Committees

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Executive Committee

Member List

Chair Kamran Tasharofi, MD,, Union County Healthcare Associates
Vice Chair Stan Robinson, Jr., SHR Marketing, LLC
James R. Brady, Savor Group
Gloria Durham, Qunnection Management
Alan Rutan, Rutan Mechanical
Courtney Villani, Villani Bus
Jessica Cohen, Bristol-Myers Squibb

About

The Executive Committee of the Union County Workforce Development Board, empowered by the full board and operating in accordance with federal and state policies and procedures, assumes a central role in workforce development under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. Their responsibilities span a wide spectrum of governance and oversight functions, encompassing services customized for adults, dislocated workers, youth, and, notably, individuals from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), General Assistance (GA), and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) populations. Some of the responsibilities include:

Convening Local Workforce Development System Stakeholders: The Executive Committee brings together representatives from various sectors, such as business, labor, education, and government, to address workforce needs in Union County.
Developing and Implementing Local Plans: They are tasked with creating comprehensive plans that outline strategies for workforce development in Union County. These plans must align with state strategies and the requirements of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
Oversight and Evaluation: The Executive Committee oversees the local workforce development system to ensure it meets performance accountability measures under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. They regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the system and make necessary adjustments.
Broker of Relationships: The Executive Committee serves as a bridge between different entities, fostering relationships among workforce development partners within Union County.
Labor Market Analysis: They analyze local labor market trends and needs in Union County to inform their strategies and plans.
Program Oversight: The Executive Committee oversees the delivery of services such as job training, employment services, and youth programs in Union County. They ensure that these services are aligned with local labor market needs and are effective in meeting the goals set in the local plan.
Budget and Administration: They are responsible for managing the budget and administrative aspects of local workforce programs in Union County, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
Capacity Building: The Executive Committee works to enhance the capacity of service providers and partners in the local workforce development system within Union County.
Public Policy Advocacy: They advocate for policies that support workforce development and address local needs specific to Union County.
Promoting Best Practices: The Executive Committee identifies and disseminates best practices in workforce development within Union County.
Ensuring Equal Access: They ensure that workforce services are accessible to all individuals in Union County, including those with disabilities and other barriers to employment.
Youth Services: The Executive Committee also focuses on providing services to youth in Union County, including job training and employment services.

The Executive Committee of the Union County Workforce Development Board is central to the planning, oversight, and implementation of workforce development strategies in Union County. They align their activities with broader state and federal objectives while addressing the specific labor market needs of Union County.

Youth Investment Council

Member List

Chair – Scott Kuchinsky, CHAIR Plainfield Public Library
Agnes Ekama, NJ COURTS
Alison Milan, International Rescue Committee
Antonio Rivera, Union County Workforce Development Board
Azim Grey, Plainfield Board of Education
Barbara Johnson, Elizabeth Housing Authority
Barbara Ziobro, Youth Services Commission
Carolina Marin, American Job Center
Catherine J Hart, Elizabeth Housing Authority
Clarissa Anderson, Plainfield Public Schools
Colin Baptiste, United Way of Greater Union County
Crystal Ahearn, Elizabeth Public Schools
Debbie Ann Anderson, Union County Department of Human Services
Donald Stewart, Elizabeth Public Schools
Dr. Elizabeth Ramos, Ed.D. Union College of Union County, NJ
Dr. Rashara Fuller, Plainfield Action Corp
Edgar Lopez, Elizabeth Developmental Corporation
Edward Steed, NJ COURTS
Elizabeth Clark, Plainfield HS Jag Program
Emelie Towens, Community Access Unlimited
Evenide Fanfan Vilcean, Roselle Public School
GeorgeAnn Reyes, NJ COURTS
Gwen Ryan, UC Vocational-Technical Schools
Hawa Bonds, Union County Division of Youth Services
Jamine Sowah, Union County Division of Youth Services
Jas Verem, International Rescue Committee
Jason Balsamello, UC Educational Services Commission
Jasmine Lee, UC Vocational – Technical School Simon Youth Academy
Jensine Wright Plainfield Action Corp
Jonathan Phillips Groundworks Elizabeth
John Markowitz Elizabeth Public Schools
Jones, KeNesha Robert Wood Johnson Hospital
Juanita Vargas United Way of Greater Union County
Juanito Chiluisa NJ Department of Labor, Employment Services
Karen Dinsmore Union County Department of Human Services
LaChelle Thompson Elizabeth Housing Authority
Latoya Bennet Union County Division of Youth Services
Laura Desiderio Boxwood Learning Center
Lisa Bonanno Union County Workforce Development Board
Marie Thelusma Chase Boxwood Learning Center
Marshall Christie Community Access Unlimited
Melissa Lespinasse Union County Department of Human Services
Meredith Barracato, Union County Workforce Development Board
Milanes, Alyssa Elizabeth Board of Education
Merlis Miranda United Way of Greater Union County
Michael Kowalski UC Educational Services Commission
Miguel Reyes NJ Department of Labor
Nasrene Mondol American Job Centers
Nedia Morsy Make the Road New Jersey
Perle Almieda, American Job Centers
Rashara Fuller Plainfield Action Corp
Robert Croom, American Job Center
Sharon Best American Job Center
Syreeta V. McClain UC Vocational – Technical School Simon Youth Academy
Veronicah Mwaniki International Rescue Committee
Zelda Spence Plainfield Public Schools

