WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

The prosperity of the Arkansas Delta hinges on providing its youth with the skills and opportunities essential for securing meaningful, well-paid employment. Our dedicated Workforce Development Program is designed to guide young individuals towards success in both jobs and continuous career learning. At the heart of our mission is the vision to connect these youths with mentors, training providers, and employers deeply committed to the communities we serve.

The Growth Opportunity (GO) Program stands as a beacon of hope for young adults aged 18-24, bridging the gap for those currently or previously involved with the juvenile or adult criminal justice system. Through GO, we provide financial assistance for vocational and technical school training, post-secondary education, and short-term vocational programs leading to stable employment. Our comprehensive support includes legal services, cognitive behavioral health services, addressing housing and transportation barriers, substance abuse counseling, healthcare access, childcare assistance, trauma-informed approaches, and financial stability. Additionally, participants, once fully enrolled, are offered valuable hands-on experience with 200 hours of paid work at a competitive rate of $15 per hour. With service areas spanning Dumas, McGehee, Monticello, Crossett, and Pine Bluff, the GO program, entirely funded by a $400,000 grant from the Department of Labor, stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to shaping a prosperous future for the Arkansas Delta's young workforce.

Growth Opportunities (GO! 2022) is supported by the Employment Training Administration of the Department of Labor as part of an award totaling $4 million, with 0% financed from non-governmental sources.