A recent study initiated by the Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation (OPRE) focused on the supports, strategies, and considerations influencing coordination across TANF and WIA programs in the U.S. This report highlights promising practices from eight states and 11 localities regarding the coordination of TANF and WIA services. It also provides readers with 12 strategies used by the study sites, which fall under the following components: administration and management, funding, policies and procedures, program missions and knowledge, services for customers, and accountability and performance measurement.

This paper provides peer technical assistance to HPOG programs on incorporating promising strategies to build relationships with TANF agencies and guide TANF participants through career pathways. In addition, the paper provides tips about collaborating with state and regional TANF offices, improving TANF participant services, and much more. This paper can also be used by organizations that work with TANF populations.

The Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Assistance Region VIII held the 2014 ACF Region VIII State Meeting, entitled “Collaboration and Innovation: Keys to Engaging TANF Customers” on September 18 - 19, 2014 in Denver, Colorado. This meeting brought together Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program directors and staff from six States to learn strategies, engage in strategic dialogue, and build linkages with peers to improve program outcomes and promote economic and social independence for individuals, children, and families. During the meeting, State representatives had opportunities to share promising practices in collaborating with State, local, and community agencies to successfully serve TANF participants. There was also a State of the State’s Panel Discussion with ACF/OFA leadership. Meeting attendees also heard from subject matter experts in the areas of program performance, employment outcomes and career pathways, kinship care and home visiting programs, housing and homelessness issues, supporting refugee populations, assisting victims of human trafficking, and engaging rural communities, among others. This interactive and collaborative event allowed for rich discussion and training opportunities.

Authored by the Office of Community Services, Compassion Capital Fund (CCF), this guidebook is aimed at better equipping nonprofit organizations with the knowledge and information needed to identify, validate, and promote effective practices that will help improve their organization and the quality of services they provide within their communities.