A representative from the Oregon Department of Human Services asks, "What are other states' best practices on documenting work participation hours, including online educational activities?"

A representative from the Vermont Department for Children and Families, Economic Services, coordinates trainings for TANF case managers and staff who process TANF eligibility. The representative is interested in collaborating and communicating with peers in other states to share training ideas and professional development strategies. Please respond to this post or email Kristen.haydenwest@vermont.gov directly.

In 2013, the North Carolina General Assembly introduced and passed Session Law 2013-417. The law requires a county Department of Social Services (DSS) to verify whether an applicant for or a recipient of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS/SNAP) benefits or Work First Program (TANF) assistance has a status of fleeing felon or parole/probation violator. A representative from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services would like to know if there are any States that interface with law enforcement systems or are discussing similar processes? If so, what is your success rate and what have you identified as challenges?

A representative from the Education Commission of the States would like to learn more about examples of cooperative efforts between schools/business/industry to assist youth in becoming job ready? Examples may be job shadowing, mentor programs, internships, summer employment, etc.

Are there any targeted funds available to coordinate local collaborations?