National Fund for Workforce Solutions: Principles and Policy Implications

Publication Date: November 2008

Publisher: Jobs for the Future, Inc.

Author(s):

Research Area: Labor

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

To inform anticipated reforms of the U.S. workforce development system, a new brief from the National Fund for Workforce Solutions describes its principles for effective efforts to make the system better for workers, employers, and regions:

* Establish regional funding collaboratives that convene leaders with resources to identify, build support, and leverage resources for a shared strategic vision of developing a highly skilled workforce and a competitive regional economy.

* Support workforce partnerships that implement "dual customer" services in industry sectors that are of economic significance to their regional economies.

* Promote career advancement for all workers--especially low-wage workers and job seekers--through career pathways education and training programs.

* Facilitate alignment across programs and systems in support of a comprehensive, easily navigated workforce development system.

The National Fund for Workforce Solutions is a five-year, $30 million effort to strengthen and expand high-impact workforce development initiatives around the country. The National Fund is dedicated to moving America's low-wage workforce into higher paying jobs, while providing employers with the skilled workers they need. JFF and the Council on Foundations are national partners with the National Fund for Workforce Solutions.