How to bid on Alternative Programs for Adult Offenders with LA County Sheriff

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is seeking qualified organizations to provide various programs for adult inmates in County jails. These services include, but are not limited to, literacy education, vocational training, job readiness, re-entry and substance abuse counseling, legal education, parenting and life skills, fitness training, and art/music therapy.

This is an opportunity for organizations to make a significant impact by offering valuable services to inmates, contributing to rehabilitation and successful re-entry into the community. The County requires these services to be provided at no cost to them, meaning the responding organization must secure its own funding and staffing.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation is open for rolling submissions. While an initial Statement of Interest (SOI) deadline was August 14, 2017, the Department continues to accept and review SOIs until its needs are met. This means you can submit your response at any time.

Responses received after any initial due dates may still be reviewed at a later time. The solicitation will remain open indefinitely until the Department has secured all the services it requires.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is ideal for non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and service providers specializing in adult education, vocational training, counseling, and therapeutic programs. Firms with experience working in correctional facilities are particularly well-suited.

Respondents must be able to provide services at no cost to Los Angeles County, demonstrating adequate funding sources and staffing. Staff providing services must pass background checks and meet facility access requirements. The relevant category for this work is education and social services within a correctional setting.

How to respond

To access the full details and documents, click “View original source” on the bid card. This will take you to the LA County portal. On that page, click the solicitation number (631-SH) to view all public details and download necessary documents.

Your Statement of Interest (SOI) must be submitted as an original, two numbered copies, and one electronic copy on a compact disc. These must be enclosed in a sealed envelope, clearly marked with your organization's name and address, and bear the words: “SOI FOR ALTERNATIVE PROGRAMS FOR ADULT OFFENDERS IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY JAILS (RFSI NUMBER 631-SH)”.

Mail or deliver your response to: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Fiscal Administration - Contracts Unit, Hall of Justice, 211 West Temple Street, 6th Floor, Los Angeles, California 90012, Attention: Marissa Peshkepia. Email and fax submissions are not accepted.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Clearly demonstrate your organization's ability to provide the proposed services at no cost to the County. Detail your funding sources and how you will sustain the program. Provide a comprehensive staffing plan, including qualifications and certifications for all personnel who will deliver services.

Highlight any prior experience working in correctional environments or with similar populations. Emphasize your organization's commitment to inmate rehabilitation and successful re-entry. Ensure all required background checks and facility access requirements for your staff are addressed in your planning.

Review Appendix B (Statement of Work) of the RFSI carefully to ensure your proposed services align perfectly with the Department's needs. Cooperate with the Department and other agencies providing services to inmates to ensure seamless program integration.