Certainly, helping dislocated workers is a crucial endeavor. First, we need to better understand what a dislocated worker is. Commonly, you are considered a dislocated worker if you have been laid off from your job and are receiving unemployment benefits because of being laid off or no longer working due to factors beyond your control.
Dislocated workers face challenges in finding new employment. This situation is becoming more common, necessitating effective support systems. Imagine losing the position you have held for many years and you are then unable to find a new position that meets your job qualifications.
Fortunately, there are programs available to assist in the retraining and placement of many of these employees. The largest and one of the most helpful programs is FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). It provides aid in the form of grants, loans and work study programs. FAFSA is available by filling out a simple application. Some of the programs also provide grants for hiring companies.
Individual states may offer programs that assist employers with costs while training a dislocated worker to learn the required skills of their new position. WIOA’s Dislocated Worker program supports job seekers in career searches, overcoming employment barriers, and gaining necessary skills. Employment Counselor Specialists offer case management, assessments, and access to On-the-Job Training or Individual Training Accounts for skill development.
When individuals become dislocated workers because of job loss, mass layoffs, global trade dynamics, or transitions in economic sectors, the WIOA Dislocated Worker program provides services to assist them in re-entering the workforce. Services are provided by Employment Counselor Specialists across your state. The services include Basic Career Services, Individualized Career Services, Support Services, and Training Services.
Examples of qualifications include:
- 18+ Years old
- US citizen or be eligible to work in the US
- Registered with the Selective Service
- Been terminated or laid off, and eligible to receive or have exhausted unemployment compensation
- Unlikely to return to previous industry or occupation
If program eligibility requirements are met, participants will receive case management services and initial, comprehensive, and ongoing assessments. Eligible participants may also have access to On-the-Job Training or an Individual Training Account to gain or update skills to compete in the job market.
In these challenging times, uniting efforts through programs like FAFSA and WIOA, facilitated by our organization, HR Synergy, is pivotal. By offering education, training, and employment opportunities, we can empower dislocated workers to rebuild their careers and lives, creating a positive impact on individuals and communities alike.
If you need assistance or want to coordinate available resources in your state, reach out to us at HR Synergy. Our expertise can bridge the gap between dislocated workers and the support programs, potentially transforming lives by enabling access to previously unattainable job opportunities.