2008 State of Texas Dept. of Health Services Transformation
Consumer & Family Services and
Technical Assistance Grant (TTAY) 0285.1
Due 7/30/2008 2:00 PM CDT
Consumer & Family Services and
Technical Assistance Grant (TTAY) 0285.1
Due 7/30/2008 2:00 PM CDT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROPOSAL INFORMATION
I. INTRODUCTION
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Community Mental Health and
Substance Abuse Services Section announces the expected availability of Fiscal Year
(FY) 2009 Mental Health Block Grant funds for one Training and Technical Assistance
Center (TTAC) to provide services for consumers, and family members of consumers and
stakeholders. This Request for Proposal (RFP) is not limited to the Mental Health Block
Grant if other sources of funds become available for this project.
The single statewide TTAC to be procured through this RFP is an integral part of an
ongoing process to develop evidence-based, Consumer and Family-Operated services
that are part of the statewide mental health system. Approximately two million dollars is
available to fund one TTAC that shall be responsible for the services described in this
RFP for consumers, family members of consumers, and stakeholders. The entity awarded
the contract shall use one million dollars to procure consumer and family operated
services and one million dollars to procure training, technical assistance and other
activities described in the scope of work under Section II. A.
A primary goal of the TTAC RFP is to select a diverse array of locally-based consumer
and family operated organizations to support and develop into viable service providers.
This RFP contains the requirements that all respondents must meet to be considered for
a contract under this RFP. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in
disqualification of the respondent without further consideration. Each respondent is solely
responsible for the preparation and submission of a proposal in accordance with
instructions contained in this RFP.
Before completing the proposal, refer to the relevant program standards provided in
SECTION II. PROGRAM INFORMATION. Other sections within the RFP may contain
additional instructions pertaining to unique program requirements set forth in legislation or
regulations, etc.
PLEASE READ ALL MATERIALS BEFORE PREPARING THE PROPOSAL.
Definitions
Appendix – Additional information and/or forms that is available in the back of this
solicitation document.
Best Practices – A practice that incorporate the best objective information currently
available from recognized experts regarding appropriate care and community
acceptability. They are well-implemented, well-evaluated programs that produce a
consistently positive pattern of results across domains or across replications.
Budget – A financial schedule documented in the contract that describes how funds will be
utilized and/or describes the basis for reimbursement for the provision of contracted
services. Types of budget may include: categorical (line item), fee for service, or lump
sum payable upon receipt of a product or deliverable. Refer to Budget Summary
Instructions of this document for greater detail.
Budget Period – The duration of the budget (stated in the number of months the contract
will reflect from begin date to end date of the term of the contract). Each renewal will have
its own budget period.
Client Services Contracting Unit – The DSHS central contracting unit that coordinates and
facilitates client services procurement needs, issues competitive procurements, and
develops and executes contracts.
Consumer and Family-Operated organization – An organization that maintains a
membership of a majority of consumers and/or family members on its Board of Directors
and includes consumers and/or family members in a majority of the organization’s key
leadership positions.
Consumers – Individuals (youth and adult) with mental health disorders who have
accessed or are accessing services and/or are receiving support either voluntarily or
involuntarily from a public or private mental health system.
Contract – A written document referring to promises or agreement for which the law
establishes enforceable duties and remedies between a minimum of two parties.
Contract Term – The period of time during which the contract will be effective from begin
date to end, or renewal date. The contract term may or may not be the same as the
budget period.
Cost Reimbursement – A payment mechanism in which funds are provided to carry out
approved activities based on an approved eight (8) category line-item budget. Amounts
expended in support of providing the contract terms and conditions must be billed on a
monthly basis for reimbursement. Reimbursement is based on actual allowable costs
incurred that are reasonable and necessary to perform the DSHS- funded activity
Debarment – An exclusion from contracting or subcontracting with state agencies on the
basis of cause set forth in Title 34, Texas Administrative Code, §20.105 et seq.,
commensurate with the seriousness of the offense, performance failure, or inadequacy to
perform.
Deliverables – Goods or services contracted for delivery or performance.
Due Date – Established deadline for submission of a document or deliverable.
Effective Date – The date the contract term begins.
Family members – Those individuals (youth and adult) who are related to consumers
(whether the consumer is living or deceased) and/or those who have played a major,
supporting or caretaking role for one or more primary consumers.
Fully Executed – Contract is signed by each of the parties and forms a legal binding
contractual relationship. No costs chargeable to the proposed contract will be reimbursed
before the contract is fully executed.
Indirect Costs – A cost that is not readily assignable to a particular program and that is
incurred for a common purpose that benefits more than one program; i.e., general
administrative costs. Refer to Budget Summary Instructions of this document for greater
detail.
Match – The portion of the costs of the DSHS funded project not borne by DSHS (cash
match) and the value of the third party in-kind contributions. Additional information and
requirements on match are found in the DSHS Contractor Financial Procedures Manual
available on line at:
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/contracts/docs/cfpm.doc
Program Attachment – An attachment to a base contract that provides details for a
particular statement of work to be performed under the contract. There may be multiple
program attachments associated with a base contract.
Project Period – The anticipated duration of the entire project stated in total number of
budget periods.
Respondent – Entity or individual that submits a proposal in response to this RFP.
Scope of Work – A statement that defines specific goods or services reflected in a
solicitation for a project period.
Statement of Work – A statement that defines outcomes and specific services a contractor
is expected to perform, indicating the type, level and quality of service, as well as the time
schedule required.
Solicitation – The process of notifying prospective contractors of an opportunity to provide
goods or services to the state, e.g., this RFP.
Special Provisions – Exceptions and additions to the General Provisions of the contract
for a funded program activity; these are usually customized for the program’s
requirements and contain items specific to the program attachment.
Subcontractor – An entity awarded funds to perform a portion of the scope of work by the
entity contracting with DSHS as a result of this solicitation. The contractor remains
entirely responsible to DSHS for performance of all requirements of the contract with
DSHS through monitoring the subcontractor’s performance to their sub-contracted portion
of the statement of work.
Subrecipient – A type of contractor to which a sub-award is made in the form of money, or
property in lieu of money, to carry out all or part of the DSHS program and that is
accountable to the DSHS for the use of the funds and property provided. This type of
contractor may also be referred to as a sub-grantee.
A Subrecipient Contractor will have most of the following characteristics: a) determines
who is eligible to receive what assistance, b) has performance measured against federal
or state program objectives, c) has responsibility for programmatic decision-making, and
d) carries out all or part of a program. The contractor under this RFP would be
considered a subrecipient.
Supplant (verb) - To replace or substitute for another. That is, a recipient of contract
funds under this RFP may not use the funds to pay any costs that the recipient is already
obligated to pay. If a contractor, prior to applying for a contract under this RFP, had
committed to provide funding for activities defined in the contract’s statement of work (i.e.,
as represented in the RFP Budget Summary), then the contractor must provide the
amount of funding previously committed in addition to the amount requested under this
RFP.
