, final data collection on the match progress, as well as an
exit interview performed with each mentee and mentor.
B. Optional BOG Summer Program: The goals for BOG Summer Programs are to provide a mix of
high quality programming during the summer months when youth can participate in more hours of
training and work. Organizations that apply for both year round and summer programming should
include how your organization will design a program that will allow for a seamless transition into the
fall program for youth.
If your agency is applying for Summer Program funds, please describe the following:

identify the program option (Work-based Learning, Vocational Training, HISET Services, Arts
and Culture Programming or Mentoring). Select only one of these program options.

the number of youth to be served (accurately reflecting the existing DYS client caseload and
identified in partnership with DYS district office staff);

the number of program services hours and the days and hours the program will function.

the specific format of the summer program (work-based learning, vocational training, arts and
culture, educational or mentoring services). This program format should reflect the YearRound format and be described fully in the section requesting Year-Round funding.
If your agency is applying for summer funding, your narrative should address the following goals of
summer programming:

a minimum of 2 hours of orientation training:

ongoing weekly or bi-weekly workforce readiness professional development or youth
development sessions for a minimum of 8 hours;

development or update of a professional resume (for work based learning and vocational
programs);

providing participants training in specific arts and cultural, vocational, and employability skills;

a minimum of 90 hours of arts and cultural activities, vocational training, and subsidized
employment

identifying, placing, and overseeing subsidized work-based learning opportunities for youth
that allow them to apply skills in work settings (for work based learning and vocational
programs).
C. Lead Applicant: Describe the qualifications of the lead applicant and the capacity the organization
has to successfully implement the programmatic and fiscal requirements of this grant. In particular,
please provide information on your organization’s experience in providing:
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 16

prior outcomes that speak to your agency’s success in working effectively with DYS clients;

effective youth services (specific to your grant request, including career readiness, workbased learning, arts and culture, education or mentoring services);

if you have had a BOG program please include lessons learned and how you are proposing
to strengthen programming
C1. Program Operations and Administration: Commonwealth Corporation expects that all applicants
will have adopted core operational and management policies and procedures that guide the effective
administration of the organization. Please describe the following:

effective program practices including organizational means of maintaining program records
(for example, grant specific forms for youth attendance, timesheets and rewards/incentives)
and ability to include a range of youth on your agency’s payroll (youth with prior criminal or
sex offending history);

procedures and protocols for insuring data security and confidentiality (hard copy files and
electronic storage);

process for program monitoring including worksite review and fiscal monitoring of operators
and subcontractors

payroll procedures

effective fiscal practices, including your organization’s capacity to (a) administer a costreimbursement grant, (b) submit accurate monthly invoices, (c) comply with Generally
Accepted Accounting Principles, and (d) maintaining appropriate fiscal expense
documentation for payroll, youth stipends, staff time, and other cost allocations.
D. Coordination with DYS: This RFP has been designed to promote collaboration between applicant
and DYS district and regional office staff to effectively provide services to youth in DYS custody.
Describe:

the relationship the applicant has with the DYS district office staff currently or how the
applicant will develop that relationship to maintain regular coordination with DYS district and
regional office staff.

the process that your agency undertook to develop this project’s design in collaboration with
DYS district office staff.

the specific DYS staff who will serve as a regular point of contact for this grant.
Appendix C provides a directory of DYS Directors of Community Service. These DYS staff can also
identify the appropriate local DYS district managers to include as signatories and collaborators in your
project.
E. Identification and Description of Additional Partners: If the design of this project includes
partners in addition to the applicant or DYS, please identify and describe the expertise and role of
each additional partner and the services they will provide in supporting the program’s design.
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 17
F. Staffing and Facilities: The proposed program should have dedicated staff to oversee, manage and
administer the program. Please describe the following:

the staff responsible (by name, position and organization) for implementing the proposed
BOG program (including supervisory and direct program services staff);

the experience and qualifications each identified staff has for implementing the program
(e.g., direct service experience with youth, career readiness training and job placement
experience; or other experience related to the proposed program services);

the facilities that will be used including location of training and other services and any and all
equipment or resources that will be available to youth.
G. Recruitment Strategy and Target Number of Youth to be Served: Please include information that
summarizes the target population expected to participate in program activities including anticipated
numbers of youth (by program “cycle” as well as the cumulative number of youth over the course of
the grant), and the geographic location of emphasis for participating youth. If more than one cohort of
youth will be recruited describe how youth will be recruited or rotated into the program. Describe the
eligibility requirements in addition to how youth will be recruited, oriented and transported to the
program. These details must be discussed and coordinated with DYS staff from the local district
office.

