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A <br /> The Regional Partnership Workforce Development Board is pleased to present the <br /> 2013-2014 Annual Report covering the timespan from July 1, 2013 through June <br /> 30, 2014. The report is intended to provide information concerning activities and <br /> services delivered by contractors that are awarded Workforce Investment Act <br /> (WIA) contracts. The Workforce Development Board provides oversight of WIA <br /> funds and Career Centers while helping make recommendations for effective <br /> • • ' service delivery. <br /> The fiscal year resulted in several changes to the state workforce delivery system. <br /> The Federal Government shutdown resulted in challenges to the security of WIA <br /> funds. A sequester of WIA funds was also implemented. Governor McCrory <br /> • authorized the merger of both WIA and Wagner-Peyser (ESC) in one stop centers <br /> • • throughout the state, while additionally implementing efforts to strengthen our <br /> • - • - • partnership with the NC Community College System. Life was given to a new <br /> . . • branding of Workforce Development referred to as NCWorks, enhancing the <br /> workforce service capabilities for both job seekers and employers. The Alamance <br /> _ _• • • Career Center became the fourth NCWorks Certified center in the state, and first <br /> under the Regional Partnership area. Authorization of Senate Bill 73 into law <br /> resulted in additional changes felt at the contractor level. The new law effective <br /> • July 1st, 2014 stated the board operating entity could no longer serve additionally <br /> • - - - • ' as a contractor and all such future programs of operation must be placed out for <br /> • bid immediately for the upcoming 2014-2015 fiscal year. Fortunately the affected <br /> staff members were hired by the new program contractor. <br /> I am pleased to note that State Unemployment numbers experienced a reduction <br /> over the course of the fiscal year as the economy's pulse drew stronger. The year <br /> in review presents many wonderful success stories that shine as a reminder that <br /> the service we provide matters to the individuals we serve. I am very thankful and <br /> appreciative of our centers staff, their commitment and affinity to fulfill the Regional <br /> Partnership Workforce mission is exemplary. <br /> In closing I leave you with a quote that resounds the service we provide. <br /> "Our workforce and our entire economy are strongest when <br /> we embrace diversity to its fullest that means opening doors <br /> of opportunity to everyone, and recognizing that the <br /> American Dream excludes no one." -Thomas Perez <br /> Thank you for your support, and I wish our region continued _ <br /> prosperity in the year to come. <br /> Sincerely <br /> Regional Partnership <br /> Ricardo Romero, Chair WORKFORCE <br /> Development Board <br /> 4 Annual Report 2013-2014 <br />