Work First 118 – WORK REQUIREMENTS AND SERVICES

Change Notice #3-2011

April 1, 2011

I. INTRODUCTION

The Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 (DRA) reauthorized Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) through 2010. The Federal Final Rule was published February 2008.

The DRA maintained the separate two-parent participation rate at 90% and the all-families participation rate at 50%. An inability to meet these performance measures has the potential to result in financial penalties.

County departments of social services provide Work First eligible families with a range of employment services. Employment services are tailored to the needs of each family, and each family develops their own plan, the Mutual Responsibility Agreement Plan of Action (DSS- 6939b).

All Work First eligible families should be advised of the support services described in the Work First Manual that are available during participation in work or educational activities.

Employment Services caseworkers must conduct a thorough assessment (See Section 117) in order to put together the best package of activities and supportive services. Plans should include realistic goals and activities that will enable the family to participate in countable work activities and become economically self-sufficient as quickly as is reasonable.

At the same time, employment services caseworkers should encourage eligible persons to consider post-secondary education or training programs that are designed to increase earning potential and enhance career advancement opportunities, especially in high-demand and high-growth occupations. This will require the development of strong partnerships with agencies such as community colleges and other institutions of higher education. Leaving the welfare rolls should be only the first step toward lifelong learning and career advancement.

Through all of these efforts the county departments of social services and local service providers should partner with families to improve the Work Participation Rates and meet the purposes of Work First, while serving the needs of families.