HomeMy WebLinkAbout981546 RESOLUTION
RE: APPROVE WELFARE TO WORK LOCAL PLAN AND AUTHORIZE CHAIR TO SIGN
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, pursuant to
Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter, is vested with the authority of
administering the affairs of Weld County, Colorado, and
WHEREAS, the Board has been presented with a Welfare to Work Local Plan from the
County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld
County, on behalf of the Department of Human Services, to the Colorado Department of Labor
and Employment, with terms and conditions being as stated in said plan, and
WHEREAS, after review, the Board deems it advisable to approve said plan, a copy of
which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of Weld
County, Colorado, that the Welfare to Work Local Plan from the County of Weld, State of
Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the
Department of Human Services, to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment be, and
hereby is, approved.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that the Chair be, and hereby is, authorized
to sign said plan.
The above and foregoing Resolution was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted
by the following vote on the 24th day of August, A.D., 1998.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
WE COUNTY, COLORADO
'• p� 4/ C2�cfT
I „/r �ATTEST: � I !: �- e �.l�
Constance L. Harbert,
Chair
Weld County Cle - + e���'�����1ct_z� "? __• d22�
•
i, W. H. bster, ro-Tea.,
Deputy Clerk r
orge Baxter
"RO AS • FORM:
e K. Hall
ty A •ey EXCUSED
Barbara J. Kirkmeyer
981546
HR0069
//� ' mEmoRAnDum
I � Constance L. Harbert
gip C Board of Country Commissioners August?�1, 1998
To Date
COLORADO From Walt Speckman, Executive Director, Human Services
Welfare to Work Program Plan bbb
Subject:
Enclosed for Board approval is the 1998-1999 Welfare to Work Program Plan, The plan
requests $454,474.60 to provide a range of workforce development options for TANF
individuals who meet the Welfare to Work criteria as well as for non-custodial parents of TANF
recipients. Various services,such as post placement services,will be provided to individuals
who,due to increased earnings no longer receive cash welfare payments but need additional
services to become self sufficient. Additionally, individuals are eligible to receive services
such as improving essential work skills in reading, math, and writing, and other services
which will assist them in obtaining needed workforce skills and retaining their employment.
If you have any questions, please feel free to telephone me at 353-3800 ext. 3317.
981546
Weld County Welfare to Work
Local Plan
1. Welfare-to-Work Program Description
A. Program Design
I. Describe your local targeting strategies to reach the hard to employ TANF recipients ellgbie
under WtW and assure that appropriate activities and services are provided to help these
participants achieve self-sufficiency. Include the following:
a. How you will coordinate the local TANF agency/agencies in the SDA to refer clients and
provide, as expeditiously as possible, all assessment data and the Individual
Responsibility Contract (IRC) for each person.
In Weld County. the Board of County Commissioners has developed a local Colorado Works
in Weld County Plan to implement the TANF Program. This local plan identifies the roles
and responsibilities of the Weld County Department of Social Services and Employment
Services of Weld County. Employment Services has the primary responsibility of
implementing the work components of the plan while Social Services has retained the
functions of completing an initial assessment of the participant and developing an initial IRC.
This initial IRC directs the participants to Empioyment Services for employment assessments
and further development of the IRC to outline required work activities. The process currently
used for the referral and initial assessment of TANF participants will remain the same for the
WtW Program.
Employment Services will complete employment related assessments for participants. These
assessments will identify the participant's past work history. educational background,
employment interests. current job skill levels. and employment goals. Assessment will also
look at the applicant's need for supportive services and identify any barriers to employment.
These employment assessments will be the basis for assigning the appropriate work activity
under the Individual Responsibility Contract and will identify any supportive services the
recipient may need to obtain or retain subsidized or unsubsidized employment. Assessments
may also include additional testing for basic academic skills, vocational or employment skills,
and career exploration.
Employment Services will enter the appropriate data into the CACTIS system and provide
copies of the revised IRC to Social Services.
b. How you will contact WtW clients referred by the local TANF agency/agencies and
provide them with information concerning the WtW program and the location of the
closest WtW office.
Social Services will refer participants to Employment Services for employability assessments
and the continued development of the IRC. The initial IRC developed by Social Services will
identify the location, appointment time, and any other necessary information concerning the
WtW Program.
c. How you will coordinate `r ith your county social service parmer(s) to develop a local
marketing strategy with goals designed to directly recruit eligible participants and to
inform the entire local workforce development network of the WtW program.
Employment Services and Social Services currently utilize a team approach in the delivery of
the Colorado Works in Weld County program and will continue to effectively coordinate the
implementation of the WtW program. As apartner. Social Services will be crucial in
coordinating efforts with the child support unit to target non-custodial parents. Social
Services is also responsible for identification of eligible target groups and the initial
determination of whether the TANF recipient. non-custodial parent, or both should be
recruited into the WtW Program. Employment Services and Social Services staff will develop
marketing strategies to recruit non-custodial parents and Employment Services staff will
review the current caseload to identify potential WtW program participants. Handouts will be
developed to explain the job retention/post employment services available to WtW Program
participants. Brochures will be provided to employers to encourage their participation in On-
the-Job Training. Work Supplementation. or other work activities. These brochures will also
be provided to participants for use as a marketing tool for employment. Additionally,a
brochure outlining training options to support additional training needs will be provided to
both participants and employers.
d. How you will obtain input from the local workforce development network,labor
organizations, employers. job seekers, public sector agencies. local elected officials,and
education/training providers (including School to Career, if appropriate)to help design,
implement and evaluate programs and services.
