Employment Empowerment
Work Local: A Pathway to Employment and Independence
The Work Local Program connects work-ready individuals to meaningful employment opportunities, comprehensive workforce training, and tangible job support. More than just a referral service, it's a structured accountability-based model that incentivizes consistent effort toward sustainable employment and financial independence.
Clients actively engage in job searches, attend interviews or training sessions, and verify their progress using a simple punch card system. Completing 8 verified activities earns them $100 toward housing or utilities—rewards that support both measurable progress and long-term stability in their journey toward self-sufficiency.
How It Works
Punch Cards, Partnerships, and Purpose
Assessment & Intake
Client is evaluated as work-capable through comprehensive intake and case management review.
Partner Referral
Referred to trusted partner agencies including Express Employment, The Discovery Center, WIN Job Center, and online platforms like Indeed and ZipRecruiter.
Verified Activities
Each verified step—application submitted, training attended, interview completed—earns a punch toward their goal. If financial assistance is needed, a client must have a full punch card to receive it.
Earn Rewards
After 8 punches, clients receive financial assistance toward rent, utilities, or other approved expenses that support stability. We don't put money in the hands of our clients. We directly pay bills.
This proven system builds workforce consistency, personal accountability, and creates measurable progress toward lasting employment success.
Success Stories
Real Stories. Real Impact.
James's Journey
James was unemployed and couch surfing when he entered Work Local. Through Express Employment applications and support from other local agencies, he demonstrated consistent effort over two weeks. Today, James works at a local warehouse, pays his own rent, and has rebuilt his confidence and independence.
Tasha's Transformation
Tasha, a single mother, built a professional resume with WIN Job Center support and secured employment in a local school cafeteria. Her utility voucher from Work Local helped her avoid disconnection during her transition period, allowing her to focus on starting her new job and providing for her family.
Work Local is a launchpad for new beginnings. Every punch card represents hope, every verified activity builds momentum, and every success story inspires our community partners to continue this vital work.
Stronger Together: Our Work Local Partners
Work Local relies on the strength and dedication of community partnerships. Together, we create accessible pathways to employment for every participant:
Express Employment
Temporary and permanent job placements across diverse industries
The Discovery Center
Resume workshops, job skills training, and GED preparation programs
WIN Job Center
State job listings, career fairs, and employment readiness resources
Ability Works
Specialized employment services for clients with disabilities
Online Platforms
Indeed, ZipRecruiter, Facebook Jobs—digital access for remote and flexible opportunities
JL King Center
Wraparound supportive services addressing holistic client needs
These trusted organizations help us ensure tailored, accessible opportunities that meet each participant exactly where they are in their employment journey.
Results and Impact
Outcomes That Matter
Client Outcomes
Sample data from last quarter demonstrates measurable community impact:
90
Clients Enrolled
Work-ready individuals entered the program
62
Active Participants
Used punch cards consistently
54
Jobs Secured
Gained part-time or full-time employment
87%
Success rate for active participants finding employment
Why It Works
Personal Responsibility
Reinforces accountability and consistent effort toward employment goals
Reduced Dependence
Creates sustainable pathways away from long-term assistance programs
Replicable Model
Proven framework for client transformation that other communities can adopt
This is empowerment in action, turning job searches into stepping stones for long-term change and community transformation.