Workforce Solutions: 2020 Annual Business Report

Workforce Solutions offers services to help job seekers be competitive in the local job market through career development and coaching services, including assessments, basic skill development, occupational training, job search support and placement. Services are also available for Ramsey County businesses looking to connect with qualified job seekers. 

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced the CareerForce sites to close, Workforce Solutions shifted to providing remote employment assistance and guidance counseling support. Virtual workshops were offered in partnership with CareerForce. Community Career Labs were opened within Ramsey County Services Centers and at Saint Paul Public Library sites to provide in-person and virtual job seeker services.  

In partnership with Job Service, Adult Basic Education, Vocational Rehabilitation, more than 200 community organizations and many education partners, Workforce Solutions lifts up Ramsey County’s goals of well-being, prosperity, opportunity and accountability to achieve success for all residents. 

CARES Act Funding

Through Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding, Workforce Solutions deployed nearly $12.5 million to support in-person career labs, digital equity initiatives and community-based contracts to support impacted job seekers. More than 13,000 services delivered in partnership with nearly 90 community-based organizations.

View CARES Act Funding Evaluation Report

TechPak Initiative

Looking for a job without access to technology is a challenge in today’s economy and the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically amplified that need.  Ramsey County’s TechPak initiative, developed in partnership with Tech Dump, PCs For People, Literacy Minnesota, Saint Paul Public Library and Ramsey County Library, brought laptops, internet, training and technical support into the homes of 2,150 residents facing technology barriers.  These tools are making a significant impact on closing the digital equity gap and expanding career opportunities for many job seekers.    

“I’m so grateful to receive a laptop with a hot spot! It will help me and my family so much. I can look for jobs, write resumes and help my kids with their homework. Today you need internet access for everything and it’s going to give me and my family peace of mind.” Jeramiah C.  

For more information on the impact TechPaks are having in our community, visit Ramsey County’s Open Data Portal.   

2020 Vocational Rehabilitation Services     

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