The Minden branch of Webster Parish Libraries hosted an event focused on youth services under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) on March 26. The WIOA, enacted in 2014, aims to provide a comprehensive youth employment program for eligible individuals aged 14-24 who encounter barriers to education, training, and employment.
Representatives from the Coordinating & Development Corporation (CDC) were present at the library to register interested individuals in their job training program tailored for youth in the 14 to 24 age bracket.
The WIOA Youth Program offers a range of services to help young adults develop the skills necessary to succeed in the future workforce. Some of the services available to participants include GED/high school equivalency completion, post-secondary education and training, paid and unpaid work experience, comprehensive guidance and training, leadership development activities, occupational skills training, financial literacy education, resume assistance, vocational training programs, and career counseling.
One key service provided by the CDC is an on-the-job training program. This program not only offers young adults employment opportunities but also provides participating employers with various benefits, including up to 50% reimbursement of trainees’ hourly wages, customized training, access to a pool of new vetted young talent, assistance with short-term projects, and positive public relations for businesses, as well as savings on recruiting, screening, and training costs.
Employers who enter into a new hire on-the-job training agreement can hire new workers for skilled positions and train them with the aim of offering permanent employment upon successful completion of training. CDC is actively recruiting employer worksites for the WIOA Youth Program, offering comprehensive career training to youth at no cost to the employer.
For more information about the WIOA Youth Program or to inquire about becoming a worksite employer for the program, individuals can visit the CDC website at www.cdconline.org/ or call (318) 632-2022.