HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgreement A-25-263 FRWDB WIOA Local Plan.pdf Agreement No. 25-263
Program Year 2025 - 2028
Local Plan
Fresno Regional
Workforce Development Board
Fresno Regional
Workforce
Development Board
A proud partner of America's Job Center of California"network.
Contact: Blake Konczal, Executive Director
Phone: (559) 490-7102
Email: bkonczal(cD-workforce-connection.com
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Table of Contents
I. INTRODUCTION and OVERVIEW............................................................................ 4
A.Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.......................................................................................4
B.Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board................................................................................4
C.Local Plans and the WIOA Planning Structure.....................................................................................5
D.California's Strategic Workforce Priorities..........................................................................................6
E.Development of FRWDB's Program Years 25-28 Local Plan................................................................7
F.Areas of Focus for the Workforce Development Board ......................................................................7
G.System Goals and Priorities.................................................................................................................9
II. WORKFORCE INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITY ACT CORE AND REQUIRED
PARTNER COORDINATION................................................................................... 10
A.Coordination with AJCC Partners and WIOA Memorandum of Understanding ...............................10
B.Partners' Efforts to Collaborate on Co-Enrollment and Case Management.....................................15
C.One-Stop System's Use of Technology and Other Remote Strategies..............................................16
D.Coordination of Workforce Activities and Support Services.............................................................17
E.Physical and Programmatic Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities.........................................19
III. STATE STRATEGIC PARTNER COORDINATION................................................. 21
A.Coordination with County Human Services Agency and Other Local Partners That Serve Individuals
Accessing CalFresh Employment and Training Services ..................................................................21
B.Coordination with Local Child Support Agency and Other Local Partners That Serve Individuals
Who Are Non-Custodial Parents......................................................................................................22
C.Coordination with Local Partnership Agreement Partners Established in Alignment with the
Competitive Integrated Employment Blueprint and Other Local Partners That Serve Individuals
with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities............................................................................22
D.Coordination with Community-Based Organizations and Other Local Partners That Serve
Individuals Who are English Language Learners, Foreign Born, and/or Refugees..........................24
E.Coordination with Local Veteran Affairs, Community-Based Organizations, and Other Local
Partners That Serve Veterans..........................................................................................................25
F.Collaboration with the Strategic Planning Partners to Address Environmental Sustainability.........25
IV. WIOA TITLE I COORDINATION ............................................................................. 27
A.Staff Training and Professional Development to Increase Digital Technology Skills ........................27
B.Frontline Staff Training and Professional Development to Increase Cultural Competency and
Effectiveness in Working with Individuals and Groups that Have Been Exposed to Trauma..........29
C.Coordination of Rapid Response and Layoff Aversion Activities.......................................................29
D.Services and Activities Available under WIOA Title I Adult and Dislocated Worker Programs.........32
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
E.Services and Activities Available under WIOA Title I Youth Program................................................35
F.Entity Responsible for Disbursal of Grant Funds and the Competitive Process Used to Award
Contracts for WIOA Title I Activities ................................................................................................38
G.How the Local Board Fulfills the Duties of the AJCC Operator and/or the Career Services Provider
or Selection of AJCC Operators and Career Services Providers.......................................................38
V. SYSTEM GOALS AND PRIORITIES FOR PROGRAM YEARS 2025-28 ............... 40
A.Increasing Service Accessibility.........................................................................................................40
B.Services for Rural Communities.........................................................................................................40
C.Support for Refugees and English Language Learners ......................................................................40
D.Support for Older Workers................................................................................................................41
E.Increasing Digital Skills and Ability to Utilize Advanced Technology.................................................41
F.Business Partners and Securing Business Input.................................................................................41
G.Support for Entrepreneurs................................................................................................................41
H.Workforce Development System Staff Learning and Development.................................................42
(.Greater Resources ..............................................................................................................................42
VI. ATTACHMENTS...................................................................................................... 43
A.STAKEHOLDER AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY(Attachment 1) ...............................44
B.PUBLIC COMMENTS RECEIVED THAT DISAGREE WITH THE PY 2025-25 LOCAL PLAN (Attachment 2)
.........................................................................................................................................................49
C.SIGNATURE PAGE (Attachment 3).....................................................................................................50
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
I. INTRODUCTION and OVERVIEW
In accordance with the requirements of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(WIOA) of 2014 and guidance published by California Workforce Development Board
(CWDB) and Employment Development Department (EDD), the Fresno Regional
Workforce Development Board (FRWDB) has developed a four (4)-year Local Plan
covering Program Years (PYs) 2025-2028. Following approval by state officials
representing the Governor, the Plan will be effective from July 1, 2025, through June 30,
2029.
FRWDB represents the City of Fresno and the County of Fresno and serves all
communities within the county's boundaries. Pursuant to this partnership, a non-profit
organization, the Fresno Area Workforce Investment Corporation (FAWIC) has been
established and functions as the administrator for workforce programs within the local
workforce development area (LWDA). Throughout this Plan, for ease of review, the entity
responsible for workforce program administration, oversight, and service delivery is
generally referred to as FRWDB.
A. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
Passed by Congress with a wide bipartisan majority, WIOA was signed into law on
July 22, 2014. WIOA is designed to help job seekers access employment,
education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and to
match employers with the skilled workers they need to compete in a global
economy. WIOA represents the most recent version of federal workforce legislation
providing funding to states and local areas to administer and operate workforce
development programs. WIOA was preceded by the Job Training Partnership Act
(active from 1982 to 2000) and the Workforce Investment Act (active from 2000 to
2015).
WIOA promotes accountability and transparency through negotiated performance
goals that are publicly available; fosters regional collaboration within states through
local workforce areas; and supports a nationwide network of career centers, which
are branded within the state as America's Job Centers of California (AJCCs) and
within all of Fresno County as Workforce Connection centers.
While the PY 2025-28 Local Plan addresses collaboration among many
organizations that derive their primary funding from a wide range of federal, state,
and private programs, it is WIOA that requires the development and publication of
the Plan and that prescribes its core content.
B. Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
WIOA requires that a workforce development board (WDB) be established in each
LWDA. The area's chief local elected officials appoint members to the WDB.
Locally, the Mayor of the City of Fresno and the Fresno County Board of
Supervisors fulfill this function. Local boards are business-led, and the majority of
members must come from the business community. Required WDB members also
include representatives from labor, education, economic development, and specific
federally funded workforce programs. The chief local elected officials may also
select representatives from other groups, such community-based organizations, to
sit on the WDB.
WDBs drive the vision for the workforce system and maintain the critical role of
leading and providing oversight for local WIOA programs. WDBs also play a critical
role in promoting, sustaining, and growing regional economies. They are
responsible for aligning investments in job training, integrating service delivery
across programs, and ensuring that workforce investments are job-driven and
match skilled workers with employers.
WIOA indicates that the development of the Local Plan, along with the associated
Regional Plan, is a primary responsibility of the WDB.
C. Local Plans and the WIOA Planning Structure
FRWDB's Local Plan is best understood within the context of a three (3)-tiered
planning structure envisioned by WIOA that requires the development of plans at
the state, regional, and local levels.
State Plans: Under WIOA, state plans communicate the vision for the statewide
workforce development system. WIOA planning requirements aim to foster effective
alignment of federal investments across job training and education programs, in
order to coordinate service delivery among programs for shared customers;
improve efficiency; and ensure that the workforce system connects individuals with
high-quality job opportunities and employers. Cross-program planning promotes a
shared understanding of the workforce needs within each state. California's PY
2024-2027 Unified Strategic Workforce Development Plan represents agreement
among the WIOA core program and other partners and serves as the framework
for the development of public policy, fiscal investment, and operation of the state
workforce and education systems.
Regional Plans: In states such as California, where Governors have established
workforce planning regions encompassing one or more LWDAs, regional plans are
required. Local WDBs within the region participate in a planning process that
describes elements such as: analysis of regional labor market data, development,
and implementation of sector initiatives for targeted industries and in-demand
occupations; coordination of workforce services with regional economic
development services and providers; and establishment of regional service
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
strategies, including use of cooperative service delivery agreements. Along with
seven (7) other local areas, the Fresno County LWDA is part of the San Joaquin
Valley and Associated Counties Regional Planning Unit (SJVAC RPU), which is
one (1) of California's 15 workforce regions.
Local Plans: The Local Plan is intended to serve as a four (4)-year action plan to
develop, align, and integrate the local area's job-driven workforce development
systems and provide a platform to achieve the local area's vision and strategic and
operational goals. Features of the Local Plan include: Coordination among
economic development, education, and workforce partners to build a skilled
workforce through innovation in, and alignment of, employment, training and
education programs; implementation of job-driven strategies and services through
the local career center system; and delivery of education and training to ensure that
individuals, including youth and individuals with barriers to employment, have skills
necessary to compete in the job market and that employers have a ready supply of
skilled workers.
WIOA requires that Local Plans be incorporated into the Regional Plan. Therefore,
the PY 2025-28 FRWDB Local Plan is officially part of the PY 2025-28 SJVAC RPU
Regional Plan.
D. California's Strategic Workforce Priorities
California's Unified Strategic Workforce Development Plan describes the state's
priorities for the public workforce system.
Under the leadership of the Governor and the Secretary of the Labor and Workforce
Development Agency, California's vision for the future of workforce development is
centered on the establishment and growth of a workforce system that promotes
opportunity, job quality, and environmental sustainability for all Californians. The
state is committed to developing a workforce system that enables economic growth
and shared prosperity for employers and employees, especially those with barriers
to employment, by investing in industry partnerships, job quality, and meaningful
skills attainment. One area in which the CWDB pursues these aims is through its
"High Road" programming. High Road refers to a "family of strategies" for achieving
a participatory economy and society by aligning workforce, economic policy, and
different interests with long-term goals of environmental sustainability, high-quality
jobs, and a resilient economy. High Road emphasizes the complementary nature of
these aims over the long term. In practice, High Road policy builds upon areas
where the interest of employers (in trained and productive workers), workers and
jobseekers (in good quality and accessible jobs), and environmental protection (for
a sustainable future for all) overlap to create pathways to high-quality jobs while
raising the profile of existing ones.
