Southwest Washington workforce area receives $4.6 million to aid workers - August 17, 2006
06-075
Media contacts:
Bill Tarrow,
360-902-9376
Lisa Nisenfeld,
360-567-1073
Audio: http://fortress.wa.gov/esd/portal/info/newsroom/audiofiles/Vancouver.mp3
OLYMPIA – The Employment Security Department has released $4.6 million to the Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council to provide employment and training assistance to youths and adults through June 2007.
The council oversees the design and delivery of employment and training services for residents in Cowlitz, Wahkiakum and Clark counties. Services are offered through WorkSource centers in Vancouver and Kelso as well as youth programs through Educational Service District 112.
“The best way to keep Washington competitive in the global economy is to ensure that our workers get the job assistance and training they need to succeed in the workplace,” said Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee. “These funds will help thousands of workers move forward on a brighter future for themselves and their families.”
Funding to local areas is based on the health of local economies, as well as federal allocations. Funding for Southwest Washington has been reduced by 18 percent from the previous year.
The money will be used to assist job seekers who are entering the labor market for the first time or workers needing to upgrade or train for new skills as a result of the changing economy. Types of services include skills assessment, individual employment counseling, job-readiness training and occupational training. Other services also may include job search, job referral and relocation assistance. A goal for these funds is to meet employer demands for skilled, qualified workers.
“These resources are vital to helping people obtain employment in livable wage jobs, while assisting employers in finding a skilled workforce,” said Lisa Nisenfeld, director of the workforce development council. “This definitely is a key component for economic development in our communities. It’s ironic that when we are facing a critical skill shortage, federal funds for these efforts are being cut back.”
The Employment Security Department is the fiscal agent for federal Workforce Investment Act funds and ensures that the local workforce development councils comply with federal laws and regulations on how the money is to be used. Some $58 million will be distributed this year to the state’s 12 workforce development council areas based on population, unemployment and the number of disadvantaged people.
Individuals who need help finding a job or obtaining job training should visit their nearest WorkSource center. Employers seeking assistance in Clark County should call WorkSource Business Services at 360-735-4983. In Cowlitz County employers should call 360-578-4259. Offices are listed online at www.go2worksource.com and in the blue pages of the phone book. Some programs and services are available only to individuals who meet specific eligibility requirements.
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Information on occupations, wages and other economic trends
