JOBS

HELP IS OUT THERE: JOB PROGRAMS FOR JOB SEEKERS
The recent Chrysler and General Motors bankruptcies mean that more families will need job search and family assistance programs. There is a lot of help available for job seekers, but unfortunately many people don’t know how to access these programs. I hope that readers will find this information helpful.

These programs are available for job seekers:

• Career Education and Workforce Programs (Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth). For job programs for veterans, people transitioning from welfare to work, specialized job placement programs, and dislocated/laid off worker assistance visit the website at http://www.michigan.gov/mdcd/0,1607,7-122-1679---,00.html.

• Rapid Response Program (Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth): 1-517-373-6234. This program begins when Rapid Response is notified of a plant closing or mass lay-off, and helps people with their job search and new training they may need. Visit the website at http://www.michigan.gov/mdcd/0,1607,7-122-1678_2665---,00.html.

• Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC): The Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center (MI-SBTDC), 2727 Second Ave., Suite 120, Detroit, 1-313-967-9295. This office provides counseling, training, research and advocacy for new ventures, new start-up businesses, and existing small businesses.

• Unemployment Insurance Agency. To file your claim by phone call 1-866-500-0017. To inquire about your claim call 1-866-500-0017, press 3. To find answers to general questions about unemployment benefits, and to print forms, visit www.michigan.gov/uia.

• Michigan Talent Bank: 1-888-253-6855. This site lists new job openings monthly and allows people to post their resume. Visit the website at: https://www.michworks.org/mtb/user/MTB_EMPL.EntryMainPage.