Blog Post: Community Access Points Established to Extend Reach of Local One-Stop Career Services

By partnering with Maricopa Workforce Connections (MWC) and Phoenix Workforce Connection (PWC) community and faith-based organizations in Maricopa County may bring employment search assistance and resources to job seekers in their neighborhoods.

MWC and PWC, members of the Arizona Workforce Connections network, are collaborating with local faith- and community-based organizations to extend the reach of the state's employment and training services valley wide; making it possible for job seekers to gain support and resources to look for jobs closer to their homes, with assistance from individuals trained by MWC and PWC to provide assistance similar to those offered at the local Workforce Connections One-Stop Career Centers.

Participating One-Stop Access Points will receive assistance garnering surplus computers, employment resource materials and specialized training for volunteers and staff. Participating organizations are asked to provide volunteers, space and Internet access for job seekers.

"These partnerships will provide opportunities for additional job seekers to access MWC/PWC employment and training services in their neighborhoods," reported Cynthia Spell, Deputy Community Economic Development Director, City of Phoenix. "Innovative strategies such has this, coupled with the day-to-day hard work of the County and City workforce professionals, are contributing to the development of a workforce poised for the future."

As local One-Stop Access Points, community-based organization staff and volunteers will provide one-on-one help to jobseekers who may lack computer literacy, or just be uncomfortable with using the computer to seek job openings and related services. "We are pleased to be able to offer our high-value no-cost services in neighborhoods situated closer to the job seekers than our Career Centers," said Patrick Burkhart, Assistant Director, Maricopa County Humans Services Department. "When the economy and job market turns upwards the Access Points will remain, and continually be kept apprised of changes in the economic and workforce development arenas to facilitate information to job seekers."

Organizations wishing to participate in this program should call Tony Porter at 602/372-4492 for additional information.

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