CLASP is committed to making WIOA work. That’s why we’ve developed short, action-focused memos outlining how states, local areas, advocates, and service providers can leverage opportunities to serve low-income youth and adults through state and local plans, policies and guidance, and budget choices.
Young people who have early work experience are more likely to finish school, work consistently throughout adulthood, and earn higher wages. However, low-income youth (particularly youth of color) have limited access to social networks and opportunities like summer and year-round employment that help them understand the world of work, earn decent wages, and master work readiness skills. That’s why CLASP helps states and communities leverage the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, as well as other education and training policies, to help low-income youth access employment and training.