The County of San Diego Probation Department is soliciting proposals for a contractor to develop and manage a creative expression publication program for youth held in Probation facilities. The program will engage youth in creative writing workshops and visual art activities, compile submissions, and produce a professionally printed and/or digitally published periodical featuring original works. The publication serves as a rehabilitation tool, fostering self-expression, literacy, and a sense of accomplishment among justice-involved youth. All workshop facilitators must hold appropriate background clearances to work in a secured juvenile facility. This contract replaces expiring Contract #574455.
• Demonstrated experience running creative arts programs in juvenile justice or similar settings • Workshop facilitators must pass DOJ/FBI fingerprint background clearance • Publication design and print production capability (or documented partnership with printer) • Minimum one publication per contract year; digital edition also provided • Content review process ensuring appropriateness and trauma-informed editorial standards • Literacy and self-expression outcome tracking for all participants • General Liability Insurance: $1,000,000 per occurrence • Copies of each publication provided to the Probation Department • Participant privacy protected (no full names published without consent) • Quarterly program reports including attendance, participation rates, and participant feedback
Eligible applicants include arts organizations, publishers, nonprofits, and community-based organizations with documented experience delivering creative writing or visual arts programs within juvenile justice, correctional, or alternative education settings. A portfolio of past youth publications or program work samples must be submitted with the proposal.
The County of San Diego Probation Department seeks a contractor to operate a creative writing and visual art publication program for youth in County custody, producing a periodic publication that showcases participants' original literary and artistic work.