Unit Rate – Payment mechanism for services that are reimbursed at a set rate per unit of
service; for example, treatment services at a prescribed rate per hour.
Vendor – Type of contractor that provides goods and services that are ancillary to
carrying out the DSHS-funded activity and are typically procured through the open market.
A Vendor Contractor will have most of the following characteristics: a) provides goods and
services within normal business operations, b) provides similar goods and services to
many different purchasers, c) operates in a competitive environment, d) is not subject to
compliance requirements of the federal or state program, e) provides goods and services
that are ancillary to the operation of the program. The contractor under this RFP would
not be considered a vendor.
Vendor Identification Number (ID #) – Fourteen-digit number needed for any entity to
contract with the State of Texas and which must be set up with the State Comptroller’s
Office. It consists of a ten-digit vendor number (IRS number, state agency number, or
social security number) +check digit + mail code.
Work Plan – A plan that describes how services will be delivered to the eligible population
and includes specifics such as what types of clients will be served, who will be responsible
for the work, timelines for completion of activities, and how services will be evaluated when
complete. The work plan will be part of the contract (i.e. incorporated by reference).
A. Eligible Respondents
Eligible respondents include Texas located consumer- or family-operated 501 (c) (3)
organizations. Eligible organizations must include as a majority of their employment
consumers or family members of consumers. Respondent should describe their
experience in the Texas mental health system in their proposal. Respondents must also
comply with the criteria listed below.
1. Respondent must be established as an appropriate legal entity as described in the
paragraph above, under state statutes and must have the authority and be in good
standing to do business in Texas. Respondent must have a Texas address. A post office
box may be used when the proposal is submitted, but the respondent must conduct
business at a physical location in Texas prior to the date that the contract is awarded.
2. Respondent must be in good standing with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.
3. Respondent is ineligible to apply for funds under this RFP if currently debarred,
suspended, or otherwise excluded or ineligible for participation in Federal or State
assistance programs.
4. Respondent may be ineligible for contract award if audit reports or financial
statements submitted with the proposal identify concerns regarding the future viability of
the contractor, material non-compliance or material weaknesses that are not satisfactorily
addressed, as determined by DSHS.
5. Respondent’s staff members, including the executive director, must not serve as
voting members on respondent’s governing board.
6. Respondent must not be listed on the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS). In
compliance with Comptroller of Public Accounts and Texas Procurement and Support
Services rules, a name search will be conducted using the federal EPLS at http://epls.
arnet.gov prior to the development of a contract. No contract may be awarded to any
respondent found on the EPLS system. A respondent is not considered eligible to
contract with DSHS if a name match is found.
7. Respondent must have at least two years of documented paid or volunteer
experience in project management and providing technical assistance.
8. Respondent is not considered eligible to apply unless the respondent meets the
eligibility conditions to the stated criteria listed above at the time the proposal is
submitted. Respondent must continue to meet these conditions throughout the selection
and funding process. DSHS expressly reserves the right to review and analyze the
documentation submitted and to request additional documentation, and determine the
respondent’s eligibility to compete for the contract award.
B. Contract Term
It is expected that the initial contract period will begin on or about 11/01/08, and will be
made for an eleven- (11) month budget period to end 09/30/2009.
This contract may be renewed up to four additional one year period(s) at the sole
discretion of DSHS. Continued funding of the project in future years is contingent upon
the availability of funds and the satisfactory performance of the contractor during the prior
budget period. Funding may vary and is subject to change each budget period.
The contract awarded under this RFP and any anticipated contract renewals are
contingent upon the continued availability of funding. DSHS reserves the right to alter,
amend or withdraw this RFP at any time prior to the execution of a contract if funds
become unavailable through lack of appropriations, budget cuts, transfer of funds
between programs or agencies, amendment of the appropriations act, health and human
services agency consolidations, or any other disruption of current appropriations. If a
contract has been fully executed and these circumstances arise, the provisions of the
Termination Article in the contract General Provisions will apply.
C. Use of Funds
In Fiscal Year 2009, approximately $2,000,000.00 is expected to be available to fund one
TTAC contract. The specific dollar amount awarded to the successful respondent
depends upon the merit and scope of the proposal and other best value considerations.
Funds are awarded for the purpose specifically defined in this RFP and must not be used
for any other purpose. Funds must not be used to supplant local, state, or federal funds.
Funds may be used for personnel, fringe benefits, staff travel, contractual services, other
direct costs, and indirect costs, as allowed in the budget.
D. Schedule of Events
1. Issue the RFP by posting to the Electronic State Business
Daily (ESBD) 06/11/08
2. Deadline for Submitting Questions 06/30/08
3. Post Answers to Questions to the ESBD 07/10/08
4. Deadline for Submission of Proposals 07/30/08
5. Contract Negotiations 09/08/08
6. Post Final Awards to the ESBD 10/01/08
7. Mail Contract to Awarded Respondent for Signature 10/15/08
8. Anticipated Contract Begin Date 11/01/08
DSHS reserves the right to change the dates shown above without notice.
II. PROGRAM INFORMATION
A. General Purpose and Program Goals – Scope of Work
This RFP will fund one TTAC to serve consumers, families of consumers and
stakeholders statewide. DSHS will provide up to one million dollars to the TTAC to
procure a diverse array of locally-based consumer and family operated organizations to
support and develop into viable service providers and oversee the provision of consumer-
and family-oriented services by a subcontractor(s). DSHS will provide up to an additional
one million dollars for the TTAC to provide training coordination, technical assistance,
network and leadership development, technical assistance to DSHS, and participation in
evaluation activities. In addition, the RFP recipient will be responsible for providing
coordination and support to consumers, youth and families for mental health
transformation.
The primary goal of the TTAC during the first six months of the contract term will be
procurement of Consumer and Family-Operated services in the state.
Within the TTAC, resources must be directed to both adult and children/adolescent
populations. The TTAC shall develop subcontracts with organizations and individuals with
experience and expertise in providing Consumer, Youth and Family Training and
Technical Assistance to individuals with mental illness and there families.
Multiple methods will be used to reach individuals and organizations in the vast geography
of the state, with support and services provided via:
• Face to face interaction.
• Use of technology (web based; teleconferencing; videoconferencing, etc).
• State, regional, and local meetings and conferences facilitated via the above.
SCOPE OF WORK
The following section provides a description of requirements for TTAC and the services
that shall be offered.
During the first contract year, the awarded contractor shall prioritize the specific services
that will be provided and to whom the services will be provided. DSHS expects that during
the first six months of the contract year, TTAC shall focus on the first four work
requirements listed below.
