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Realizing that current systems and programs for addressing complex social issues are not enough, Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) is introducing Investing in Results, which provides a new framework for community solutions.
Research and evidence-based practices show that it's much more cost effective - and clearly more humane - to address the root causes of complex community problems rather than deal with consequences after they occur. This is why HFUW is pleased to announce the 2009 Request for Proposals (RFP), which will focus on critical issues in specific investment areas and preventative programs and services.
Volunteer cabinets comprised of issue experts, community leaders and others will choose the strategies and best practices that can have the greatest impact on selected issues, and they will determine metrics for measuring our success.
Description of RFP Process
The RFP process is very specific and divided into three streamlined stages. Advancement through the stages will be determined by the investment area volunteer cabinet. The stages are as follows:
Stage I: Concept Meetings and Letters of Interest (LOI)
Interested organizations are strongly encouraged to attend a concept meeting that provides an opportunity to learn more about investment areas, strategies and focus. Interested organizations will then be invited to submit an electronic Letter of Interest (LOI) and will be notified of their status at the conclusion of the Stage I period (two weeks).
Stage II: Technical Training and RFP Online Application
Applicants that have been selected to move on to the RFP process (Stage II) will participate in a mandatory Technical Training. This training will provide applicants the detailed information they need to complete and submit their RFP online. Applicants will be notified of their status at the conclusion of the Stage II period (four weeks).
Stage III: Site Visits
At the final stage of the RFP process, applicants who have submitted an RFP and have been selected to move on to Stage III will participate in site visits and/or other meetings with HFUW volunteers and staff to discuss the proposed initiative/program (one week).
Applicants who successfully complete Stage III of the RFP process and are awarded initiative/program funding will enter into a contract with HFUW. Final awards will be announced in September 2009.
2009 Request for Proposals (RFP)
HFUW will focus on two investment areas for the 2009-2010 funding cycle:
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Building Safe Communities: Crime and unsafe neighborhoods were top concerns identified by HFUW's comprehensive 2008 Tri-County Needs Assessment. The Building Safe Communities investment area targets prevention strategies to address these concerns. The RFP process for this investment area will open April 8, 2009 with the LOI (Stage I) and conclude in September 2009 with award announcements.
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Improving Financial Stability: Financial stability was another area of top concern indentified in the 2008 Tri-County Needs Assessment. The Improving Financial Stability investment area targets prevention strategies to address these concerns. The RFP process for this investment area will open May 5, 2009 with the LOI (Stage I) and conclude on September 2009 with award announcements.
Next Step:
Please follow the links to learn more information regarding HFUW's 2009 Building Safe Communities and Improving Financial Stability RFP processes. |
