The questions below are designed to help you understand the basics of the dislocated worker program; however, each circumstance is very unique. Please talk to your counselor about your individual situation to help us serve you to the best of our ability.
What is a Special Dislocated Worker Project? This brochure explains the basic steps of the program. A special project occurs when the State of Minnesota decides to allocate dedicated funds to serve those affected from a lay-off of fifty or more workers.
What is the goal of the program? The goal of the program is to help people return to work at wages similar to their pre lay-off wages.
Who is eligible? NWA employees permanently laid-off on or after March 1, 2009 who are seeking full time employment.
I am retired, am I eligible?
Retired implies you are accessing a retirement account, a pension and/or social security and are NOT planning to return to work. If this describes your situation, you are not eligible. As each situation is unique, this can often be confusing, if you are unsure – please speak with an employment counselor about your specific situation.
I was a part time employee; I want to return to part time work, am I eligible?
No, Federal rules do not allow us to provide intensive services to those seeking part time employment, but you are still able to use any of our workforce centers and attend any workshops or services open to the general public. If you decide you want to pursue full time employment, then you may be eligible and should speak to an employment counselor to further explore if you are eligible.
How much financial assistance can I expect to receive? We are pleased to be able to offer up to $2,500 for training and another $600 to be used for either support or training. Thus the total now available for NWA clients is $3,100.00. This may change over time as fund availability fluctuates.
I took a voluntary furlough, am I eligible? Individuals are not eligible unless they have a notice of permanent lay off. Voluntary furloughs are not the same as a permanent lay-off. If in the future you do receive that notice, you would then be eligible if the project is still enrolling clients.
Who do I call if I have a complaint? Please talk to your counselor first. If you are unsatisfied upon talking to your counselor, the Program Developer is Helene Woods, who is available through email at
helene.woods@co.dakota.mn.us.