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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 06-16-2015-13(11) INFORMATION ITEM Regional Partnership WORKFOR Development Board t4 VE& Annual Report ''CIA 2013- 2014 Serving Alamance, Montgomery, Moore, orange and Randolph Counties in NC f'�.-.•....�"-DEL � �. 1� _q ` !� Inside Front cover BLANK T AT- Regional Partnership WORKFORCE Development Board Serving Alamance, Montgomery, Moore, Orange and Randolph Counties in NC Contents Message from the Board Chair, Ricardo Romero ..............................4 Workforce Development Board Members .......................................5 Youth Council Members ............................................................... 6 AnnualReport ............................................................................. 7 Alamance Career Center, Building Futures Center....................... 8-9 Montgomery Career Center, Building Futures Center...................10-11 Moore Career Center, Building Futures Center.............................12-13 Program Year 2013-2014 Budget ................................................14-15 Orange Career Center, Building Futures Center............................16-17 Randolph Career Center, Building Futures Center .......................18-19 Workforce Awards Banquet .....................................................20-21 WIA Success Articles ..............................................................22-26 Annual Report 2013-2014 3 A The Regional Partnership Workforce Development Board is pleased to present the 2013-2014 Annual Report covering the timespan from July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014. The report is intended to provide information concerning activities and services delivered by contractors that are awarded Workforce Investment Act (WIA) contracts. The Workforce Development Board provides oversight of WIA funds and Career Centers while helping make recommendations for effective • • ' service delivery. The fiscal year resulted in several changes to the state workforce delivery system. The Federal Government shutdown resulted in challenges to the security of WIA funds. A sequester of WIA funds was also implemented. Governor McCrory • authorized the merger of both WIA and Wagner-Peyser (ESC) in one stop centers • • throughout the state, while additionally implementing efforts to strengthen our • - • - • partnership with the NC Community College System. Life was given to a new . . • branding of Workforce Development referred to as NCWorks, enhancing the workforce service capabilities for both job seekers and employers. The Alamance _ _• • • Career Center became the fourth NCWorks Certified center in the state, and first under the Regional Partnership area. Authorization of Senate Bill 73 into law resulted in additional changes felt at the contractor level. The new law effective • July 1st, 2014 stated the board operating entity could no longer serve additionally • - - - • ' as a contractor and all such future programs of operation must be placed out for • bid immediately for the upcoming 2014-2015 fiscal year. Fortunately the affected staff members were hired by the new program contractor. I am pleased to note that State Unemployment numbers experienced a reduction over the course of the fiscal year as the economy's pulse drew stronger. The year in review presents many wonderful success stories that shine as a reminder that the service we provide matters to the individuals we serve. I am very thankful and appreciative of our centers staff, their commitment and affinity to fulfill the Regional Partnership Workforce mission is exemplary. In closing I leave you with a quote that resounds the service we provide. "Our workforce and our entire economy are strongest when we embrace diversity to its fullest that means opening doors of opportunity to everyone, and recognizing that the American Dream excludes no one." -Thomas Perez Thank you for your support, and I wish our region continued _ prosperity in the year to come. Sincerely Regional Partnership Ricardo Romero, Chair WORKFORCE Development Board 4 Annual Report 2013-2014 WORKFORCE BOARD MEMBERS Private Sector Regional Partnership Ricardo Romero, Vice-Chair WORKFORCE Montgomery County Cheryl Ray Development Board Alamance County Randy Black Montgomery County Employment Service Education Vickie Cox Robert Ware Anne Hockett Randolph County Alamance County Randolph County Gail McDowell Randolph County Labor Community Based Leane Langston Randy Fulk Sandra Morgan Randolph County Alamance County Orange County Tammy Horne Andrea Fleming Randolph County Alamance County Public Sector Dr. Christine Paszko Moore County Rebecca Parks Economic Development Alamance County Kristin Richmond Patrick Corso Moore County Nancy Coston Moore County Orange County Annual Report 2013-2014 5 ♦ � DI V V e • - • - • The tomorrow you've always imagined - •_ " • • - Education Community Organization • • - Susie Horn, Chair Alice Denson, Vice Chair Alamance County Orange County Patricia Harris Lucy Dorsey • • Orange County Montgomery County Social Services Tammy Harrison-Bennett . •- . Randolph County • •• Leanne McKoy - •• • - Moore County Jody Terry Randolph County Youth Representative Law Enforcement Rebecca Bullard Randolph County Granville Simmons Alamance County Undre Ross Montgomery County 6 Annual Report 2013-2014 ANNUAL REPORT Introduction The Regional Partnership Workforce Development Board serves the counties of Alamance, Montgomery, Moore, Orange and Randolph in North Carolina. Service is dedicated to continuous excellence in our workforce system. The board