•
Employment Services. Social Services, and the Weld County Workforce Development Board
have been actively involved in the development and refinement of the program delivery for the
Colorado Works in Weld County Program. The Workforce Development Board is currently
conducting focus groups which emphasize the most hard to employ TANF recipients to help
design, implement and evaluate programs and services. The focus groups expand input into
the system by including other community agencies and education/training providers,such as
mental health providers. the Community Center for Independent Living, Community
Developmental Services. Inc.. Social Security Administration representatives,medical
doctors, Island Grove Treatment Center. Teen Network. etc. Other community
members/groups will be invited to participate as specific situations are identified and input
from these groups is needed.
The focus groups ill utilize brain storming sessions primarily for those hard to employ cases
who have significant bathers to employment and meet the 70% requirements.
e. How you will coordinate with child support agencies to identify and refer non-custodial
••
parents.
The coordination with child support agencies to identify and refer non-custodial parents will
rest primarily with the Department of Social Services. Employment Services will develop
marketing tools which will encourage non-custodial parents to participate in the WtW
Program.
=. Define and describe local strategies regarding:
a. Employment Activities. Please include the following:
(I) Describe the allowable activities authorized under the WtW grant you will provide.
(Attachment B) _.
All employment activities will emphasize a "work first" approach arid will be available
after the individual begins unsubsidized or subsidized employment. Work is considered
any subsidized or unsubsidized employment activity. The majority of these activities
were designed. and strategies developed. under the Colorado Works in Weld County
Program.
The following activities will occur through the WtW Program.
Job Readiness Activities
These activities are primarily provided through an IRC Skill Development Seminar(job
readiness and job search) for TANF participants. This activity screens and assesses an
applicants or recipients job readiness. An intensive job search activity is also provided
during this seminar. The seminar can last up to four weeks. Upon completion of the
seminar, the participant's results are evaluated and used to revise the IRC and identify
the appropriate work activity. If a participant is successful in obtaining employment
through this activity, they will be eligible for assistance under the WtW for post
employment and retention services.
Participants who are unsuccessful in retaining employment may return to the IRC Skill
Development Seminar prior to placement in another work activity.
This activity will be conducted primarily under the Colorado Works in Weld County
(TANF) Program.
Fmnloyment Activities may include:
Community Service Program't
These include a Public Sector and a Private Sector Work Activity. The hours of
participation determined for these activities will conform to the Fair Labor Standards
Act. The total dollar amount of the cash assistance received by the participant will be
divided by the comparable wage amount for the participants' work activity position.
Cash assistance will be comprised of the Colorado Works in Weld County assistance
• and food stamp assistance.
•
The Public Sector and Private Sector Work Activities are designed to help the near job
ready to enter the world of work, develop occupational skills and good work habits,and
help the participant in obtaining permanent unsubsidized employment. Work sites will
be in either the public or private sector. Employment Services will enter into agreements
with the work site sponsor and the participant. These agreements will outline the work
activity. expectations of the work site sponsor and the participant. and the length of the
agreement.
Optional training is available under the Public and Private Sector Work Activity
Agreements. The work site sponsor will provide job specific training necessary for the
participant to retain or obtain employment. A training plan will be developed for the
participant and will include the training criteria. methods by which the training outcomes
will be measured. the duration of the training. and other associated costs. This training
may be provided directly by the work site or through contracts with training providers.
To ensure that the job specific training meets the local demand of employers, the training
plans and training providers will be reviewed and approved by the Workforce
Development Board.
Work Supplementation Program •
Job creation through public or private sector employment wage subsidies will primarily
be through the Work Supplementation Program.
Work Supplementation is a private sector employment program specifically designed for
recipients of the Colorado Works in Weld County Program and includes both
employment and instructional training. The employer must provide a minimum of three
months of unsubsidized, continuous full time employment and provide the participant
with wages and benefits that are comparable to other employees doing comparable work,
and provide liability and worker's compensation.
The employer will provide the following:
• a forty-hour work week for the participants that provides for a combination of work
and education.
• training to the participant in lob specific skills and mentoring of participants in
work ethics and employment retention skills for either continued employment with
the employer or for employment with another employer.
reinforce employer basic skills competencies with the participant through use of
Employment Services prescribed performance evaluation and/or counseling forms.
• determine if the training will be provided directly by the employer or through
contracts with training providers.
Employment Services will reimburse the employer a monthly work supplementation fee
totaling 50% of the participants's gross salary for the month.
The employer may also be reimbursed a training allowance bonus on behalf of the
participant for additional training costs.