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
In consideration of the practical implementation of High Road principles in
workforce development policy, the CWDB describes in the current State Plan four
(4) distinct "flavors" or styles of intervention. These interventions are directly
relevant to High Road projects but also inform, to a greater or lesser extent, all of
CWDB's workforce efforts. They include: (1) lifting all workers to the "High Road;"
(2) professional izing precarious work (i.e., employment that is temporary, non-
standard, and insecure, often with poor pay and no protection); (3) democratizing
access to high-quality, middle-skill jobs; and (4) participatory planning for a low-
carbon economy.
In accordance with the requirements of WIOA, both the FRWDB PY 2025-28 Local
Plan and the PY 2025-28 SJVAC RPU Regional Plan support the State Plan
priorities by:
• Maintaining a dual focus on providing programs and services that meet the
needs and support the goals of businesses and job seekers/workers.
• Concentrating on industry sectors which drive growth and prosperity within local
labor markets and regional economies.
• Targeting jobs that offer career advancement opportunities and that lead to
positions that pay family-sustaining wages and provide pathways to the middle
class.
• Committing to the adoption and implementation of strategies and processes that
support environmental sustainability and climate resilience through workforce
development.
E. Development of FRWDB's Program Years 25-28 Local Plan
Development of the Local Plan was the result of FRWDB's internal discussions, as
well as engagement with organizations and individuals throughout Fresno County
who guide, contribute to, and benefit from workforce system services. As
summarized in Attachment 1, a community and stakeholder forum was held.
Developing the Plan also involved a process of reviewing and evaluating existing
partnerships, services, and systems and identifying areas that can be strengthened.
FRWDB's executive leadership led the planning process on behalf of the local
board. Completing the Plan took approximately six (6) months, after which it was
made available for public review and comment, prior to being forwarded to the
California Workforce Development Board for review.
F. Areas of Focus for the Workforce Development Board
The FRWDB has developed the following mission and vision statements to guide
its work:
Mission: Under a Joint Powers Authority established between the City and County
of Fresno, the FRWDB works in partnership with the public and private sectors to
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
assist local businesses in meeting their human capital needs. Workforce system
providers screen and train prospective new employees and assist in upskilling
existing employees. By offering quality referrals and training services that are
directly linked to local industry needs, the local workforce system benefits
unemployed and underemployed clients.
Vision: To fully engage all available public and private resources to ensure that the
Fresno Regional Workforce Development system is the premier source for the
human capital needs of growth industry clusters within Fresno County; to integrate
education and workforce preparation to assist the best companies in Fresno County
to remain and thrive in our local community, achieving sustainable economic
growth; and to concurrently assist our unemployed and underemployed residents
to achieve a higher quality of life by accessing careers in growth industry sectors.
In 2024, members of FRWDB's Executive Committee held a strategic planning
discussion during which they identified four core areas of focus for the board and
the local workforce development programs they oversee. Included are:
1. Workforce Capacity in Key Industries
Major industries throughout Fresno County and the entirety of the San
Joaquin Valley are facing challenges from climate, technology, and wide
range of other factors. FRWDB will focus on preparing a pipeline of workers
for industries facing emerging challenges, including those that are resilient
to change and provide pathways to well-paid employment and career
advancement. Industries for which services will be targeted include, but are
not limited to, agriculture, agricultural manufacturing, construction, forestry,
government, and green energy.
2. Workforce Skills
FRWDB aims to provide training and cultivate a workforce that is equipped
not only with technical expertise, but also with social and emotional
intelligence, encompassing essential workplace skills that are applicable
across multiple industries and occupations. As the labor market changes,
these skills will ensure that workers are able to readily adapt, grow, and
succeed in the workplace.
3. Community Capacity and Resilience
Anticipating challenges outside the immediate purview of the board is critical
to the success of the local workforce system. The board attempts to identify
and formulate solutions to address community issues to minimize their
impact on workforce system operations. Some community-wide issues that
FRWDB will continue to examine include the availability of digital
connections and technology; access to public education resources; and
creating mechanisms for community input. Digital connectivity has been
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
identified as a significant challenge, and FRWDB's involvement in shaping
policies can enhance digital access for workforce system participants. The
workforce system also guides participants to various resources, enabling
them to access public education programs and simplifying the process.
FRWDB is also committed to working in collaboration with public education
entities to streamline programs and schedules to provide working adults
greater opportunities to enhance their education and skills.
4. Individual Workforce Readiness
The FRWDB seeks to enhance job seekers' individual workforce readiness
by tackling digital literacy and the absence of fundamental digital skills that
are crucial to competing for and securing well-paying jobs. Additionally,
FRWDB believes that it is crucial to approach participants holistically,
focusing on effective connections to services beyond the workforce system's
immediate scope. Furthermore, at an early age, young individuals must be
introduced to various career paths, thereby establishing a feeder system into
the workforce programs that will equip them with job skills.
G. System Goals and Priorities
During the process used to develop the PY 2025-28 Local Plan, community
members, local stakeholders, and system partners were invited to participate in
discussions regarding the direction of the local workforce system over the next four
(4) years. As a result of these discussions, the following priorities have been
identified:
• Increasing service accessibility
• Services for rural communities
• Support for refugees and English language learners
• Support for older workers
• Increasing digital skills and ability to utilize advanced technology
• Business partners and securing business input
• Support for entrepreneurs
• Workforce development system staff learning and development
• Greater resources
Section V of this Plan summarizes these and other issues, strategies, approaches, and
key considerations that FRWDB and the system partners will examine over the four
(4)-year course of this Plan.
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
II. WORKFORCE INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITY ACT CORE AND
REQUIRED PARTNER COORDINATION
The WIOA includes requirements for Local Boards to establish a framework for
collaboration among state and local programs that are financially supported by nineteen
distinct federal fund sources. Six (6) of these programs constitute the four "core partners:"
the WIOA Title I Adult, Dislocated Worker, and Youth Programs; the WIOA Title II Adult
Education and Family Literacy Act Program; the WIOA Title III Wagner-Peyser Act
Program; and the WIOA Title IV State Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program. The
core partners, together with 13 other federally supported programs, make up the WIOA-
mandated One-Stop partners. The FRWDB has entered into a Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) with the organizations managing each federal program at the local
level. The narrative that follows describes coordination with the WIOA core and other
required program partners as prescribed by WIOA.
Coordination with AJCC Partners and WIOA Memorandum of
Understanding
Over the last 40 years, FRWDB has built strong and effective relationships with
state and local agencies that represent the One-Stop partner programs. Over the
next four (4) years, FRWDB looks forward to further enhancing coordination with
each of the workforce system partners.
Overview of Local One-Stop System Partners
Following is a summary of the local/regional organizations representing the 19
federal One-Stop partner programs with which the FRWDB has entered into an
MOU.
Federal Partner Programs MOU Partner
WIOA Title I Adult 0 Fresno Regional Workforce Development
WIOA Title I Dislocated Worker Board
WIOA Title I Youth
WIOA Title 11 Adult Education and Literacy 0 State Center Adult Education Consortium
■ West Hills Adult Education Consortium
WIOA Title III Wagner-Peyser 0 Employment Development Department
WIOA Title IV Vocational Rehabilitation 0 California Department of Rehabilitation
Carl Perkins Career Technical Education ■ State Center Community College District
■ West Hills Community College District
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Title V Senior Community Service Employment 0 SER—Jobs for Progress
Program
Job Corps ■ Career Systems Development Corporation/San
Jose Job Corps Center
Native American Programs ■ California Indian Manpower Consortium
WIOA Section 166
Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers (WIOA Section 0 Proteus, Inc.
167
Jobs for Veterans State Grants 0 Employment Development Department
Youth Build ■ Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission
Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) ■ Employment Development Department
Community Services Block Grant ■ Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission
Housing and Urban Development E&T 0 Fresno Housing Authority
Unemployment Insurance UI Employment Development Department
Second Chance Act Grantee ■ GRID Alternatives
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families 0 Fresno County Department of Social Services
TANF /CalWORKs
Memoranda of Understanding with System Partners
The general roles and responsibilities of each partner listed above are:
• Continuous partnership building between all parties.
• Continuous partnership building and planning that is responsive to state
requirements.
• Continuous partnership between state and local representatives engaged in
WIOA activities and related workforce preparation and development.
• Responsiveness to specific local and economic conditions, including employer
needs.
• Adherence to strategic planning principles adopted by the WIOA for long range
planning, including the requirement for continuous improvement.
• Adherence to common data collection and reporting, including needs for
modification or change.
• Diligence in developing coordinated local leadership in workforce development.
• Responsiveness to participant/customer needs.
• Maintenance of system infrastructure.
• Shared technology and information.
• Performance management to measure the success of the local One-Stop
system, overall, and to enhance performance in a spirit of quality management
and continuous improvement; and
• Identification of each partner's appropriate contribution to meeting the
performance standards negotiated between the State of California and FRWDB.
The MOU also indicates that infrastructure costs shall be allocated as follows:
• EDD, DOR, DSS, Fresno County Economic Opportunities Commission, and
State Center Community College District contribute financially to the
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
infrastructure costs, allocated by square footage and communication costs for
each partner, as outlined in the Resource Sharing Agreement.
• Communication Costs: Each partner shall be allocated the communication costs
at the site based upon the percentage of the number of square feet the partner
commits to use relative to the total space.
• In addition, partners contribute through the provision of in-kind services, such
as assisting with the AJCC's Self-Reliance Team, assisting individuals in the
resource room, and providing receptionist staff.
Coordination with AJCC Partner Programs
The following information summarizes the ways in which FRWDB, and the local
workforce system collaborate with organizations managing the federally mandated
One-Stop partner programs.
WIOA Title I — Adult, Dislocated Worker, and Youth Programs: The three (3)
formula-funded programs are administered by FRWDB. Services are delivered at
two (2) comprehensive and two (2) affiliate AJCCs.
WIOA Title 11 — Adult Education and Literacy: The State Center Adult Education
Consortium, which serves Fresno and Madera counties and border communities in
Tulare County, and the West Hills Regional Consortium provide WIOA Title 11 Adult
Education and Literacy Services in the local area. Referrals are regularly made
between the Title I and Title 11 programs, and many participants are co-enrolled.
State Center Adult Education Consortium representatives visit the AJCCs to meet
potential students. The consortium is also represented on FRWDB's Youth Council.
