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 Alexander and Titus gave committee members handouts that
explained what the work program participants learn, how the program
works, and their proposed budget for the program. The program is
grant funded, but Alexander and Titus said they need $60,000 to
cover some of the program's expenses. They had presented the funding
request to the Lincoln City Council, and council members suggested
they also talk to the county about funding.
CAPCIL's July newsletter said the initiative is intended to give a
"hand up" to those trapped in poverty by providing "tools needed to
move from being dependent on service aids to becoming
self-sufficient."
Alexander said one program participant named Ashley completed the
Jobs for Life program, Financial Peace University, and housing
counseling. Ashley is enrolled in GED preparation courses and plans
to pursue a career in Phlebotomy. Alexander said Ashley was "shy and
reserved" when she started the program and now has done public
speaking in front of a large group of people.
 Alexander said the Strengthening Working Families Initiative Program
is to help people accomplish goals. A Community Service Block Grant
helps CAPCIL fund programs in six counties, but it restricts how
much they can use for each student. This grant does not cover people
above a certain income level who may still need some assistance.
Alexander said training programs have shown positive results. In one
Jobs for Life class, there were six out of nine who completed it.
Out of six, one went from part time to full time work, one gained
full time employment, and three are in the process of getting
scholarships for GED or certifications. Throughout the other
counties, 32 people have completed the Jobs for Life program and
three have attained jobs, seven have had an increase in pay, four
are at a living wage.
Alexander said barriers like lack of transportation make it hard for
some to get to classes. She said many are unable to find or afford
childcare and sometimes bring children to the classes offered, which
does not make for a good learning environment.
Alexander said some start in classes and are unable to finish when
they get a job and "income out" according to the program's poverty
guidelines. Some come in having jobs, but are at a level where they
do not make enough to support themselves, but make too much to get
social services.
Alexander said the Initiative program targets such people to help
them become more self sufficient. The program is already in place
but needs more funding to be fully operational.
Titus said Heartland Community College, Eaton Corporation, Homefield/Dynergy,
Illinois Worknet, Logan Mason Public Transportation, CAPCIL, Head
Start, and Christian Child Care already partner with the program.
She said they would also like financial support from the board.
Their proposal said, "some of the funding will be used to provide
support services like child care, public transportation vouchers,
and automotive repair."
Titus said program participants are assigned a Family Service
Worker who assesses their eligibility for other programs, mentors
and coaches hold them accountable for their goals.
Titus said the funding would support 16 participants in a 12 month
pilot program. The program costs $3,750 per participant. Alexander
said right now there are 12 signed up, but they may have 16 by fall.
The funding would open it up to people who would not otherwise be
eligible.
Committee members Dave Blankenship and Kevin Bateman asked about
whether people in the program are interested in college courses and
what they do if they already have a GED. Board Chairman David Hepler
asked about some of the other requirements.
Alexander said many working on their GED plan to take college
courses. She said those who already have their GED can go into
licensing or certification programs or take college courses.
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Alexander said those in the program have "homework" and must meet certain tasks
and outcomes. The program teaches students about accountability such as showing
up to appointments, being on time and learning how to dress appropriately for
interviews. The program helps build up people's qualifications for jobs in the
community. Titus said milestones have to be met.
Alexander said the Financial Peace University teaches people in the program to
save money, helps them better budget their link card spending, and helps them
manage the money they receive. Titus said if the program helps people get living
wages and become less dependent on social services, it has paid off.
Hepler asked if candidates are tested and have to remain substance free
throughout the program.
Alexander said CAPCIL does not test, however students fill out assessments that
would show if they struggle with substance abuse. CAPCIL can provide those
individuals with resources for help fight substance abuse.
Committee Chairman Emily Davenport asked what happens if someone quits the
program after a few weeks.
Alexander said participants cannot receive a scholarship unless they complete an
eight week class such as Jobs for Life. They also have to apply for a
scholarship, and not everyone will get one.
Davenport asked whether CAPCIL has asked the five other counties they cover for
funding, whether the program will expand, and whether they will ask for funding
again.
Alexander said it is a pilot program starting in Logan County for now. It could
later expand to other counties. They are hoping to continue the program and
would need more funding in the future.
Committee member Scott Schaffenacker said he did not think the board should help
with more than $30,000 of the $60,000 funding.
Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Ruben said he does not foresee extra money in
this year's budget. Wind Farm money is not likely to come in yet and they
already have had to move money from various budgets for some expenses.
Titus said the program would make a positive impact in the community and could
support the community by bringing more money in as people get jobs. CAPCIL would
be able to provide statistical reports.
The committee decided to table the decision and further discussion until August.
Executive Committee members present were Chairman Emily Davenport, Vice Chairman
Kevin Bateman, Dave Blankenship, Scott Schaffenacker and Pat O'Neill; and Board
Chairman David Hepler. Guests were Board Office administrative assistants Amy
Kuhlman and Brenda Clark, and board members Chuck Ruben, Miles Craig and Bob
Farmer.
The next Executive Committee meeting will be Tuesday, August 9, 2016 at 6:30 pm
[Angela Reiners]
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