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On the Job Training
On-the-iob training is designed to teach and:or improve skills of the participant on the
job. Employers must adhere to the "hire first- philosophy. and provide training to the
participant during the contract period. If an individual needs additional classroom
training. beyond the employer training, the cost of tuition and books will be included as
reimbursable costs to the employer from the \VtR Program or other local resources.
The duration that the employer will be reimbursed for the training costs are calculated by
determining the amount of time recommended by the Dictionary of Occupational Tides
(DOT) for a specific job title and reducing this time by any previous related education
or work experience the participant may possess. Employers will be reimbursed 50%of
the participant's gross salary on a monthly basis.
Post Employment Services
Post-employment services will be provided after an individual is placed in one of the
employment activities discussed previously. or in any other subsidized or unsubsidized
job.
Post-employment services will include the following:
• Basic educational skills training and occupational skills training
•
• Upgrade from part time to full time employment
• English as a Second Language training
• Job Mentoring and Coaching
• A Job Solutions Seminar designed for individuals in unsubsidized employment to
have the opportunity to discuss any issues related to their working environment and
identify options available to solve problems other than quitting. A Job Retention
Package will be provided to participants as an incentive to retain employment and
help cover initial costs of entering unsubsidized employment. This package may
include vouchers to assist with transportation. work clothes. tools. and personal
items such as haircuts. etc.
Job Retention and Supportive Services
Job retention and supportive services may be provided through WtW funds if these
services are not otherwise available to the participant through the TANF program. These
•
•
• services may include. but are not limited to. transportation assistance; substance abuse
treatment, except for medical treatment; child care assistance; emergency or short term
housing assistance; or other supportive services needs as identified. A focus will be
made on developing the job retention component to include workshops that address
employment retention skill development. employment mediation or job coaching.
Other Activ^ies •
Intake. assessment. eii=ibiiit} determination. development of an individual service
strategy, and case management will be incorporated in the design of the allowable
activities listed in this section.
(2) Describe how you will use the existing delivery system framework in planning and
documenting local strategies
The delivery system for the WtW Program will be the same as the delivery system for
the Colorado Works in Weld County Program. All services available under the Weld
County One-Stop System will be available to WtW participants. Information available
through the One-Stop Center will be made available to terminees from the WtW
Program to promote their continued education. upgrading of their job, and to promote
life long learning opportunities.
•
The Weld County \Workforce Development Board continues to make the successful
implementation of welfare reform a priority and will impiement additional planning
processes to improve the welfare reform initiative.
(3) Describe how employment activities will emphasize a "work first- approach by focusing
attention to services available after the individual begins work rather than delaying
their entry into the workforce by promoting services that occur prior to employment.
Individuals enrolled in the WtW program will be enrolled in a work activity that meets
the criteria for work participation under the Colorado Works Plan. This includes both
subsidized work activities and unsubsidized employment (full and part-time). Non-work
related activities will be provided prior to participation in the WtW program.
Participants will remain in the Colorado Works in Weld County Program until work
activities are appropriate and the participant is determined to benefit from the WtW
Program.
(4) Describe how your design and definition of employment activities will focus on
enhancing the individuals' abilities to work and learn the skills necessary to stay in the
workforce. to advance in a career and to embrace lifelong learning a means to self-
sufficiency.
The employmentiwork activities described previously are designed to increase the
opportunity for participants to improve their basic work skills. develop a work history
and learn job specific skills. When placed in either subsidized or unsubsidized
employment, opportunity will be made available through vouchers for the participants to
• receive additional basic academic skill development or job specific training.
- Information will continually be made available to current and terminated participants
informing them of the resources available through the One-Stop Center for either career
advancement information or other life long learning opportunities for themselves or their
family members to increase self sufficiency.
ggis'V lte
.l Describe how local employers with be involved in planning employment activities.
The Weld County Work Force Development Board (WCWDB) has been actively
involved in the planning and development of the Colorado Works Program in Weld
County. Much of the current design is strongly influenced by employers. This is
especially noted in the development of the training allowed after a TANF participant is
actively participating in the work activity. The WCWDB also decided that the employer
should determine the type of training as well as the provider of the training.
The WCWDB initiated focus groups in July to concentrate on the hard to employ TANF
recipients. Focus groups include other employers as well as community groups.
A number of work activities including work supplementation, on-the-job training and
public or private sector work activities. encourage employers to take advantage of
vouchers to pay for job specific skill training for the participant. Employment Services
will aggressively market this resource opportunity to employers to encourage the hiring
of WtW participants. Employers will be the primary contact to develop a training plan
for job specific skill development.
(6) Discuss how you will ensure that client enrollment in WtW programs will not adversely
impact the county's work participation rates.
The Colorado Works in Weld County Program requirements for work and employment
activities will be the same through the WtW program. The WtW Program will support
the county's work participation rates..
b. Methods of service delivery. Include the following:
(1) IVill your PIC/SDA directly operate permissible programs (i.e. community service and
work experience programs. on-the-job training,job creation through public or private
employment wage subsidies)? If so, will it be necessary to incorporate job readiness,
placement or post-employment and job retention services a part of your overall
program?
