WDBSCW Announces More Rapid Response Workforce Services Available to Support Workers Affected by Wave of Major Retail Closings

MADISON, May 22, 2018 / — The Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin (WDBSCW), the regional leader in workforce development, announces three more Rapid Response information sessions. This announcement comes in response to the continuous wave of retail closures, including Toys”R”Us, Sam’s Club, and Bon-Ton (Boston Stores).

Rapid Response is a workforce service designed to directly help workers affected by company downsizings and closures. All affected workers from any retail layoff – and those impacted by company closures like Kraft Foods/Oscar Mayer – are eligible for help and reemployment services.

Information sessions are held to help dislocated workers transition into their next career, with services including interview preparation, resume development, Unemployment Insurance and healthcare information and community resource connections. The services are offered in collaboration with the WorkSmart Network, Wisconsin Job Service and the American Job Center network. Information sessions will be held on:

  • Thursday, May 24 / 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. / Marion Fuller Archer Room / Middleton Library
  • Tuesday, May 29 / 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. / Pinney Meeting Room / Pinney Madison Public Library
  • Thursday, June 7 / 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. / Room 5 / Dane County Job Center

WDBSCW Rapid Response services have helped thousands of impacted workers since 2015, with 1,182 workers accessing the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act-funded Dislocated Worker program for more intensive help. These individuals are connected to Career Planners for career exploration services, training and education assistance or a combination of both as part of a customized reemployment plan.

Additional sessions will be offered in the community as needed. For those unable to attend the information sessions, contact the WDBSCW for more information on regularly offered workshops and services available at your local American Job Center. For more information, contact Renee Cephas at 608.242.4562 or gro.krowtentramskrownull@sahpecr or visit www.worksmartnetwork.org/ive-been-laid-off.

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About Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin
The Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin (WDBSCW) is a private 503(c)(3) nonprofit organization that collaborates with business and workforce in the Wisconsin counties of Columbia, Dane, Dodge, Jefferson, Marquette and Sauk with a mission to build public and private partnerships that support innovation and excellence in workforce development.

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