1. Consumer and Family-Operated Services Procurement
During the first three months of the contract, TTAC shall finalize development and issue
an RFP to procure a network of Consumer and Family-Operated Services in the state.
DSHS will provide guidance to TTAC on development of the statement of work and the
evaluation process. TTAC shall be responsible for all aspects of the procurement
process. DSHS will approve any awards that may be offered.
2. TTAC Advisory Committee
TTAC shall select a 15 member Advisory Committee that shall provide input and
recommendations about the required activities of TTAC by the end of the first contract
quarter. The Advisory Committee shall be comprised of agencies serving consumers,
and/or family members (e.g. community centers; advocacy organizations; peer support
organizations), consumer/family member hires within Mental Health Transformation
Working Group agencies (if possible), and consumers, and family member leaders
representing regions across the state. The Advisory Committee shall be comprised of a
majority of consumers and family members of consumers. At least two youth (a consumer
or family member of a consumer) serving on the advisory committee is recommended.
TTAC shall convene at least twice a year, one meeting occurring immediately prior to or
following the weeklong DSHS Annual Summer Behavioral Health Institute held in Austin or
other large metropolitan cities each summer. Travel funds should be included in the
projected budget for committee members and TTAC staff. All travel cost must be
equivalent to current state rates.
3. Assessment
An assessment of the business development needs of organizations providing consumer-
and family-operated services will be conducted and a report of findings will be provided to
DSHS by the end of the first contract quarter. TTAC shall develop a scope of work for the
business and nonprofit development entity or entities described below that is based on
the report findings.
4. Business and Nonprofit Development of Family and Consumer Organizations
TTAC shall subcontract with an entity specializing in the development of nonprofit
organizations. The subcontractor shall provide technical assistance to consumer-and
family-operated organizations to improve self-sufficiency, business plan development, and
sustainability.
Additional funds for these services may be available at a later date, contingent upon
award of grant funds other than the Mental Health Block Grant to DSHS.
5. Services that may be offered and/or coordinated by TTAC:
TTAC shall subcontract with individuals or entities to provide the services listed below. A
minimum of 50 percent of services shall be provided through subcontracts during the first
contract year. This percentage shall increase during the initial or subsequent contract
renewals.
a Coordinate Training Delivery:
TTAC shall coordinate the delivery of training that is culturally appropriate for the
population served, based on best practices and provide technical assistance after
training. TTAC shall not develop training curriculum, unless the training curriculum
available are not suitable for the state’s needs. TTAC shall identify training needs and
coordinate the delivery of training by experts in the following training areas listed below.
A partial list of training content areas has been identified. Other topics shall be identified
and prioritized based on the needs of the consumer, youth, family, or other stakeholder
organizations.
• Peer leadership and development;
• Peer support and facilitating peer support groups;
• How to educate health care and other service providers;
• Consumer and family advocacy skill development;
• Recovery and Resiliency;
• Behavioral health treatment options;
• The role of trauma in behavioral health and providing trauma informed care;
• Navigating the state funded service delivery system;
• Competencies to provide peer service and support to individuals with co-occurring
disorders;
• Preparing consumer, youth, and family service and support providers to work in
interdisciplinary environments;
• Teaching life skills and other wellness and education topics;
• Suicide prevention;
• Securing housing; and
• Activities that support employment.
b Provide Technical Assistance
TTAC shall provide technical assistance and support first to newly and currently funded
Consumer and Family-Operated service providers, next to identified stakeholders, and
then to other stakeholders that may be identified.
c Develop a Statewide Consumer, Youth, and Family Network
An early focus of TTAC shall be identifying and building a statewide consumer, youth and
family network, to ensure opportunities for participation and voice in the development of
the mental health service system. The nature of TTAC work in this area may evolve as the
consumer, youth, and family network grow. Network development may consist of:
Outreach and grassroots development
• Coordinate training and provide technical assistance to consumer-and family-
operated service organizations.
• Identify, provide information, and direct new groups of consumers, youth, and family
members to resources in order to further their development into providers of services.
Use of technology and other mechanisms
• Distribute relevant and timely news and updates via mailed or electronically
distributed newsletters.
• Develop e-mail distribution lists and web-based chat rooms and forums.
• Provide tele-, web-, and video-conferencing for state and regional networking.
Develop a statewide speaker’s bureau
• Identify and recruit consumers, family members, and other advocates (e.g. judges,
physicians, law enforcement, education, child protection services, clergy, etc.) to be
members of a speaker’s bureau and share as a resource.
• Speakers should be identified and organized based on preference for speaking
engagements and by the HHSC service regions (http://www.hhs.state.tx.
us/aboutHHS/HHS_Regions.shtml) and include speakers that could and desire to speak at
the local, regional, state, and national level.
• TTAC shall facilitate a speaker being available to speaker requests.
• Present a plan to DSHS to market these speakers to audiences.
Support and Coordination for Mental Health Transformation
• TTAC shall provide support to and coordinate services to consumers, youth and
families in relation to mental health transformation.
d Participate and/or Provide Technical Assistance to DSHS on Issues and Projects
TTAC shall participate and provide technical assistance to DSHS by either assigning staff
or identifying appropriate consumers or family members from the network to participate.
TTAC shall be responsible for ensuring that staff or identified participants understand and
have received necessary information and/or training about the issue or project. TTAC
shall maintain and/or have access to individuals with knowledge of federal and state
policy, best practices, services research, and other matters affecting people with mental
illness. Some immediate issues and projects are likely to include:
• Participate in developing and implementing a peer certification system.
• Participate in the development of and inclusion of consumers and family members
as providers in the local authority network development (http://www.dshs.state.tx.
us/mhcommunity/LPND/).
• Participate in the development and implementation of the crisis system redesign
(http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/mhsacsr/default.shtm).
• Assist the state in promoting an anti-stigma campaign.
e Participate in Planning and Implementing a Consumer/Family Services Survey
TTAC shall work with an evaluator to assist with recruiting a sample of consumer and
family members across the state to complete a survey regarding quality of services and/or
the recovery orientation of the public mental health system. TTAC shall identify
consumers and family members to participate on an evaluation group that shall advise the
evaluation process and survey implementation.
6. Recipients of TTAC Services:
Recipients for training and technical assistance are:
• Consumers and Family Members.
• Consumer and family operated service groups and organizations.
In order to orient the entire system toward recovery, training and technical assistance may
also be provided to:
• Mental Health Transformation Community Collaborative sites (listed on www.
mhtransformation.org).
• Community Mental Health Center or Local Mental Health Authority staff.
• Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Intervention provider staff.
• Mental Health Transformation Working Group Agencies – select agency staff (www.
mhtransformation.org).
• Special interest groups and stakeholders (e.g. law enforcement, judges, attorneys,
physical health care providers, community leaders, schools and child serving agencies,
adult and child protective services, nursing homes, local housing authorities, workforce
commissions, employer groups and organizations, etc.)