Employment Services of Weld County will directly operate permissible programs under
the WtW Program. The post-employment and job retention services components will be
enhanced and redefined under the WtW program. As appropriate. other service
providers are utilized to provide individualized services. These services will be offered
through purchase of service agreements.
(2) If your SDA/PIC will not directly operate a comprehensive WtW program, or
• incorporate job readiness, placement or post-employment and job retention services into
their WtW program. please describe how you will utilize competitively-bid contracts or
vouchers to provide these services, as well as any other allowable services that you feel
are necessary to the success of the program and which are not otherwise available.
As stated under b. (1), Employment Services will operate a comprehensive WtW
program.
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c. If applicable, please describe how you will tailor and expand current SDA/PIC
programs and approved contractor/vendors and solicit new vendor/contracts for those
activities and services currently not available in the local communities.
The focus eroups' process for reviewing the 'hard to employ- case load includes identifying
needs and programs which will assist the tareet groups in addressing their bathers and
individual needs to be able to participate in work activities and develop strategies to retain
employment. Potential vendors to help deliver these services or programs-have been
identified and added to the current vendor list. Identification and addition of potential vendors
will be an ongoing process.
3. Describe the local policy and procedures that will govern implementation of allowable WtW
activities. Include how WtW funds will be used to provide necessary support services(duld
care. substance abuse treatment, transportation. etc.) When these services are not otherwise
available to the individual participants receiving WtW services. Please address the
•
following:
a. Optional local provisions which you may take into consideration as part of your plan:
(I) Job readiness activities will include training for individuals starting their own business.
This will be limited to 6 weeks duration, only 4 of which can be consecutive. This
training will include topics such as business pion development, the techniques of
researching funding sources and appiying for a small business loan, customer service
training, and the basic skills needed to set up and operate a small business. This
component will be targeted to participants which due to family or personal
consideration, limited their participation in the workforce outside of the home. To the
extend possible. preliminary training will occur under the TAN?guidelines and WtW
will be used after the participant becomes self employed and post employment services
or job retention services under nil'are more appropriate.
(2) Post-employment services will include a supported employment component that will be
similar to an corp model focusing on community services and skill development or
through a structured employment component with a community agencies who works with
physically or mentally challenged individuals.. This approach will include basic work
skill development and work habits. A job coaching/job mentoring approach will work
on problem and prepare the participants to enter into unsubsidized employment or one
of the other employment components.
(3) Job retention and support services will only be provided through WtW funds when they
are not otherwise available to the individual (i.e, child care funds may be available from
the Child care and Development Block Grant. the local TAN?agency or sources).
• Examples of other services could include. clothing banks. vouchers for appropriate work
• clothes, hair cuts or make overs, support groups, crisis intervention, etc.
b. Mandaton• local provisions which are included as pan of the WtW plan
(1) Post-employment services are only allowed for individuals placed in one of the
employment activities: or working in a subsidized or unsubsidized job including self-
employment: or participating in a registered apprenticeship program.
(2) Contracts or vouchers for job placement must include the provision that at least one-
half of the pay occur after the individual is placed in the workforce for six months.
(3) Job retention and support services are authorized for all individuals engaged in ajob
readiness activity. an employment activity, or in any subsidized or unsubsidized job
including participation in a registered apprenticeship program.
(4) Substance abuse treatment will he coordinated with local Managed Services
Organization OISOs) block grant administrations and their provider network system
and will be utilized for their expertise in developing a strategy to provide WtW
participants with substance abuse treatment services.
(5) [WtW fiinds for substance abuse treatment ;Oil oniv be used to the extent that such
services are not medical and are not otherwise available.
(6) Intake. assessment. eligibility determination the development of the IRC, and case
management will be incorporated in the program design of the allowable activities.
4. List the performance goals and outcomes you intend to achieve in serving the eligible
•
participants in the WtW program including: (a) placement in unsubsidized jobs; (b)
duration of such placement; and (c)increase in earnings. The performance goals and
•
outcomes would be expressed in measurable, quantifiable terms to the greatest extend
possible.
The following page indicates the performance goals and outcomes intended for participants in the
Weld County WtW Program.
a. All Program Participants
Placements in any kind of employment
Employment Services anticipates that at the end of the first year of the Program 35%of
the clients served will be placed in unsubsidized employment. At the end of the second
• year of the program Employment Services anticipates this to increase to 50%.
• Employment Services anticipates that at the end of the first year of the Program 45%of
the clients served will be placed in subsidized employment. At the end of the second
year of the program Employment Services anticipates this to decrease to 30%.
• C) /57-lfc
Continued employment at 6 months
Employment Services anticipates that at the six month mark of the Program 25%of the
clients served will have been placed in and will maintain unsubsidized employment.
Employment Services anticipates that at the six month mark of the Program 30%of the
clients served will have been placed in and will maintain subsidized employment.
