Title
American Institutes for Research Opportunity Fund Consulting Agreement (Ordinance S-52383) - Citywide
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with American Institutes for Research in the Behavioral Sciences or affiliate (AIR) for pro-bono consulting services. There is no financial impact to the City for this agreement.
Report
Summary
The American Institutes for Research Opportunity Fund’s “Priority Places” initiative supports place-based investments in bold, community-led solutions that advance opportunity and improve lives and has worked with over 100 grantees worldwide. Through a philanthropic venture, Phoenix has been selected by AIR to receive, at no cost to the City, consulting services to provide research, evaluation, and technical assistance. The Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS) seeks research and technical assistance support to evaluate and understand its outcomes and impacts and improve its services. Through this partnership, AIR will contribute in-depth research capacity, data analysis, and evidence-based approaches to strengthen OHS’s strategies and programs. Priority projects identified by OHS include:
- Understanding the return on investment for Phoenix-funded homelessness programs and true cost of experiencing homelessness in Phoenix.
- Evaluating supportive employment programs (costs and program impacts).
- Assessing the viability and potential for impact in incorporating shared housing and master leasing into OHS’s broader strategy.
AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization founded in 1946 and is one of the world’s leading behavioral and social science research organizations. AIR has decades of experience partnering with governments, nonprofits, and community organizations at the local, state, and federal levels. Current and past collaborations include work with cities and states on education finance, workforce training, housing and homelessness, and public safety.
The partnership with the City will be supported through the AIR Opportunity Fund, AIR’s philanthropic arm dedicated to building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities across the country. The AIR Opportunity Fund was established in 2021 with a 10-year, $225 million commitment to expand opportunity in education, workforce development, community health, and neighborhood safety. By concentrating resources in select “Priority Places,” including Phoenix, AIR collaborates with local leaders to co-design solutions that respond.
Contract Term
The contract term will commence upon signing of the agreement for a term up to five years.
Financial Impact
This agreement will not result in a financial impact to the City.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Gina Montes and the Office of Homeless Solutions.