STRATEGIC PLANNING

CHS is seeking proposals from qualified consultants to facilitate a comprehensive strategic planning process. The selected consultant will work closely with CHS’ senior leadership and board of directors to assess organizational priorities, identify opportunities for growth, and create a clear roadmap for achieving our mission over the next 3 years.

Request for Proposals (RFP)
Strategic Planning Consultant for Community Human Services

Issued by: Community Human Services (CHS)
Date Issued: 4/13/2026
Proposal Due Date: 5/15/2026

Organization Overview

Community Human Services (CHS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making safe, affordable housing and nutritious food accessible to individuals and families in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. With a history of over 50 years, CHS serves more than 7,000 unduplicated individuals annually through housing support, food distribution, and community-based programming.

Purpose of the RFP

CHS is seeking proposals from qualified consultants to facilitate a comprehensive strategic planning process. The selected consultant will work closely with CHS’ senior leadership and board of directors to assess organizational priorities, identify opportunities for growth, and create a clear roadmap for achieving our mission over the next 3 years.

Scope of Work

The consultant will be expected to:

  1. Conduct a needs assessment and organizational review, including:

    • Interviews or focus groups with staff, board members, volunteers, and key stakeholders.

    • Review of current programs, operations, and community impact.

  2. Facilitate strategic planning sessions with senior leadership and board members.

  3. Assist in the development of a comprehensive strategic plan that includes:

    • Values refinement and vision

    • Organizational goals and measurable objectives

    • Key performance indicators and evaluation framework

  4. Provide recommendations for operational improvements, capacity building, and potential funding strategies.

  5. Deliver a final strategic plan report and present findings to the board and leadership team.

Desired Qualifications

  • Demonstrated experience in nonprofit strategic planning.

  • Familiarity with organizations addressing housing insecurity and food insecurity is highly desirable.

  • Strong facilitation, communication, and analytical skills.

  • Ability to produce actionable, results-oriented strategic plans.

  • Experience with stakeholder engagement and community-based initiatives.

Proposal Requirements

Interested consultants should submit a proposal that includes:

  1. Consultant Information: Name, qualifications, relevant experience, and references. Please include Resume.

  2. Approach and Methodology: Outline of the proposed strategic planning process, including engagement strategies, tools, and timeline.

  3. Project Timeline: Estimated duration of project phases, including deliverables.

  4. Budget: Detailed cost proposal, including consultant fees, expenses, and optional follow-up support.

  5. Sample Work: Examples of past strategic plans or similar projects, preferably in the nonprofit sector.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

  • Relevant experience and qualifications of the consultant.

  • Understanding of CHS’s mission and the housing/food insecurity landscape.

  • Proposed methodology and timeline.

  • Cost-effectiveness and clarity of budget.

  • Quality of previous work and references.

Submission Instructions

Proposals must be submitted electronically to hr@chscorp.org
Subject line: “RFP – Strategic Planning Consultant Proposal”

Proposals must be received by 5/15/2026. Late submissions may not be considered.

Timeline

  • RFP Issued: 4/13/2026

  • Proposal Submission Deadline: 5/15/2026

  • Consultant Selection: 6/5/2026

  • Project Start: 6/15/2026

  • Anticipated Completion: 11/20/2026