From staff reports LAWTON – The Lawton- based nonprofit MIGHT Community Development & Resource Center has launched a $6.1 million workforce development program, which will be funded over five years by Oklahoma Human Services.
QUEST of Oklahoma, operating as MIGHT CDRC, was founded in 2001 to collaborate with government agencies, churches and community organizations across the state, MIGHT officials said in a news release. They said the organization’s experience working with diverse populations matched with the goals of Work Ready Oklahoma, a program which aims to connect job seekers and employers.
The workforce development program is led by Director Bernita Taylor, program manager Monique Reese and job coaches Amber Guest and Tanna Vu, with administrative support by Brooke Brown, will offer workshops for low-income individuals and families, historically unemployed or underemployed people, low-skilled workers and those with criminal backgrounds.
At least 75 community members will be served in the program’s first year at the new Work Ready Oklahoma Employment Center in Lawton, officials said. Recruitment will begin this month, and services will start in September.
“Work Ready Lawton is committed to strengthening families by helping low-income individuals gain livable wages through stable, quality employment,” Taylor said in the news release. “This approach not only prioritizes financial and family stability but also contributes to the growth and vitality of our local community.”
Work Ready Oklahoma has operated successfully in the Oklahoma City metro area for eight years, according to the news release. In 2022, Work Ready Oklahoma expanded to rural Oklahoma, opening centers in McIntosh, Muskogee and Pittsburg counties. The pilot programs placed 164 people in jobs, with 60% landing remote positions, between January and October 2022.
This effort generated an estimated $6 million in annual wages.
Each employment center will feature a coworking space and offer ongoing coaching and support for remote workers. The program will also provide training and employment initiatives to prepare participants for self-sufficient careers.
Services are free to participants, thanks to Oklahoma Human Services’ funding.
Learn more about the program at www. workreadyoklahoma. com.
For information about MIGHT CDRC’s involvement in Work Ready Oklahoma and its impact on the community, contact Tanna Vu at tanna@wro-lawton.com or (580) 284-3398.