A Message from the CEO
Workforce Solutions (WFS) is continuously working towards adapting how we do business to ensure we are meeting the needs of the job seekers and business. As the world continues to recover from the pandemic, WFS has remained determined in our mission to help Texans get back to work by providing support with paying for quality child care services and hosting frequent hiring events in collaboration with local business and community partners.
Best Regards,
Francisco Almaraz
CEO, Workforce Solutions
Stay Connected:
Facebook: WFS & RGVOP | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | YouTube
DLP Services, a company from Del Rio, Texas acquired a federal contract to provide janitorial services in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) and they requested assistance from Workforce Solutions (WFS) with recruitment services. WFS hosted seven hiring events for DLP Services at the WFS Centers (Weslaco and Mission) in the months of January and February 2022. DLP Services utilized WFS Centers every Monday and were invited to speak to job seekers in workforce related orientations. As a result of the partnership and staff efforts, over 200 job seekers were interviewed and approximately 180 individuals were hired.
Contact us today for assistance with your hiring needs!
Increasing Accessibility at WFS Offices
Driven by WFS Core Value, Inclusion, WFS has placed a great importance on developing, implementing, and sustaining an inclusive workforce system. As such, we welcome you to visit with our WFS partners, TWS-VRS. TWS-VRS supports people with disabilities to prepare for, obtain, maintain, and advance in meaningful employment by providing a range of services based on an individual’s employment goals.
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselors work closely with job seekers to determine an employment goal, and identify and arrange for services that lead to successful employment. VR staff are ready to serve you at the following WFS Centers Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. In addition, when requested, services are available remotely via phone, teleconference, or can be arranged for socially distanced in-person services.
If you or someone you know may benefit from services provided by TWS-VRS, you can visit Start My VR to begin the referral process. Start My VR is an online Self-Referral portal that allows Texans with disabilities to take the first step toward obtaining, retaining, or advancing in employment.
For additional information and resources access the following links: electronic publications and the VR online referral system.
WFS, in partnership with Pharr Economic Development Corporation and Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce, proudly presented The Hub Job Fair on Wednesday, March 23, 2022 at the Pepe Salinas Civic Center.
The event provided job seekers the opportunity to network with over 45 actively recruiting employers - just take it from Homero Lozoya! Mr. Lozano was able to attend this event and leave with a brand-new job!
For additional information on WFS services, job fairs and hiring events, and more, visit us online at www.wfsolutions.org.
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Service Industry Recovery Child Care Program Results
In 2021, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) initiated the Service Industry Recovery (SIR) Child Care Program. The program provided an important subsidy to many Texas families by providing 12 months of free child care to low-income parents employed in the service industry.
The industries targeted included low wage workers in the arts, entertainment, and recreation industries, as well as accommodations, food services and retail trade.
Through outreach efforts including, but not limited to television & radio campaigns, WFS was able to ensure a consistent stream of messaging to the service deliveryareas of Hidalgo, Willacy, and Starr counties. Furthermore, WFS coordinated with community partners to launch a grassroots Public Access Channel campaign across the Rio Grande Valley (RGV). In total, WFS was able to serve 1,596 families by helping them access child care services.
Contact WFS today at 888-261-3286 or schedule an appointment online at www.wfsolutions.org to learn more about child care services and other workforce services.
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RGV Externship for Teachers
TWC awarded WFS the RGV Externship for Teachers Grant in the amount of $129,603 in March 2022. The initiative will provide externship opportunities with local businesses to 90 middle and high school educators and provide a firsthand experience in the workforce. “The RGV Externship for Teachers initiative is just one of many ways that we work to align education to the workforce needs in our area,” said Francisco Almaraz, WFS Chief Executive Officer. “When teachers can get hands-on experience that this externship offers, they increase their capacity to prepare students for what they can expect in their future careers.”
Paid Internships Available for Young Adults!
It's never been easier for young adults to find a job or paid internship!
The E3 Program is a unique and innovative approach to providing WIOA Youth Services with a mission to ensure youth have access to the support, information, and learning opportunities to succeed in the 21stcentury economy.
To apply, simply fill out the form at www.wfsolutions.org/trf and a career advisor will contact you to discuss available opportunities. Look for a confirmation email from us in the mailbox you provided.
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NOW AVAILABLE: Workforce Solutions 2021 Annual Impact Report
The WFS Annual Impact Report is an overview of the impact the organization has made within the service delivery area throughout Fiscal Year 2021. The report, released April 2022, goes in-depth to highlight special programs and initiatives while also expanding on WFS’ role in the community, available services, and much more!
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Upcoming Event:
Quick Response Force: Removing Barriers
WFS honors all branches of military service who make great sacrifices to protect our freedom. To better support their employment needs, WFS in partnership with the Texas Veteran’s Commission, is hosting the Quick Reaction Force: Removing Barriers Webinar on April 28, 2022, from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
The goal of the webinar is to remove barriers to employment and share resources with veterans and eligible spouses to help them successfully transition to work. The webinar will be focused on WFS programs and services.
We invite veterans and their spouses to participate in this virtual event to learn more about WFS veteran services and resources.
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Texas State Senate Recognizes TWC Labor Commissioner for Exemplary Public Service
The Texas Senate recognized Julian Alvarez III, Texas Workforce Commissioner Representing Labor, for his commitment to outstanding public service. At the ceremony in the Rio Grande Valley, Senator Eddie Lucio Jr. (Texas District 27) presented Senate Proclamation No. 117, marking March 16, 2022, as Commissioner Julian Alvarez Day.
Commissioner Alvarez has championed several initiatives and programs, such as apprenticeship, vocational rehabilitation services and child care. All of these programs support equipping and ensuring businesses have a skilled and robust workforce.
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NEW FOR 2022: WFS Visualization Report
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WFS is excited to announce that in addition to the traditional WFS Monthly Labor Market Information Report shared with partners and stakeholders, WFS is sharing the newly re-formatted WFS Visualization Report.
The report has been designed to create a robust visual experience highlighting monthly statistics and events.
To access the latest reports click here.
To receive upcoming reports subscribe here.
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