Project GROW
Texas - Project GROW
Workforce Innovation Submitted By: Workforce Solutions / Lower RGV
Community Challenge/Problem
Many residents along the Texas-Mexico border lack basic education attainment and English proficiency. They struggle to find employment and overcome barriers.
Board Solution/Innovation
The five workforce boards located along the Texas/Mexico border formed a consortium that would evaluate and address how they could best meet the needs of these individuals. The consortium sought and secured funding to reduce employment barriers and empower the workforce.
Project GROW (Growing Regional Opportunities for the Workforce), funded by the U.S. Labor Department Workforce Innovation Fund Grant, supports, enhances, and evaluates innovative employment and training opportunities for these “hardest to serve” border residents. Upon completion, the program allows participants to obtain both a high school equivalency credential along with a regional in-demand credential in fields such as health care.
Although the initiative had funds to provide training, there was no budget for outreach to help communicate the availability of the program. The five participating workforce boards explored traditional and nontraditional methods to inform the public about Project GROW.
Outcomes & Results
So far, Project GROW reached its goals in recruitment through podcasts and social media. These no-cost tools have provided the consortium an avenue to directly connect with and inform potential Project GROW participants. As a result of these nontraditional methods, the project was able to form cohorts of students, who have completed their commitment to Project GROW and have now matriculated with a GED and a regional in-demand credential.
These nontraditional recruitment methods continue to expand Project GROW's reach and allow for 100% of the grant's funds to be applied to the delivery of services.
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