B. Program Background
The President’s New Freedom Commission (NFC) Report, Achieving the Promise:
Transforming Mental Health Care in America found that recovery from mental illness is
possible and that the promise of a life in the community for everyone can be realized. The
NFC vision is “a future when everyone with a mental illness will recover, a future when
mental illnesses can be prevented or cured, a future when mental illnesses are detected
early, and a future when everyone with a mental illness at any stage of life has access to
effective treatment and supports — essentials for living, working, learning, and
participating fully in the community.” The NFC report established six broad goals to
achieve this vision through system transformation:
• Americans understand that mental health is essential to overall health.
• Mental health is consumer and family driven.
• Disparities in mental health services are eliminated.
• Early mental health screening, assessment and referral are common practices.
• Excellent mental health care is delivered and research is accelerated.
• Technology is used to access mental health care and information.
Key to achieving these goals in Texas is recognizing that in a recovery oriented system,
"consumers and families of children with serious emotional disturbances have a key role
in expanding the mental health care delivery workforce." It is recognized nationwide that
in the mental health system, adults with serious mental illness, children with serious
emotional disturbance, and their family members have been secondarily consulted
regarding policies, services, and practices from which they are intended to benefit. In
addition, the treatment community has traditionally not been that attentive or particularly
responsive to the value that peer support can bring to the treatment and recovery
process. Evidence from practice research supports the participation and direction of
primary consumers and family members in policy and program planning and
implementation. While attempts have been made to ensure that these voices are included
and valued, improvements are needed at both the state and local levels.
Consumers and family members are purposely prominent throughout the NFC report.
Emphasis is placed on the involvement of consumers and family members in orienting the
mental health system toward a recovery focus in NFC Goal #2 of the New Freedom
Commission Report (NFC): Mental Health Care is Consumer and Family Driven. In
addition to this particular goal, the report emphasizes a need to improve and expand the
workforce providing evidence-based mental health services and supports. This is
particularly important, as Texas is currently experiencing a behavioral health care
workforce shortage in many parts of the state, which will only worsen as a majority of
these service providers are nearing retirement age without a sufficient replacement
workforce being generated by the state’s colleges and universities to meet the growing
demand. Consumers and family members can help expand the range and availability of
services and supports and studies demonstrate that consumer- and family-run services
can broaden access to peer support, engage more individuals in traditional mental health
services, play vital roles in crisis response and avoidance, serve as a resource for those
on the path of recovery, and are cost effective adjuncts to more traditional treatment.
To develop a system oriented toward recovery, it will be necessary to address system
barriers that add to the burden of mental illness for individuals, their families, and our
communities. In order to move toward eliminating these barriers, active consumer and
family voice, direction, and participation is vital. Only through coordinated state,
community, and individual level efforts can a continuum of care be provided to achieve
the resiliency and recovery goals of consumers and the promise of a life in the community
for everyone.
DSHS used several venues to gather input from consumers and family members about
mental health service needs. After gathering this input, a Request for Information was
issued in February 2008 that included for comment a draft RFP for TTAC. A total of 52
responses were received from individuals representing themselves or individuals
representing organizations, including consumers, family members, service providers,
legislators, and interested stakeholders. DSHS has been responsive to comment on the
establishment of TTAC, and this RFP includes revision or clarification based on the
feedback received. The responses that comprised the greatest percentage of overall
feedback are reflected in this RFP and include:
• Recommending that the DSHS fund one statewide TTAC instead of two.
• Revising the definitions of consumer and family member to be more inclusive.
• Recommending that a majority of individuals employed by or on the board of the
TTAC be consumers or family members of consumers.
• Requesting clarification on TTAC subcontracting.
• Recommending changes to work requirements or responsibilities of the TTAC.
C. Legal Authority
DSHS is authorized to enter into contracts through Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter
1001. DSHS has authority under Health & Safety Code §12.011 to disburse the block
grant funds that are expected to be available in FY 2009.
D. Program Requirements
Contractors are required to conduct project activities in accordance with federal and state
laws prohibiting discrimination. Guidance for adhering to non-discrimination requirements
can be found on the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Civil Rights Office
website at http://www.hhs.state.tx.us/aboutHHS/CivilRights.shtml.
Upon request, a contractor must provide the HHSC Civil Rights Office with copies of all the
contractor’s civil rights policies and procedures. Contractors must notify HHSC’s Civil
Rights Office of any civil rights complaints received relating to performance under the
contract no more than 10 calendar days after receipt of the complaint. Notice must be
directed to
HHSC Civil Rights Office
701 W. 51st Street, Mail Code W206
Austin, TX 78751
Phone Toll Free (888) 388-6332
Phone: (512) 438-4313
TTY Toll Free (877) 432-7232
Fax: (512) 438-5885
A contractor must ensure that its policies do not have the effect of excluding or limiting the
participation of persons in the contractor’s programs, benefits or activities on the basis of
national origin, and must take reasonable steps to provide services and information, both
orally and in writing, in appropriate languages other than English, in order to ensure that
persons with limited English proficiency are effectively informed and can have meaningful
access to programs, benefits and activities.
Contractors must comply with Executive Order 13279, and its implementing regulations at
45 CFR Part 87 or 7 CFR Part 16, which provide that any organization that participates in
programs funded by direct financial assistance from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture or U.S.
Dept. of Health and Human Services must not, in providing services, discriminate against
a program beneficiary or prospective program beneficiary on the basis of religion or
religious belief.
Contractors are required to conduct project activities in accordance with the most recent
DSHS Standards for Public Health Clinic Services.
Contractors may obtain a copy of the most recent DSHS Standards for Public Health Clinic
Services which is posted on the DSHS website at
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/qmb/dshsstndrds4clinicservs.pdf.
DSHS reserves the right to modify the Statement of Work of the contract and to
incorporate Special Provisions into contracts awarded under this RFP.
III. PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS
A. RFP Point of Contact
For purposes of addressing questions concerning this RFP, the only contact is Pamela
Ferguson unless otherwise delegated by the CSCU Director. All communications
concerning this RFP must be addressed by email, hand-delivery, or fax to:
Mailing Address for Regular Mail:
Pamela Ferguson
Ref: RFP# MH/Consumer & Family TTAC 0285.1
Client Services Contracting Unit MC 1886
Department of State Health Services
P.O. Box 149347
Austin, Texas 78714-9347
Physical Address for Overnight Mail or hand-delivery:
Pamela Ferguson
Ref: RFP# MH/Consumer & Family TTAC 0285.1
Client Services Contracting Unit MC 1886
Department of State Health Services
1100 W. 49th Street, Room T-502
Austin, Texas 78756
Phone and Fax Numbers:
512/458-7470 phone
512/458- 7351 fax
CSCU Contact Email:
pam.ferguson@dshs.state.tx.us
PROPOSAL INFORMATION
I. INTRODUCTION
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Community Mental Health and
Substance Abuse Services Section announces the expected availability of Fiscal Year
(FY) 2009 Mental Health Block Grant funds for one Training and Technical Assistance
Center (TTAC) to provide services for consumers, and family members of consumers and
stakeholders. This Request for Proposal (RFP) is not limited to the Mental Health Block
Grant if other sources of funds become available for this project.
