In today’s market, job seeking, readiness, and keeping can be difficult for those without many resources. It can be especially difficult to bridge the gap between community members searching for and training for relevant employment and employers seeking skilled personnel. At the Center For Family Services, the range of Workforce Development programs helps people develop skills and gain industry-recognized credentials through hands-on exposure.

Workforce Development describes a diverse range of programs that provide services across New Jersey, seeking assistance in career readiness and to build a healthy future for themselves and their families. The services provided include:

• employment and career counseling
• job training
• certification opportunities
• case management
• financial education
• childcare and transportation resources
• resume development
• interview practice
• job placement assistance

While the programs through Workforce Development are aimed at serving individuals in the community to reach their career goals, the connections given to workers provide a great benefit to employers as well. For many in today’s job market, there is a disconnect between the needs and resources for employers and job seekers. Those seeking talent report that the hiring process has gotten more difficult, with finding skilled applicants being a top challenge. At the same time, job seekers say they most value and struggle to find opportunities for development, though employers report a challenge of limited time and resources.

Lauren Llewellyn, Senior Case Manager with the ReWork Program, shared, “Workforce development programs fuel communities by connecting people to meaningful work and higher wages. At the same time, they empower local employers with the skilled talent they need to thrive and be successful”.

Workforce Development encompasses a diverse range of programs to help local communities meet their goals and overcome adversity in employment. In Camden City, the Financial Opportunity Center is a one-stop service center for financial literacy for residents, and Camden Works helps Camden City residents develop an Individual Employment Plan. Center For Family Services also offers programs that assist veterans, young adults, people previously involved in the justice system, and those impacted by the opioid crisis. These programs connect individuals who face obstacles in the workforce with training, education, and job opportunities. The people served through Workforce Development bring a distinct and valuable perspective to the labor force that benefits the overall workplace. Their inclusion enhances innovation, problem-solving, and creativity while also providing local market knowledge. Employers gain a trained and diverse pool of applicants when they connect and recruit from Workforce Development.

Center For Family Services is committed to providing guidance and support to those looking to reach their goals. To learn more about workforce development services, or to inquire about eligibility and locations, contact the Access Center:

Phone: 1.877.9.ACCESS ( 877.922.2377) or Email:  access@centerffs.org.