The purpose of the Request for Proposal (RFP) is to solicit sealed proposals to establish a contract through competitive negotiations for the development of a statewide parent support network of parent volunteers specifically to support parents of infants and toddlers with or at risk for developmental delay or disability.

The New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) is the Lead Agency for Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA Part C is a federally entitled program that provides a system of supports and services for children with or at risk for developmental delay or disability and their families. The ECECD’s Family Infant Toddler (FIT) program provides services to children and their families in New Mexico in accordance with Part C of IDEA.

As the Lead Agency for IDEA Part C, the ECECD must make available resources to support parents which includes organizations designed to support parents of children who are enrolled in IDEA Part C and Part B (special education) services. The ECECD is seeking to establish a contract to ensure that all parents enrolled in IDEA Part C services in New Mexico have access support groups, focus groups, educational opportunities related to becoming more familiar with IDEA, and advocacy leadership opportunities to build the capacity of parents to understand their rights under IDEA and
advocate for their children