Continued unsubsidized employment at 6 months
Employment Services anticipates that at the six month mark of the Program 25%of the
clients served will have been placed in and will maintain unsubsidized employment.
Continued unsubsidized employment at 12 months
Employment Services anticipates that at the end of twelve months of the Program 35%
of the clients served will have been placed in and will maintain unsubsidized
employment.
Increase in earnings (Subsidized and Unsubsidized)
It is anticipated that individuals will see a 15% increase in earnings at the 6 month mark.
This estimate includes both subsidized and unsubsidized placements and it is not
anticipated that individuals in subsidized placements will have an increase in earnings.
After 12 months it is anticipated that individuals will see a 25% increase in wages from
when they first entered into their job placement.
Successful completion of education training activities
Weld County anticipates that 80% of participants in the WtW Program will complete
some form of education or training activity. This includes both basic skills,job specific,
post retention. and occupational skills training activities.
b. Non-Custodial Program Participant •
Paternity establishment
Accomplishments for paternity establishment on non-custodial parents will be identified
by the state and tracked through the state Human Services system.
•
• Child Support Payments
Accomplishments for increases in child support payments from non-custodial parents
will be identified by the state and tracked through the state Human Services system.
• 98/51-Re
Participation in Parental Education
It is anticipated that 40% of the non-custodial parents participating in the WtW Program
will participate in parental education activities provided by the program.
5. Provide a description of how the program will be implemented in your SDA/region,
including the roles and responsibilities of the PIC/RWDB and the local TANF
agency/agencies: and the programs implementation target dates. Include the interagency
referral and coordination procedures developed by the PIC/RWDB and local TANF
agency/agencies. and how these procedures will ensure that:
a. TANF assessment results. and IRC's will be provided by the local TANF agency on all
clients referred to the WtW operating entity for services.
An initial eligibility and employability assessment will be completed by the Department of
Social Services. An IRC will be initiated and the Social Service staff will explain verbally
and in writing the Colorado Works in Weld County Program provisions, participant
responsibilities and participant rights. They may also provide information regarding the WtW
program. An appointment is scheduled with Employment Services and the initial IRC is
provided to Employment Services.
Employment Services will complete an employment assessment and revise the IRC to outline
required work or employment activities. Employment Services will determine if enrollment
into the WtW Program is appropriate.
•
b. To the fullest extent possible both agencies will participate in joint case management
Employment Services and Social Services will participate in joint case management
c. Additional information building upon the initial assessment and IRC will be added as
appropriate
Once the Department of Social Services completes the initial assessment and IRC,
Employment Services will continue the assessment and IRC process. Copies of the updated
IRC are provided to the Department of Social Services.
d. Client confidentiality will be safeguarded
Client confidentiality will be safeguarded. Access to either Social Services data or
Employment Services data is limited on a.need to know basis.
.*e. The cost of and responsibilities for providing automated support will be specified.
Employment Services will be responsible for limited data entry into the Department of Social
Services' CACTIS system and these costs will be covered by WtW funding. The Department
of Social Services covers their costs for data entry. At this point, no additional costs have
been identified for automated support.
G. Identify the local policies and procedures regarding a identification and referral of
participants; and (b) assessment and case management. Include a description of the
coordination efforts that you and the local TANF agency will undertake in this process,
including the role these local agencies will play in providing assessment and case
management to qualified participants.
a. Describe how you will serve non-custodial parents
Non-custodial parents who are not employed, working part-time or in low-paying full time
employment will be offered upgrade training and empioyment services. The purpose of this
component would be to increase the earning potential of non-custodial parents and divert
families from the Colorado Work Program to child support. A marketing strategy will be
developed to target non-custodial parents of the hard to employ TANF recipient as a priority.
Long-term dependency non-custodial parent eligibles will also be recruited. Non-custodial
parents will be offered the opportunity to participate in the services and activities available
under the WtW program.
b. Describe the method used to determine WtW eligibility for individuals who are not
receiving TANF assistance ii.e. non-custodial parents and individuals who have exceeded
the TANF time limits).
Copies of the Payroll Inquiry Screen will be used to document the length of welfare assistance
for the welfare recipient to determine a non-custodial parent eligibility.
c. Describe any methods used to promote the use of secondary referral system from other
likely sources such as the employer community, local-housing authorities, community
action groups, substance abuse treatment providers. GED providers, etc.
Employment Services will contact other likely sources such as local-housing authorities,
community action groups. substance abuse treatment providers. GED providers. etc and
explain the WtW program. As secondary referral sources. it will be crucial that these agencies
understand the requirements for participation in the WtW program and can offer support for
the target groups to participate in WtW. Empioyers will be primarily used as a second referral
source through the media. Participants will be provided information to give to potential
employers which explains the benefits of hiring the participant through the WtW program.
Two secondary referral sources currently identified are Island Grove Treatment Center and the
Family Education Network of Weld County.
d. Describe how you will assess WtW participants and provide case management for those
participants.
WtW applicants will be assessed for reading and math skills during the initial assessment
which also includes barriers to employment, basic life skills, life circumstances, and a
determination of whether WtW services may be appropriate.
