WIA is an acronym for Workforce Investment Act. This act was passed by Congress to help youth ages 14-21 with education and employment. The program began in 2000 and is funded through the Department of Labor.

WIA Youth Services helps young people to prepare for participation in the workforce by supporting eligible youth with the opportunities and resources they need to achieve their education and employment goals.

We serve youth living in Lancaster and Saunders Counties. In order to qualify for assistance, youth must meet some basic eligibility criteria (refer to the frequently asked questions page for more information on eligibility criteria).

For education goals, we assist youth in completing their high school diploma, GED or college. We help youth who have dropped out, graduated and those currently in school. Depending on each specific case, we may have funding to help pay for the following: school fees, tuition, books and testing fees. We can pay for training in areas like CNA, Medical Assisting, Office Technology, Auto Mechanics, Welding, etc.

For employment goals, we can set up job shadows and work experiences. Some of the youth are hired on by the employer after the work experience is completed. If they are not hired on by the employer, we encourage them to add the experience to their resume and search for a job. We also help youth with resumes, applications, job searches and interviews.