consists of a mixture of for profit, and not for profit partners, and provides quality services to both job seekers and employers to help meet individualized employment and training plans. Through the Workforce Development Board a Youth Council additionally exist with the specific purpose of assuring further over-site of the services delivered to youth program participants. The overall responsibilities of the Workforce Board includes the oversight of what are currently known as Career Centers, and Building Futures Youth Centers, as well as the budgets associated with all Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funding. The WIA is federal funding that passes from the US Department of Labor into the NC Department of Commerce and then on to Workforce Boards through three primary sources known as Dislocated Worker, Adult, and Youth. The purpose of WIA funding is to help transition individuals to self sufficient employment. This process may require educational retraining or upgrading of skills to meet employer demands. Qualifications for program eligibility may be determined at a local career center. Life altering scenarios such as job loss may result in significant financial hardship as the inability to pay bills becomes reality. Youth and adults sometimes make unfortunate decisions that may result in long term consequences for their choices. Some adults and youth may be a product of generational poverty. Through the WIA initiative, dislocated workers often discover that retooling or relearning is helping their transition to earning long term self supportive employment. The WIA program is also helping some individuals to break the curse of generational poverty. The Regional Partnership Workforce Development Board releases an Annual Report that details an overview of service delivery administered during each fiscal year. This report represents highlights from the July 1, 2013—June 30, 2014 year with samples of employment success, a detailed budget, and an overall example of program operations. Each Annual Report provides readers with a greater understanding of the WIA program and the resources available in helping turn opportunity into success. IVVEST Questions or concerns regarding this report may be directed to staff for the 4° WIA �\17A Regional Partnership Workforce Development Board at (336) 629-5141. , Annual Report 2013-2014 7 ALAMANCE NCWORKS CAREER CENTER Alamance Career Center NCWorks Certified •The Alamance Career Center in Burlington, NC received NCWorks Level 1 Certification. The center is the first in the Regional Partnership Workforce ' Development Board Area to p , complete the criteria required , r in providing evidence of the proper implementation of the new Integrated Service Delivery System (ISD). All staff members underwent a NCWorks rigorous application process to meet Level 1 requirements associated with the integration of WIA, Wagner Peyser, TAA, and Veterans Employment Services staff. The ISD system has divided staff members into teams to serve customers based on their talents, and not their funding source. Teams consist of Talent Engagement, Talent cworks Development, and Talent Employment. The Alamance Career Center Certifie will be provided with the new branding guidelines that are to replace the Ilk; former JobLink Career Center brand signage. The Alamance Center was the 4th in the state receiving NCWorks certification. Customers visiting the new NCWorks Center will notice the attention paid to the detail in meeting the needs of both jobseeker and employer customers. Alamance NCWorks Career Center Manager, Lisa Arnette, has voiced her centers determination that all customers will be provided quality, integrated ? services, in a timely manner. Rather a jobseeker looking for a job, or an employer with job vacancies, the opportunity for increased success is now available through the Alamance NCWorks Career Center. Regional Partnership Lisa Arnette, Manager WORKFORCE NCWorks Center Development Board 8 Annual Report 2013-2014 CENTER ALAMANCE BUILDING FUTURES JAL D� Highlights m /?, •The Alamance Building Futures Youth Center (BFYC) staff RAUReS The tomorrow you've always imagined participated in several marketing opportunities through educational partners during the program year. The intent of staff efforts in these types of activities are to increase partnership awareness with entities that may refer potential WIA participants to the BFYC, as well as to personally meet and greet youth that may wish to explore potential WIA eligibility. Staff attended two Alamance Burlington School System sponsored events that included a Transition Fair on April 29th, at the Graham Recreation Center, and an English as a Second Language Career Fair held on May 7th, at the Mebane Arts Center. Presentations to the Alamance Burlington School System's Career and Technical School were also provided. Staff additionally participated in Alamance Community College's Community Fair at the Dillingham Campus. • BFYC held several group workshops at the youth center on various topics. One such example was "Creating a Game Plan for Your Life." Youth worked individually in the "Your Promising Future" workbook focusing on dreams, life goals, and career development. Participants will continue to work in the workbook until completion in order to help with career development and goal setting. •Three BFYC program participants Adela Cardenas, Christina - —_— MONTGOMERY CAREER CENTER i Highlights Regional Partnership WORKFORCE • Montgomery Career Center staff conducted workshops at Development Board Southern Corrections (DOC) in Troy in July of 2013, and June of 2014. The