Healthier Workforce 2009: Improving the Health and Employability of Welfare-to-Work Participants

Reducing health related barriers to employment and improve the health status of Wisconsin Works (W-2) participants

Full Project Name:Healthier Workforce 2009: Improving the Health and Employability of Welfare-to-Work ParticipantsPrimary Community Organization:Community Advocates, Inc.Primary Academic Partner:Ann Maguire, MD, MedicineAward Amount:$388,183

Award Date

July2006

Project Duration:36 months

Project Description Narrative:

In 1998, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) began the Wisconsin Works (W-2) program, designed to move participants into the workforce as quickly as possible. Physical disabilities and health issues, however, can create barriers to attaining and maintaining employment for at least half of W-2 participants.

With the Healthier Workforce 2009 project, comprehensive interventions will be developed, and a replicable model will be created to increase wellness and employability among W-2 participants and low-income workers in Wisconsin and beyond.

Community partner: MAXIMUS, Inc.