Breaking down barriers : a case study on welfare-to-work job training programs in Chicago from the program administrator's perspective

Includes bibliographical references (pages [222]-232).This case study takes an in-depth look at the job training aspect of the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program, which is part of the recent welfare reform initiative. The case-study methodology gives voice to the program administrators who administer the TANF program to their female welfare clientele by allowing them to discuss their perceptions of the program. A social service agency located in the city of Chicago was selected as a basis for exploring these factors surrounding the TANF program's job-training function. Interviews were conducted with program administrators who work in the Employment and Training Division of the selected agency. The purpose of this study is to examine the experience, expertise, and perceptions of program administrators in their administration of job training through the TANF program. This study in particular seeks to address the barriers to employment facing female welfare recipients and the ways in which program administrators assist them in transcending these barriers. Last, this study takes a critical look at the TANF program through the eyes of the program administrators, with possible implications for improving the guidelines for the betterment of the female recipients it was designed to help. Major findings from the study indicate that TANF offers some benefits to female welfare recipients but not at an appropriate level; job placement is promoted instead of the opportunity for a recipient to obtain or advance her education; TANF does not adequately address the issue of barriers that negatively impact female welfare recipients' ability to become self-sufficient; and program administrators experience frustrations with TANF and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), which hampers their ability to effectively deliver services to their female welfare clientele. The conclusions involve allocating more money to address barrier issues impacting female welfare recipients; allowing more time for education and job skills training for the recipients; and forming coalitions between program administrators and policymakers to revise TANF to provide better services for female welfare recipients. The implication for adult education is partnering adult educators with social service agencies to address the education needs of female welfare recipients.Ed.D. (Doctor of Education