Late last year, the Southwest Virginia Workforce Development Board received funding from local Boards of Supervisors to expand youth services in Dickenson and Tazewell counties. The funding came from each county’s American Rescue Plan Act monies; $50,000 from Dickenson County and $100,000 from Tazewell County.
This funding will provide services to youth that do not qualify for the WIOA Youth program. 75% of all WIOA Youth funding must be earmarked for youth not attending school. 25% is left to spend on those still attending school, and that requirement has put that population at a disadvantage. This additional funding aims to provide high school students with services typically offered by WIOA, such as career exploration, work experience, supplies, car repairs, and more.
While the primary target is high school students, funding will also be made available to any applicant that may not qualify for the WIOA Youth program for other reasons.
