Agenda - 01-20-1998 - 9a - Laserfiche WebLink

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X. INNOVATIVE COUNTY STRATEGIES 37 New Partnerships with the Economic Development Commission, the Chapel Hill - Carrboro Chamber of Commerce and The Employment Security Commission The Department of Social Services and the Economic Development Commission presented information to the Chapel Hill Chamber of Commerce regarding how businesses can partner in reforming welfare. As a result, the Chamber's Board of Directors agreed to create an oversight committee on reforming welfare. The committee will host a Job Fair and contact employers regarding the benefits of hiring Work First participants and listing job orders with the Employment Security Commission. The Chamber and the EDC will begin by visiting the top 20 employers and sharing profile data on participants looking for work. Partnerships with the Faith Community Clothing Closet. The University Presbyterian Church and the Hillsborough Presbyterian Church, the Commission for Women and Friends of DSS have partnered to develop a Career Closet for participants needing clothing for job interviews and work. The Career Closet is operational and is stocked with new or nearly new professional clothing. The availability of appropriate clothing for interviews and work will enhance the participant's self - esteem and employability. Mentoring Program. University Presbyterian Church has donated funds to operate a pilot mentoring program for Work First participants. The mentoring program has begun with six volunteer matches. Funds donated by the church cover the cost of a part-time coordinator. Mentors provide participants with support and contact in the community as they strive for independence. Center for Employment Training The Center for Employment Training offers training and job placement in Electronic Testing, Automated Office Skills, and Shipping and Receiving. CET offers hands -on learning designed to allow people to enter at any time and to progress at their own pace. Training is based on the local labor market. CET has linkages with the business community through the Industrial Advisory Board. Participants who complete their program have been successful in locating employment with wages above the poverty level. Because CET is open entry, participants are able to begin immediately after assessment. Referral Process with UNC Hospitals and Accent on Service UNC Hospitals and Accent on Service have agreed to interview Work First participants referred to them for employment. Although these employers are not guaranteeing that participants will get a job, the opportunity for an interview allows them to practice the interview process in real time, sell themselves to a potential employer and explain any gaps in employment. Community Advisory Council In order to keep the public informed and involved, the Work First Program is in the process of forming a Community Advisory Council. The Council will include Work First planning committee members, community leaders, participants and former participants. It will meet two J :