If any youth are anticipated to return to your program from a previous BOG please describe
the expected number of youth and the reasons for repeating. Include how you will implement
the career readiness curriculum to build on any repeating youth’s previous learning

What opportunities will be developed to provide leadership opportunities for youth that might
be returning

How you will prepare returning youth to gain unsubsidized employment and transition from
BOG programming
H. Retention of Youth: Please describe the range of program supports, wages/stipends, and strategies
that will be used to retain youth in all program components. Please note the following guidelines:

wages/stipends can be paid to youth in career training at the rate of $9 per hour through
December 31, 2015 and $10 per hour beginning January 1, 2016.

wages/stipends can be paid to youth for vocational training at the rate of $9 per hour
through December 31, 2015 and $10 per hour beginning January 1, 2016.

youth should receive wages/stipends for subsidized employment to a maximum of $9 per
hour through December 31, 2015 and $10 per hour beginning January 1, 2016;

youth should not be stipended for educational (HISET and tutoring) or mentoring programs
but they may receive incentives or rewards; and

gift Cards and or other incentives/bonuses for youth cannot exceed $100 per youth.
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 18
I.
Additional Support Services: Identify how your program will work with the DYS case managers to
provide individualized support for participants (e.g., transportation, child care, etc.) strategies that will
assist youth in all aspects of program success.
J. Connections to Other Funding/Resource Linkages: Describe any linkages to other funding
sources that will be used to support youth participating in this program such as YouthWorks, Safe and
Successful Youth Initiative (SSYI), WIA Title I Youth Funds, foundation, or private grant funds.
Summer Youth Employment Program requests must meet the following outcomes (July 1 – September
30, 2015:
Program Option
Desired Outcomes (July 1 – September 30, 2015)
 2 hours orientation training
Option 1: BOG Work-based
Learning
 8 hours of career readiness
 90 hours of subsidized work experience (6 weeks x 15
hours per week)
 2 hours orientation training
Option 2: BOG Vocational
Training
 8 hours of career readiness
Option 3: HiSETand
Tutoring Services
 9 hours per week per client of tutoring, Pre-HiSET and
HiSET services
 90 hours of vocational Training (6 weeks x 15 hours per
week
 2 hours orientation training
Option 4: Arts and Culture
Activities
 8 hours of career readiness and/or youth development
training
 90 hours of arts and culture programming
Option 5: Mentoring
 12 hours of mentoring in a site based setting
BOG Year-Round Grant Program Outcomes. Commonwealth Corporation has established a
completion standard for all program options: 80% of youth should complete each element of training as
well as he overall funded program. The following table summarizes all performance outcomes:
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 19
Program Option
Desired Outcomes (October 1, 2015 – June 30, 2016)
 10 hours career readiness training per youth
 Completion of Youth Career Portfolio
Option 1: BOG Work-based Learning
 10 career readiness and youth development sessions
(20 hours)
 48 hours of subsidized employment per youth
 An industry recognized credential
 Referral to an educational program if appropriate
 10 hours career readiness training per youth
 Completion of Youth Career Portfolio
Option 2: BOG Vocational Training
 10 career readiness and youth development sessions
(20 hours)
 96 hours of exploratory training in one or more
vocational trades
 An industry recognized credential
Option 3: HiSETand Tutoring
Services
 40 hours of classroom instruction
 Obtaining a HiSET or High School Diploma
 10 hours of program orientation per youth
Option 4: Arts and Culture Activities
 10 youth development sessions (20 hours)
 48 hours of project-based exposure to arts and culture
Option 5: Mentoring
 10 hours of orientation training for matches that include
teambuilding exercises
 20 hours of mentor-mentee contact over a nine month
period
Part 3: Budget and Budget Narrative
Each proposal must include a Line Item Budget (Part 3A) and a Budget Narrative (Part 3B). The budget
narrative must provide detail showing the assumptions and calculations for all items included in each line
item. For each staff position charged to this grant, the budget narrative should indicate the number of
hours worked per week, specifying whole or fractional full time equivalents. The narrative should, in as
specific detail as possible, separate costs for transportation, food, supplies and other related costs.
A separate budget and budget narrative should be included for the BOG Year-round Program and for the
