“For everywhere we look, there is work to be done.  The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act – not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth.”  President Obama’s Inaugural Speech, January 20, 2009

On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to:

• Create and save jobs
• Jumpstart our economy
• Build the foundation for long-term economic growth

The Act will create or save three to four million jobs, 90 percent of them in the private sector.  It will provide more than $150 billion to low-income and vulnerable households.  It includes measures to:

• Modernize the nation’s infrastructure
• Enhance American’s energy independence
• Expand educational opportunities
• Increase access to health care
• Provide tax relief
• Protect those in greatest need

With much at stake, the Act provides for unprecedented levels of transparency and accountability so that Americans will be able to know how, when, and where tax dollars are being spent.

THE LANE WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIP RECEIVED $3,097,000 IN AMERICAN RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT ACT FUNDS

Summer Jobs and Careers Program for Youth ($1,464,309)

The funds will be used to serve a minimum of 300 low income Lane County youth between the ages of 14 and 24.  These funds will be used to implement a Summer Jobs and Careers Program that will run from May 1 through September 30, 2009.   The Act outlines the major objectives of youth services under the Act. 

Low Income Adults ($565,169)

The funds will be used to serve approximately 200 low income adults.  Duration of funding is through June 30, 2010. 

Dislocated Workers ($1,067,522)

The funds will be used to serve approximately 300 laid off workers.  Duration of funding is through June 30, 2010.