Stimulus Funds

Economic Stimulus Update
5/1/2009

As a direct result of recent passage of The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), sometimes referred to as economic stimulus, Vermont has received significant new funding for traditional (formula grant) Workforce Investment Act (WIA) programs, as well as for reemployment services and other workforce programs. These programs are administered by the Vermont Department of Labor (VDOL).

Vermont is still awaiting guidance on ARRA funding that will be awarded through competitive grants. Competitive grants are intended for worker training and job placement in high growth and emerging industry sectors. Priority will be given to training and placement in the sectors of energy efficiency, renewable energy and health care. Further information on competitive grants, including a solicitation for grant applications (SGA), will be posted on this website as soon as it is available.

The following information offers general guidelines on traditional program eligibility, and examples of work and training activities that can be supported under WIA. Individuals who want to be considered for WIA activities must contact their local VDOL office to apply. A staff member will assess your eligibility for WIA services, and explore specific opportunities that are available and appropriate.

WIA Youth Programs serve youth ages 14 to 24, who are low income and meet at least one additional eligibility requirement. Services/activities for eligible youth include:
• Vocational testing and assessment
• Career guidance
• Alternative secondary school offerings
• Summer employment opportunities
• Paid work experience
• Occupational skills training
• Paid on-the-job training
• Support services that are needed to help individuals participate in WIA activities

WIA Adult Programs serve individuals age 18 or older. Priority is given to those who are low income or receiving public assistance. Services/activities include:
• On-the-job training
• Paid work experience
• Workplace training (combines work + classroom training)
• Occupational skills training (classroom instruction)
• Support services that are needed to help individuals participate in WIA activities

WIA Dislocated Worker Programs serve individuals who are terminated or laid off from employment AND are eligible for (or have exhausted) unemployment insurance, AND are unlikely to return to their previous industry/occupation. This program also serves workers who are terminated or laid off due to a plant closure or downsizing. Services/activities are the same as those listed above under Adult Programs.

More detailed information on traditional WIA programs is available on this website under Job Seeker Services/Programs – Workforce Investment Act, or from your local VDOL office.

In the meantime, if they have not already done so, training providers may apply to be listed on the WIA eligible training provider list by completing and submitting an application which can be found at http://labor.state.vt.us/Portals/0/WF%20Development%20Council/WIA-10%20Application%20for%20Eligibil.pdf.