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Upon completion of the initial assessment. individuals will be enrolled in the objective
assessment process and the case manager will use assessment information in the determination
of needed services for the IRC.
The full assessment includes a determination of the capabilities. needs,and vocationalcareer
potential and desires of a participant. The information is used to determine the individual's
short and long term employment goals. Assessment is designed to be client centered,and
includes an evaluation of the participant's employment barriers. taking into consideration the
participant's family situation. past work history, educational background, occupational skills,
interests. aptitudes (including interests and aptitudes for nontraditional occupations),attitude
towards work, motivation. and any patterns affecting potential employment. The assessment
also evaluates the participant's financial resources and needs. identifies supportive service
needs and evaluates employment goal information as it relates to the local labor market
Assessment is an ongoing process which changes according to what is occurring in a
participant's life, work, or training situation. The IRC will be updated by case managers as
necessary.
Assessment instruments used to obtain the information may vary according to the participant's
needs and abilities. Some of the tools used are: Personal Inventory Assessment,interviews,
vocational interest tests. ABLE or TABE. and the GATB.
Case management for those individuals enrolled in WtW will be provided primarily by
Employment Services staff. However, there may be case management services provided by
other agencies, but the Employment Services case managers will coordinate these efforts.
Social Services case managers will be kept informed and will provide additional case
management if necessary.
7. Describe your procedures for conducting monitoring and oversight of workforce
development regions within your SDA (if applicable) and contractors to ensure adequate
fiscal controls and achievement of quality program outcomes for WtW participants. Include
the following:
a. Mechanisms for monitoring expenditures. allowable activities,and serving eligible
participants.
Employment Services has an approved cost allocation plan to monitor expenditures. Quarterly
fiscal reviews will occur by the Director. The fiscal department will monitor and evaluate
program payroll and invoicing procedures at least annually. External contracts and
agreements will be monitored quarterly. Procurement process to ensure compliance with
County and CDLE Procurement policy will occur annually.
•
A second reviewer will review all files to determine if an individual meets the eligibility
requirements.
Supervisors wiil monitor 10% of the active caseload on a monthly basis. The evaluation will
include a review of eligibility and all supporting documents: the IRC, program activities,
accurate data entry into the Management Information System: and counselor notes to ensure
adequate communication is occurring.
Performance standards will be monitored monthly by the Director and Supervisors to evaluate
planned versus actual enrollment. placement. etc. Corrective actions or adjustments will occur
immediately.
b. Frequency of monitoring.
As described above, frequency of the monitoring will vary depending upon the area.
c. Use of technical assistance to ensure compliance with the Act and as a tool for corrective
action and program improvement.
Technical assistance will be requested as appropriate.
8. Describe your strategies to prevent duplication of services and promote coordination among
WtW, TANF,JTPA, one-stop centers/employment service and other employment and
training systems within your SDA/region. Such efforts may involve employers,labor
organizations, business and trade associations,secondary and post secondary educational
institutions (including School-to-Career, if appropriate), housing agencies,community
development organizations, transportation agencies, community-based and faith-based
organizations, colleges, and any other entities that provide assistance needed by the targeted
population.
Include copies of any coordination agreements currently in place or under negotiation,and
indicate their status. (NOTE: At a minimum, this will include your agreement with the
county department(s) of social services.)
As a single county one-stop center which operates TANF. JTPA and the employment and training
systems in the SDA. strategies have been implemented which prevent duplication of services and
promotes coordination.
Coordination with other entities providing assistance needed by the target population is
coordinated by the case managers. Beginning in July, 1998, Employment Services expanded its
staff development to include presentations by community agencies. Not only do both agencies
benefit by this exchange of information, but use this time to jointly discuss how our agencies can
work together.
.••WtW and welfare reform focus groups have been a successful avenue of promoting and fostering
coordination with many of the entities that provide assistance. To further this effort,the staffing
concept will continue to be used to bring in other community entities and employers to help
identify strategies for many of the hard to employ or other target groups as appropriate.
Copies of the agreement for the One-Stop Center/Emoloyment Services is on file with the
Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. The Board of Weld County Commissioners has
delegated Employment Services of Weld County as the primary vehicle for the employment and
training components in coordination with the Department of Social Services. A written
coordination agreement between two county departrnents was not necessary.
9. Transportation services are not limited to individual reimbursement of transportation costs.
WtW funds may be used to enable an administering agency to purchase additional needed
services from transportation providers, or to support, in combination with other funding
sources. the development of new transportation services needed to connect individuals to
jobs. Examples could include but are not limited to late night or off peak hour services
shuttle service; guaranteed ride home; van pooling or ride sharing; or other specialized
transportation services provided by non-profit agencies.
Describe your strategies to promote and encourage coordination with transportation
providers to help ensure that the transportation needs of those moving from welfare to work
are met. Include the following:
a. Describe any plans to develop transportation services under the WtW program to
include not only reimbursement of individual participants for transportation costs but
also to purchase additional needed services from transportation providers or to support
the development of new transportation services in combination of other funding.sources.
