WIOA Title I Youth services assists out-of-school youths (16 to 24 years of age) and in-school youths (14 to 21 years of age), with one or more barriers, prepare for employment and postsecondary education opportunities; attaining educational and/or skills training credentials; and secure employment with career/promotional opportunities.
The WIOA Youth program includes the following program elements: tutoring; alternative secondary school services; paid and unpaid work experiences, which include: summer and year round employment opportunities, pre-apprenticeship programs, internships and job shadowing, and on-the-job training; occupational skill training; education offered concurrently with workforce preparation and training; leadership development opportunities; supportive services; mentoring; follow-up services; comprehensive guidance and counseling; financial literacy education; entrepreneurial skills training; services that provide labor market and employment information; and postsecondary education and training preparation activities.
Lorenza Duenas
Ms. Lorenza Duenas initially heard of WIA while attending Kagman High School but was not able to participate in the elective through the Cooperative Learning Opportunity. After graduating from High School, she was advised by her Parents to avail of training through DOL WIA. Because of her perseverance, she was able to provide all necessary documents and be determined eligible for services. Her caseworker had worked with her to determine her objectives, and goals and build a strong Individual Employment plan.
Additionally, through assessment, it was discovered that she would need to build some work experience. With careful planning and support from WIA, she was able to get a placement at the Department of Fish & Wildlife. She admitted being “nervous” at first “thinking I [Lorenza] was going to be at the dock and under the sun.” She eventually learned that there was more to her position as an Administrative Assistant Trainee. In the six (6) months of training, she shared she had learned and was skilled at the fishing & hunting permitting process, purchase & acquisitions, processing travel authorizations, and administrative support to name a few. She confidently shared, “I am your go-to for permitting.”
It came with great delight when WIA heard she would be taken on permanently as a Clerk. The transition was seamless and now you can find Lorenza at both the dock when needed or at the DFW Building in Puerto Rico. She’s thankful for her parent’s advice and the opportunity that WIA has provided her. She has purchased her own new car which has given her more independence and the capability to be self-reliant.