Contact:
Lori DelRossi
(401) 462-8863
Governors Workforce Board-RI
March 16, 2006

CRANSTON – The Governor’s Workforce Board of Rhode Island (GWB-RI) will fund activities that enable youth to understand the link between job readiness skills and future employment opportunities by offering them practical experience at a range of work sites. Proposals are sought for the We-Can-2 Summer Jobs Program, a pilot initiative that will provide work/project activities and job readiness skills to youth 14 or 15 years of age.

“We cannot underestimate the importance of experience in the lives of today’s youth as they become the workforce of tomorrow,” Governor Donald L. Carcieri explained. “The Governor’s Workforce Board-RI (GWB-RI) develops policy that enriches our workforce, education, and economic development systems. This improves the skill base of the workforce and, ultimately, increases economic development
opportunities for all RI citizens and businesses.”

GWB-RI Chairman Joseph MarcAurele recognizes, “the need for support and collaboration among the public and private sectors. This pilot program will build upon the success of similar models nationwide.”

Executive Director Adelita S. Orefice believes, “Career awareness can impact curriculum. The We-Can-2 Summer Jobs Program will help students decide what skills are important to their future.”

We-Can-2 Summer Jobs Program proposals must address issues of career awareness, work readiness, mentoring, team building, leadership development, job shadowing and/or provide paid work experience. Applicants will be Rhode Island-based organizations including not-for-profit and for-profit agencies/organizations, education institutions, labor organizations, trade associations, community, and faith-based organizations. Applicants are strongly encouraged to reach out to low income, minority, and disabled populations. Proposals will be due April 14, 2006.

Interested parties are encouraged to contact Lori Del Rossi by phone at (401) 462-8863 or through e-mail at ldelrossi@dlt.state.ri.us.

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The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training offers a wide array of employment and training services to both the general public and to individuals with unusual barriers to employment. DLT is ready to assist any job seeker, whether the goal is a first job, a better job, or a career change. Rhode Island's work force is protected through the enforcement of labor laws, prevailing wage rates, and work place health and safety standards. Temporary income support is available to unemployed, sick, or injured workers and a comprehensive rehabilitation program is available to those injured on the job.DLT is dedicated to the growth and competitiveness of Rhode Island industry, administering a variety of training grants, tax credits, and apprenticeship programs to help employers. Economic indicators and labor market information are available for long-range planning. The Agency engages in active outreach, helping large and small employers retain their best workers or retrain their existing work force. At no cost to the employer, DLT will also screen job applicants, post job vacancies, and help businesses institute cost-sharing programs that can avert layoffs.For more information on the innovative programs and services available to all Rhode Islanders at the Department of Labor and Training, please call (401) 462-8000 or visit our web site at www.dlt.ri.gov

Equal Opportunity Employer/Program
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
TDD (401) 462-8006