workshop covered topics on Conquering Self-esteem, Interviewing Skills, Proper Dress, and Communication Skills. The focus was on Transitioning from Corrections to Community and the World of Work. • In March of 2014 the Montgomery Career Center in partnership with the Insurance Navigation Team at Randolph Hospital held Information Session's for the citizens of Montgomery County on the topic of the Affordable Healthcare Act. Staff answered questions, offered free estimates on a healthcare plan, or assisted visitors in signing up for the Affordable Care Act. •The Montgomery Community College Minority Male Mentoring program in collaboration with partners including the Montgomery Career Center, hosted an Empowerment Summit and Career Fair in April 2014. There was an opening session for students &job seekers, followed by the Career Fair. Students were encouraged to come with resumes in hand to present to employers that were seeking potential talent. Student's were encouraged to visit the Montgomery County Career Center, or attend a Career Exploration workshop held before the event to assist them in resume creation and application review. Following the Career Fair, lunch was provided for participants. A representative from Dream Builders Communications was the keynote speaker and addressed the topic of"The Student in the Mirror". 1!! • In May of 2014 graduating Nursing students were provided with a presentation from both Harry Brower and guest Margo Gaddy on "Interviewing Skills, Proper Dress and Communication Skills". The Harry Brower students participated in practice interviews to assist in upgrading of Director and Business Services their presentation to employers. •On Wednesday, May 14th, 2014, the Monarch Team from Albemarle held a Job Fair in the Montgomery Career Center for the citizens of Montgomery and surrounding counties. Monarch provides support statewide to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Staff interviewed approximately 15 applicants. •Staffing Support Solutions from Raleigh held a Job Fair on May 29, 2014 at the Montgomery Career Center. The Labor Support Specialist team was in immediate need for workers to build the frames for the solar panels, at the new Solar Plant in Biscoe. The business was appreciative of the Career Center staff for their help in assisting them in the obtainment of instantaneous workers. 10 Annual Report 2013-2014 MONTGOMERY BUILDING FUTURES Highlights FuTuplqeS The tomorrow you've always imagined • Montgomery Building Futures Youth Center (BFYC) held many workshops to enhance the knowledge of youth on topics such as Motivating Young First Time Workers to Save, Bullying in the Workplace, How Social Media Can Cost You a Job, Work Etiquette, and Understanding Learning Styles. • BFYC Youth participated in service projects such as the selling of Krispy Kreme doughnuts to raise money and provide a brighter Christmas for underprivileged children. •Youth were introduced to NCWorks, and completed a profile with resume for the system. •The BFYC held many educational activities during the year for its participants to take part. A mothers day Partnership for Children tour was scheduled. Youth learned about milestones associated with ages, the lending library, as well as arts and crafts for young children. A tour of High Point University was held in the effort to help youth vision college life and understand the benefits to furthering their education. The NC Battleship in Wilmington, NC was visited allowing youth to explore one of America's most historic sites, and provided them with a chance to relive moments in time by reading stories and looking at exhibits. A trip to the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher was also taken. Youth enjoyed seeing animals of all types from the fresh water streams, swamps, to coastline habitats, reefs, and open oceans. They were most excited about their opportunity to touch live sharks in the petting tanks. All left with fingers still attached. Fort Fisher was also visited and youth saw firsthand the remains of the Confederate Fort and learned about the bloody battles held with Union Soldiers through displays, artifacts, and information. •Several youth participated in the 8th t Annual NC Youth Summit held in Greensboro, NC on March 28th and 29th. 1 Those in attendance heard motivational speakers that focused on leading to BATTLESHIP change and planning futures. NORTH CAROLINA Montgomery and Moore Building Futures Youth on Battleship Tour Annual Report 2013-2014 11 MOORE CAREER CENTER Highlights Regional Partnership. WORKFORCE Development Board •The Moore Career Center staff and other centers across the state moved 1Totalnurnkrofindividuatsthat to a new management information RegiAered system in August of 2013 referred to 6702,034 1 Totalnumber of Ind nidua 6 that as NCWorks. The new state model is togedIn 5.517 � 4.515 an Integrated Service Delivery system 717 (ISD) intended to provide accessible, ��5g Receinumberices ndlydiydu�s Receiving services seamless, comprehensive services to - participants and jobseekers. ISD I Totalnumber of Services Provided includes the integration of Wagner- tolndivdu* Peyser, and WIA staff when providing 3V% MTetalnumberoflnternallobOrder services. The chart indicates in ex- ___ Cr:3t°d ample numbers reported by the Tatainumbereflnternallab Moore Center. Over 36,000 services R-f°rrjL were provided to individuals and over Tota I number of Se tv ices Provided 700 services to employers between Employes August 5, 2013 and June 30th, 2014. •Job Fairs were held in collaboration with employers and partners throughout the year at the Career Center