Promising Practice #1
Choosing a High Definition of Self-Sufficiency
Overview
Numerous Workforce Investment Boards (WIBs) across the country have chosen to establish a self-sufficiency level that is higher than the default language found in WIA. A 2004 survey by theWorking for America Institute found that nearly two-thirds of the metropolitan workforce boards surveyed had begun using definitions of self-sufficiency drawn from the WOW Standard or similar measures to set goals for the workforce system in their communities.
While the reasons for establishing a specific definition of self-sufficiency vary, in general these WIBs believe they should play a central role in assisting customers move toward genuine economic self-sufficiency. These WIBs want to raise the expectations of staff, administrators, business,and customers of the public workforce system, and then to deliver on those expectations.
Case Studies:
- Sacramento Employment and Training Agency, CA
- Private Industry Council of San Francisco, CA
- Metro South/West Regional Employment Board, MA
» Promising Practice #2: Counseling Customers About Income Goals, Career Paths and Work Supports
WIA Law/Regulations
Under WIA’s three-tiered structure for sequential delivery of services, working adults who do not earn enough income to be self-sufficient are eligible for intensive and training services (Sec. 134(d)(3)(A)(ii)). WIA regulations establish that the minimum self-sufficiency threshold is the Lower Living Standard Income Level (LLSIL) (a Bureau of Labor Statistics calculation). The regulations also direct state and local WIBs to develop their own threshold for self-sufficiency, as long as it is at least equal to the LLSIL.
"The Self-Sufficiency Standard is a tool that helps us and customers who are trying to make a plan. It just makes our work easier when we embrace the Self- Sufficiency Standard."
- Robin Purdy
Deputy Director Sacramento Employment and Training Agency