The single statewide TTAC to be procured through this RFP is an integral part of an
ongoing process to develop evidence-based, Consumer and Family-Operated services
that are part of the statewide mental health system. Approximately two million dollars is
available to fund one TTAC that shall be responsible for the services described in this
RFP for consumers, family members of consumers, and stakeholders. The entity awarded
the contract shall use one million dollars to procure consumer and family operated
services and one million dollars to procure training, technical assistance and other
activities described in the scope of work under Section II. A.
A primary goal of the TTAC RFP is to select a diverse array of locally-based consumer
and family operated organizations to support and develop into viable service providers.
This RFP contains the requirements that all respondents must meet to be considered for
a contract under this RFP. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in
disqualification of the respondent without further consideration. Each respondent is solely
responsible for the preparation and submission of a proposal in accordance with
instructions contained in this RFP.
Before completing the proposal, refer to the relevant program standards provided in
SECTION II. PROGRAM INFORMATION. Other sections within the RFP may contain
additional instructions pertaining to unique program requirements set forth in legislation or
regulations, etc.
PLEASE READ ALL MATERIALS BEFORE PREPARING THE PROPOSAL.
Definitions
Appendix – Additional information and/or forms that is available in the back of this
solicitation document.
Best Practices – A practice that incorporate the best objective information currently
available from recognized experts regarding appropriate care and community
acceptability. They are well-implemented, well-evaluated programs that produce a
consistently positive pattern of results across domains or across replications.
Budget – A financial schedule documented in the contract that describes how funds will be
utilized and/or describes the basis for reimbursement for the provision of contracted
services. Types of budget may include: categorical (line item), fee for service, or lump
sum payable upon receipt of a product or deliverable. Refer to Budget Summary
Instructions of this document for greater detail.
Budget Period – The duration of the budget (stated in the number of months the contract
will reflect from begin date to end date of the term of the contract). Each renewal will have
its own budget period.
Client Services Contracting Unit – The DSHS central contracting unit that coordinates and
facilitates client services procurement needs, issues competitive procurements, and
develops and executes contracts.
Consumer and Family-Operated organization – An organization that maintains a
membership of a majority of consumers and/or family members on its Board of Directors
and includes consumers and/or family members in a majority of the organization’s key
leadership positions.
Consumers – Individuals (youth and adult) with mental health disorders who have
accessed or are accessing services and/or are receiving support either voluntarily or
involuntarily from a public or private mental health system.
Contract – A written document referring to promises or agreement for which the law
establishes enforceable duties and remedies between a minimum of two parties.
Contract Term – The period of time during which the contract will be effective from begin
date to end, or renewal date. The contract term may or may not be the same as the
budget period.
Cost Reimbursement – A payment mechanism in which funds are provided to carry out
approved activities based on an approved eight (8) category line-item budget. Amounts
expended in support of providing the contract terms and conditions must be billed on a
monthly basis for reimbursement. Reimbursement is based on actual allowable costs
incurred that are reasonable and necessary to perform the DSHS- funded activity
Debarment – An exclusion from contracting or subcontracting with state agencies on the
basis of cause set forth in Title 34, Texas Administrative Code, §20.105 et seq.,
commensurate with the seriousness of the offense, performance failure, or inadequacy to
perform.
Deliverables – Goods or services contracted for delivery or performance.
Due Date – Established deadline for submission of a document or deliverable.
Effective Date – The date the contract term begins.
Family members – Those individuals (youth and adult) who are related to consumers
(whether the consumer is living or deceased) and/or those who have played a major,
supporting or caretaking role for one or more primary consumers.
Fully Executed – Contract is signed by each of the parties and forms a legal binding
contractual relationship. No costs chargeable to the proposed contract will be reimbursed
before the contract is fully executed.
Indirect Costs – A cost that is not readily assignable to a particular program and that is
incurred for a common purpose that benefits more than one program; i.e., general
administrative costs. Refer to Budget Summary Instructions of this document for greater
detail.
Match – The portion of the costs of the DSHS funded project not borne by DSHS (cash
match) and the value of the third party in-kind contributions. Additional information and
requirements on match are found in the DSHS Contractor Financial Procedures Manual
available on line at:
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/contracts/docs/cfpm.doc
Program Attachment – An attachment to a base contract that provides details for a
particular statement of work to be performed under the contract. There may be multiple
program attachments associated with a base contract.
Project Period – The anticipated duration of the entire project stated in total number of
budget periods.
Respondent – Entity or individual that submits a proposal in response to this RFP.
Scope of Work – A statement that defines specific goods or services reflected in a
solicitation for a project period.
Statement of Work – A statement that defines outcomes and specific services a contractor
is expected to perform, indicating the type, level and quality of service, as well as the time
schedule required.
Solicitation – The process of notifying prospective contractors of an opportunity to provide
goods or services to the state, e.g., this RFP.
Special Provisions – Exceptions and additions to the General Provisions of the contract
for a funded program activity; these are usually customized for the program’s
requirements and contain items specific to the program attachment.
Subcontractor – An entity awarded funds to perform a portion of the scope of work by the
entity contracting with DSHS as a result of this solicitation. The contractor remains
entirely responsible to DSHS for performance of all requirements of the contract with
DSHS through monitoring the subcontractor’s performance to their sub-contracted portion
of the statement of work.
Subrecipient – A type of contractor to which a sub-award is made in the form of money, or
property in lieu of money, to carry out all or part of the DSHS program and that is
accountable to the DSHS for the use of the funds and property provided. This type of
contractor may also be referred to as a sub-grantee.
A Subrecipient Contractor will have most of the following characteristics: a) determines
who is eligible to receive what assistance, b) has performance measured against federal
or state program objectives, c) has responsibility for programmatic decision-making, and
d) carries out all or part of a program. The contractor under this RFP would be
considered a subrecipient.
Supplant (verb) - To replace or substitute for another. That is, a recipient of contract
funds under this RFP may not use the funds to pay any costs that the recipient is already
obligated to pay. If a contractor, prior to applying for a contract under this RFP, had
committed to provide funding for activities defined in the contract’s statement of work (i.e.,
as represented in the RFP Budget Summary), then the contractor must provide the
amount of funding previously committed in addition to the amount requested under this
RFP.