When the California Department of Education solicits applications for services
under the WIOA Title II Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA)
program, FRWDB staff reviews applications to determine how they complement
the Local Plan.
WIOA Title III —Wagner-Peyser: Wagner-Peyser staff is co-located in the Workforce
Connection AJJC Centers in Fresno and Mendota. In addition, FRWDB and AJCC
staff work with EDD to coordinate marketing and outreach to Unemployment
Insurance claimants, ensuring full access to all available WIOA services. EDD and
FRWDB also collaborate on Rapid Response orientations for laid off workers,
providing Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) workshops
both in-person and online.
WIOA Title IV —Vocational Rehabilitation: WIOA Title IV staff are co-located at the
West Shaw Comprehensive Workforce Connection Center. WIOA and DOR staff
are cross trained in the eligibility requirements for each partner's services in order
to ensure appropriate referrals. Regular meetings are held to discuss and enhance
the referral process and co-enrollments. DOR staff is available to provide technical
assistance and training to all AJCC and partner staff in areas such as disability
awareness, assistive technology, service strategies, and the use of
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competitive integrated employment. Partners also provide cross training to DOR
staff.
Carl Perkins Career Technical Education: The Carl D. Perkins Career and
Technical Education Act of 2006 (Perkins IV) is a principal source of federal funding
to states and discretionary grantees for the improvement of secondary and
postsecondary career and technical education programs across the nation. The
purpose of the act is to more fully develop the academic, career, and technical skills
of secondary and postsecondary students who elect to enroll in career and technical
education programs. The community colleges and the adult schools, which are the
primary recipients of Perkins funding in Fresno County, regularly make referrals to
and receive referrals from staff of the AJCCs.
Title V Older Americans Act: SER — Jobs for Progress operates the Senior
Community Service Employment Programs (SCSEP) that serves Fresno County
Residents. The program offers outreach, intake, and orientation services; provides
information and referrals to supportive services available to eligible persons; provides
group presentations; provides older Americans workshops; provides group counseling
services; offers short-term pre-vocational services; enrolls eligible seniors who are
55+, low income, and have barriers to employment; and provides part-time,
temporary on the job training through community service assignments at local
nonprofits and government agencies to enrolled participants. The Workforce
Connection centers utilize the services of SCSEP participants, with service providers
acting as the host employers.
Job Corps: Program representatives conduct eligibility determination for Job Corps
services. Their principal activity at the AJCC is to promote the Job Corps program
to potential applicants who are youth and young adults ages 16 to 24. The upper-
age limit may be waived for individuals with disclosed disabilities who meet all other
eligibility requirements. Fresno area youth and young adults are principally
recruited for enrollment at the San Jose Job Corps Center, but may be referred to
other sites, based on their career interests and preferences.
Native American Programs (WIOA Section 166: FRWDB works closely with the
local office of California Indian Manpower Consortium, which is co-located in the
West Shaw Workforce Connection comprehensive center and collaborates with
WIOA staff to provide referrals and co-enrollment opportunities to provide Indian
and Native American job seekers access to all WIOA and partner services available
through FRWDB's local network of AJCCs.
Migrant Seasonal Farmworker Program (WIOA Section 167): FRWDB has a long
history of collaboration with Proteus, Inc., which administers and operates the
Migrant Seasonal Farmworker(MSFW) program in Fresno County to ensure MSFW
programs services are available for eligible participants. WIOA program staff works
with MSFW staff to provide referrals and co-enrollment opportunities. Proteus offers
migrant and seasonal farmworker customers with basic career services, vocational
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
training, work-based learning, work readiness training, English as a Second
Language, General Equivalency Diploma (GED) services, and supportive services.
Vocational training includes programs teaching skills for truck drivers, forklift
operators, solar panel installers, weatherization, and office automation.
Jobs for Veterans State Grants: EDD administers the Jobs for Veterans State
Grants program and designated Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program, and Local
Veterans' Employment Representatives specialists are stationed at the West Shaw
comprehensive Workforce Connection center to assist veterans seeking
employment.
Youth Build: In Fresno County, YouthBuild is embedded within the Fresno
Economic Opportunities Commission (EOC's) Conservation Corps Program. Corps
members are required to enroll and progress in an academic program concurrent
with their full or part-time enrollment in the Conservation Corps' paid skill-building
vocational training programs. Corps members lacking a high school diploma enroll
in the on-site YouthBuild Charter High School of California.
Trade Adjustment Assistance Act: Trade Adjustment Assistance Act (TAA) is a
federal program intended to provide aid to workers who lose their jobs or whose
hours of work and wages are reduced as a result of increased imports. The TAA
program has offered a variety of benefits and reemployment services to help
unemployed workers prepare for and obtain suitable employment. Under TAA,
workers were eligible for training, job search, and other reemployment services.
Coordination with TAA generally included co-enrollment into WIOA, which provided
multiple benefits, including TAA funds being used to cover all training costs. While
TAA is technically a required partner program, it is currently an unfunded initiative
and, except for work that exhausts the final federal allocation of funds, services
have been suspended.
Community Services Block Grant: The Fresno EOC supports AJCC staff with
referrals, depending on eligibility requirements, to any Community Services Block
Grant services and any other services available through Fresno EOC, such as
Women, Infants and Children services and Low-Income Home Energy Assistance,
which are accessible at the West Shaw Workforce Connection center.
Unemployment Compensation: The Unemployment Insurance (UI) program is
generally represented in the AJCCs by EDD's Wagner-Peyser staff. FRWDB and
AJCC staff work with EDD staff to coordinate marketing and outreach to UI
claimants, ensuring full access to all available WIOA services.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families/CaIWORKs: Fresno County Department
of Social Services (DSS) staff is co-located at the comprehensive Fresno AJCC.
DSS staff function as liaisons between AJCC WIOA partner staff and DSS
participants
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B. Partners' Efforts to Collaborate on Co-Enrollment and Case
Management
In every aspect of our operations, FRWDB attempts to identify and implement
strategies to achieve efficiencies and to leverage resources on behalf of the
participants we serve. Co-enrollment of job seekers into programs beyond WIOA
has long been part of this approach. While we recognize that more work needs to
be done to structure and strengthen our approaches to co-enrollment, we are
prepared to work closely with workforce system partners to build upon existing
approaches.
Current Efforts that Foster Co-Enrollment and Co-Case Management
There are many examples of ways in which FRWDB's AJCCs have collaborated
with partners to jointly serve shared customers. For instance, under a state-funded
project for English language learners, the AJCCs, WIOA Title II-funded education
agencies, and several community-based agencies co-enrolled participants into
education, workforce training, and support services programs to holistically support
job seekers in achieving their employment goals.
FRWDB also pursues various methods of collaboration with partners that promote
co-enrollment of participants in two or more programs. These include:
Acceptance of Partners' Assessment Results: AJCCs will accept WorkKeys,
Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems (CASAS), or Test of Adult
Basic Education (TABE) assessments that have been administered by other
organizations within the last six (6) months. Typically, the referring organization
(e.g., adult education) has already enrolled the customers for which the assessment
was administered.
Orienting Job Seekers to All Partner Programs: FRWDB's AJCCs conduct
orientation sessions both in person and online. These sessions provide information
on the One-Stop partner programs, thereby promoting not just WIOA, but various
compatible programs and services.
Cross Training Staff: Under the direction of the One-Stop Operator, workforce
system stakeholders participate in instruction, including cross-training, which
enables staff to make informed referrals of clients to various programs.
Co-Location of Partners: The WIOA core program partners, along with many of the
other One-Stop partners and local stakeholders, are co-located at FRWDB's
Workforce Connection centers. WIOA staff may also be present at partner sites,
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where they assist in supporting self-directed services and in making referrals to
system partners.
Intensive Collaboration with Partners: One-on-one meetings with partners, such as
representatives of the State of California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR), DSS,
and Fresno County Child Support Services are common, as they help to maintain
operational support of referral processes, track shared clients, and strategize
regarding more effective forms of service delivery.
C. One-Stop System's Use of Technology and Other Remote Strategies
FRWDB has designed and implemented a service delivery system that reaches out
to all communities across the county's more than 6,000 square miles. A
combination of brick and mortar and virtual services make up our approach to
reaching the widest possible range of jobs seekers, businesses, and system
partners.
Remote Services Locations
To enhance accessibility to vital workforce development services, FRWDB will
expand its reach by establishing satellite locations in underserved rural areas of
Fresno County. These satellite offices will provide WIOA Adult, Dislocated Worker,
and Youth program services to individuals in need of training, job assistance, and
career development support.
Satellite locations will be strategically on both the west and east sides of Fresno
County to address the unique needs of residents in these regions. Initially, satellite
locations will be identified in the following rural communities.
• West Side: Coalinga
• East Side: Orange Cove
Satellites offices will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Days of operations will be
determined as facilities are identified. These locations were selected to address the
workforce gaps and transportation challenges faced by rural residents who may
otherwise struggle to access services. By offering services in these communities,
the FRWDB aims to-
1. Increase access to training and job placement opportunities for residents in rural
areas.
2. Provide personalized career counseling and case management for adults,
dislocated workers, and youth.
3. Strengthening partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and
community organizations to support workforce development in these areas.
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By bringing these essential services closer to residents in Coalinga, Kerman,
Orange Cove, and Sanger, FRWDB reaffirms its commitment to accessibility,
ensuring that all individuals in Fresno County have the tools and resources needed
to succeed in the workforce.
Use of Technology to Enhance Service Delivery to Remote Locations
FRWDB has continued to expand virtual services. Orientation, eligibility, case
management, workshops, and other traditional in-person services are available in
virtual formats. Video-conferencing platforms are used to deliver services and
connect staff to customers. Implementation of various paperless processes enable
FRWDB to further enhance service accessibility via the web. The availability of
online services provides greater options for some individuals living in rural
communities.
As discussed throughout this Plan, even with the advancements described above,
poor internet connections, lack of hardware, and insufficient digital skills limit access
for many vulnerable individuals in both rural and urban communities. Bridging these
gaps remains a priority for FRWDB.
D. Coordination of Workforce Activities and Support Services
Providing access to services that enable job seekers to participate and succeed in
training, other workforce services, and employment is a priority for FRWDB and for
other local workforce system stakeholders. Because participants' needs for such
services can be extensive and resources are limited, FRWDB has worked diligently
to develop options that make use of WIOA funds and utilize services from other
fund sources.