Office and other venues. One such example was a large Job Fair event held at the National Guard Armory on November 12, 2013. Over 20 employers were on site to meet and greet the public and conduct interviews with visitors about job possibilities. Several company hiring events were also delivered through the Moore Career Center. Staff assisted employers with services to meet their needs while conducting interviews at the center. •Workshops on topics such as Resume Creation, Interviewing Skills, and Job Search Tools and Strategies were made available for all visitors to the center. _— • In June 2014 Pinehurst No. 2 hosted both the Men's and Women's US Open Golf Championships. The Moore Career Center experienced an increase in temporary job postings during the timespan to assist in preparation and play for the Major Golf Events. Thousands of spectators poured into the Moore County area to see many of the best golfers in the world compete under world media attention. The rich golf tradition of Pinehurst was well represented. ---_- -- 12 Annual Report 2013-2014 MOORE BUILDING FUTURES CENTER S�I.D't m� / Highlights Fu uplgeS The tomorrow you've always imagined • Moore Building Futures Youth Center (BFYC) participated in a Health and Science Fair in collaboration with Sandhills Community College. Youth were available to assist with registration and setup for the event The fair was designed for students enrolled in the health and science curriculum at the college. Several benefits were recognized by youth participation in the event. Youth were able to speak with different employers in the related types of fields in order to obtain a greater understanding of the educational requirements needed for employment in those sectors. �\ They also experienced the professional atmosphere that a live fob seeking setting provides. Youth were able to see the challenges associated with our ever-changing job market. Participation may lend valuable future knowledge of how to increase their opportunities for employment. • First Health of the Carolinas provided a Mobile Health Fair to the community offering convenient access to preventive health screenings at reduced fees. Youth participated in the event that was open to the public, in the hopes that they may learn to take the long term approach towards preventing or managing possible life altering health conditions. Screenings offered were cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar (glucose screening for diabetes). A $5 costs existed for all three screenings and several youth participated. • Dynasty McLaughlin was selected as the Moore Building Futures WIA Youth Participant of the year. Dynasty enrolled in the WIA Youth Program during her Junior year of high school, while undergoing stressful family circumstances associated with her parents separation, and divorce. Despite the emotional, psychological, and behavior problems that often result from traumatic time in a youth's life, Dynasty was able to persevere and graduate high school. She later enrolled at the local community college in the Criminal Justice Degree Program, also secured unsubsidized employment, and displayed great academic success while frequenting the Dynasty McLaughlin Dean's List. Dynasty matured with the development of independent living skills that will assist her in transitioning to an educational environment found at a University . Annual Report 2013-2014 13 PROGRAM YEAR 2013-2014 BUDGET RANDOLPH COUNTY ALAMANCE COUNTY Regional Consolidated Services(RCS) Regional Consolidated Services(RCS) • Adult 196,821 Adult 151,921 Regional Partnership Dislocated Worker 160,714 Dislocated Worker 86,020 Youth 217,647 Youth 229,309 WORKFORCE ALAMANCE COUNTY TOTAL 467,250 Development Board RANDOLPH COUNTY TOTAL 575,182 Serving Alamance,Montgomery,Moore, Orange and Randolph Counties MONTGOMERY COUNTY WIA PARTICIPANTS SERVED Regional Consolidated Services(RCS) MOORE COUNTY Richmond Community Support Center(RCSC) DW 21 Alamance County Richmond Community Support Center(RCSC) TOTAL BUDGET: $2,826,415 Youth 33 Adult 89,633 Administration 1,206 Dislocated Worker 85,277 Alamance Total 124 Adult 145,348 Dislocated Worker 121,023 (RCS) TOTAL 174,910 Total WIA Participants Served: 551 Montgomery County Youth 141,832 Administration 204 DW 7 Youth 85,996 c Adult 16 (RCSC)TOTAL 86,200 ( �_ Youth 23 .a` Montgomery Total 46 MONTGOMERY COUNTY TOTAL 261,110 MOORL COUNTY TOTAL 409,409 Moore County DW 33 ORANGE COUNTY ° �+ Adult 21 Joint Orange Chatham Community Action(JOCCA) Youth 30 LOCAL AREA Orange Department of Social Services(DSS) Moore Total 84 Orange County Administration 300,918 Administration 1,185 _ DW 61 Adult 111,820 Adult 136,114 -' Adult 54 Dislocated Worker 112,103 (JOCCA)TOTAL 296,895 5 Dislocated Worker 159,59 Youth 46 Dislocated Worker Supplemental 0 Orange Total 161 Youth 98,124 Administration 971 Randolph County CRC WorkKeys 6,951 Youth 185,682 DW 64 (DSS)TOTAL 186,653 Adult 46 ORANGE COUNTY TOTAL 483,548 Youth 26 LOCAL AREA TOTAL 629,916 Randolph Total 136 14 Annual Report 2013-2014 Annual Report 2013-2014 15 ORANGE CAREER CENTER Highlights • Project Connect held in October 2013 served again as or center the Annual Outreach Event for the Orange Career Center. Several workforce development partners gathered in an effort to share information related to the services, and upcoming classes and programs offered through the Orange Career Center and Durham Tech.The intention of the annual event is to assist individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with options to improve their circumstances. •The Orange Career Center reported that 152 jobseekers