Unit Rate – Payment mechanism for services that are reimbursed at a set rate per unit of
service; for example, treatment services at a prescribed rate per hour.
Vendor – Type of contractor that provides goods and services that are ancillary to
carrying out the DSHS-funded activity and are typically procured through the open market.
A Vendor Contractor will have most of the following characteristics: a) provides goods and
services within normal business operations, b) provides similar goods and services to
many different purchasers, c) operates in a competitive environment, d) is not subject to
compliance requirements of the federal or state program, e) provides goods and services
that are ancillary to the operation of the program. The contractor under this RFP would
not be considered a vendor.
Vendor Identification Number (ID #) – Fourteen-digit number needed for any entity to
contract with the State of Texas and which must be set up with the State Comptroller’s
Office. It consists of a ten-digit vendor number (IRS number, state agency number, or
social security number) +check digit + mail code.
Work Plan – A plan that describes how services will be delivered to the eligible population
and includes specifics such as what types of clients will be served, who will be responsible
for the work, timelines for completion of activities, and how services will be evaluated when
complete. The work plan will be part of the contract (i.e. incorporated by reference).
A. Eligible Respondents
Eligible respondents include Texas located consumer- or family-operated 501 (c) (3)
organizations. Eligible organizations must include as a majority of their employment
consumers or family members of consumers. Respondent should describe their
experience in the Texas mental health system in their proposal. Respondents must also
comply with the criteria listed below.
1. Respondent must be established as an appropriate legal entity as described in the
paragraph above, under state statutes and must have the authority and be in good
standing to do business in Texas. Respondent must have a Texas address. A post office
box may be used when the proposal is submitted, but the respondent must conduct
business at a physical location in Texas prior to the date that the contract is awarded.
2. Respondent must be in good standing with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.
3. Respondent is ineligible to apply for funds under this RFP if currently debarred,
suspended, or otherwise excluded or ineligible for participation in Federal or State
assistance programs.
4. Respondent may be ineligible for contract award if audit reports or financial
statements submitted with the proposal identify concerns regarding the future viability of
the contractor, material non-compliance or material weaknesses that are not satisfactorily
addressed, as determined by DSHS.
5. Respondent’s staff members, including the executive director, must not serve as
voting members on respondent’s governing board.
6. Respondent must not be listed on the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS). In
compliance with Comptroller of Public Accounts and Texas Procurement and Support
Services rules, a name search will be conducted using the federal EPLS at http://epls.
arnet.gov prior to the development of a contract. No contract may be awarded to any
respondent found on the EPLS system. A respondent is not considered eligible to
contract with DSHS if a name match is found.
7. Respondent must have at least two years of documented paid or volunteer
experience in project management and providing technical assistance.
8. Respondent is not considered eligible to apply unless the respondent meets the
eligibility conditions to the stated criteria listed above at the time the proposal is
submitted. Respondent must continue to meet these conditions throughout the selection
and funding process. DSHS expressly reserves the right to review and analyze the
documentation submitted and to request additional documentation, and determine the
respondent’s eligibility to compete for the contract award.
B. Contract Term
It is expected that the initial contract period will begin on or about 11/01/08, and will be
made for an eleven- (11) month budget period to end 09/30/2009.
This contract may be renewed up to four additional one year period(s) at the sole
discretion of DSHS. Continued funding of the project in future years is contingent upon
the availability of funds and the satisfactory performance of the contractor during the prior
budget period. Funding may vary and is subject to change each budget period.
The contract awarded under this RFP and any anticipated contract renewals are
contingent upon the continued availability of funding. DSHS reserves the right to alter,
amend or withdraw this RFP at any time prior to the execution of a contract if funds
become unavailable through lack of appropriations, budget cuts, transfer of funds
between programs or agencies, amendment of the appropriations act, health and human
services agency consolidations, or any other disruption of current appropriations. If a
contract has been fully executed and these circumstances arise, the provisions of the
Termination Article in the contract General Provisions will apply.
C. Use of Funds
In Fiscal Year 2009, approximately $2,000,000.00 is expected to be available to fund one
TTAC contract. The specific dollar amount awarded to the successful respondent
depends upon the merit and scope of the proposal and other best value considerations.
Funds are awarded for the purpose specifically defined in this RFP and must not be used
for any other purpose. Funds must not be used to supplant local, state, or federal funds.
Funds may be used for personnel, fringe benefits, staff travel, contractual services, other
direct costs, and indirect costs, as allowed in the budget.
D. Schedule of Events
1. Issue the RFP by posting to the Electronic State Business
Daily (ESBD) 06/11/08
2. Deadline for Submitting Questions 06/30/08
3. Post Answers to Questions to the ESBD 07/10/08
4. Deadline for Submission of Proposals 07/30/08
5. Contract Negotiations 09/08/08
6. Post Final Awards to the ESBD 10/01/08
7. Mail Contract to Awarded Respondent for Signature 10/15/08
8. Anticipated Contract Begin Date 11/01/08
DSHS reserves the right to change the dates shown above without notice.
II. PROGRAM INFORMATION
A. General Purpose and Program Goals – Scope of Work
This RFP will fund one TTAC to serve consumers, families of consumers and
stakeholders statewide. DSHS will provide up to one million dollars to the TTAC to
procure a diverse array of locally-based consumer and family operated organizations to
support and develop into viable service providers and oversee the provision of consumer-
and family-oriented services by a subcontractor(s). DSHS will provide up to an additional
one million dollars for the TTAC to provide training coordination, technical assistance,
network and leadership development, technical assistance to DSHS, and participation in
evaluation activities. In addition, the RFP recipient will be responsible for providing
coordination and support to consumers, youth and families for mental health
transformation.
The primary goal of the TTAC during the first six months of the contract term will be
procurement of Consumer and Family-Operated services in the state.
Within the TTAC, resources must be directed to both adult and children/adolescent
populations. The TTAC shall develop subcontracts with organizations and individuals with
experience and expertise in providing Consumer, Youth and Family Training and
Technical Assistance to individuals with mental illness and there families.
Multiple methods will be used to reach individuals and organizations in the vast geography
of the state, with support and services provided via:
• Face to face interaction.
• Use of technology (web based; teleconferencing; videoconferencing, etc).
• State, regional, and local meetings and conferences facilitated via the above.
SCOPE OF WORK
The following section provides a description of requirements for TTAC and the services
that shall be offered.
During the first contract year, the awarded contractor shall prioritize the specific services
that will be provided and to whom the services will be provided. DSHS expects that during
the first six months of the contract year, TTAC shall focus on the first four work
requirements listed below.
1. Consumer and Family-Operated Services Procurement
During the first three months of the contract, TTAC shall finalize development and issue
an RFP to procure a network of Consumer and Family-Operated Services in the state.
