Date of Award

Spring 3-8-2018

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine how to effectively increase the Work Participation Rate (WPR) and conduct an analysis of the different types of training programs, including job development, job readiness, resources, and implementation of the statewide CalWORKs 2.0, while addressing the barriers of TANF recipients not engaged or participating in work activities. The literature reviewed was relevant to the study by comparing strategies other states and counties have implemented to increase WPR and the visions of the role of work in the welfare program. The literature examines the significance of the TANF Work Participation Rates (WPR) and the consequences of states and counties not meeting the federal statutory rate set at 50 percent for all families and 90 percent for two-parent families. The need to address the policy issues is evident and pressing (OLR, 2006; CBPP/CLASP, 2007). The failure to achieve the Work Participation Rates (WPR) results in states being assessed a significant penalty to be withheld from the Federal Government block grant. A case study design approach was used for this study. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected using questionnaires, surveys, and interviews. The collected data was examined and analyzed to provide further information on supporting or opposing the strategies of the CalWORKs 2.0 and the viewpoint with the goal of buy-in from staff and participants. This case study is vital to the success of the City & County of San Francisco and California to further promote self-sufficiency to the participants receiving cash assistance through CalWORKs. This study is relevant in the field of Public Administration since it addresses the economic and socioeconomic issues which impact low-income families; specifically, children. The study is relevant to California programs such as CalWORKs budget and resources since imposing any penalties to the state and county welfare departments will essentially impact the goal of employment and work readiness activities that will lead to self-sufficiency.

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