were employed from Job Fair activities alone during the fiscal year. • Mike Komives, Orange Career Center HRD Instructor won Durham Technical Community Colleges' Excellence in Adjunct Teaching Award for his contributions to the college and the community. The outstanding support of his students and partners are a reflection of the tremendous effort that Mike puts into his teaching. His classes for the HRD/Workforce Development Program include the Job Search Strategies for Mature Professionals, Job Search Plus: Linkedln and Beyond, and Job Seeking Skills Workshops held at the Orange County Career Center. •Two ISD meetings with a "mutual" facilitator were held with sessions focused on team building, and role playing functional duties. Career Center partners from the Regional Partnership were invited to participate in both events. •Through the Career Center Partnerships Programming was offered at the Orange County DSS and Durham Technical Community College's Orange County Campus. The workshops, classes, and open labs were on a variety , of topics including Technology Awareness for the Workplace, Networking and Interviewing Skills, Customer Service, Finding and Keeping the Job You Want, Introduction to EMS, Linkedln and Beyond, Job Search Strategies for Mature Professionals, and the ongoing Job Seeking Skills Workshops, and Resume and Application Labs. Nursing Assistant day, evening, and hybrid classes were also offered as well as English as a Second Language and GED and Adult Basic Education day and evening Classes. 16 Annual Report 2013-2014 eS ORANGE BUILDING FUTURES CENTER Highlights � � FuTu'R • Orange Building Futures Youth Center participants attended the 8th The tomorrow you've always imagined Annual North Carolina Youth Summit that was held on Friday and Saturday March 28th, and 29th at the Embassy Suites in Greensboro, NC. The event which hosted Workforce Investment Act (WIA) participants from across the state delivered a strong leadership message with encouraging songs of hope. Youth were informed that leadership demonstration is a way of life, and its never to early to start becoming a leader. Life direction was discussed in an effort to help Youth determine how to devote their time towards achievement. Youth were encouraged to recognize and learn to utilize their unique strengths. The event also provided a dinner and entertainment in the evening. A Workforce Summit Idol Competition was held showcasing 3 many statewide talents. Orange BFYC participant Devana Turner was recognized as the winner of the competition. Devana of Cedar Ridge Devana Turner, High School in Hillsborough, showed off her dynamic voice while WIA Youth singing "Who's Loving You", and "A Leak in This Ole Building". •The BFYC offered several workshops for WIA Youth participants in an effort to encourage sound decision making skills. Topic examples included financial literacy, building self esteem & positive attitudes, diet and exercise, and healthy dating relationships. • Several BFYC participants were connected with work experience opportunities. These 100% subsidized y employment experiences provide youth with the realization of employment while allowing them to acquire skills for the future and a paycheck to reward them for their work along Youth Teamwork Activities, NC Youth Conference the way. Many of the youth have never held employment before and there are often soft skills that must be developed. Such skills may include the very basics associated with a job such as showing to work on time, proper hygiene and attire, or mental attitude. Efforts are made to place youth in work experience sites that they may hold a long term interest. Examples of sites where participants may be placed in Orange County include the Skills Development Center, Orange County Department of Social Services, and the Hargraves Community Center. The duties performed by Youth , participants vary based on the worksite and the realistic possibilities that may potentially be made available. T Annual Report 2013-2014 17 RANDOLPH CAREER CENTER Highlights 0 The Randolph Career Center in partnership with the { Goodwill Resource Center sponsored a Job Fair on April 10, 2014 at the Sunset Avenue Church of God Family Life Center in Asheboro, NC. 14 employers and over 200 job seekers were in attendance. Several job place- ments occurred as a result of the fair. April also _ drew participation from the Randolph County Career Center in a Veterans Benefit Fair hosted by Randolph weLLf Community College (RCC). Several veterans attended _ and were provided the opportunity to speak with vendors, ask questions, receive information, and leads. Career Center staff additionally participated in a Health & Science Fair for graduating medical students held at RCC and in May an Employer Preview event which featured students of RCC, training through the fast track NC Back to Work Program. Employers were on hand for both events. • Randolph Career Center staff also participated in a Housing Summit in November 2013 at the Randolph/Asheboro YMCA. The Housing Summit provided an opportunity for members of the public with housing needs and concerns to meet with local housing representatives and the Coalition's member organizations in one location. Twenty vendors were on-hand to address questions and concerns. Career Center staff provided information on available services and resources. Approximately 50 people attended the summit. • In October the Randolph County Career Center participated in the Asheboro/ Randolph Chamber of Commerce's Business Showcase. Staff attended and handed out informational sheets on the WIA programs and partners located at the Center. •Wells Hosiery of Asheboro received approval for an Incumbent Worker Training Grant in the amount of$2,747 to assist in the training of 23 employees through Randolph Community College. Trainees are to receive upgrades in skills associated with Powered Industrial Truck operations and Certification, emergency situational with CPR Training, and Basic Electrical Training. The intent of Incumbent Workforce Training dollars is to assist in the overall skills upgrading of the current workforce in an effort to make businesses stronger and more competitive in today's global economy. 