Program Implementation

Tips to Implementation: The implementation of a JET program is a massive undertaking but it can be done with planning and organization. It is also important to have strong leadership. Partnerships with local service providers and other agencies are crucial to the success of the program. Branching out to other partners to address barriers, such as literacy and clothing needs, makes the program successful. Also, one constant in the jobs, education, and training area is change. Regulations will change over time, as will Federal and State policies. It is imperative to have a meeting with service providers when there are changes. Communication is a key to the success of the program.

Keys to Success:

• Planning and organization
• Good leaders
• Partnerships with other agencies
• Adapting to change
• Communication with service providers and other agencies

Challenges: Funding was a challenge since it leads to staffing and resource cuts. Staff turnover at the service provider sites was also a challenge. Staff training has been an important component, emphasizing that service providers need to deliver the same message to all participants.

Other Lessons Learned: The first 5 years of the program were a challenge due to the difficulties associated with technology (e.g., using a dial up connection to enter data into the State database). Need to have appropriate technology to do the job effectively.