Specifications include, but are not limited to: Delaware is soliciting proposals for Out-of-School youth (OSY) between the ages of 16 and 24. Delaware is seeking proposals that are innovative and reflect quality partnerships with businesses and community agencies that can provide a variety of services and opportunities for the targeted population. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) establishes mandated design components and program elements that are listed within this solicitation. Accordingly, Delaware is seeking proposals that reflect these components and elements. During the grant period, subgrantees will provide active service for as long as is deemed necessary for the individual, as well as 12 months of follow up service regardless of provision of funds.Outreach, Recruitment and Retention: Outreach and recruitment includes, but is not limited to, identifying potentially eligible youth, working with parents and guardians to secure necessary documentation, and working closely with other governmental and community organizations and school systems to identify and recruit OSY. Once enrolled, continued engagement and retention of participants is vital to individual and program success.Intake, Eligibility Determination and Certification: Subrecipients will be responsible for reasonably determining WIOA eligibility of youth applicants recruited into the program, determining the youth’s suitability for program services, and collecting, verifying and uploading all necessary eligibility source documents. WIOA requires all youth to meet certain eligibility criteria and be determined eligible prior to enrollment and receipt of WIOA funded services. Objective Assessment: Subrecipients must conduct an objective assessment of the academic level, skill levels, and service needs of each participant, which will include a review of basic skills, occupational skills, prior work experience, employability, interests, aptitudes, supportive service needs, mental health services, and development needs. The goal is to accurately evaluate each youth in order to develop an appropriate service strategy to meet their individual needs.
