On December 27th, the New York City Department of Probation (DOP) released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Next STEPS (Striving Toward Engagement and Peaceful Solutions) program. The Next STEPS program helps high-risk youth (not necessarily on probation) by using curriculum-based group mentoring to transform attitudes and behaviors that can lead to violence and/or criminal activity. Through this RFP, DOP will award up to $6.75 million in total funding to qualified community-based providers to continue the provision of Next STEPS mentoring services. The Next STEPS mentoring model includes a curriculum based on cognitive behavioral principles delivered by culturally appropriate mentors, case management services, participant stipends, and non-financial incentives.
A summary of the RFP and the full RFP are attached. Applications are due on February 7th.