October 21, 2004

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth today announced more $97million in funding to help more than 100,000 Michiganians qualify for better-paying jobs through education, training and employment-related services such as job search assistance.

This FY 2005 funding is provided to the state's 25 Workforce Development Boards to fund services through the corresponding 25 Michigan Works! Agencies.

"This funding will deliver the training and support services that people need to trade in an assistance check for a paycheck," said Granholm. "The Work First Program provides the links that allow participants to achieve economic self-sufficiency and independence from public assistance."

The purpose of Work First is to offer educational and employment training and services to increase a person's income, therefore reducing or eliminating the need for public assistance. A table is attached with the specific funding amount for each of the 25 Michigan Works! Agencies. To view an interactive map of the state's Michigan Works! regions and the counties included in each region, go to http://www.michiganworks.org/page.cfm/14.

The Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth is the newest department of state government. It is charged with promoting economic growth, creating jobs and enhancing the quality of life for Michigan citizens. Part of this mission also includes meeting Michigan's workforce needs to enhance and maintain its economy. To this end, the state's career and workforce development programs work with employers, K-12 schools, community colleges and local Workforce Development Boards.