THE PROSPECT FOR COMMUNITY-BASED INTERVENTION INTO WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT POLICY FOR LOW-SKILLED URBAN POPULATIONS

Abstract

This case study documents the experience of the Opportunities Industrialization Center of America (OICA) during the transition to and implementation of the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act of 1973 (CETA). It explores the potential of maintaining a community-based workforce development model for low-skilled urban populations in changing policy contexts that rupture existing frameworks linking people to work. Community-based organizations with unique service delivery models, including OICA, were given less direct funding and influence in workforce development provision and production under CETA. I explore to what extent the government and OICA promoted community-based leadership in planning and ideal implementation of workforce development for low-skilled populations in this milieu. I analyzed archival data documenting correspondence between OICA and government and within OICA from the enactment of CETA in 1973 through 1977. OICA was instrumental in adopting context-specific orientations towards government and other service providers to maintain a voice and to garner funding, and also had internal strife over how to expand and prioritize community input within CETA's regulations. More consistent funding and a sincere commitment to community representation in workforce development provision and production by both the state and organizations like OICA is essential to promoting ideal workforce development for spatially and economically isolated urban communities. Support for and implementation of rigorous internal evaluation, with participation of all stakeholders, would also improve processes and outcomes for an organization looking to both promote community empowerment and expand nationally.