Determining Participants' Needs for Support Services
After determining a participant's eligibility for WIOA services, AJCC staff schedules
an in-person (or, possibly, virtual) meeting with the participant to develop an initial
plan. This session includes an objective assessment interview. Staff engages in a
discussion with the participant about specific needs and circumstances to identify
appropriate services, a career pathway, suitable training, and needs for supportive
services. Staff emphasizes that supportive services are provided to participants for
the sole purpose of enabling their participation in WIOA-funded services, including
training and employment.
Based on the individual assessment and availability of WIOA funds, supportive
services may be made available to the participants. A plan is developed that
indicates services to be provided and identifies the most likely source of funding for
such services, whether it be WIOA, a one-stop partner program, or another
community resource.
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Services Available to Address Participants Needs and Barriers
FRWDB has adopted a policy under which WIOA supportive services are capped
at $2,000 per participant. Under certain circumstances, additional funds may be
made available through an approved FRWDB wavier. WIOA-funded supportive
services generally address needs such as assistance with childcare, clothing,
housing, needs-related payments, tools, union fees, and transportation assistance,
including bus passes, car repair, and mileage reimbursement.
As indicated, WIOA is just one (1) source of funding to meet participants' needs for
support. Many other organizations and programs also provide various forms of
supportive services. In some cases, individuals will need to be determined eligible
for such services and/or be co-enrolled in partner programs to access support. For
other programs, various forms of support are universally available and require
neither documentation of eligibility nor enrollment. These programs include the
following:
Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Program: Assistance with clothing, food,
housing, tools, and union fees; transportation assistance, such as bus passes, car
repair, and mileage; and housing assistance
California Indian Manpower Consortium: Assistance is similar to that available for
participants in the Farmworker program, described above. Needs-related services
payments are also available.
Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission: Available are programs to assist with
the cost of utilities or to meet other needs, including-
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): LIHEAP offers financial
assistance to help offset an eligible Fresno County household's home energy costs.
LIHEAP can provide one payment per program year for electricity, gas, propane,
wood, or oil for eligible households.
Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP): ECIP provides assistance to eligible
households that are in a crisis situation. Examples include a household that has
received a 24- to 48-hour disconnect notice or service termination by its utility
company or a household facing an energy-related crisis or life-threatening
emergency, including a combustible appliance.
Head Start: Head Start is a no cost preschool program primarily servicing low-
income families. Children must be at least three (3) years old or turning three (3) by
September 1 of the year in which they apply. Head Start provides comprehensive
services including education; social, emotional, health, nutritional, and family
support; and disability services to children and families.
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Women Infants and Children (WIC): WIC is a federally funded supplemental health
and nutrition program that provides healthy foods, nutrition education,
breastfeeding support, and health and community referrals for pregnant women,
new parents, and children (up to age five (5). There are 13 service locations
throughout Fresno County.
Fresno County Department of Social Services: DSS provides services to ensure
individuals and families will be safe, self-sufficient, healthy, and free from distress
at home, in school, or at work. Programs, services, and support include:
CalFresh: This program provides monthly benefits to help low-income households
purchase the food they need.
Ca1WORKS/Welfare to Work: The Welfare to Work program provides employment-
related services to CalWORKs clients to assist them in finding and retaining
employment, obtaining training when necessary, and in upgrading to higher paying
jobs that will lead to financial self-reliance. Supportive services are provided to
assist with the costs of childcare, transportation, work clothing, and other items
needed for employment. Referral services are also available to address barriers to
successful employment such as substance abuse, domestic violence, legal, and
mental health issues.
General Relief: This program provides cash or in-kind services to needy individuals
and childless couples and is intended to assist with the cost of food, shelter,
personal needs, and other living expenses.
Medi-Cal: California's public health insurance program is designed to provide no-
cost or low-cost medical benefits to low-income individuals and families.
Department of Rehabilitation: DOR supports its customers by making available
supportive services, including the following: assistance with clothing, tools, and
union fees; transportation assistance, such as bus passes, car repair, and mileage;
assistive technology; and other resources to enable persons with disabilities to
participate in training and complete work-related tasks.
E. Physical and Programmatic Accessibility for Individuals with
Disabilities
FRWDB staff documents policies and procedures that incorporate the requirements
of WIOA Section 188 and applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA). Annual program reviews include an assessment of how those policies
and procedures are implemented by sub-recipients. All outreach and marketing
materials include required taglines for compliance with WIOA Section 188. Equal
Opportunity (EO) and ADA information and procedures are available on the
FRWDB and Workforce-Connection websites.
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Facilities, Technology, and Services Supporting Accessibility
For Workforce Connection facilities, a physical site review for accessibility is
performed at the time of initial layout and when improvements are made. Walk-
throughs are randomly performed to ensure continued compliance. Program and
physical accommodations are made to customers upon request.
AJCC workstations with assistive technology equipment for persons with
disabilities, includes: a Teletypewriter (TTY) device; handsets with volume controls
and hearing aid compatible features; large 22" monitors; and large print keyboards.
In addition, staff utilizes, a wireless face-to-face communication device to assist
deaf and hard of hearing individuals. UbiDuo is in place at the Comprehensive
Workforce Connection Center. DOR will continue to conduct an accessibility
assessment for all new sites.
Program and physical accommodations are made, upon request, including sign-
language interpretation. FRWDB has increased accessibility of all FRWDB-
sponsored websites.
Staff Training
FRWDB and AJCC staff have participated in various training sessions on serving
individuals with disabilities. Examples of this instruction include:
• Training on Equal Opportunity/Americans with Disabilities Act
• Mental Health First Aid Training
• Mental Health and Depression under the ADA Training
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III. STATE STRATEGIC PARTNER COORDINATION
In 2018, CWDB completed and published a biennial modification to California's Unified
Strategic Workforce Development Plan for Program Years 2016-2019. Within this
modification, they identified four (4) new strategic partnerships with state-level agencies
and initiatives. Guidance issued by CWDB in 2018 to local boards regarding two (2)-year
modifications to their PY 2017-2020 Plans required that WDBs pursue these partnerships
within their jurisdictions. FRWDB's 2019 Local Plan Modification and all subsequent
versions described these local level relationships. State guidance published in 2024 added
requirements for two (2) new partnerships. The following is a summary of FRWDB's
coordination with six (6)state-mandated strategic partners.
A. Coordination with County Human Services Agency and Other Local
Partners That Serve Individuals Accessing CalFresh Employment and
Training Services
Fresno County DSS representatives are co-located at the West Shaw Workforce
Connection center, and, for many years, they have successfully provided support
to the WIOA staff to validate Welfare-to-Work, CaIWORKs, and CalFresh recipients'
eligibility for co-enrollment into the WIOA program. DSS and AJCC staff are
continuously looking for ways to improve the coordination of referrals to avoid
duplication of services and expedite co-enrollment for individuals enrolled in DSS
programs and to ensure they are receiving appropriate assistance with job search
activities, soft skills development, and work-based learning opportunities (e.g., on-
the-job training, transitional jobs) that will pay wages as participants learn.
The FRWDB and its network of AJCCs have a long-standing partnership with the
Fresno County DSS, which oversees CaIWORKs and related public welfare
programs, including the CalFresh Employment and Training (CFET) program. Both
agencies regularly cross-refer clients in accordance with the procedures outlined in
the partner MOU. Fresno County DSS contracts with a third-party provider to deliver
CFET services. FRWDB and AJCC staff collaborate with the local CFET providers
to coordinate access to WIOA workforce development services and facilitate
referrals to CFET and other DSS programs, such as CaIWORKs and Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
DSS provider staff actively participate in monthly WIOA provider meetings, AJCC
partner meetings, and quarterly WIOA Community Partner Alliance meetings at the
AJCC.
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B. Coordination with Local Child Support Agency and Other Local
Partners That Serve Individuals Who Are Non-Custodial Parents
AJCC staff coordinate with Fresno County Department of Child Support Services
(DCSS) on the co-enrollment of non-custodial parents (NRPs) who are in arrears
on court ordered child support payments. NRPs are mandated to attend Workforce
Connection orientations and to participate in the Centers' Self Reliance Team (SRT)
process, where staff discuss workforce development and support resources that
are available to them. Upon enrollment in services, NRP clients complete a Release
of Information (ROI) form that enables AJCC staff to communicate to DCSS
regarding clients' activities and participation status within AJCC programs, including
those funded by WIOA Title I.
DCSS leadership is considering the adoption of the Unite Us referral platform for
non-court-ordered NCPs seeking employment and training services from the
Workforce Connection centers. During court appointments, court interviews, and
other communications related to child support, DCSS representatives verbally
recommend referrals to Workforce Connection locations. Following adoption of the
Unite Us system, non-court-ordered NCPs will be able to self-refer to AJCC
services. AJCC staff will then contact non-court-ordered NCPs directly upon Unite
Us notice and begin orientation, SRT review, and enrollment processes.
Workforce Connection Operations Supervisors and Project Directors meet no less
than quarterly with DCSS staff to provide technical support, feedback on enrolled
clients with ROls, confirmation of mandated NCPs listed on internal spreadsheets,
and general information to support non-court-ordered NCPs. During these remote
meetings, staff can expand on other requests, cross-refer resources, and set up on-
going communication to support all parents, whether or not they are NCPs, in
accessing services.
C. Coordination with Local Partnership Agreement Partners Established
in Alignment with the Competitive Integrated Employment Blueprint
and Other Local Partners That Serve Individuals with Developmental
and Intellectual Disabilities
In 2018, the California Department of Education, DOR, and the California
Department of Developmental Services developed the Competitive Integrated
Employment (CIE) Blueprint to assist people with intellectual disabilities and
development disabilities (ID/DD) prepare for and secure a job earning at least
minimum wage working in the community with people without disabilities. The goals
of the Blueprint are to:
• Help the three (3)state departments work together to better support people with
ID/DD who want a CIE job.
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• Create more options for people with ID/DD to prepare for and get a CIE job.
• Help people with ID/DD to make their own choices about working in the
community.
