A $2.2 million federal stimulus grant could put 200 local
college students to work.
A $2.2 million federal stimulus grant could put 200 local college students to work.
Local employers who hire Gavilan College students enrolled in the CalWORKS “welfare-to-work” program will receive up to 75 percent reimbursement for those hires from the federal government. Twenty-six Gavilan students are already enrolled in the program, which will provide local jobs for up to 200 additional students until Sept. 30.
The opportunity is especially welcome at a time when the economy has made it difficult for employers to take on new employees, college staff said.
“This is a win-win situation,” said Susan Sweeney, director of the CalWORKS program at Gavilan. “The students get needed income and work experience in their field of study, and the employers get reimbursed for 75 percent of employment costs. There are some amazing people in this program who need an opportunity to get back on their feet.”
CalWORKS screens the students ahead of time, and sends the employer several appropriate candidates to interview. Local employers, including Rebekah Children’s Services in Gilroy and Greenwood Chevrolet in Hollister, are already participating. The new stimulus funds must be used in Santa Clara County, one of only three counties in the state to be granted the additional funds.
To participate, employers must agree to provide a monthly evaluation of each student employee, and should expect to provide some on-the-job training. The pay rate is set at a standard $10 per hour, with a schedule of up to 20 hours per week during academic semesters, and 32 to 35 hours per week during college breaks. Employers pay the trainees directly and employers are then reimbursed each month for 75 percent of salary costs. The CalWORKS office works with employers to ensure satisfactory job performance. CalWORKS students must adhere to the employers’ work schedule and meet academic, performance and conduct standards to remain in the program.
Employers who would like more information about the program can contact Annette Gutierrez at (408) 848-4798 or at [email protected].