DSHS will provide guidance to TTAC on development of the statement of work and the
evaluation process. TTAC shall be responsible for all aspects of the procurement
process. DSHS will approve any awards that may be offered.
2. TTAC Advisory Committee
TTAC shall select a 15 member Advisory Committee that shall provide input and
recommendations about the required activities of TTAC by the end of the first contract
quarter. The Advisory Committee shall be comprised of agencies serving consumers,
and/or family members (e.g. community centers; advocacy organizations; peer support
organizations), consumer/family member hires within Mental Health Transformation
Working Group agencies (if possible), and consumers, and family member leaders
representing regions across the state. The Advisory Committee shall be comprised of a
majority of consumers and family members of consumers. At least two youth (a consumer
or family member of a consumer) serving on the advisory committee is recommended.
TTAC shall convene at least twice a year, one meeting occurring immediately prior to or
following the weeklong DSHS Annual Summer Behavioral Health Institute held in Austin or
other large metropolitan cities each summer. Travel funds should be included in the
projected budget for committee members and TTAC staff. All travel cost must be
equivalent to current state rates.
3. Assessment
An assessment of the business development needs of organizations providing consumer-
and family-operated services will be conducted and a report of findings will be provided to
DSHS by the end of the first contract quarter. TTAC shall develop a scope of work for the
business and nonprofit development entity or entities described below that is based on
the report findings.
4. Business and Nonprofit Development of Family and Consumer Organizations
TTAC shall subcontract with an entity specializing in the development of nonprofit
organizations. The subcontractor shall provide technical assistance to consumer-and
family-operated organizations to improve self-sufficiency, business plan development, and
sustainability.
Additional funds for these services may be available at a later date, contingent upon
award of grant funds other than the Mental Health Block Grant to DSHS.
5. Services that may be offered and/or coordinated by TTAC:
TTAC shall subcontract with individuals or entities to provide the services listed below. A
minimum of 50 percent of services shall be provided through subcontracts during the first
contract year. This percentage shall increase during the initial or subsequent contract
renewals.
a Coordinate Training Delivery:
TTAC shall coordinate the delivery of training that is culturally appropriate for the
population served, based on best practices and provide technical assistance after
training. TTAC shall not develop training curriculum, unless the training curriculum
available are not suitable for the state’s needs. TTAC shall identify training needs and
coordinate the delivery of training by experts in the following training areas listed below.
A partial list of training content areas has been identified. Other topics shall be identified
and prioritized based on the needs of the consumer, youth, family, or other stakeholder
organizations.
• Peer leadership and development;
• Peer support and facilitating peer support groups;
• How to educate health care and other service providers;
• Consumer and family advocacy skill development;
• Recovery and Resiliency;
• Behavioral health treatment options;
• The role of trauma in behavioral health and providing trauma informed care;
• Navigating the state funded service delivery system;
• Competencies to provide peer service and support to individuals with co-occurring
disorders;
• Preparing consumer, youth, and family service and support providers to work in
interdisciplinary environments;
• Teaching life skills and other wellness and education topics;
• Suicide prevention;
• Securing housing; and
• Activities that support employment.
b Provide Technical Assistance
TTAC shall provide technical assistance and support first to newly and currently funded
Consumer and Family-Operated service providers, next to identified stakeholders, and
then to other stakeholders that may be identified.
c Develop a Statewide Consumer, Youth, and Family Network
An early focus of TTAC shall be identifying and building a statewide consumer, youth and
family network, to ensure opportunities for participation and voice in the development of
the mental health service system. The nature of TTAC work in this area may evolve as the
consumer, youth, and family network grow. Network development may consist of:
Outreach and grassroots development
• Coordinate training and provide technical assistance to consumer-and family-
operated service organizations.
• Identify, provide information, and direct new groups of consumers, youth, and family
members to resources in order to further their development into providers of services.
Use of technology and other mechanisms
• Distribute relevant and timely news and updates via mailed or electronically
distributed newsletters.
• Develop e-mail distribution lists and web-based chat rooms and forums.
• Provide tele-, web-, and video-conferencing for state and regional networking.
Develop a statewide speaker’s bureau
• Identify and recruit consumers, family members, and other advocates (e.g. judges,
physicians, law enforcement, education, child protection services, clergy, etc.) to be
members of a speaker’s bureau and share as a resource.
• Speakers should be identified and organized based on preference for speaking
engagements and by the HHSC service regions (http://www.hhs.state.tx.
us/aboutHHS/HHS_Regions.shtml) and include speakers that could and desire to speak at
the local, regional, state, and national level.
• TTAC shall facilitate a speaker being available to speaker requests.
• Present a plan to DSHS to market these speakers to audiences.
Support and Coordination for Mental Health Transformation
• TTAC shall provide support to and coordinate services to consumers, youth and
families in relation to mental health transformation.
d Participate and/or Provide Technical Assistance to DSHS on Issues and Projects
TTAC shall participate and provide technical assistance to DSHS by either assigning staff
or identifying appropriate consumers or family members from the network to participate.
TTAC shall be responsible for ensuring that staff or identified participants understand and
have received necessary information and/or training about the issue or project. TTAC
shall maintain and/or have access to individuals with knowledge of federal and state
policy, best practices, services research, and other matters affecting people with mental
illness. Some immediate issues and projects are likely to include:
• Participate in developing and implementing a peer certification system.
• Participate in the development of and inclusion of consumers and family members
as providers in the local authority network development (http://www.dshs.state.tx.
us/mhcommunity/LPND/).
• Participate in the development and implementation of the crisis system redesign
(http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/mhsacsr/default.shtm).
• Assist the state in promoting an anti-stigma campaign.
e Participate in Planning and Implementing a Consumer/Family Services Survey
TTAC shall work with an evaluator to assist with recruiting a sample of consumer and
family members across the state to complete a survey regarding quality of services and/or
the recovery orientation of the public mental health system. TTAC shall identify
consumers and family members to participate on an evaluation group that shall advise the
evaluation process and survey implementation.
6. Recipients of TTAC Services:
Recipients for training and technical assistance are:
• Consumers and Family Members.
• Consumer and family operated service groups and organizations.
In order to orient the entire system toward recovery, training and technical assistance may
also be provided to:
• Mental Health Transformation Community Collaborative sites (listed on www.
mhtransformation.org).
• Community Mental Health Center or Local Mental Health Authority staff.
• Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Intervention provider staff.
• Mental Health Transformation Working Group Agencies – select agency staff (www.
mhtransformation.org).
• Special interest groups and stakeholders (e.g. law enforcement, judges, attorneys,
physical health care providers, community leaders, schools and child serving agencies,
adult and child protective services, nursing homes, local housing authorities, workforce
commissions, employer groups and organizations, etc.)
