The SW MN PIC administers Adult and Dislocated Worker Programs under Title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. These programs are designed to provide quality employment and training services to assist eligible individuals in finding and qualifying for meaningful employment, and to help employers find the skilled workers they need to compete and succeed in the workforce.
Employment services are also available to persons eligible for county financial assistance through the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP), Diversionary Work Program (DWP), and Food Support Employment and Training (FSET) program. Participants are referred to the SW MN PIC by their county of residence.
About the Programs
WIA Adult
A federally funded program through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) that is designed to help individuals obtain the skills needed for employment. This program helps increase the standard of living for individuals through enhancing job skills and providing assistance to attain self-sufficiency through work.
Dislocated Worker
The dislocated worker program assists individuals who have lost their job through no fault of their own. Dislocated worker services are designed to help these individuals with retraining job and employability skills and provides assistance with securing new employment.
MFIP (Minnesota Family Investment Program)
The MFIP program assists low-income families with children achieve economic stability through work. MFIP includes a cash grant, food assistance and job counseling, and supports both job-seeking and working parents.
Minnesota Family Investment Program Employment Services Overview
DWP (Diversionary Work Program)
DWP is a four-month program that provides services and support to eligible families to assist them in gaining employment instead of going on public assistance. DWP is designed for families with children or pregnant women.
FSET (Food Support Employment and Training)
FSET is a program designed for Food Support recipients to help them prepare for employment and become employed.
Eligibility
WIA Adult Services
To be eligible, an individual must be 18 years of age and meet local priority groups and income guidelines.
Dislocated Worker Services
To be eligible, an individual must meet one of the following requirements:
- Those who have received a letter announcing a layoff or have already been permanently laid off.
- Those individuals who worked for a business that is closing or has closed.
- Farmers who are in the process of losing or have lost their farm.
- Business owners who are in the process of losing or have lost their business due to economic conditions.
MFIP, DWP and FSET
Eligibility varies by program.
Services Available
- Skill training in reading, math, job and life skills
- Post-High School Education Assistance
- Goal Setting
- Career Counseling and Exploration
- Tests and Assessments to find your interest levels and skills
- Referrals to other service agencies that may be of assistance
- Paid Work Experience Programs with local employers
- Job Placement Assistance
- Assistance with resumes, job applications, and interview preparations
- On-the-Job Training Opportunities
- Employment and Job Search Workshops
- Complete source of Job Listings
- Financial Counseling
- Supportive Services such as transportation, childcare, housing, etc. are provided under certain circumstances