Case Study: Work Progression for Refugees Tied to English Literacy Levels in Colorado

The Colorado Refugee Services Program (CRSP) in the Colorado Department of Human Services has created an innovative program that tailors refugees’ workforce training to their English Language proficiency level. It is part of the CRSP’s appropriation from the state legislature and is funded by the Colorado TANF block grant. The state TANF program, Colorado Works, has collaborated with CRSP to train front-line staff on working effectively with refugees in support of strong employment outcomes. A July 26, 2013 webinar highlights the partnership between CRSP and Colorado Works (TANF), both located within the Colorado Department of Human Services. The presenters discussed their suite of targeted employment, cultural orientation, language assistance, healthcare, and legal services provided for refugee clients. Additionally, the presenters shared how they move refugees towards employment through case management, English as a Second Language training, cultural orientation and pre-employment training, employment training, health professional recertification, and entrepreneurial services that are aligned with the skills of the clients.