B. Program Background
The President’s New Freedom Commission (NFC) Report, Achieving the Promise:
Transforming Mental Health Care in America found that recovery from mental illness is
possible and that the promise of a life in the community for everyone can be realized. The
NFC vision is “a future when everyone with a mental illness will recover, a future when
mental illnesses can be prevented or cured, a future when mental illnesses are detected
early, and a future when everyone with a mental illness at any stage of life has access to
effective treatment and supports — essentials for living, working, learning, and
participating fully in the community.” The NFC report established six broad goals to
achieve this vision through system transformation:
• Americans understand that mental health is essential to overall health.
• Mental health is consumer and family driven.
• Disparities in mental health services are eliminated.
• Early mental health screening, assessment and referral are common practices.
• Excellent mental health care is delivered and research is accelerated.
• Technology is used to access mental health care and information.
Key to achieving these goals in Texas is recognizing that in a recovery oriented system,
"consumers and families of children with serious emotional disturbances have a key role
in expanding the mental health care delivery workforce." It is recognized nationwide that
in the mental health system, adults with serious mental illness, children with serious
emotional disturbance, and their family members have been secondarily consulted
regarding policies, services, and practices from which they are intended to benefit. In
addition, the treatment community has traditionally not been that attentive or particularly
responsive to the value that peer support can bring to the treatment and recovery
process. Evidence from practice research supports the participation and direction of
primary consumers and family members in policy and program planning and
implementation. While attempts have been made to ensure that these voices are included
and valued, improvements are needed at both the state and local levels.
Consumers and family members are purposely prominent throughout the NFC report.
Emphasis is placed on the involvement of consumers and family members in orienting the
mental health system toward a recovery focus in NFC Goal #2 of the New Freedom
Commission Report (NFC): Mental Health Care is Consumer and Family Driven. In
addition to this particular goal, the report emphasizes a need to improve and expand the
workforce providing evidence-based mental health services and supports. This is
particularly important, as Texas is currently experiencing a behavioral health care
workforce shortage in many parts of the state, which will only worsen as a majority of
these service providers are nearing retirement age without a sufficient replacement
workforce being generated by the state’s colleges and universities to meet the growing
demand. Consumers and family members can help expand the range and availability of
services and supports and studies demonstrate that consumer- and family-run services
can broaden access to peer support, engage more individuals in traditional mental health
services, play vital roles in crisis response and avoidance, serve as a resource for those
on the path of recovery, and are cost effective adjuncts to more traditional treatment.
To develop a system oriented toward recovery, it will be necessary to address system
barriers that add to the burden of mental illness for individuals, their families, and our
communities. In order to move toward eliminating these barriers, active consumer and
family voice, direction, and participation is vital. Only through coordinated state,
community, and individual level efforts can a continuum of care be provided to achieve
the resiliency and recovery goals of consumers and the promise of a life in the community
for everyone.
DSHS used several venues to gather input from consumers and family members about
mental health service needs. After gathering this input, a Request for Information was
issued in February 2008 that included for comment a draft RFP for TTAC. A total of 52
responses were received from individuals representing themselves or individuals
representing organizations, including consumers, family members, service providers,
legislators, and interested stakeholders. DSHS has been responsive to comment on the
establishment of TTAC, and this RFP includes revision or clarification based on the
feedback received. The responses that comprised the greatest percentage of overall
feedback are reflected in this RFP and include:
• Recommending that the DSHS fund one statewide TTAC instead of two.
• Revising the definitions of consumer and family member to be more inclusive.
• Recommending that a majority of individuals employed by or on the board of the
TTAC be consumers or family members of consumers.
• Requesting clarification on TTAC subcontracting.
• Recommending changes to work requirements or responsibilities of the TTAC.
C. Legal Authority
DSHS is authorized to enter into contracts through Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter
1001. DSHS has authority under Health & Safety Code §12.011 to disburse the block
grant funds that are expected to be available in FY 2009.
D. Program Requirements
Contractors are required to conduct project activities in accordance with federal and state
laws prohibiting discrimination. Guidance for adhering to non-discrimination requirements
can be found on the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Civil Rights Office
website at http://www.hhs.state.tx.us/aboutHHS/CivilRights.shtml.
Upon request, a contractor must provide the HHSC Civil Rights Office with copies of all the
contractor’s civil rights policies and procedures. Contractors must notify HHSC’s Civil
Rights Office of any civil rights complaints received relating to performance under the
contract no more than 10 calendar days after receipt of the complaint. Notice must be
directed to
HHSC Civil Rights Office
701 W. 51st Street, Mail Code W206
Austin, TX 78751
Phone Toll Free (888) 388-6332
Phone: (512) 438-4313
TTY Toll Free (877) 432-7232
Fax: (512) 438-5885
A contractor must ensure that its policies do not have the effect of excluding or limiting the
participation of persons in the contractor’s programs, benefits or activities on the basis of
national origin, and must take reasonable steps to provide services and information, both
orally and in writing, in appropriate languages other than English, in order to ensure that
persons with limited English proficiency are effectively informed and can have meaningful
access to programs, benefits and activities.
Contractors must comply with Executive Order 13279, and its implementing regulations at
45 CFR Part 87 or 7 CFR Part 16, which provide that any organization that participates in
programs funded by direct financial assistance from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture or U.S.
Dept. of Health and Human Services must not, in providing services, discriminate against
a program beneficiary or prospective program beneficiary on the basis of religion or
religious belief.
Contractors are required to conduct project activities in accordance with the most recent
DSHS Standards for Public Health Clinic Services.
Contractors may obtain a copy of the most recent DSHS Standards for Public Health Clinic
Services which is posted on the DSHS website at
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/qmb/dshsstndrds4clinicservs.pdf.
DSHS reserves the right to modify the Statement of Work of the contract and to
incorporate Special Provisions into contracts awarded under this RFP.
III. PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS
A. RFP Point of Contact
For purposes of addressing questions concerning this RFP, the only contact is Pamela
Ferguson unless otherwise delegated by the CSCU Director. All communications
concerning this RFP must be addressed by email, hand-delivery, or fax to:
Mailing Address for Regular Mail:
Pamela Ferguson
Ref: RFP# MH/Consumer & Family TTAC 0285.1
Client Services Contracting Unit MC 1886
Department of State Health Services
P.O. Box 149347
Austin, Texas 78714-9347
Physical Address for Overnight Mail or hand-delivery:
Pamela Ferguson
Ref: RFP# MH/Consumer & Family TTAC 0285.1
Client Services Contracting Unit MC 1886
Department of State Health Services
1100 W. 49th Street, Room T-502
Austin, Texas 78756
Phone and Fax Numbers:
512/458-7470 phone
512/458- 7351 fax
CSCU Contact Email:
pam.ferguson@dshs.state.tx.us
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texas u s psychiatric rehabilitation association lone star
grants available now
grants available now
