Program Implementation

Tips to Implementation: Seedco is committed to improving the success of low–income clients. To that end, Seedco seeks to cultivate a well–trained workforce by identifying specific potential participants, measuring skill levels, matching clients with potential positions, and providing support services such as case management, while assessing their employability skills and providing training as appropriate. Seedco has identified several activities that increase the likelihood of success for programs of this type, including assisting clients in navigating and understanding the employment environment and the workforce system, analyzing assets and strategies that are important to the local economy, developing attractive service options and viable funding plans, cultivating productive relationships with potential employers, and negotiating strategic alliances and operational agreements.

Successes: Since start–up, EarnBenefits has connected over 100,000 households to more than 153,000 benefits valued at approximately $217 million. Currently operating in eight states, Seedco's EarnBenefits helps families bridge the gap between their wages and their needs by making it easier for them to connect to a variety of available benefits, thus promoting job stability and economic advancement.

Challenges: Seedco experienced several challenges, including information gathering as it pertained to clients and their skills and employability. Also, helping clients make a smooth transition from unemployment to full–time employment requires additional assistance and intensive case management. Using various networks demands constant review and quality assurance to make certain the data gathered are accurate and up to date. Seamless information sharing from one site to another, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and workforce development sites for example, calls for deep understanding and constant evaluation and training of staff.

Other Lessons Learned:

• Aligning workforce development, employee outlets, educational outlets, and health care providers requires a clear understanding of the industries in the State and a common understanding of the knowledge and skills required to move to self–sufficiency.
• Ensuring the successful assignment of potential employees requires a one–stop, seamless system between each component and the clients.
• Offering or expanding opportunities for continuous learning and skill development is crucial to improving retention.
• Ensuring strong social networks and partnerships that allow clients to receive educational and social services helps increase literacy skills and employability.
• Building employability requires constant information sharing, ongoing case management, and increased access to lifelong learning opportunities.
• Ongoing assessment and evaluation are crucial to measuring program effectiveness and providing informational markers for program and service changes.