We have not conducted the Work, Not Welfare experiment to the extent that Fond du Lac County has. We are encouraged that the experience gained in these programs leads quickly to regular jobs for most participants. They acquire the skills and habits needed to get and keep a job. These programs work very well in conjunction with part-time training. This combination works more effectively on the whole than classroom training alone.
Work experience brings recipients into the mainstream of adult life.
In addition to gaining skills, they gain the confidence they need to meet the challenges of the workplace. We have been careful in developing all of our work sites to protect the rights of current employees. Subsidized training slots result in permanent employment in new jobs. Public and non-profit work experience workers make significant contributions to community life and gain real skills. But they are doing jobs that would otherwise not be done because there is no money to pay for them.