WDC Receives LCNV Community Partner Award

The award recognizes collaborative program providing highly intensive literacy and work readiness English classes for refugees.
Page updated on March 18, 2022 at 1:41 PM
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WDC Receives LCNV Community Partner Award

A DCHS CONNECT NEWS HIGHLIGHT

 

October 30, 2020--The Workforce Development Center (WDC) received the Community Partner Award from the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia (LCNV) at its Annual Recognition Ceremony on October 29.

The award is given each year to recognize community organizations for their consistent support of LCNV programs and mission to teach adults the basics of reading, writing, speaking and understanding English so they can access employment and educational opportunities and more fully and equitably participate in the community.

In 2017, WDC collaborated with LCNV to create a unique program providing highly intensive literacy and work readiness English classes for refugees receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The program fills a void in English language education and workforce training continuum that starts a beginning level English-learner on a path towards employment. 

Over the last three years, the program has grown to serve two learning levels and deliver language education and workforce skills--including training towards a nationally recognized customer service credential--all in line with TANF requirements. WDC clients complete the program with a professional resume, volunteer experience in an office or retail setting and a Guest Service Gold credential. 

The program has served over 140 WDC clients since its launch in April 2017.

Learn more about LCNV and view a program from the virtual event, which highlights other award recipients and includes written and picture essays from LCNV program participants about how far they’ve come and their experiences during the pandemic. 

WDC is a trusted resource, providing services and expertise to support job seeker and employer workforce needs in Alexandria. A certified One Stop Center, WDC serves a variety of skill levels, from those with advanced degrees and years of experience to those with limited education and experience. WDC also provides a range of services at no cost to businesses. 

In July, WDC launched “Strive & Thrive: Helping Alexandria Stay Resilient & Get Back to Work” to support Alexandria’s workforce and employers by offering events, services and training remotely and online, including virtual recruitment events, online job readiness and essential skills workshops, a redesigned job board and informational sessions for employers and job seekers. 

To learn more, visit alexandriava.gov/WorkforceDevelopment, email wdc@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.5990.