Michigan Business Beat | Tekea Norwood, CAMW! Rapid Response Program Details

Michigan Business Network

Originally uploaded October 24, re-edited Nov. 29th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Tekea Norwood, COO, CAMW! the Capital Area Michigan Works!, Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham Eaton and Clinton Counties. THEME: Capital Area Michigan Works! COO Tekea Norwood explains the Rapid Response program, a personalized service that offers support in identifying layoff prevention strategies and proactively sharing resources to dislocated workers. Question: What is the Rapid Response program and how does it support businesses facing layoffs or closures? ● We know that layoffs are a difficult decision for employers to make. Through the Rapid Response program, employers can ensure their employees are supported and connected to other available employment opportunities when they experience a layoff. ● Through the combined efforts of local workforce boards, economic development organizations and other stakeholders, Rapid Response helps communities address the broader economic impact of significant layoffs or closures, supports efforts to revitalize local economies,... Question: How can an employer determine if a layoff is necessary and how does Rapid Response support when making that decision? ● Cultivating an ongoing relationship with the Capital Area Michigan Works! business services team is the best way employers can identify the warning signs of a layoff and develop a plan quickly as it allows our Rapid Response team to be aware of the layoffs and schedule an initial employer meeting as soon as possible. ● When an employer comes to us with notice of a potential layoff, the CAMW! Chief Executive Officer will coordinate with our state-level Rapid Response Coordinator to arrange an initial meeting with the employer. Question: What happens if layoffs cannot be avoided? What resources does the Rapid Response program offer to employees impacted by layoffs? ● If layoffs are unavoidable, a worker orientation meeting will be organized, where the CAMW! team will meet with employees and connect them with information and support in finding a new job. ○ These resources may include training information, assistance to update resumes and details on the labor market to notify workers which industries are currently hiring and help them understand their options. ○ CAMW! staff will also provide information on the WIOA Dislocated Workers program, an initiative designed to help workers get back to work as quickly as possible after losing their jobs due to layoffs, plant closures or other economic factors. ● The establishment of a Joint Adjustment Committee (JAC) may also occur. Question: What has been the broader community impact of Rapid Response efforts in helping people re-enter the workforce? ● The Rapid Response Program has helped our region by revitalizing the local economy. ○ By quickly engaging with affected workers, the Rapid Response program helps reduce the immediate financial strain on individuals and households, which ensures displaced workers can secure new employment faster and prevent a severe downturn in local spending. Question: Where can people go to learn more about the Rapid Response program? ● To learn more about the Rapid Response program or connect with CAMW’s business services team, contact Tekea Norwood, Chief Operating Officer, at [phone],