In 2018, the CWDB and EDD issued guidance to FRWDB on the development of a
2019 biennial modification to our four-year Local Plan. This guidance required that
FRWDB connect with and seek to participate in the efforts of local partners (local
education agencies, the DOR district office, and the regional center) to deliver CIE
services as outlined in a Local Partnership Agreement (LPA). These agreements
articulate the ways in which local partners will work together to streamline service
delivery, engage their communities, and increase CIE opportunities for individuals
with ID/DD. LPAs are the result of conversations and enable the local partners to
determine strategies that will work best for them and the populations they serve.
The core partners in the Fresno LPA are:
Local Education Agency Partners: Clovis Unified School District, Fresno County
Superintendent of Schools, and Fresno Unified School District
Department of Rehabilitation: DOR Fresno Branch Office
Regional Center Partners: Central Valley Regional Center
The LPA also acknowledges the participation of the following non-signatory
"community partners:" DOR vendors, stakeholders, collaborative contract partners,
College 2 Career Project Search, Youth Leadership Training Program, Transition
Partnership Programs, and work-based training programs. The LPA partners are
committed to strengthening linkages with the WIOA Title I-funded workforce
development system and its full range of partners and stakeholders. This goal will
be accomplished through the following steps:
• Include FRWDB and Workforce Connection leadership in LPA meetings.
• Develop a plan to integrate WIOA Title I program services with those of the LPA
partners in support of the CIE blueprint.
• Link Workforce Connection to current and future CIE pilot projects and
initiatives.
• Encourage FRWDB and the WIOA Title I service providers to develop and
implement strategies to promote CIE for individuals with ID/DD.
The LPA partners envisions collaboration with the Workforce Connection centers
as including promotion of projects and initiatives that support ID/DD individuals,
such as the DOR's pilot student internship program.
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D. Coordination with Community-Based Organizations and Other Local
Partners That Serve Individuals Who are English Language Learners,
Foreign Born, and/or Refugees
English Language Learners (ELLs), foreign born individuals, and refugees have
always been key target groups for the local workforce development delivery system.
Nearly 55% of the county's population is Hispanic and more than 10% are Asian.
Approximately 20% are foreign born. While many individuals from these groups
come to the workforce system seeking assistance to prepare for and find
employment, many also need services such as English language skills instruction.
FRWDB works closely with many organizations to serve this population and
continuously strives to improve services for ELLs and other populations with
barriers to employment.
Partners in Serving ELLs and Immigrants
Adult education programs and the community colleges have long been important
partners in providing English as a Second Language instruction and other basic
education skills to ELLs and immigrants. AJCC staff regularly refers clients to WIOA
Title II programs and other training to assist customers in building their English
proficiency, increase other basic education skills, and provide support in earning a
high school diploma or equivalency credential.
FRWDB and AJCC staff collaborate with other organizations and programs to
provide education, job skills training, and placement support to ELLs and
immigrants. These partners include, but are not limited to, the Central Valley
Immigrant Integration Collaborative, Central California Legal Services, Proteus, Inc,
DSS, The Fresno Center, Fresno Interdenominational Refugee Ministries (FIRM),
and Centro La Familia.
Strengthening Services for this Vulnerable Target Group
FRWDB continues to increase programs and services for this population, as well
as staff's awareness of community agencies serving this target group. Specific
efforts to improve accessibility of services to ELLs, foreign born individuals, and
refugees have included:
• Presence of State Center Adult Education Consortium staff at AJCCs, which
increase efforts to assist participants with enrollment in high school
equivalency preparation and ESL classes; referrals for financial aid; and
assistance with college applications.
• FRWDB and WIOA Title I service providers have Spanish speaking staff.
FRWDB marketing staff develop promotional materials in English and
Spanish, as well as in other languages, based on needs. The marketing team
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also uses Spanish language radio and TV stations to expand awareness of
workforce development programs.
• FRWDB's English Language Learner Integrated Education and Training (IET)
grant supports a model to prepare ELLs for in-demand, high quality jobs with
sustainable wages. The IET instructional strategy incorporates adult
education services with occupational skills training, which expedites their
entrance into and advancement in the workforce. The IET program model
utilizes a sector-based approach to education and training and robust
employer partnerships. Expansion of the IET model will increase access to
career pathways and bridge educational gaps to help ELLs with significant
barriers. Centro La Familia serves as the service provider, while Valley ROP
provides IET training in three (3) tracks: Certified Nursing Assistant, Wildland
Firefighting, and Heavy Equipment Operator training.
• FIRM and Fresno Center are members of FRWDB's Community Partner
Alliance. As such, they provide information on their services and coordinate
referrals with AJCC staff. Center representatives attend FIRM's quarterly
stakeholder forums.
• Increased availability of translation services for non-English-speaking
customers.
E. Coordination with Local Veteran Affairs, Community-Based
Organizations, and Other Local Partners That Serve Veterans
As indicated in Section II of this Plan, FRWDB's primary partner in providing
workforce development services to veterans is EDD and its staff who are funded
under the federal Jobs for Veterans State Grants program.
In support of workforce services for veterans, EDD's Local Veterans' Employment
Representative hosts monthly meetings at the AJCC for WIOA, DOR, and special
projects staff. Information is provided on community-based resources and
employment opportunities. During these meetings, the partners also discuss
collaboration on recruitment events targeting veterans.
FRWDB Special Projects staff outreaches to local veteran support groups, attends
career fairs, and participates in presentations at the Clovis Veterans Memorial
District. Staff also collaborates with America Works, a local provider of services to
veterans and other specialized groups, in targeted recruitment and case
management. America Works refers veterans who are interested and in need of
training to the Workforce Connection Centers.
F. Collaboration with the Strategic Planning Partners to Address
Environmental Sustainability
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The PY 2025-28 planning cycle marks the first time that local workforce boards and
RPUs have been required to address their efforts to collaborate with partners on
efforts to promote environmental sustainability in connection with workforce
development service delivery and oversight. While some current FRWDB projects
support environmental sustainability, the four (4)-year period represented by this
Plan will provide the opportunity to conduct strategic planning with system partners
and stakeholders related to state, regional, and local climate goals and their
connection to jobs and the economy.
Existing local efforts to promote environmental sustainability include FRWDB's
leadership of the Greater Sierra Forestry Corps (GSFC), which provides training
and work experience opportunities through which participants learn skills that
support preemptive firefighting by reducing fuel loads in local forests and CalFire
worksites. To oversee the project, FRWDB has established the GSFC Advisory
Council. The Council reviews industry needs and make recommendations on
programs and service delivery. GSFC leadership, staff, and Council members
remain connected to industry stakeholders through their participation in forestry and
environmental conferences, panels, and interviews.
Over the next four (4) years, FRWDB leadership anticipates that it will significantly
expand its work in connection with industries and occupations that support and
enhance climate resiliency and environmental sustainability. In addition to forestry
and fire management, for which FRWDB has been an early implementer of
workforce strategies and solutions, other key sectors where skills training will be
critical in businesses' efforts to ensure environmental sustainability include
agriculture, water management, manufacturing, transportation and warehousing,
and construction, among others.
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IV. WIOA TITLE I COORDINATION
The following narrative addresses services, activities, and administrative requirements of
FRWDB under the WIOA Title I formula programs, along with strategies for staff
preparation, training, and ongoing professional development to effectively respond to
participant needs.
A. Staff Training and Professional Development to Increase Digital
Technology Skills
FRWDB manages a training calendar for center staff and system partners that
coordinates on-going training activities. This ensures that FRWDB front-line staff
located at the AJCC, along with partner representatives, have up-to-date skills and
knowledge necessary to work in an environment where they can communicate,
access data, and provide information through a variety of digital tools, such as web-
based data systems, online video-conferencing platforms, social media, email, text
messaging, and more. Training in digital technology focuses on four (4) skill areas:
Skills that Enhance Work Productivity
The focus will be on providing group training and identifying tutorials, webinars,
workshops, and learning strategies related to uses of technology to support
managing time while working remotely; conducting effective meetings; closing any
technology skill gaps: and remote communications.
Skills that Enable Learning on a Wide Range of Topics from a Variety of
Sources
To ensure that staff members are able to successfully participate in training directly
related to their jobs and to education and training activities that are part of their
overall goals for professional development, training will be provided on various
applications and platforms used in distance learning. Instruction will include remote
communications via the web, sharing documents in an online classroom setting,
streaming videos, and related skills.
Skills that Enhance Knowledge of Economic Issues, the Labor Market, and
the Economy
Economists, labor market analysts, businesses, educators, and workforce
development professionals utilize many online data management tools to access
information that supports their work. Training will be provided in effective uses of
these tools and technologies.
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Skills that Improve the Capacity to Virtually Serve Job Seekers and Business
Customers
Staff will participate in training to elevate their skills in using online platforms to
conduct virtual workshops and interactive sessions with customers, partners,
colleagues, and others. They will also learn to use software to obtain digital
signatures and the complete e-forms.
To ensure that the staff's skills remain up to date with new technology and that new
staff are exposed to the digital technology applications they need to work effectively
in their roles, training will be provided annually, and refresher courses will be
provided on an ongoing basis.
Recent training addressing the areas identified above have included "How to Tell
Your Story with Data," along with ongoing training in various aspects of the
CaIJOBS system. A new series of digital literacy workshops is being rolled out in
2025. Other recent professional development and training topics include the
following:
• Time Management and Creating a Work/Life Balance
• Pre-Apprenticeship Recruitment Training
• How to Help People Heal
• Trauma-Informed Care
• How to Find Hidden Assets in the Hard to Employ
• Communication Training
• Conversational Spanish
• Teamwork and Communication
• Communication Training from a Trauma-Informed Lens
• Imposter Syndrome
• Connecting Tomorrow's Trends with Today's Economy
• Time Management
• Leadership Development
• Case Noting
• Career Coaching
• Resume Writing
• WIOA Eligibility
• Customer Service
• Job Matching
Within the last two (2) years, staff has earned licenses from online training via
www.knowledgecitV.com and www.metrixlearning.com.
As this new four (4)-year Plan is implemented, FRWDB will secure staff and partner
input on training and build an annual training plan and schedule around the topics
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that are most pertinent to the FRWDB's focus, system priorities, and skills needed
to support business and job seeker goals.
B. Frontline Staff Training and Professional Development to Increase
Cultural Competency and Effectiveness in Working with Individuals
and Groups that Have Been Exposed to Trauma
Fresno County's population is racially and ethnically diverse and this diversity is
reflected in the customers who use Workforce Connection services. In addition, the
workforce system staff estimates that a significant number of the customers they
see may have experienced various forms of trauma, based on the vulnerable
groups that they represent.
