Finding a job is rough, especially in today’s market. But for residents of St. Johns County affected by the economic downturn, there is hope.
Worksource is a publicly funded agency that provides workforce related services to Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam and St. Johns counties. It’s mission is simple — to connect workers to jobs.
This summer, Worksource launched its Learn, Return and Earn program, aimed at providing vocational training to people who have lost their jobs as a result of the economy.
Candace Moody, Vice President of Communication for Worksource, said the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act qualified Worksource for $9 million in federal stimulus money.
"We have the money over two years so we can help people affected by the recession," Moody said. "We want to inform as many people in Northeast Florida as possible of the availability of training scholarships."
Moody said that Worksource has always provided these type of training scholarships, but this added stimulus money allows them the opportunity to double the amount of people trained for high skilled jobs, such as ones in the medical or automotive fields.
"It’s training that teaches you a skill," she said. "There are a large list of occupations, from medical technicians to IT professions to logistics and sales."
The Learn, Return and Earn program allows those affected by the economy the opportunity to enter into a training program up to two years in length. Worksource has been holding orientation sessions to qualify people for the scholarships throughout Northeast Florida over the last month.
"Its just in time training to [help] people get the skills," said Moody. "We can help them be more competitive for jobs that are out there now. We are working to help people who are having trouble right now."
The summer training programs are aimed to help those who have lost jobs because of the economy, however Worksource provides scholarships to potential students based on income as well. Moody said that Worksoure has helped more than 3,000 people find jobs or obtain the skills to find employment.
"With this money we can double that number," she said.
In order to qualify for the funds, Moody said, its as simple as filling out an application. Worksource will work with applicants to determine a plan for training.
Moody said they have seen more than 500 people at their orientations for the program. In St. Johns County earlier this week, she said 116 people came out to find out more information and apply for scholarships.
"The money expires in two years," she said. "If you want to get into a two year program, you have to do it now."
She said the scholarships cover the cost of the education training from top to bottom — from classes to books and everything in between.
"We work as a partner to make sure [each person’s program] is the right one for them," said Moody.
Worksoure will be hosting a large orientation at the Prime Osborn Convention Center in Jacksonville on Thursday, July 23. For more information visit www.worksourefl.com or www.learnreturnearn.org