Employment Services is currently researching the transportation services available. Services
may be purchased for additional rural needs from current transportation providers.
b. Describe how you will coordinate with transportation operators and providers in an
effort to solicit and expand interest in providing services.
Employment Services is coordinating efforts with the Mini-Bus Transportation Department
which provides door to door service on both fixed routes and as needed. They have indicated
a willingness to provide additional services. The City of Greeley is currently reviewing its
operations. Staff from Employment Services and Social Services have provided public input
to address unmet transportation needs. Also being explored are other service providers and
coordinating efforts with employers who have shift and weekend work. This is an ongoing
discussion.
c. Describe how you will coordinate WtW funding for transportation with the local transportation
agency/agencies to ensure that only participants not otherwise eligible for
assistance receive this service.
Employment Services works in conjunction with Social Services. TANF funds provide
transportation assistance as a supportive service if the participant is receiving ng TA cash
and a case
assistance. WtW funds will support participants who exit the TANF program
closure. This will reduce the time on TANF and provide the WtW participant o needed gender
support to retain employment through the post employment/job retention compt
WtW.
10. Describe any strategies to promote and encourage coordination with public and assisted
housing providers and agencies and other community based organizations and public and
private health. mental health and service agencies. vocational rehabilitation and related
agencies.
Strategies to promote and encourage coordination with the community include: focus groups,
staffing. cross training, presentations at board meetings and community groups;and referrals for
services. Many of these agencies will also be used as service providers and directly provide
services to the participant groups.
B. Regional Coordination - Rural SDA PIC only
Describe how you will coordinate activities and involve the local workforce development boards
within your region and encourage local input, planning and service delivers.
C. Within State Distribution of Funds - Rural SDA PIC only
Describe the formula factors you will use to allocate funds to your workforce development
regions.
D. Coordination and Consultation
Describe the approach, including process and timing, used to obtain and take into account
consultation and coordination with local entities such as public, private and non-profit
organizations in the development of the local plan. Include either a summary description of the
comments received, along with the names of the individuals or entities that commented,or
include copies of the actual comments received as an attachment to the plan.
The Workforce Development Board convened focus groups on July 20. 1998. July 31. 1998,August 12,
1998 and have one planned for August 28. 1998.
The results from the focus groups and attendees are attached. These results encompass
recommendations for WtW as well as the Colorado Works in Weld County Program. Strategies were
also identified where other community agencies can assist the hard to employ welfare population.
Discussion occurred with the Island Grove Treatment Center on August 5 and August 17, 1998
regarding their secondary referral potential and as vendors to provide job coaching and job mentoring
for individuals with alcohol and drug barriers.
A meeting was held with Schaeffer Enterprises. Inc. on August 12, 1998 to discuss the provision of a
sheltered work environment for participants. Final Action is pending.
The Workforce Development Board met on July 21, 1998 for an initial discussion regarding applying
for WtW funding. Additionally, a task force was arranged to conduct focus groups on August 12, 1998
and August 13, 1998 to review potential solutions for the hard to employ TANF recipients. Approval
for the plan by the Workforce Development Board occurred on August 18, 1998. The Board of County
Commissioners approved the plan in an open Board meeting on August 24, 1998.
II. Expenditure of Funds
A. Describe how you will ensure that at least 70% percent of your funds will be expended on
hard-to-employ individuals.
Employment Services of Weld County has an accounting. system which will track expenditures for
each individual participant. The hard to employ participants will be identified separately from the
lone-tetra dependency target population.
A cost allocation system will be used to allocate the supported employment component,other
projects which may benefit both target groups, staff and associated costs.
B. Describe the process you will use to maintain administrative costs at the 13.25% limit.
The Weld County One Stop Center cost allocation plan which has been approved by CDLE will be
used to ensure that administrative costs are maintained at the 13.25% level.
C. Project your quarterly expenditures of WtW formula grant funds dollar amount.Break ont
your anticipated costs for administration and allowable activities, and any planned uses of
JTPA funds to serve WtW eligible clients.
Quarter 9/30198 12/31/98 03131/99 06/30/99 09130,`99 12/31/99 03131/00 06l3010t �-
Administration 12,000.00 $8316.84 58.316.84 58.316.84 $8316.84 58.316.84 $8316.84 $8316.84 560217.88
Allowable
Activities
70% 22,100.00 542.135.33 542.135.33 542.135.33 542.135.33 542.135.33 542.13533 521.067.72 $275,979.70
Participants
30% $1,500.00 517,965.69 SI7.965.69 $17.965.69 517.965.69 517.96569 $17.965.69 $8,982.88 $118277.02
Participants
- 1
Total 55.600.00 568.417.86 268.417.86 568.417.86 568.417.86 568.417.86 568.417.86 538.367.44 8454.474.601
At this time, it is not anticipated that!TPA funds will be needed to serve WtW eligible clients.