Training on cultural competence and trauma-related services addresses the
following topics:
Training in Cultural Competence Skills
Training supports staff's understanding of the general characteristics of cultural
diversity, cultural norms, and cultural differences. Staff will learn the importance of
respecting individual cultural experiences, better communicating with others to
understand, and addressing potential barriers to service and develop greater
cultural sensitivity within the workplace. Through training, staff become more aware
of their own cultural beliefs and culturally related behaviors, and potential power
imbalances, privileges, or biases when providing services.
Training to Enhance Skills in Working with Individuals Dealing with Trauma
FRWDB staff will identify and facilitate training on working with trauma-exposed
participants. This will include developing skills to promote conversation; learning
how to respond to disclosure; integrating participants' safety when providing
services, advocacy, outreach; and trauma-informed care. FRWDB will partner with
local community agencies to share expertise, provide assessments, encourage
participants to join support groups, share resources, and coordinate services. DSS
has provided training in this area.
C. Coordination of Rapid Response and Layoff Aversion Activities
FRWDB's overall approach to Rapid Response and layoff aversion activities is one
that focuses first on maintaining business stability so that companies and workers
can compete and thrive. Delivery of these services fits into FRWDB's overall
approach to business services, recognizing that the workforce development
system's success hinges on the ability of businesses to create, maintain, and grow
jobs for workers.
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Approach to Layoff Aversion
Industry sectors whose strength will have the most significant impact on the future
of the workforce area are the most appropriate targets for layoff aversion efforts.
The FRWDB takes into consideration key factors for identifying such sectors.
They are industries that:
• Pay middle-class wages and benefits and offer job and training ladders for low-
income populations
• Create greater economic spin-off activity (i.e., an economic multiplier effect)
• Offer diversification of the economy
• Provide a foundation for new industry clusters
The FRWDB focuses on a combination of industries that provide the greatest
positive impact for the region.
Early Warning System Network: Key economic stakeholders comprise the Early
Warning System (EWS) network, which identifies and tracks vulnerable companies
and industry sectors that might benefit from layoff aversion strategies. The EWS
network identifies companies at risk of closing or moving operations before actual
decisions are made by the businesses to shut down or move. The FRWDB's EWS
network includes local, state, and federal agencies; chambers of commerce;
industry groups; organized labor; and telecommunications/media companies; along
with community-based and community development organizations.
Detecting early warning indicators is a strategy that complements other
information gathered through the EWS network and aids in identifying and
tracking companies in possible distress. Information sources include, but are not
limited to:
• Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN) notices, which are
useful in analyzing layoff activity by industry sector and occupations being laid
off.
• Major trade journals, business journals, and local or regional newspapers
• Dun & Bradstreet, Econovue, or Experian, which provide information on
companies and industries under stress. Relevant information can be found in
the financial stress score, the commercial credit score, and through other
indicators.
• Direct referrals
• Changes in management behavior
• Removal of equipment
• Sign of a "cash crunch" or unanticipated cutbacks
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FRWDB's Business Services staff provide layoff aversion services that include:
Business Vitality Assessments: This service evaluates a company's ability to adapt,
innovate, and grow sustainably in a dynamic environment. Vitality is a key factor in
a business' long-term success and ability to manage uncertainty.
Resource Mapping_ This activity identifies and creates an inventory of community
resources in LWDAs. Assets may include many of the organizations in the EWS
network and among the Fresno4Biz partners.
Business Turnaround Services: These services are provided when it is
determined that an employer needs intervention beyond the menu of services
provided by the EWS network and community partners. Services will be provided
through an outside entity with expertise in business turnarounds. Potential
employers are thoroughly assessed for intervention suitability based on early
warning indicator data. Specific business turnaround services include the
following: financial restructuring; operations and cost management; new market
and product development assistance; production of business plans, financial
projections, and financing memorandum; developing labor management
partnerships; assistance in acquiring new equipment; assistance with training
grants; and assistance with loans and guarantees.
Incumbent Worker Training: To assist in averting layoffs, Incumbent Worker
Training (IWT) can be provided. Such training is an important strategy for meeting
an employer's needs for skilled workers and can take place in or out of the
workplace and during or after employees' work hours. Employer and worker
assessments are conducted to determine whether the provision of IWT is
appropriate.
Work Share Unemployment Compensation Program: The Work Share Program
offers an alternative to businesses facing a reduction in force. Under the Work
Share Program, an employer reduces the hours of work each week among a
specific group of employees instead of laying off the employees. Wages lost to the
employee due to reduced hours are offset by the receipt of UI benefits.
The Rapid Response Team and Services
When a WARN notice is issued, the FRWDB Rapid Response team proceeds
with the activities described above. If, in meeting with business representatives, it
becomes clear that layoffs are inevitable, the focus turns to assisting affected
workers as quickly as possible, providing them access to UI and with information
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
and support that will result in their rapid re-employment. FRWDB coordinates
services through a Rapid Response Team that connects affected employees to
the one-stop system. The Team includes: FRWDB; EDD; DSS; Community
Housing Council; Fresno County Public Library; California Department of
Insurance; National Alliance on Mental Illness, Fresno; and Fresno4Biz
(entrepreneurship).
Within 48 hours of notice, Rapid Response Team members will have met with
business and labor representatives (as applicable) and organized orientations at
the worksite(s) for employees to provide them information on a wide range of
services and support. By connecting workers to Workforce Connection services (or
those of the workforce system in the county where they live) the Team's objective
is to quickly assess workers' skills, identify the needs for any training or support,
and make referrals to employment opportunities that are aligned to the laid off
individual's skills, experience, and needs. Many workers are quickly reemployed,
while others train for new skills prior to returning to work.
D. Services and Activities Available under WIOA Title I Adult and
Dislocated Worker Programs
FRWDB offers a wide range of services for job seekers enrolled in the WIOA Title
I Adult and Dislocated Worker programs. Services meet the needs of individuals
with various levels of education and work experience and job seekers from
vulnerable populations who may have one (1) or more barriers to employment.
Services are designed to prepare participants for entry-level and higher positions
with businesses in Fresno County, particularly businesses within the priority sectors
that are identified in the San Joaquin Valley and Associated Counties PY 2025-
2028 Regional Plan (stanworkforce.com/about-us/strategic-planning/)
One-Stop Delivery System
FRWDB maintains four (4) Workforce Connections/AJCC locations: Two (2)
comprehensive sites in Fresno and two (2) affiliate sites, which are located in
Mendota and Parlier. Core and AJCC partners are co-located full-time, part-time,
or by appointment at the comprehensive and affiliate centers. Staff utilizes
technology for partner referrals and co-enrollment to ensure participants have
access to all workforce system services. This technology includes Unite Us,
CaIJOBS common case management system, e-mail, cloud data repositories, and
web-based virtual platforms.
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Under FRWDB's current model, one (1) contractor provides WIOA Adult program
services, and another contractor provides Dislocated Worker program services
across Fresno County. FRWDB's service model ensures services are available for
individuals with barriers to employment who may require longer-term career and
training services. Efforts are continuously made to bring more services online to
create greater access. This is especially important as Fresno County is largely rural
with limited public transportation. As one means of promoting greater access to
web-based services, FRWDB will provide training on digital literacy.
IIUIOA Adult and Dislocated Worker Services
FRWDB's AJCC system offers three (3) levels of career services: Basic Career
Services, Individualized Career Services, and Training Services. These are
supplemented by follow-up services. Services are provided in no specific sequence.
Instead, services are tailored to meet the needs of individuals, while still allowing
for tracking of outcomes for reporting purposes.
Basic Career Services: Basic Career Services are made available to all individuals,
and include:
• Outreach, Intake and Orientation services that are available to all job
seekers. Once applicants view an online orientation, they are able to submit an
appointment/referral request form.
• Determinations of Eligibility for WIOA. Individuals who do not meet WIOA
eligibility criteria may continue to access Basic Career Services and may be
referred to partner programs and those of community-based agencies.
• Initial Assessment of Skill Levels are conducted that address literacy, numeracy,
and English language proficiency, as well as aptitudes, abilities, and supportive
service needs.
• Labor Market Information is available including job vacancy listings, information
on in-demand industry sectors and occupations, regional labor market
information, and information on non-traditional employment.
• Partner Information and Referrals are based on individual needs and requests
from customers.
• Training Provider Information includes data on performance and costs of
programs offered by eligible providers of training services, adult education, and
career and technical education.
• Assistance in Establishing Eligibility for Programs of Financial Aid Assistance
for training and education programs not provided under WIOA.
• Supportive Services Information includes types, limits, and sources.
• Unemployment Insurance Information Assistance includes support for filing
unemployment compensation claims.
A Self-Reliance Team, which is comprised of AJCC provider staff, is responsible
for interviewing participants who have requested Individualized Career or Training
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
services. The purpose of this interview is to determine the best course of action for
the participant to prepare for employment.
Individualized Career Services: These services are provided when needed for an
individual to obtain or retain employment. AJCC staff relies principally on
assessments to determine the need for and appropriateness of individualized
career services. Included are:
• Job Readiness Workshop: This activity is comprised of modular, hands-on,
engaging activities that focus on eight (8) key skill areas: Adaptable and
Productive Problem Solver; Digital Literacy; Learning, Creativity and
Adaptability; Communicator and Collaborator; Responsible and Ethical Decision
Maker; Life Skills; Personal Development; and Resumes.
• Skills Assessments: These include computerized O*NET Interest Profiler and
Work Importance Profiler (Values/Importance) assessments and WorkKeys®
Applied Math, Workplace Documents, and Graphic Literacy assessments.
• Individual Employment Plans: These customized plans are developed through
an in-depth interviewing and evaluation process to identify employment barriers
and appropriate employment goals. The plan outlines activities to attain career
objectives.
• Interview Workshops: Participants are exposed to interviewing techniques and
strategies. They are presented with examples of strong responses to interview
questions. At the end of each module of this training, participants complete
module worksheets creating a personalized answer to commonly asked
questions.
• Group or Individual Counseling
• Financial Literacy services are provided based on individual needs.
• Supportive Services, including services such as transportation, childcare,
uniforms, and tools required for employment.