BOG Summer Youth Employment Program (if seeking funds for summer programming).
Instructions for Using the Line Item Program Budget Template. The attached Line Item Program
Budget template is an Excel workbook developed for use by organizations that are applying for a FY16
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 20
BOG grant. Applicants are required to submit a program budget using this budget template, and must
use the template even if not all of the built-in line items will be used.
There are two separate worksheets in this workbook – the first is titled Line Item Budget on the
worksheet tab, and the second is titled Budget Narrative on the worksheet tab.
When you first open the spreadsheet, click Save As and give the document a new name and save it on
your computer. Then, add your organization’s name in Row 3 and select your program option from the
drop-down choices appearing on Row 5 on both the Line Item Budget and Budget Narrative worksheets.
Please note that the changes you make that adds your organization name and program option to the Line
Item Budget are the only edits or changes you can make on that worksheet. The rest of the worksheet is
locked (password-protected) and cannot be changed by an applicant. Focus your budget preparation
on the worksheet titled Budget Narrative. As you can see, the amounts you manually enter for
individual line items (in the cells on Column D of the Budget Narrative) will automatically be transferred to
corresponding cells on the Line Item Budget worksheet. You don’t need to re-enter those amounts.
The Budget Narrative worksheet serves two purposes: it explains how the costs were estimated and it
justifies the need for the cost. Please be aware that:
1. The line items that are detailed in this Budget Narrative are the same as the subcomponent
details listed on the Line Item Budget worksheet.
2. Use the cells in Column C, titled Description of Assumptions and Calculation Methodology to
show how you arrived at the cost for each item. Make sure that your explanation for each cost
item results in the dollar amount you enter in the cells in Column D.
3. Your entries in Column C will automatically word-wrap. Increase the row heights as necessary to
display all the text that you enter in the line item cells.
If you have questions about how the budget template workbook works, or need assistance in completing
your budgeting, please call Danielle Niedzwiecki at (413) 584-3627 extension 6803.
Finally, when you submit your grant proposal to Commonwealth Corporation, be sure to submit both a
printed hard copy the Line Item Budget and Budget Narrative and submit the electronic version, as well.
Allowable and Non-allowable Expenses. Your line item grant budget must reflect the guidelines listed
below. Allowable expenses include:
•
Clothing/uniforms for vocational programming/employment, to a maximum of $150 per
participant;
•
Transportation for youth participants, including bus/train passes;
•
Van/bus rental, to a maximum of $3,000 during the grant period;
•
Vocational or supplemental career readiness materials including certification materials and testing
fees;
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 21
•
Food for youth participants (that is calculated on a per participant basis by day);
•
Youth wages and compensation – at a rate of $9 per hour through December 31, 2015, and $10
per hour after January 1, 2016;
•
Gift cards or other financial incentives (such as bonuses) for youth are permissible to a maximum
of $100 per youth for the duration of the grant period;
•
Computer software, to a maximum of $500;
•
Equipment rental, to a maximum of $200;
•
Cell phone reimbursement for the primary program staff person for the BOG grant only up to
maximum of $40 per month;
•
Mileage for program staff (for the BOG grant) in relation to services rendered under the BOG
grant. Reimbursement will be provided for mileage only (at the current reimbursement rate of the
grantee’s fiscal agent); and
•
In some cases, HiSET testing fees and driver’s licenses/state identification may be expended with
prior approval from Commonwealth Corporation. Grant program staff should request these funds
first from DYS.
Non-allowable expenses include:
•
Staff bonuses, incentives and/or gifts;
•
Purchase of equipment;
•
Computers, cameras, iPods, televisions, DVD/VCR Player, computer;
•
Personnel costs that exceed 50% of the total budget (including fringe and subcontracted program
staff) unless approved in advance by Commonwealth Corporation; hardware and/or accessories,
laptops, furniture, etc.;
•
General/administrative costs that exceed 10% of the total budget;
•
Mileage reimbursement not related to the BOG grant;
•
Funds to support youth employment that maintains, improves, or materially benefits religiouslyfocused property;