18 Annual Report 2013-2014 RANDOLPH Highlights m /-0 Fri uMeS •The Randolph County Building Futures Youth Center (BFYC) program The tomorrow you've always imagined offers many workshops, activities, and community events for participants to take advantage of during their program enrollment. All are geared towards providing youth participants with skills and experiences necessary to obtain and retain future employment. • Program workshops hosted during the year included such topics as basic life skills, getting u motivated for school, NC Works, planning your . future, budgeting and finances, empowerment, d urn f keeping a positive outlook, problem solving, ---=�- networking, and saving money. Y • BFYC youth partnered in two Job Fair events. ,, - Participants were able to utilize time as a learning experience as well as a "Community Service Activity". They assisted staff, employers, and jobseekers in a variety of roles. They were also provided an opportunity to learn how to present themselves during special events involving possible employment. They displayed enthusiasm towards taking advantage of the opportunity to meet prospective employers and discuss possible job opportunities. Several youth participants completed and submitted applications. All were provided with a look at how difficult the job market can be. •A Community Marketing Event for the BFYC was held by participation in the Asheboro/ Randolph Christmas Parade. Youth handed out candy along with advertising materials that promoted the services available through the BFYC. i. •Youth also participated in the annual NC Youth Summit in Greensboro, NC. Those in attendance heard motivational speakers that focused on leading to change and planning futures. Stephanie Pitts Youth Coordinator •Throughout the year BFYC participants worked with staff individually on areas they needed improvement related to Reading and Mathematics. WorkKeys assessment's are taken in order to obtain Career Readiness Certification's. Stephanie Pitts, Randolph Youth Program Coordinator is proactive in helping keep youth on track. Annual Report 2013-2014 19 I WORKFORCE AWARDS BANQUET I Showcasing Success The Regional Partnership Workforce Development Board held its Annual Awards Banquet on Thursday, June 19th at the AVS Catering and Banquet Centre in Asheboro. The yearly event provides an opportunity for board members, community leaders, and staff, to see examples of the ways the Workforce Investment Act's (WIA) employment and training programs are positively affecting the lives of residents in Alamance, Montgomery, Moore, Orange, and Randolph counties. Participant award recipients were showcased based on their overcoming challenges to earn employment and training success, while enrolled in the WIA program. Kathy Slovak, Director of the Regional Partnership along with acting Board Chair Ricardo Romero provided introductions. There were many emotional moments as participants receiving awards reflected on their extremely difficult paths to achievement. Award recipients were as followed. (Alamance) Wendell Mead, Sarah Vetter, Crystal Williams, Tia Hayes, (Montgomery) Joyce Cassidy, Amber Phillips, Mikea Collins, (Moore) Amanda Brown, Diane Randall, and Dynasty McLaughlin, (Orange) Michael Johnson, Lanny Brewer, Brandon Edwards, Cedric Leonard, Devana Turner, (Randolph) Robin Fogleman, Tony Manns, Jr., Joanne Barbarito and Noe Juarez. Kathy Slovak, Director Regional Partnership WDB Employers from each county were also recognized for their excellence in partnering in workforce development with a Regional Partnership Career Center. Each business receiving an award displayed WORKFORCE their initiative during the fiscal year towards improving Development Board tomorrow's workforce today. Employers receiving awards included General Electric (Alamance), Jordan Lumber & Supply (Montgomery), Longworth Industries (Moore), The Staffing Alliance (Orange), and Wells Hosiery (Randolph). The award presentations highlighted a sample of the lives touched by the WIA programs. 20 Annual Report 2013-2014 WORKFORCE AWARDS BANQUET Picture Perfect Participants Alamance, Montgomery, 1 Moore, Orange, and Randolph WIA participants - pictured were recognized at the , Awards Banquet for their - = r outstanding success in WIA �Y , program participation during the Group Photo includes WIA Adult, Dislocated Worker, and Youth Program Program Year. Participants. Partnering with Business for Success Regional Partnership Area - employers were recognized for their outstanding contributions to Workforce = ' Development. ' These employers displayed an initiative to partner with the Workforce Board towards improving the Employer Award Recipients: (left to right) Stan Greene (GE), John Coyle (Jordan overall quality of Lumber), Doris Hinson, Randy Black (Longworth), Kim Harbin, Robert Winfree the workforce. (Staffing Alliance), CP Davis, Jan Nance(Wells Hosiery). Annual Report 2013-2014 21 WIA SUCCESS ARTICLES Inspiring Others With Her Smile Tia Hayes visited the Alamance Building Futures