REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

DUAL STATUS YOUTH PROJECT MANAGER

This request for proposals (RFP) for a Dual Status Youth Project Manager is issued by Otter Tail County.

SECTION I: OVERVIEW

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Otter Tail County knows that an evidence-based approach to early intervention for county-involved youth

positively impacts outcomes. This position is responsible for managing the implementation of the RFK Dual

Status Youth Reform framework. This project involves coordination of people and other resources to adopt

an evidence-based framework for early identification of at-risk and/or county-involved youth. This initiative

will focus on a holistic approach that incorporates diversionary strategies and interventions that move

service delivery upstream to prevent continued criminal activity while reducing out of home placements. This

position performs project management duties including program development, program implementation and

monitoring, research, meeting facilitation, data collection, and grant reporting.

DESIRED OUTCOME

Building on our multi-disciplinary team structure, implementation of this framework will enable:

Effective programmatic and fiscal system practices;

Effective, efficient, and integrated management performance;

Improved recognition and application of the neuroscience of adolescent development and adoption

of the principles and hallmarks of a developmental approach to address youth risks and treatment

needs;

Improved utilization of evidence-based practices and intervention resources;

Implementation of enhanced prevention and early intervention inter-agency approaches for youth

and families with risks and needs in multiple domains; and

Improved methods for data collection, management, and performance measurement

The overall goal of the twelve-month role will be to support the initiative for the duration of a twelve-month

grant cycle.

SECTION II: QUALIFICATIONS

The project manager should have the following qualifications and experience:

Experience with convening groups of stakeholders and cross sector partners, specifically in the West

Central MN region

Experience managing and advancing multi-partner projects

Knowledge of current youth challenges and human services, juvenile justice, and education sector

intersections

SECTION III: SCOPE OF SERVICES

The selected project manager will deliver services related to one or more of the following areas of work:

1. Manage schedule, activities, communication, and grant reporting for the project.

2. Schedule and deploy training, focus groups, listening sessions in support of identified priorities.

3. Conduct research and program evaluation by implementing data collection, analysis, monitoring, and dissemination protocols.

4. Effectively convene and facilitate meetings. Plan, schedule, and facilitate community focus groups with youth to gather feedback and input and visioning for the future.

SECTION IV: SUBMITTAL INSTRUCTIONS

Submitted proposals should include:

Letter of interest

Outline of qualifications

Relevant experience

Otter Tail County reserves the right to interview proposers if determined necessary.

Questions regarding the RFP can be submitted via email to lpenkevaldes@ottertailcounty.gov.

Proposals must be submitted electronically to Lynne Penke Valdes, Otter Tail County Deputy Administrator at lpenkevaldes@ottertailcounty.gov by 4:00pm, August 18, 2025.

SECTION V: TERMS & CONDITIONS

Selected project manager will be considered an independent contractor and will not act as Otter Tail County’s agent, nor shall be deemed an employee of Otter Tail County for the purposes of any employee benefit programs or be deemed an employee of Otter Tail County for purposes of income tax withholding, FICA taxes, unemployment benefits, workers compensation benefits, or otherwise. Selected project manager shall not enter into any agreement or incur any obligations on Otter Tail County’s behalf or commit Otter Tail County in any manner without Otter Tail County’s prior written consent