About

The Youth Committee of the Union County Workforce Development Board (UCWDB) operates under the regulatory framework of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), playing a pivotal role in advancing comprehensive workforce development efforts within Union County, with a specific and mandated focus on addressing the needs and aspirations of the youth population. This committee is entrusted with a range of responsibilities aimed at aligning local workforce development initiatives with the core principles of WIOA, which encompasses adults, dislocated workers, youth, and notably, the TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), GA (General Assistance), and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) populations. Here are the key roles and responsibilities of the Youth Committee in accordance with WIOA regulations:

1. WIOA-Compliant Program Development: The Youth Committee is responsible for the development and oversight of workforce development programs that adhere to the WIOA’s specific guidelines and requirements. These programs are designed to facilitate the educational and employment success of youth in Union County.

2. Resource Allocation in Compliance with WIOA: Ensuring that resources are allocated in accordance with the mandates of WIOA is a primary responsibility. The committee assesses funding needs and prioritizes resources to support initiatives that benefit young individuals while maintaining compliance with WIOA regulations.

3. WIOA-Mandated Partnership Building: Collaboration with local educational institutions, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and other community stakeholders is essential to meet WIOA requirements. The committee actively engages in partnerships that align with WIOA’s principles and promote career development for youth.

4. WIOA-Regulated Career Guidance: The committee provides career guidance and counseling services that are fully compliant with WIOA’s standards. These services empower youth to make informed choices about their career paths, ensuring alignment with the regulations outlined in the act.

5. WIOA-Compliant Youth Outreach: To ensure that youth are aware of WIOA-funded services and opportunities available to them, the committee conducts WIOA-compliant outreach efforts within the community. This includes organizing job fairs, workshops, and information sessions consistent with WIOA guidelines.

6. WIOA-Approved Mentorship Programs: The committee facilitates mentorship programs that are in line with WIOA regulations. These programs connect young individuals with experienced professionals to provide guidance, advice, and support as they navigate their career journeys under WIOA provisions.

7. WIOA-Regulated Monitoring and Evaluation: The Youth Committee is responsible for the continuous monitoring and evaluation of WIOA-funded youth workforce development programs. They establish and adhere to performance metrics outlined in WIOA, using data-driven decisions to improve services continually.

8. WIOA-Compliant Advocacy: Advocacy efforts are conducted in strict accordance with WIOA regulations. The committee advocates for policies and initiatives that align with WIOA’s principles and support youth employment and workforce development.

9. Inclusivity and Equity in Line with WIOA: The committee’s promotion of inclusivity and equity fully aligns with WIOA’s requirements. They work to eliminate barriers to employment and career advancement for all youth, ensuring compliance with WIOA regulations.

10. WIOA-Mandated Youth Empowerment: The overarching goal of the committee is to empower youth with the skills, knowledge, and confidence required to succeed in the workforce while operating within the framework of WIOA. They aim to create a future workforce that is well-prepared and capable of contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of Union County, adhering to WIOA’s guidelines and regulations.

The Youth Committee of the Union County Workforce Development Board operates within the regulatory framework of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to fulfill its mandated role in addressing the specific workforce development needs of the youth population, including adults, dislocated workers, and populations such as TANF, GA, and SNAP recipients. Their responsibilities encompass program development, resource allocation, partnership building, career guidance, outreach, mentorship, monitoring, advocacy, and promoting inclusivity—all while adhering to WIOA’s guidelines and regulations to empower youth and prepare them for successful careers and a bright future.

