Effective Employment Programs

This report synthesizes some of the most significant research findings on job training programs. It relates them to the decisions faced by states as they implement the Jobs Opportunities and Basic Skills (JOBS) Training Programs mandated by the Federal Family Support Act of 1988, which must be structured to meet the needs of recipients of Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC). The following findings are reported: (1) changes in the workforce affect job prospects of AFDC recipients; (2) employment programs are not equally effective for all participants; (3) more intensive services are required for those with greater barriers to employment; (4) interagency cooperation can provide more intensive services; (5) employment programs for two-parent families are not effective; and (6) voluntary programs can be effective. While changes in the workforce in the next decade will likely improve the jo