D. Describe how the you will coordinate the expenditure of any funds provided for the WtW
program between TANF and WtW, and ensure that no WtW funds are expended for TANF
recipients without consideration of the TANF assessment and IRC.
The Employment Services case manager will be responsible to ensure that no WtW funds are
.expended for TANF recipients without consideration of the TANF assessment and IRC. The
Employment Service case manager will coordinate additional services and needs with the Social
Services case manager.
U 0 52/4,
III. Estimate of Matching Funds
While local match is not required please complete this section if you anticipate spending any non
federal funds on WtW, or are aware of any agencies in your area who anticipate serving WtW-
eligible clients through non federal funds.
A. Include an estimate of the amount of any non-federal funds (e.g. county funds,foundation rants,
private donations), if any, you expect to expend on allowable activities for WtW-eligible participants
during the fiscal year which might qualify as match.
Employment Services has not determined an estimated amount of in-kinds funds which may be
generated during the implementation of the WtW Program. As potential in-kind amounts become
available, Employment Services will document the amount and source and forward this information
to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
B. Include an estimate of the dollar amount of allowable activities provided in your region through
partner agencies or employers for WtW-eligible participants and that might qualify as in-kind
match. Please identify the agency and provide the name and phone number of a contact person.
Employment Services has not determined an estimated amount of in-kinds funds which may be
generated during the implementation of the WtW Program. As potential in-kind amounts become
available, Employment Services will document the amount and source and forward this information
to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
C. Include the process by which these expenditures will be monitored and reported to CDLE.
As potential in-kind amounts become available. Employment Services will document the amount
and source and forward this information to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
IV. Assurances:
See Attachment A.
V. Signatures:
Linda L. Perez, DirectorOc�
SDA Director(Type and Sign 07 ,z14 //
fnnctanre Harbert, Chair (08/24/98) "1/-('
LEO (Type and Sign Name)
Cue Rjnriand wrWnRChair "- k . 2 (lt i()I
•PIC Chair(Type and Sign Name)
Date Signed:
Attachment A
PROGRAM ASSURANCES
The Weld County SDA assures to the following requirements under Title IV-A of the Social Security Act.
PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION/ACTIVITIES
1. The SDA/PIC has consulted and coordinated with the appropriate local entities in the areas regarding the
plan and the design of WtW services in the SDA/region.
2. The SDA/PIC shall not use any part of these grant funds, nor any part of state expenditures made to match
the funds, to fulfill any obligation of any State. political subdivision, or private industry council to
contribute funds under sections 403(b) or 418 or any other provision of the Social Security Act or other
Federal law.
3. The SDA/PIC will return to CDLE any part of the WtW funds that are not expended within 3 years after
the date the funds are so provided.
4 The SDA/PIC WtW program will be conducted in accordance with the WtW legislation, regulatory
provisions, future written guidance provided by CDLE, and all other applicable Federal, State and local
laws.
5. The SDA/PIC will apply the TANF law and regulations to the operation of the WtW program, unless
otherwise specified by CDLE or defined in Section 403(a)(5) or the applicable WtW regulations.
6. The SDA/PIC assures that services under the WtW grant are provided to eligible participants only.
7. The SDA/PIC will maintain and submit accurate, complete and timely participant and financial records
reports. as specified by the Colorado Departments of Labor and Employment and human Services.
8. The SDA/PIC will establish a mechanism to exchange information and coordinate the WtW program with
other programs available that will assist in providing welfare recipients employment.
9. The SDA/PIC will comply with the uniform fiscal and administrative requirements of OMB Circular A-I
02 as codified for DOL at 29 CFR Part 97.
10 The SDA/PIC will follow the audit requirements of The Single Audit Act of 1984.and OMB-Circular A-I
33.
11. The SDA/PIC will follow the allowable cost/cost principles of OMB Circular A-87.
WORKER PROTECTIONS
1. The SDA/PIC assures that workers will not be displaced as a result of work activities under a program
operated with funds provided under WtW.
2. The SDA/PIC assures that the Health and Safety standards established under Federal and State law
otherwise applicable to working conditions of employees shall be equally applicable to working
conditions of other participants engaged in a work activity under a program operated with finds provided
under WtW.
3. The SDA/PIC will enforce the provision that an individual may not be discriminated against by reason of
gender with respect to participation in work activities under a program operated with funds provided under
WtW.
4. The SDA/PIC shall establish and enforce standards and procedures to ensure against fraud and abuse,
including standards and procedures against nepotism, conflicts of interest among individuals responsible
for the administration and supervision of the State WtW program. kickbacks, and the use of political
patronage.
5. The SDA/PIC will comply with the nondiscrimination provisions of the laws enumerated at Section
408(d), with respect to participation in work activities engaged in under the WtW program.
SDA Director (Type and Sign-lame)
rnn ctanre Ha rhert Chair fUR/24 20 1 -6JzSrr�,at2 ;�y�f -.444-'7
LEO (Type and Sign Name)
SHP Rjnrlank WCWnB1 hair --------42.. ./9:ti) ctitd
PIC Chair(Type and Sign Name) 7l
Date Signed:
Hello