American Job Center Committee

Member List

Chair – James Brady, The Savor Group
Abuan, Christian, NJ Department of Labor, TAA
Alison Milan, International Rescue Committee
Alma Wilson – Ward, Easter Seals
Anthea Williams, NJ Department of Labor, Business Development
Antonio Rivera, Union County Workforce Development Board
Carolina Marin, American Job Center
Catherine J Hart, Elizabeth Housing Authority
Cathy Waters, Urban League
Christina Topolosky, Division of Individual and Family Support Services
Christine Backiel, Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services
Crystal Orr, Urban League
Cyndy Walsh, Rintzler In Roads to opportunities
Colleen Clayton, THE GATEWAY FAMILY YMCA
Debbie Ann Anderson, Union County Department of Human Services
Debbie Walter, Union Public Library
Dolores Makrogiannis, Easter Seals
Dr. Lisa Hiscano, Union College of Union County, NJ
Dr. Lyle Moseley, Elizabeth Public School
Edgar Lopez Elizabeth Developmental Corporation
Edward Faver NJ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Elizabeth Granovsky NJ Reentry Corp
Elizabeth Paskewich Division of Individual and Family Support Services
Elaine Sanders The Community Food Bank of NJ
Eva Altidor Community Block Service Grant
Franchely Inoa YWCA of Union County
Gina Tuesta Union County Workforce Development Board
Hawa Bonds Union County Division of Youth Services
Iesha Armour NJ Department of Labor
Ingrid Macias NJ Department of Labor, Veterans
Isaias Rivera Union College of Union County, NJ
Jasmine Lee UC Vocational technical School- Simon Youth Academy
Jeff Cupo Elizabeth Public Library
Juanita Vargas United Way of Greater Union County
Juanito Chiluisa NJ Department of Labor, Employment Services
Julio Sabater, Workforce Advantage
Karen Dinsmore Union County Department of Human Services
LaChelle Thompson Elizabeth Housing Authority
Latoya Bennet Union County Division of Youth Services
Lillian Roman American Job Centers
Lisa Bonanno Union County Workforce Development Board
Marissa Caponera Elizabeth Housing Authority
Marlene Loff, Union College of Union County, NJ
MaryFaith Chmiel Elizabeth Public Library
Melissa Lespinasse Union County Department of Human Services
Melody Holiday Community Access Unlimited
Meredith Barracato, Union County Workforce Development Board
Michael McLean NJ Department of Labor
Miguel Reyes NJ Department of Labor, Employment Services
Nancy Berkenfeld Elizabeth Public Library
Nasrene Mondol American Job Center
Nedia Morsy Make the Road New Jersey
Oswaldo Arango NJ Department of Labor
Perle Almieda, American Job Center
Raul Ludizaca, NJ Department of Labor
Robert Croom, American Job Center
Ronda Merritt NJ Department of Labor, Business Development
Scott Kuchinsky, Plainfield Public Library
Srabanti Sarkar Proceed Inc
Syreeta V. McClain UC- Vocational Technical School -Simon Youth Academy
Valerie Hendon Elizabeth Public School
Veronicah Mwaniki International Rescue Committee
Yunia Labaut, Workforce Advantage

About

Under the authority of the Union County Workforce Development Board (UCWDB) and in accordance with the provisions of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), the American Job Center Committee plays a pivotal role in evaluating and enhancing services provided to a diverse group of individuals, including adults, dislocated workers, youth, and notably, the TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), GA (General Assistance), and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) populations. The UCWDB, as the governing body responsible for workforce development efforts under WIOA, holds the primary oversight responsibility, and the committee’s responsibilities extend to include oversight of the American Job Center Operator and Providers of career services to the stated populations. These responsibilities are multifaceted and central to ensuring effective support and opportunities for these target demographics:

1. Program Assessment: The American Job Center Committee, operating under the authority of the UCWDB and in compliance with WIOA regulations, is responsible for conducting regular assessments and reviews of workforce development programs and services available to adults, dislocated workers, youth, and vulnerable populations. This includes evaluating the relevance, quality, and accessibility of these programs, as well as the performance of the American Job Center Operator and career service providers.

2. Tailored Services for Vulnerable Populations: A significant focus of the committee, operating under the UCWDB’s authority and within the framework of WIOA, is to assess the specific needs and challenges faced by TANF, GA, and SNAP recipients within the workforce. They work to identify barriers and develop strategies to provide tailored services that promote employment and self-sufficiency, closely monitoring the effectiveness of the American Job Center Operator and service providers in delivering these services.