• English Language Acquisition and integrated education and training programs
are provided based on individual need.
• Job Readiness Assistance
• Job Search and Placement Assistance
Training Services: FRWDB provides access to a wide range of training programs,
which fall broadly into two (2)types: Institutional (classroom)training programs, and
work-based training programs, which are developed directly with employers and
include activities such as on-the-job training, transitional jobs, or customized
training.
• Occupational skills training, including training for nontraditional employment
• On-the-job training
• Incumbent worker training
• Programs that combine workplace training with related instruction, which may
include cooperative education programs
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
• Training programs operated by the private sector
• Skill upgrading and retraining
• Entrepreneurial training
• Transitional jobs
• Adult education and literacy activities
• Customized training conducted with a commitment by an employer
Follow-Up Services
For 12 months, follow-up services may be provided to participants, including
technical skills training, counseling, mentoring, crisis intervention, life skills, or
emergency support required to sustain long-term employment.
Priority of Service
As outlined in the guidance provided in EDD Workforce Services Directive 24-06,
priority is provided in the following order:
• Veterans and eligible spouses, who are also recipients of public assistance, are
low income or are basic skills deficient.
• Adults who are recipients of public assistance are low income or are basic skills
deficient.
An applicant's priority status is established during the process of determining
eligibility. All applicants complete an initial CASAS assessment to determine if they
are basic skills deficient. Whether an applicant is unable to compute or solve
problems or read, write, or speak English at a level necessary to function on the
job, in the individual's family, or in society is determined through structured
assessments and observation by the eligibility staff.
FRWDB has established guidelines for AJCC staff to obtain and maintain
appropriate documentation to support any of the criteria listed under the priority of
service. If staff is unable to obtain the required supporting documentation, a waiver
request must be submitted and approved prior to the use of self-attestation (i.e., an
applicant statement).
E. Services and Activities Available under WIOA Title I Youth Program
FRWDB's Young Adult Services program serves WIOA-eligible individuals ages 14
to 24, offering a wide variety of services that are customized to the needs and
preferences of each participant.
WIOA Youth Programs and Service Delivery Sites
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Youth programs are delivered by competitively procured providers with experience
in offering workforce development services to both in-school and out-of-school
youth. Youth services are provided across Fresno County from two (2) urban and
two (2) rural locations. These locations ensure that services are within reasonable
distance to youth no matter where in the County they reside.
Youth Services
Services and activities fall broadly into three (3) categories to which youth are
oriented when they first inquire about the program:
Academic Assistance: Services include tutoring in reading and math; high school
diploma and GED assistance; dropout re-engagement assistance; college and
vocational training preparation assistance; and assistance in preparing for and
transitioning to post-secondary education or career technical education.
Job Readiness: This process prepares youth to succeed in the Fresno County labor
market by allowing the youth to explore and develop employability skills through
activities such as: soft skills job readiness workshops; interview preparation
workshops; work-based learning opportunities; pre-apprenticeship opportunities;
vocational skills training; entrepreneurial training; leadership activities; career
guidance, coaching, and counseling; and job placement assistance.
Follow-up services: Support and guidance from an Academic and Career Advisor
is provided to youth for up 12 months after WIOA closure. This may include links to
mentoring programs, personal and leadership development opportunities, financial
literacy workshops, supportive services, and education and employment referrals.
The program makes available all 14 WIOA-required Youth Program elements.
Specific services aligned to these required elements include the following:
Orientation: All youth interested in receiving services are provided with a WIOA
youth orientation which provides an introduction and exposes youth to all features
and benefits of the program.
Eligibility Determination: Youth meet with one-on-one with a staff member to
complete eligibility determination. The meeting may be conducted in-person or
through videoconferencing. Eligibility documents are submitted via the CalJOBS
secure messaging system, or they may be collected in person. Applicants 18 years
and older who are not eligible for WIOA youth program are referred to the AJCC for
use of Basic Career Services and eligibility determination for Adult and/or
Dislocated Worker programs.
Objective Assessment: This evaluation examines barriers, skills, education, needs
for supportive services, and career and employment goals.
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Basic Skills and Career Assessments: CASAS provide an initial assessment of skill
levels including literacy, numeracy, and English language proficiency. O*NET
(Interest Profiler and Work Importance Profiler) considers aptitudes and abilities,
and helps to identify skills gaps; and the WorkKeys® assessment includes Applied
Math, Workplace Documents, and Graphic Literacy and help to match career goals
Individual Service Strategy: This customized service strategy plan is a "living"
document that addresses all of the following factors affecting participants' readiness
to achieve educational and employment goals. It may be updated and adjusted
throughout a youth's participation in the WIOA program.
• Labor Market Information, including research and information on high demand
occupations, minimum requirements for jobs, career exploration, and career
counseling.
• Referrals to services that address each youth's needs and preferences.
• Post-Secondary Education Information including career technical education,
short-term vocational skills certifications, and college enrollment.
• Assistance with Financial-Aid Applications for education programs that are not
covered under WIOA.
• Supportive Services and/or referrals for supportive services assistance from
partner agencies for childcare, transportation, housing, food, uniforms, work
attire, tools, and more.
• Leadership Development through academic; personal development, and
community and civic awareness.
Job Readiness Workshops: This required two (2)-week activity addresses soft
skills, digital literacy skills, financial literacy, and building a strong resume.
Job Readiness Assistance: These activities include career guidance, coaching,
counseling, identifying, and overcoming potential barriers to employment, resume
writing, interview preparation, job search, and job placement assistance.
Individual Comprehensive Counseling and Guidance: All WIOA enrolled youth are
assigned to an Academic Career Advisor that provides one-on-one assistance to
guide and support the academic and employment goals of the youth.
Mentorship: Adult partner role model mentorship is available during program
participation and for up to 12 months of program follow-up.
Work-Based Learning/Work Experience: Up to 200 hours of paid, hands-on
learning experience that includes occupational and academic components.
Training Services: Activities include occupational skills training; entrepreneurial
training; adult education and literacy activities; on-the-job training; and internships
in combination with training.
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Activities to Prepare for and Transition to Post-secondary Education and Training:
Connect youth with direct referrals to postsecondary education counselors in the
community colleges and assist with college and financial aid applications.
Follow-up Services: Youth are provided with no less than 12 months of follow-up
services that may include assistance to retain employment, referrals to other
community services, connections to adult mentorship programs, information on
entrepreneurial programs, and other support services, as needed.
Services to Increase the Digital Skills of Youth
Many youth may have access to an electronic device, such as a cell phone, tablet,
laptop, or desk top computer. Others do not. Digital access problems for portions
of Fresno County include poor or no internet connection, especially in the rural
areas. For youth participants, there may also be engagement issues, such as not
wanting to turn on a web camera during virtual meetings, lack of participation, and
lack of motivation.
Serving Youth with Disabilities
The Young Adult Services program ensures that all youth participants, including
youth with disabilities, receive the same types and quality of services and level of
support to achieve their career planning, education, skills training, and employment
goals. To ensure that services for individuals with disabilities meet their full range
of needs, WIOA staff may collaborate with DOR, Central Valley Regional Center,
instructors and staff from local special education programs, and Community-Based
Organizations to develop effective service strategies.
F. Entity Responsible for Disbursal of Grant Funds and the Competitive
Process Used to Award Contracts for WIOA Title I Activities
The Fresno Area Workforce Investment Corporation is authorized as the entity
responsible for the disbursal of grant funds under the Administrative Services
Agreement that has been executed with the Fresno Regional Workforce
Development Board.
The FRWDB competitively procures AJCC Operator, Adult and Dislocated Worker
Program Career Services, and Youth services providers. AJCC Operator services
are procured every four (4) years and WIOA Adult, Dislocated Worker. Youth
Program services are procured every five (5) years. During the four (4)-year period
covered by this Local Plan, Adult Program and Dislocated Worker Program will be
procured in 2026, with AJCC Operator services being procured in 2025. Youth
Program services will be bid in 2028.
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
G. How the Local Board Fulfills the Duties of the AJCC Operator and/or
the Career Services Provider or Selection of AJCC Operators and
Career Services Providers
FRWDB competitively procures the services of both an AJCC/One-Stop Operator
(OSO) and career services providers for the WIOA Adult and Dislocated Worker
Programs.
AJCC/One-Stop Operator Function
The OSO is responsible for coordinating service delivery, responsibilities, and
contributions of required WIOA partners as agreed upon in the FRWDB WIOA
Partner MOU. Specific duties and responsibilities include the following:
• Convening meetings to support implementation of the FRWDB's MOUs
between WIOA One-Stop partners.
• Coordinating with the One-Stop partners to develop agendas and facilitate
meetings.
• Convening monthly site council (partners delivering services at specific centers)
meetings to ensure service coordination.
• Convening quarterly system-level partner meetings.
• Convening other partner meetings required to support MOU implementation.
• Implementing policies established by the FRWDB.
• Ensuring the implementation of partner responsibilities and contributions agreed
upon in the FRWDB's MOUs.
• Coordinating with other WDBs and operators for regional planning purposes, as
directed by FRWDB staff.
• Coordinating with partners in program design, implementation, and capacity
building/staff development; and
• Completing other duties that may be necessary to fulfill WIOA requirements of
and maintain compliance as an OSO.
The OSO is also responsible for assisting FRWDB staff in meeting continuous
improvement goals established as a result of the 2024 AJCC Certification process.
Career Services Provider Function
The career service provider function involves the implementation and delivery of
career services and follow-up described in section IV.D, above.
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
V. SYSTEM GOALS AND PRIORITIES FOR PROGRAM YEARS 2025-28
As the Local Plan concerns not just the work of the WIOA Title I programs administered
by FRWDB, but all of the organizations, programs, and services that comprise the local
workforce development system, FRWDB leadership sought input from a range of system
partners and stakeholders. As described in Attachment I, a public input session was held
to gather input on key issues affecting the delivery of services to job seekers and
businesses.
The priorities described below capture key issues, ideas, and recommendations
expressed during the community input sessions. These nine (9) priority areas will be
addressed by FRWDB and partner representatives throughout the four (4)-year period
covered by this Plan.
