Funding a Fresh Start

Jun 24, 2022

“I had struggled for decades, unemployed or underemployed. I never knew who I was or what I wanted to do,” said Michael Green, a recent graduate from DVC.

Green had worked for many years and had completed bachelor’s and master’s degree programs prior to coming to DVC, but had not advanced in his career.

“I had lost my way and couldn’t seem to regain any footing,” said Green.

While on unemployment, Green heard about a program that might be able to help.

“It was designed to help people rejoin the workforce. I realized I needed to get some action going, to take a chance, even if it didn’t come to fruition,” said Green.

What is the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Grant?

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Grant is a federally-funded program offered through the Department of Labor. The funds help dislocated workers and adults with significant employment barriers train to enter or re-enter the job market.

“If you qualify for the WIOA grant, you can receive up to $5,000. The funds can cover tuition, textbooks, required tools, and fees,” said Robin Heinemann, the program coordinator for WIOA and work experience education.

Who is eligible?

Dislocated workers:

18 years or older
Citizens or noncitizens authorized to work in the United States
Workers who lost their job through no fault of their own. Example situations could include lay-off, reduction of hours, displaced homemaker, self-employed person who lost income due to economic conditions, etc. There are no income restrictions for dislocated workers.

Income-eligible adults:

Underemployed with household income equal to or less than what is shown here.
Current recipients of benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program OR can provide documentation that verifies they meet income guidelines.

“WIOA grant funds are applied after other scholarships and grants are utilized, so those who qualify should definitely apply,” said Heinemann.

Learn job-ready skills that build confidence

Michael Green earned an associate in science in accounting as well as the advanced accounting certificate at DVC. He applied for a position with the City of Brentwood and began attending Rotary meetings with a friend. His confidence grew as he became more engaged in the networking process.

“My friend introduced me to her CPA who was looking to hire a tax preparer. I went in and interviewed, and they later offered me a position as a full-time staff tax accountant,” said Green.

Green highly recommends the WIOA program.

“If you’re stuck or have fallen on hard times, never give up on yourself,” said Green.

Qualifying academic programs

To receive WIOA grant funds, students must enroll in a degree or certificate program that is considered to be “in demand” by area employers.

“We offer 144 academic programs that WIOA participants can choose from. And because they are ‘in demand,’ students can feel confident in their job prospects as well,” said Heinemann.

To find out more, visit www.dvc.edu/wioa.

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