WORKING WARDROBES FOR A NEW START (3)

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Over the course of the contract term, 20 youth will complete up to 70 hours of paid work experience, which includes workforce readiness training and on-the-job experience. Working Wardrobes will also leverage its social enterprise division, including The Hanger Outlets (thrift stores),the Donation Center, and the Career Success Center, to provide in-house work experience opportunities for participants ages 16-17, as well as those whose interests align with retail, logistics, and customer service. Notably, these in-house roles within the organization can be tailored to meet the needs of participants who may feel unprepared for immediate placement in more traditional work environments offered by worksite partners.This flexibility allows participants to gradually build their skills and confidence in a supportive environment. Through paid work experience, participants will build both technical and soft skills---including time management,teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making—that are transferable to future employment. Support from this funding will allow the following activities to take place: • Enrolling and onboarding 20 out-of-school youth into the WIOA-funded program and the Working Wardrobes Rebuilding Careers for Youth Program. • Providing paid workforce readiness workshops before and during the WEX experience. • Matching youth participants with paid work experiences of on-the-job training at host sites within high-demand industries and/or at one of four Working Wardrobes locations, based on their interests and strengths. Working Wardrobes locations include two Hanger Outlets (thrift stores), one Donation Center, and the Career Success Center. (Note: paid training and work experience will total 70 hours for participants.) • Providing concurrent soft skills training and support through financial literacy workshops, personalized wardrobing appointments (where each participant receives one professional outfit), and referrals to additional resources to help address other employment barriers. Connection to WIOA-Approved Certifications/Training: In addition to offering paid work experience, a core element of the program is the support provided by the Career Navigator in identifying and enrolling participants in appropriate training and certification opportunities.The Career Navigator will assist program participants in selecting and enrolling in WIOA-approved certification or skills-training programs that align with their individual career goals.This guidance is based on thorough assessments and personalized career path plans, ensuring that each participant receives tailored support to advance their professional development. Opportunities for certifications in high-demand industries, including Trades (Construction), Manufacturing, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, and Transportation (Truck Driving), will be prioritized. In collaboration with WIOA Service Navigators, the Career Navigator will connect_ participants with approved training providers in high-wage, high-demand industries such as construction, manufacturing, IT, culinary arts, and transportation, and offer up to$1,000 in tuition assistance. Participants may begin earning their certification while gaining paid job experience or after completing it. The Career Navigator will offer ongoing support to ensure a smooth transition into these programs, empowering participants to succeed in their skills development and career advancement. 5