|
|
Economic Stability
Helping fathers improve their economic status by providing activities,
such as Work First services, job search, job training, subsidized
employment, job retention and job enhancement; and encouraging
education, including career-advancing education.
|
 |
|
|
There is no single model of a work first program. What defines such
programs is their overall philosophy: that any job is a good job and
that the best way to succeed in the labor market is to join it,
developing work habits and skills on the job rather than in a
classroom. Work first programs also share a strong message that, for
participants, employment is both the goal and the expectation. Beyond
this common philosophy, however, work first programs vary significantly
in the services they offer, the sequencing of their activities, the
extent to which participation is required and enforced, and even their
goals and approach. This guide provides some insight in how to
Implement an Employment-Focused Approach to Welfare Reform.
|
|
|
The Welfare Peer Technical Assistance Network
provides peer-to-peer technical assistance to public agencies and
private organizations operating the Temporary Assistance to Needy
Families (TANF) program. Technical assistance is provided through a
variety of mechanisms: peer-to-peer site visits, workshops, moderated
teleconferences and interactive Q&A sessions. The Web site also
highlights policy relevant research, innovative programs, related links
and upcoming events. The objective of the Peer TA Network is to
facilitate the sharing of information between and among states and to
establish linkages between organizations serving the needs of welfare recipients.
|
|
|
Reports and other Information about programs and demonstrations designed to help low-income fathers
obtain the skills they need to provide financial and emotional support for their children.
|
|
|
TANF (managed by the Office of Family Assistance (OFA)) provides
assistance and work opportunities to needy families by
granting states the federal funds and wide flexibility to develop and
implement their own welfare programs. Citizens may apply for assistance
at their local TANF agency.
TANF Factsheet.
|
|
|
The Workforce Investment Act of 1998 provides the framework for a unique
national workforce preparation and employment system designed to meet
both the needs of the nation’s businesses and the needs of job seekers
and those who want to further their careers. Title I of the legislation is based on the following elements:
- Training and employment programs must be designed and managed at the local level where the needs of
businesses and individuals are best understood.
- Customers must be able to conveniently access the employment, education,
training, and information services they need at a single location in their neighborhoods.
- Customers should have choices in deciding the training program that best fits
their needs and the organizations that will provide that service. They
should have control over their own career development.
- Customers have a right to information about how well training providers succeed
in preparing people for jobs. Training providers will provide
information on their success rates.
- Businesses will provide information, leadership, and play an active role in
ensuring that the system prepares people for current and future jobs.
|
|