A. Increasing Service Accessibility
FRWDB and the workforce system partners recognize that ensuring the greatest
possible access to services is critical to making certain that workers are prepared
for in-demand jobs and that there is a job ready pool of talent available to local
businesses. Access is reliant on widespread information about the availability of
services, physical locations to which customers can easily travel, access points in
remote locations where brick-and-mortar career centers are not located, online
services, and service schedules outside traditional business hours, among other
strategies. FRWDB and the full range of stakeholders should regularly examine and
take action to improve access to services.
B. Services for Rural Communities
System partners have identified service needs in rural communities as an ongoing
challenge. As suggested in the preceding narrative, ensuring access to services in
rural areas requires multiple strategies. Partners are committed to providing
services to remote areas through access points, technology, and a structured
visitation program through which services are brought to communities on a regular
basis. These strategies will continue to be tested, adjusted, and implemented.
C. Support for Refugees and English Language Learners
There is a significant population of refugees and English Language Learners in the
greater Fresno area, which is diverse in its circumstances and needs. There are
several local organizations that work with refugees, foreign born individuals, and
those learning English on issues ranging from resettlement and housing to
employment and skills preparation. These organizations and their customers could
benefit from stronger collaboration with the Workforce Connection centers and the
40
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
full range of workforce system partners. With skills among individuals from these
groups varying from entry-level to highly technical, support from the workforce
system could better connect refugees and others to jobs that require their skill sets.
D. Support for Older Workers
A range of factors is contributing to the increase in older workers remaining in or
returning to the workforce. While these experienced individuals bring skills and traits
that are highly valued by many employers, they also face challenges in preparing
for, securing, and retaining employment. Digital technology, job application and
work processes, and the dynamics of a multigenerational workforce are issues that
may affect the success of older individuals. The workforce system should examine
opportunities to provide stronger, more focused support for older job seekers.
E. Increasing Digital Skills and Ability to Utilize Advanced Technology
A focus on developing the digital skills of job seekers has been ongoing for several
years. However, stakeholders point out that the type and range of skills needed to
apply for, secure, and succeed in a job is ever evolving. The ability to utilize digital
processes is now a requirement to apply for employment with most companies.
Even for job classifications that require few digital technology skills, companies
utilize digital processes for time and record keeping, payment of wages, human
resources functions, and more. In addition, technology tools themselves are
changing, and the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) tools is altering the ways
jobs are done and skills requirements to secure and keep jobs. FRWDB, its service
providers, and partners must regularly reexamine and update the content of and
approach to digital skills training.
F. Business Partners and Securing Business Input
The local workforce system connects with businesses in a multitude of ways, with
efforts varying in effectiveness and impact. Workforce system stakeholders
continue to observe that programs built on strong partnerships with businesses tend
to have impressive results in terms of job placement and retention. FRWDB and
the system partners should examine how they can build additional partnerships with
business, especially companies in growth and emerging industries. As part of this
effort, the board should identify processes that are effective for securing business
input on existing and anticipated needs, including focus groups and sector
partnerships.
G. Support for Entrepreneurs
Workforce system stakeholders acknowledge that many individuals seeking
support from the workforce system have an interest in entrepreneurship and would
be good candidates to launch a microbusiness using existing skill sets or skills that
41
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
they could acquire from locally available training programs and Workforce
Connection career services. While there are services within the LWDA that could
support entrepreneurs and new business startups, the workforce system partners
should consider ways in which they could shape such support and what a structured
entrepreneurship strategy for system participants would look like.
H. Workforce Development System Staff Learning and Development
To ensure that the services and strategies of the local workforce development
delivery system continue to keep pace with changes in the labor market and
innovations in workforce preparation, FRWDB, along with core and other workforce
system partners, must ensure that the knowledge and skills of frontline staff and
management remain up to date. Among the information and training that must be
regularly updated and reinforced is skills needed by businesses in key sectors of
the Central Valley economy, career services strategies, information on training
programs and modalities, labor market information, barriers faced by job seekers,
and services available in and around Fresno County for job seekers and
businesses.
I. Greater Resources
While FRWDB as well as other public and non-profit organizations have done an
excellentjob of bringing an array of specialized resources and funding to the region,
stakeholders agree that additional resources are critically needed to provide the full
range of services necessary to support businesses in hiring and developing workers
and job seekers in preparing for work. Local organizations should continue to
explore opportunities for secure funding, including those where joint ventures
among the partners could increase the likelihood of success.
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Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
VI. ATTACHMENTS
The following Items are included as part of the Local Plan.
Attachment 1: Stakeholder and Community Engagement Summary
Attachment 2: Public Comments Received that Disagree with the Local Plan
Attachment 3: Signature Page
43
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Attachment 1
STAKEHOLDER AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
To facilitate the engagement of stakeholders in planning for the local workforce
development delivery system and in the development of the PY 2025-2028 Local Plan, the
FRWDB hosted a community and stakeholder forum focused on topics affecting strategies
and services across the system. The topic for the forum was "Priorities for Developing the
Local Workforce."
Questions/topics addressed included, but were not limited to:
• What services are most needed by individuals who are new to the workforce and those
who are unemployed and looking to return to work?
• What are the training programs of most interest to local job seekers and how do these
align with jobs available in the local labor market?
• Are there opportunities for the local workforce, education, and community service
agencies to work together to serve job seekers more effectively?
• In what ways do services need to be "modernized" to meet the evolving needs of
workers and businesses?
• Other ideas about the development of the local workforce.
This forum was held in-person on October 10, 2024
The table below summarizes participation in the community and stakeholder engagement
process to develop the FRWDB PY 25-28 Local Plan
Mode of Target of Summary of
Comments
Outreach Outreach Attendance
Employment Participated in
Email Development Attended forum
Department discussions
Department of Participated in
Email Rehabilitation Attended forum
discussions
Center for
Email Employment Did not attend
Opportunities
44
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Mode of Target of Summary of
Comments
Outreach Outreach Attendance
Fresno County
Email Department of Did not attend
Social Services
Central Valley
Women's Participated in
Email Entrepreneur Attended forum
discussions
Center
Email Valley Community Did not attend
SBDC
Email United Way Fresno Did not attend
Madera
Butte County Office Participated in
Email of Education Back Attended forum
2 Work discussions
Firebaugh Las
Email Deltas Unified Did not attend
School District
Email Reedley College Did not attend
Email LLC Grace Family Lov Did not attend
Email Federal Bureau of Did not attend
Prison-Mendota
Shine-Helping
Email Young Mom's Did not attend
Shine Bright
Email River Vista Did not attend
Behavioral Health
Vocational
Email Rehabilitation Did not attend
Specialist, Inc.
(Veterans)
45
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Mode of Target of Summary of
Comments
Outreach Outreach Attendance
Email West Care Attended Participated in
forum discussion
Email Fresno City College Did not attend
Fresno County-
Email Probation Did not attend
Department
Center for
Email Employment Did not attend
Opportunities
Participated in
Email CalVet Attended forum
discussions
Email SER-SCSEP Did not attend
Director
Mayors Office of Participated in
Email Community Affairs- Attended forum
City of Fresno discussions
Email California Indian Did not attend
Manpower
Department of
Email State Hospital- Did not attend
Coalinga
Email Central La Familia Did not attend
Email Western Governors Did not attend
University
State of California-
Email California Did not attend
Conservation
Fresno Participated in
Email Interdenominational Attended forum
Refugee Ministries discussions
Email Fresno State TRIO Did not attend
46
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Mode of Target of Summary of
Comments
Outreach Outreach Attendance
State Center Adult Participated in
Email Education Attended forum
Consortium discussions
Email Fresno County Did not attend
Library
Fresno County
Email Department of Did not attend
Social Services
Office of Senator Participated in
Email Shannon Grove Attended forum
discussions
America Works of Participated in
Email California Attended forum
discussions
Email Central La Familia Did not attend
Fresno City Participated in
Email College-Applied Attended forum
Technology discussions
Email Catholic Charities Did not attend
Fresno County
Email Veterans Services Did not attend
Office
Central Labor Participated in
Email Attended forum
Council Partnership
discussions
Email Small Business Did not attend
Association
Email Job Corps Did not attend
California
Department of
Email Corrections and Did not attend
Rehabilitation-
Parole
Email America Works- Did not attend
Ticket to Work
47
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Mode of Target of Summary of
Comments
Outreach Outreach Attendance
Email Fresno Housing Did not attend
Fresno County
Email Economic Did not attend
Opportunities
Commission
Email Fresno EDC Did not attend
Owens Valley
Email Career Did not attend
Development
Center
EDD-Local Veteran
Email Representative
Did not attend
Email Reading and Did not attend
Beyond
Email Fresno Mission Did not attend
Fresno County
Email Superintendent of Did not attend
Schools
Email Turning Point of Did not attend
Central California
Deaf and Hard of
Email Hearing Service Did not attend
Center
Central California
Email Food Bank- Did not attend
CalFresh Outreach
Fresno Area
Hispanic
Email Foundation- Did not attend
Community Service
Assistant
Email Habitat for Did not attend
Humanity
Email Community Did not attend
Vocational Services
48
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Attachment 2
PUBLIC COMMENTS RECEIVED THAT DISAGREE WITH THE PY 2025-
25 LOCAL PLAN
1. From: Date:
Comment:
2. From: Date:
Comment:
(Placeholder comment pending completion of public comment period) There were no
comments received during the public comment period for the PY 25-28 Local Plan.
49
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Attachment 3
SIGNATURE PAGE
The following signatures represent approval of the Local Plan by Fresno Regional
Workforce Development Board and the Chief Elected Official for the Local Workforce
Development Area.
For the Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board:
�.-o4 . 2o?,S
Edgar B <Ca3irpersone7e—
, Date
For the Fresno Local Workforce Area — Chief Local Elected Officials
Name, Mayor, City of Fresno Date
Name, Chair, Fresno County Board of Supervisors Date
50
Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board PY 2025-28 Local Plan
Attachment 3
SIGNATURE PAGE
The following signatures represent approval of the Local Plan by Fresno Regional
Workforce Development Board and the Chief Elected Official for the Local Workforce
Development Area.
For the Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board:
Edgar Blunt, Chairperson Date
For the Fresno Local Workforce Area —Chief Local Elected Officials
r
Ma City of Fresno D/te
Buddy Mendes, Chai �res County Board of Supervisors Date
ATTEST:
BERNICE E.SEIDEL
Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
County of Fresno,State of California
By , '. ���. ��?�+� Deputy
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