In 2015, City Council approved a $164,262 contract through which LISC would act as the lead agency in a pilot collaboration of job training and education providers. LISC was given responsibility for managing the grant and providing technical assistance to the Financial Opportunity Centers (FOCs). The FOCs are places where workforce development and financial services programs are offered to lift people out of poverty by: 1) providing supportive services and community college education through the Community-Based Job Training model, leading to a certificate in a professional field; and 2) placing graduates in high-demand professional fields that pay a living wage with benefits and opportunity for advancement.
The program anticipated serving 90 participants, and to date, has served only 61. Because the program is a pilot, enrollment by one of the education providers has been slower than anticipated. Other program objectives, which are on target, include:
1. 100% of participants will receive case management and coaching
2. 50% of participants will complete a Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) exam, to demonstrate proficiency in reading, math and writing
3. 80% of all participants will complete training and receive a certificate during the 12-month contract period
4. 60% of all participants will obtain employment during the 12-month contract period.
The Housing and Community Development Department (HCDD) recommends extending the contract between the City of Houston and LISC, thus extending the time of performance for this pilot job training program.
HCDD conducted a Request for Proposals for HUD program year 2014 CDBG service providers. LISC was one of the providers selected. The initial contract provided funding for a 12-month period, May 1, 2015 – April 30, 2016. The contract was extended through October 31, 2016. This request will allow for a second six-month extension, moving the contract expiration to April 30, 2017.
This item was reviewed by the Housing and Community Affairs Committee on Sept. 20, 2016.