3. Resource Allocation: The committee, under the authority of the UCWDB and in accordance with WIOA guidelines, jointly determines the allocation of resources and funding for various workforce development initiatives and services provided by the American Job Center Operator and career service providers. They prioritize programs and services that have proven effectiveness in helping the target populations secure sustainable employment.

4. Collaboration and Coordination: Effective coordination among various agencies and organizations is essential for comprehensive workforce development, as mandated by WIOA. The committee, operating under the UCWDB’s authority and in compliance with WIOA, works to foster collaboration between government agencies, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, employers, and the American Job Center Operator and career service providers to ensure a seamless delivery of services.

5. Performance Measurement: Both entities, under the UCWDB’s authority and in alignment with WIOA, are responsible for establishing clear performance metrics and benchmarks for evaluating the success of workforce development programs, the American Job Center Operator, and service providers. They define key performance indicators (KPIs) and regularly monitor and assess program outcomes to identify areas for improvement.

6. Policy Development: In collaboration with other stakeholders and in compliance with WIOA, the committee, under the authority of the UCWDB, may participate in the development of workforce policies and regulations that affect adults, dislocated workers, youth, and vulnerable populations. They jointly advocate for policies that promote job placement, skills development, and economic stability, while ensuring alignment with the services provided by the American Job Center Operator and providers.

7. Outreach and Education: To ensure that the target populations are aware of available services and opportunities, both entities, under the UCWDB’s authority and in line with WIOA requirements, engage in outreach and educational activities. They jointly disseminate information about job training programs, apprenticeships, and other resources provided by the American Job Center Operator and service providers.

8. Inclusivity and Equity: The committee and the UCWDB place a strong emphasis on promoting inclusivity and equity in workforce development and the services offered by the American Job Center Operator and providers, as mandated by WIOA. They work together to eliminate discriminatory practices and ensure that services are accessible and beneficial to all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.

9. Data Analysis: Analyzing labor market data and trends is essential for making informed decisions, as required by WIOA. Both entities, under the UCWDB’s authority and in compliance with WIOA, use data to identify emerging job sectors, skills gaps, and employment opportunities for their target populations, while also monitoring the performance of the American Job Center Operator and service providers.

10. Continuous Improvement: The committee and the UCWDB, under the authority of the UCWDB and in alignment with WIOA, are committed to continuous improvement. They gather feedback from service recipients, employers, and stakeholders to refine and enhance workforce development services continually, including those provided by the American Job Center Operator and service providers.

The American Job Center Committee, operating under the authority of the Union County Workforce Development Board (UCWDB) and in accordance with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), is instrumental in evaluating, enhancing, and overseeing workforce development services for adults, dislocated workers, youth, and vulnerable populations like TANF, GA, and SNAP recipients. The UCWDB holds the primary oversight responsibility for these efforts, which also encompasses the performance and delivery of services by the American Job Center Operator and career service providers, all while adhering to WIOA’s guidelines and regulations. Their shared responsibilities encompass program assessment, resource allocation, policy development, and fostering collaboration to ensure that these individuals have access to the training and support needed to secure meaningful employment and achieve self-sufficiency.

Adult Education and Literacy Committee

Member List

Chair Julio Sabater, Workforce Advantage
Alison Milan, International Rescue Committee
Antonio Rivera, Union County Workforce Development Board
Barbara Bagger, Literacy New Jersey
Carolina Marin, American Job Centers
Debbie Ann Anderson, Union County Department of Human Services
Debbie Walter, Union Public Library
Dr. Lisa Hiscano, Union College of Union County, NJ
Dr. Lyle Moseley, Elizabeth Public School
Elizabeth Piskorik, Linden Public Library
Elizabeth Chabla, Make the Road NJ
Hawa Bonds, Union County Division of Youth Services
Jas Verem, International Rescue Committee
Jeff Cupo, Elizabeth Public Library
Juanito Chiluisa, NJ Department of Labor, Employment Services
Johnathan Cohen, NJ Department of Labor
Karen Dinsmore, Union County Department of Human Services
Latoya Bennet, Union County Division of Youth Services
Leanne Manna, Linden Public Library
Lillian Roman, American Job Centers
Lisa Bonanno, Union County Workforce Development Board
Marlene Loff, Union County College
Maryfaith Chmiel, Elizabeth Public Library
Melissa Lespinasse, Union County Department of Human Services
Meredith Barracato, Union County Workforce Development Board
Miguel Reyes, NJ Department of Labor, Employment Services
Nancy Berkenfeld, Elizabeth Public Library
Nasrene Mondol, American Job Center
Perle Almieda, American Job Center
Robert Croom, American Job Center
Sara Cullinane, Make the Road NJ
Scott Kuchinsky, Plainfield Public Library
Valerie Hendon, Elizabeth Public School
Yunia Labaut, Workforce Advantage