Any expenses in excess of the contracted grant amount or outside the contracted grant period;
and;
•
Any expenses outside of the approved budget.
Expectations for Grant Administration for FY2015/16. Commonwealth Corporation seeks the
following from all grantees:
o
regular monthly submission of cash requests during the program;
o
regular submission of total enrollment numbers, goals and services on a weekly basis in
the BOG Clienttrack database;
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 22
o
timely contract closeout at the end of the season– submission of final invoices;
o
accurate reporting of employer match – full contact information to be reported in database
for all employment sites;
o
Monthly narrative report on program highlights including progress achieved in outcomes
and any challenges
o
Final narrative report that includes program highlights, progress made on outcomes,
challenges during the year, and lessons learned
Proposal Evaluation Criteria
A Special Note to Applicants who are Previous Grantees. Organizations that have been a grantee in
prior years are encouraged to submit a proposal through this year’s competition. In deciding on which
applicants will receive an award for Fiscal Year 2016, Commonwealth Corporation will accord weight to
an organization’s prior grant performance – both program delivery and fiscal administration. We
especially are looking for veteran grantees to demonstrate an increase in quality in this year’s proposed
program design, given a deeper history of experience with the DYS population and greater working
familiarity with expectations of DYS and Commonwealth Corporation program staff. At the same time, the
review process will discount a proposal that shows minimal growth, doesn’t take in to account program
challenges from the prior year or that simply restates language with only nominal updates from a prior
submission.
Submissions in response to this solicitation will be evaluated by a review committee that will consist of
representatives from Commonwealth Corporation, the Collaborative for Educational Services and the
Department Youth Services and possibly other related agencies familiar with the DYS system. Review
and assessment will be based on the following:

proposals that are submitted before the deadline, fully complete and contain all required
attachments (threshold criteria);

applications that reflect a creative, collaborative, and community-centered approach to meeting
the career readiness, vocational and employability needs of eligible youth and reflect strong
collaboration and engagement by DYS regional and district office staff;

the quality and extent to which the project plan states goals and objectives that are measurable
and attainable; the quality and clarity of the proposed project design;

the degree to which the applicant organizations can demonstrate a successful track record of
working with youth in DYS custody, particularly the hardest to serve youth including Youthful
Offenders, sex offenders and older youth;

the number of youth who will be directly served through grant activities and who will gain specific
job-related certifications, credentials or competencies as a result of program activities;

the degree of support services that will assure the success of participating youth to complete all
program activities and be prepared for employment or continued vocational training experiences;
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 23

the degree to which this proposal is not just a “repeat” of a prior year proposal but incorporates
“lessons learned” and includes a well-written and clear (response to the RFP’s program design;

a final selection of proposals that provide a geographic balance in DYS regions across the
Commonwealth as well as addressing the population areas that host the largest number of DYS
clients and strategies that will ensure sustainability of program services beyond the grant period.

the degree to which prior year BOG applicants successfully met all of the previous requirements
under this grant, including retention of youth in programs, successful career readiness, preemployment and employment outcomes, compliance with fiscal, program and reporting
requirements along with the ability to fully and appropriately utilize grant funds.
Directory of DYS Regional Contacts
DYS Region
Contact Person
Contact Information
Metro Region
Kenetha Moore,
Director of Community Services
P: 617-740-0324
E: kenetha.moore@state.ma.us
Southeast Region
Christian Mitchell,
Director of Community Services
P: 508-828-3800
E: christian.j.mitchell@state.ma.us
Northeast Region
John Bates,
Director of Community Services
P: (978) -646-2300
E: john.p.bates@state.ma.us
Western Region
Lorrie Bobe,
Director of Community Services
P: (413) 731-4907
E: lorrie.j.bobe@state.ma.us
Central Region
Alisa Padavano-Deveau,
Director of Community Services
P: (508) 475-2702
E: alisa.padavanodeveau@state.ma.us
FY16 Bridging the Opportunity Gap Request for Proposals | Commonwealth Corporation Page 24