Resources for Staff, Partners & Contractors
The WorkFirst program continues to be a success because of the work staff, partners and contractors are doing to help families connect with the services and supports they need to go to work. Governor Gregoire believes that “work is the best way to break the cycle of poverty”. WorkFirst is a program that provides families dignity and hope. In WorkFirst, parents who can work will work - parents who can not work will be supported – and parents who choose not to work will be held accountable.
Engagement is a Partnership's Responsibility
The WorkFirst Orientation maybe the first opportunity to engage a parent in the WorkFirst program, but it should not be the only time. WorkFirst engagement is about to building a relationship with each parent, one-on-one, and getting them directly involved in making decisions about their future. Engagement is every partners responsibility and should should occur at every intersection point as the parent moves between activities.
The Comprehensive Evaluation (CE) is great opportunity to engage parents and send a consistent, positive message about what WorkFirst can offer. This also the time to actively involve the parent in making choices about how they will meet their participation requirements.
Engagement means creating a connection between parents and the WorkFirst program. Keeping parents engaged in WorkFirst increases their changes of going to work and becoming self-sufficient! Doing everything you can help parents stay engaged can greatly increase their chances of being successful.
WorkFirst Engagement:
- Builds a positive working relationship between parents and the program.
- Motivates parents to be involved in shaping their futures.
- Get's "buy-in" from parents by demonstrating what's in it for them.
- Provides an opportunity to discuss the best employment options for the parent based on the CE and parent choice.
- Stresses that welfare is temporary and that work is the best way to provide a better life for families.
- Provides information on personal responsibility and consequences.
Helpful Links
- WorkFirst Handbook
- WorkFirst Briefing Papers
- WorkFirst Listserv Messages
- WorkFirst Staff and Partner Memos
- WorkFirst Forward Captivate Training
- Deficit Reduction Act of 2005
- WorkFirst Monthly Performance Measures
- Comprehensive Evaluation Documentation Guidelines
- WorkFirst Bubble Chart
- Financial Literacy Resources
If you have questions or updates to any of this material, please contact Stephanie Nielsen, Program Manager, TANF & WorkFirst Policy, Department of Social & Health Services at (360) 725-4699