About

The Literacy Committee of the Union County Workforce Development Board (UCWDB) plays a pivotal role in advancing comprehensive literacy and educational efforts within Union County, guided by the principles of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). This committee addresses the needs of diverse individuals, including adults, dislocated workers, youth, and notably, the TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), GA (General Assistance), and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) populations, while aligning its efforts with the core principles of WIOA. Here are the key roles and responsibilities of the Literacy Committee, integrating WIOA principles:

1. WIOA-Compliant Program Development: The committee is responsible for developing and enhancing literacy and educational programs that align with the principles of WIOA. These programs encompass adult education, skills development, and pathways to diplomas and credentials, with a focus on meeting the needs of a diverse workforce.

2. Resource Allocation in Compliance with WIOA: Ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support literacy and educational initiatives in line with WIOA principles is a primary responsibility. The committee assesses funding needs and prioritizes resources to facilitate credential attainment and workforce readiness.

3. Partnership Building in Accordance with WIOA: Collaboration with local educational institutions, community colleges, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders is essential to meet the principles of partnership and inclusivity outlined in WIOA. The committee actively engages in partnerships that promote equitable access to education and workforce development opportunities.

4. Oversight of WIOA-Compliant Adult Education and Skills Development: The committee oversees Adult Education and Skills Development programs, ensuring they adhere to the principles of accessibility, inclusivity, and effectiveness emphasized in WIOA. These programs aim to accelerate credential achievement and career advancement.

5. Integration of WIOA Principles in Youth Education and Literacy Programs: In addition to adult-focused efforts, the committee integrates WIOA principles into youth education and literacy programs, recognizing the importance of building a strong educational foundation for future workforce success.

6. Collaboration with the Workforce Learning Link in Line with WIOA: The committee collaborates closely with the Workforce Learning Link to provide seamless support to individuals seeking to enhance their skills, achieve diplomas, and credentials, in alignment with WIOA principles of integration and coordination.

7. WIOA-Regulated Outreach and Enrollment: To ensure that individuals from diverse backgrounds are aware of literacy and educational services, including those related to credential attainment, the committee conducts outreach and enrollment efforts within the community, consistent with WIOA guidelines.

8. Monitoring and Evaluation in Accordance with WIOA: The Literacy Committee is responsible for the continuous monitoring and evaluation of literacy and educational programs and services, including those focused on credential attainment, to assess their effectiveness and make data-driven improvements, as mandated by WIOA.

9. Advocacy for WIOA-Compliant Credential Achievement: Advocacy efforts for credential attainment and educational achievement are conducted in strict accordance with WIOA regulations. The committee works to ensure that policies and initiatives align with WIOA principles, promoting equitable access to education and workforce development opportunities.

10. Inclusivity and Equity in Line with WIOA: The committee promotes inclusivity and equity in all aspects of literacy and education efforts, working to eliminate barriers to educational attainment while upholding the principles of WIOA, including inclusivity and equality of opportunity.

11. Empowerment Through Education with WIOA in Mind: The overarching goal of the Literacy Committee is to empower individuals of all ages and backgrounds with the education and skills needed to achieve diplomas and credentials, supporting their success in the workforce and the community, in accordance with the principles of WIOA.

The Literacy Committee of the Union County Workforce Development Board operates in alignment with the principles of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) in their efforts to address the literacy and educational needs of individuals in Union County. Their responsibilities encompass program development, resource allocation, partnership building, oversight of adult and youth education, collaboration with the Workforce Learning Link, outreach, monitoring, advocacy, inclusivity promotion, and empowerment through education, all while integrating WIOA principles to ensure equitable access to education and credential attainment for all residents.