Youth Center (BFYC) in an effort to increase her job skills and enhance her job prospects with an additional goal of eventually obtaining a personal residence for herself and her son. As a single parenting youth, staff helped her discover that she met the eligibility criteria for the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Youth Program. She was soon enrolled in an effort to assist her in Certification towards becoming a CNA. In participation with the BFYC, Tia was extended the opportunity for educational retraining in the Nursing Assistant Program at Alamance Community College. She excelled in both her class work, and work experiences provided by the �ES, WIA program before earning her CNA certification in July of 2013 and obtaining her Silver Career Readiness Certification. Tia became gainfully employed with Alamance Health Center in November. She overcame many personal challenges to earn success some of which included the duties associated with being a single parent, experiencing unfavorable relationships, and overall financial hardship. She has graciously served as an advocate for other Alamance WIA Youth i participants in sharing her inspirational experiences in life. Welding Life Together Lanny Brewer is an older worker with a desire for accomplishment, after years of incarceration for P oor decisions made earlier in his life, Lanny was provided the opportunity to follow his interest in becoming a Certified Welder. Through the Orange County Career Center he was enrolled in the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Adult Program. Lanny attended Durham Technical Community College (DTCC) for his skills enhancement and completed certifications in the Welding field in 2013 that increased his opportunities of obtaining gainful employment. Through the WIA program he was extended the opportunity of a work experience with BTE Welding and Construction ,y where he was able to learn welding from a hands on perspective. Lanny has been fortunate enough to already be a part of some really big construction projects which he has enjoyed. Upon completion of his work experience he now works as a Welders Assistant for BTE, and t. awaits the start of his final TIG Welding course through DTCC. Lanny's Ma hard work and dedication to carry out his job duties has not gone unnoticed by supervisory staff as he has received excellent performance reviews based on his newly acquired skills and work ethic. Lanny should also be commended for winning the always challenging, everyday personal battle, against substance abuse. He has proudly stated he has been drug and alcohol free to date for over 5 years, and is an inspiration to anyone who may be trying to structurally weld their life in place. 22 Annual Report 2013-2014 I WIA SUCCESS ARTICLES Accounting for Adversity Robin Fogleman was laid off from her job in human resources in 2012. She additionally experienced the sudden loss of both of her parents. Robin decided that despite adversity she needed to further her education for herself and her family. She had been unable to find suitable employment even with credible work experience, and found herself in need of a credential. Robin enrolled in the Accounting program at Randolph Community College (RCC) in the summer semester of 2012. While attending school her instructor informed her about the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) program and Randolph Career Center. With only her husband employed, funding her education without financial assistance was growing extremely challenging. Ineligible for financial aid, earnings were tight. Fortunately the WIA Dislocated Worker program began providing financial training relief in July of 2012, sponsoring costs associated with Robin's tuition, fees and books. While continuing her education, she obtained employment with J.P. Thomas & Co in their Accounting Department in September of 2013. In May of 2014, she graduated from RCC with her Associate Degree in Accounting. Robin is determined that she does not want to stop with an Associate's Degree, and decided to continue her education even further. She enrolled at Gardner Web University for the fall semester 2014 to work on earning a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. She has a job, a degree, and a bright future. Nursing Success Crystal Williams was employed at a popular coffee shop but wanted badly to better her personal circumstances for her three children, grandchild, and herself. She desired a job that may provide her the opportunity to move closer to self sufficiency. Crystal Williams visited the Alamance NCWorks Career Center feeling under employed. Staff assisted with research of new and suitable employment opportunities to help meet her personal identified needs for success. She was soon enrolled in the WIA Adult program, and as a participant Crystal received the opportunity of educational retraining assistance to help her become a Certified Nurse Assistant, licensed through the State of NC. Upon her successful � :- :. - • completion of training, and with staff job search guidance, Crystal obtained employment with Universal Healthcare in Raleigh. Annual Report 2013-2014 23 WIA SUCCESS ARTICLES 18 Wheels, and Loads of Success Michael Johnson obtained success from visiting the Orange Career Center in Chapel Hill after being laid off from his previous job. In - — 2013 Johnson received training assistance from the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Dislocated Worker program. Through WIA Michael was provided with the opportunity to earn his NC Commercial Drivers License from Carolina Trucking Academy. Upon the completion