The Community College and Career Training Grant Program: Lessons Learned from the Field and Recommendations

In March, Congress authorized the Community College and Career Training Grant Program in the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, with appropriations of $500 million each year for fiscal years 2011 through 2014. Institutions can apply for grants for the purpose of “developing, offering, and improving educational or career training” for workers eligible for training under the Trade Adjustment Assistance Act. Based on JFF’s experience in the field, Ray Uhalde and Richard Kazis recommend how this grant program can encourage community colleges to help more dislocated and unemployed workers move quickly through effective programs that result in successful employment and educational outcomes.