Disabilities Issues Committee

Member List

Chair – Cyndy Walsh, Rintzler In Roads to Opportunities
Adam Kubler NJ Council on Developmental Disabilities
Alicia Mc Grath, Goodwill
Amanda Gerson, Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Antonio Rivera, Union County Workforce Development Board
Brandon Phelps, Arc of Union County
Carolina Marin, American Job Center
Christine Backiel, Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services
Debbie Ann Anderson, Union County Department of Human Services
Diana Calle, UC Office for People w/Disability & Special Needs
Edward Faver, NJ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Josh Bornstein, Union County Educational Services Commission
Juanito Chiluisa, NEW Jersey Department of Labor, Employment Services
Karen Cimorelli, Union College of Union County, NJ
Karen Dinsmore, Union County Department of Human Services
Kerrie Webster, The Family Resource Network
Lisa Bonanno, Union County Workforce Development Board
Mahasin Wilson, Arc of Union County
Manny Ramirez, ADA Compliance
Marc S. Schweitzer, NJ Department of Labor DVRS
Melissa Lespinasse, Union County Department of Human Services
Melissa Lomax, The Family Resource Network
Melody Holiday, Community Access Unlimited
Meredith Barracato, Union County Workforce Development Board
Miguel Reyes, NJ Department of Labor, Employment Services
Nasrene Mondol, American Job Center
Nicole Warren, The Family Resource Network
Perle Almieda, American Job Center
Rebecca Micial, Arc of Union County
Robert Croom, American Job Center
Sandra Lynch, Community Access Unlimited
Walter Droz, The Salvation Army
Zinnia Johnson, Goodwill

About

The Disabilities Committee of the Union County Workforce Development Board (UCWDB) operates within the regulatory framework of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), with a specific and mandated focus on addressing the unique workforce development needs of individuals with disabilities. This committee plays a critical role in ensuring that workforce development services and opportunities are accessible, inclusive, and effective for adults, dislocated workers, youth, and notably, the TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), GA (General Assistance), and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) populations who have disabilities. Here are the key roles and responsibilities of the Disabilities Committee, in accordance with WIOA regulations:

1. WIOA-Compliant Program Development for Individuals with Disabilities: The Disabilities Committee is responsible for developing, enhancing, and advocating for workforce development programs and services that align with the principles of WIOA and are designed to meet the specific needs of individuals with disabilities. These programs aim to improve their employment outcomes, skills, and overall career prospects.

2. Resource Allocation in Compliance with WIOA: Ensuring that resources are allocated in strict accordance with WIOA mandates is a primary responsibility. The committee assesses funding needs and prioritizes resources to support inclusive and accessible workforce development initiatives for individuals with disabilities.

3. Partnership Building with Disability Service Providers: Collaboration with disability service providers, vocational rehabilitation agencies, community-based organizations, and other stakeholders is vital. The committee actively engages in partnerships to promote access to comprehensive services for individuals with disabilities within Union County.

4. Accessible Career Guidance and Support Services: The committee ensures that career guidance, counseling, and support services are accessible to individuals with disabilities. These services assist individuals in making informed choices about their career paths and align with WIOA regulations on accessibility.

5. WIOA-Regulated Outreach and Enrollment for Disabled Populations: The Disabilities Committee conducts outreach efforts to reach individuals with disabilities within the community. This includes outreach to TANF, GA, and SNAP populations, aiming to connect them with tailored workforce development opportunities.

6. WIOA-Compliant Monitoring and Evaluation: The committee monitors and evaluates the effectiveness of workforce development programs and services for individuals with disabilities. They establish performance metrics, as required by WIOA, and use data-driven decisions to continually improve accessibility and outcomes.

7. Advocacy for Inclusive Workforce Development Policies: Advocacy efforts are conducted in strict accordance with WIOA regulations. The committee advocates for policies and initiatives that align with WIOA principles and ensure that workforce development services are accessible, inclusive, and effective for individuals with disabilities.

8. Inclusivity and Equity for Disabled Populations: Promoting inclusivity and equity for individuals with disabilities is a core principle of the committee’s work. They work diligently to eliminate barriers to employment and career advancement, aligning with WIOA’s emphasis on inclusivity and equal opportunity.

9. Empowerment of Individuals with Disabilities: The overarching goal of the Disabilities Committee is to empower individuals with disabilities with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to succeed in the workforce. They strive to create an inclusive workforce where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, in accordance with WIOA’s guiding principles.

The Disabilities Committee of the Union County Workforce Development Board operates within the regulatory framework of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to fulfill its mandated role in addressing the unique workforce development needs of individuals with disabilities. Their responsibilities encompass program development, resource allocation, partnership building, accessible career guidance, outreach, monitoring, advocacy, inclusivity promotion, and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities—all while adhering to WIOA’s guidelines and regulations to ensure accessible, inclusive, and effective workforce development services for this important population.