Stimulus Dollars at Work

WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA received $13.8 million in stimulus funding from the American Reinvestment & Recovery Act. WCF has developed a plan to use these short-term funds, that need to be spent by June 30, 2010, to have the greatest long term impact in meeting today’s economic challenges and the needs of our employers an job seekers. “Our plan to spend the stimulus funding is focused to result in an improved workforce with 21st century skills that match the requirements of our local businesses,” shares Gary J. Earl, President & CEO of WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA.

BEST PRACTICES

• Summer Job Connection: 1,200 young adults received work readiness skills training and paid summer internships this summer.


• Work Experience: 700 job seekers will receive paid work experience opportunities with local employers beginning in October.


• New & Emerging Industries: Special projects to design curriculum and deliver classroom training in digital media, optic/photonic and healthcare occupations.


• Entrepreneurial Initiative: Develop partnerships to encourage entrepreneurial training for qualified job seekers.


• Seminole County Office: A temporary resource room will open in Sanford to offer additional job seeker assistance.


• Job Seeker Training: An additional 1,300 scholarships were made available for job seekers to train in new skills. In addition, a focus on healthcare and green training will be made.


• Expansion of Training for Employers: Additional seminars, library materials, etc., including a new mobile unit for additional training will be made available this year.


• College Scholarships: College Scholarships were awarded to at risk youth to attend public institutions to continue their education.


• Additional Initiatives: Expansion of Targeted Industries, Conversion of seminars to web-based delivery, and others to be announced.

SUCCESS STORIES

Hear from employers and job seekers about their experiences with programs funded by stimulus dollars

NEWS RELEASES

• 7/7/09 - WCF Scholarship Program Answers: What’s On The Mind Of Central Florida’s Youth?


• 7/6/09 – Youth Receive $249,692 in Stimulus Paychecks through WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA Program


• 6/25/09 - WCF Presents $50,000 In Scholarships


• 6/18/09 - $13.8M in Local Stimulus Dollars to Impact Workforce


• 6/18/09 - Witness Stimulus Dollars at Work at the WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA Summer Job Connection Summit


• 6/12/09 - WCF Offers Scholarships to Unemployed Residents


• 6/10/09 – WCF to Present $50,000 in Scholarships