of his training he additionally worked to earn his Bronze Career Readiness Certification (CRC). Michael also received staff assistance with job search, with job referrals provided as qualification's were met. Staff additionally helped in Michael's creation of a resume to assist in his job search, and also advised him on tips to enhance interviewing skills. In February of 2014 Michael obtained full time employment with Prime, Inc. as a Team Driver receiving a nice salary, and a company benefit pack- age. As a result of his WIA training Michael is obtaining loads of success in the occupation in which he desired. Taxing Example of Persistence Work First participant Heidi Whetzel was required to take the NC Career Readiness Assessment at the Orange County Career Center and look for employment as part of her program goals. Working with the Career Center Coordinator, Heidi successfully completed the WorkKeys assessments and obtained her NC Career Readiness Certification. - Heidi was soon offered a temporary position in the Orange Tax Office, through the TANF Subsidized Employment Program. Once , employed, Heidi seized the opportunity with hard work and great f job performance. Due to her talent she was asked to stay on as a w�s a permanent employee. Heidi has since been promoted from R W temporary to full time employment status. Heidi took the opportunities afforded her by the Work First program and Orange County Career Center and turned them into the bright future she was wanting for her children. She has been able to purchase reliable transportation, her own home through a USDA home loan. In addition to the employment mile stones Heidi is pursuing academic goals and has enrolled at the University of Phoenix where she has maintained a 3.4 GPA. Heidi is two semesters away from being awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Business. 24 Annual Report 2013-2014 i WIA SUC"OCESS ARTICLES I Educational Retooling for Long-Term Success Diane Randall first visited the Moore Career Center in July of 2011 seeking career guidance after a job loss. A single parent with two children, she found herself struggling to make ends meet. Staff assisted Diane with career exploration, and she concluded that furthering her education would be vital to any long term employment success. Diane was enrolled in the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Adult program and graduated from Sandhills Community College in May of 2014, with an Associate Degree in Human Service Technology. She was a member of the honor society of Phi Theta Kappa for maintaining a high grade point average. Diane additionally completed her Silver Career Readiness Certification (CRC) that verifies to employers her proficient N:^ knowledge in Reading, Mathematics, and the ability to locate information. Upon graduation Diane has decided to continue her education further, and has enrolled at Gardner Webb University to complete a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. She is hopeful that further educational retooling may play a huge factor in improving her long term success. Carrying a Badge, and a Smile Amanda Chand obtained success from visiting the Randolph Career Center in Asheboro. Amanda received training assistance from the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Adult program that helped her gain Certification in Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) from Randolph Community College (RCC). Upon the successful completion of her training in May of 2013, staff additionally provided resume assistance, tips related to interviewing skills, and job search assistance, including referrals. Amanda obtained employment with the Randolph County Sheriff's Department in February of 2014, where she serves as a Jailer. She may now be found carrying a badge, and a smile in her new career. wa Rando%h County 3 SHERIFFS OFFICE Annual Report 2013-2014 25 WIA ARTICLES i Commitment to Human Services Joyce Cassidy visited the Montgomery Career Center after losing her job as a Community Support Worker for 7 years. A Dislocated Worker, Joyce explored other career opportunities but decided to increase her education in the human services field. The WIA program provided educational retraining assistance towards the completion of her Associate Degree in Human Services Technology at Montgomery Community College. Joyce found employment with Monarch in 2012 as a Residential Counselor. In 2014 she completed her Associate Degree in Human Services Technology with a certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling. The WIA program played an integral role in was helping Joyce discover her potential. Since graduating Joyce has additionally enrolled in the Bachelors Degree Program offered ii — through Gardner Webb at Montgomery Community College. She continues to display a strong motivation and commitment to human services and helping people help themselves. Having the Wheel for Success Wendell Mead accumulated over 20 years experience in territory sales and management. His 2nd layoff in the field was difficult and had him concerned with stability in supporting his family. With assistance from the Alamance Career Center , Wendell researched the greatest potential for himself in acquiring r skills that would help make him become more employable, and do so in a timely manner. Wendell enrolled in the WIA Dislocated Worker Program in January of 2014 and attended ' Future Truckers of America to earn his CDL-A. Upon completion in March 2014, Wendell took the wheel for Roehl Transportation Wa A and was proud to continue �J meeting the needs of his family. 26 Annual Report 2013-2014