Workforce Opportunities for Resilient Communities (WORC)
Securing Decatur's Future Through Strategic Workforce Development
Workforce Opportunities for Resilient Communities (WORC) is dedicated to transforming the local workforce landscape through innovative and accessible programs. Our initiatives are designed to connect residents with the tools and opportunities needed for meaningful employment and career advancement. By integrating real-time labor market insights with comprehensive career pathways and targeted training, WORC is committed to fostering economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for all community members, especially those from historically underserved backgrounds. Join us in our mission to empower and uplift through education, employment, and strategic collaboration.
Empowering Our Community
Decatur faces acute employment challenges, particularly among its Black population, where a significant employment gap persists due to historical and systemic barriers. Over the past decade, shifts in local industry and demographic changes have further exacerbated these issues, underscoring the need for a targeted intervention. The Workforce Opportunities for Resilient Communities (WORC) initiative, led by Richland Community College, seeks a $47 million grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to address systemic employment barriers and activate sustainable economic renewal.
Program Highlights
Workforce Ecosystem Platform
Revolutionizes how employers and training institutions identify candidates, and transforms residents’ access and engagement with the local job market, providing a clear, interactive guide to career opportunities in Decatur.
Impact: Creates a well-connected workforce ecosystem to showcase economic opportunity and connect and employers and residents to well-paying jobs. Offers insights into job availability and career paths, empowering all community members to achieve economic mobility and improved quality of life.
EnRich 2.0
Delivers robust training in trauma-informed essential skills and technical skills in high-demand sectors, aligning closely with industry needs to ensure relevant job placements.
Growth: Aims to enroll an additional 1,900 participants over five years, addressing urgent labor market demands in industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and construction.
Decatur Public Schools Workforce Academy
Prepares at-risk high school seniors with essential career skills and academic support, creating direct pathways to employment or further education.
Achievements: Targets a 90% graduation rate among participants, significantly enhancing Decatur’s economic resilience.
Decatur Public Schools Extended Day
Offers vital before and after-school care that aligns with parental work schedules and enhances student learning.
Impact: Supports 1,200 students and 1,400 parents annually, providing critical care that allows parents to sustain employment while students receive educational enrichment.
United Way ALICE Project
Provides targeted support to employed but financially vulnerable residents, helping them stabilize and improve their economic situations through comprehensive services.
Scope: Set to assist 5,700 participants with financial aid, counseling, and connections to other WORC programs for skill advancement.
Leadership
Dr. Cristobal Valdez
President, Richland Community College
Rev. Courtney Carson
Vice President of External Affairs & EnRich, Richland Community College
Gina Taylor
Director of EnRich, Richland Community College
Ashley Grayned
Executive Director of Innovative Programs and Strategic Planning, Decatur Public Schools
Debra Bogle
President, United Way of Decatur & Mid-Illinois
Nicole Bateman
President, Economic Development Corporation of Decatur-Macon County
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