Growing Independence Employment and Training Project for Foster Youth in Transition Program

The Congressionally Selected Awards Program, authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 (Pub. L. 111-8), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects selected by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-8, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 09 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

The Workforce Development Corp of Southeast LA County, Inc. will use the grant to support an employment and training program for foster youth over the age of 16 and up to 18. Funds will be used to enroll 30 foster youth in transition from the foster care system. Youth enrolled and who complete the full range of employment readiness, work experience, training and other services available under the project will be prepared for entry-level employment. Staff will provide customized job development to help each youth identify suitable job opportunities. Individual services and career plans developed at the time of entry into the project will outline each youth's post-program objectives, which may include full-time job placement or part-time employment, combined with enrollment in college or a trade school program. The ultimate goal for each youth is to be able to maintain self-sufficiency and pursue a higher education, learn a trade, or build career skills on the job while working in full-time employment.

NCA/NCF