Division of Youth Services Request for Proposals for "Enhanced Supervision" Youth Detention Alternatives Program 2026

Division of Youth Services Request for Proposals for "Enhanced Supervision" Youth Detention Alternatives Program 2026

The Mercer County Department of Human Services (MCDHS), Division of Youth Services, seeks proposals from qualified consultants or consulting firms to design, develop, and support initial implementation of a comprehensive “Enhanced Supervision” Youth Detention Alternatives Program. The purpose of this program is to reduce reliance on secure detention for youth, promote equitable outcomes, increase community-based supervision options, and improve overall system effectiveness.
The County aims to expand alternatives that ensure community safety while reducing unnecessary detention of youth. Current detention utilization patterns show opportunities to introduce structured diversion pathways, risk-based decision tools, and community support services. A consultant is needed to guide the County through best practices, program design, stakeholder engagement, and implementation planning to launch an effective, sustainable detention alternatives model for enhanced supervision.
The contract period will be February 1, 2026, through July 31, 2026, with three six-month options to extend. The funding allocation is contingent upon the availability of funding in the 2026, 2027, and 2028 Mercer County calendar year budgets.