Item 09 - Biennial Modification to the PY 2021-24 Regional and Local Workforce Plan

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Orange County WDBs 2023 Biennial Modification to PY 2021-24 Unified Local Plan 10 C. One-Stop System's Use of Technology and Other Remote Strategies In March 2020, the local boards' modified operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Santa Ana and Orange County AJCC/One-Stop Centers were accessible in-person (by appointment) and through virtual services. Anaheim WDB provided phone and virtual services to clients and collaborated with the Anaheim Central Library to support clients who needed access to computers and additional in-person support. The local boards are again providing in-person services at their AJCCs. Hybrid strategies, a combination of in-person and virtual services, have become the norm. Following the expansion of virtual services during the pandemic, the boards clearly recognized that many individuals prefer to access services without going into a one-stop career center location. Virtual service delivery is also effective for many individuals with barriers, such as transportation and childcare. However, the local boards acknowledge that virtual service delivery poses obstacles for individuals who struggle with technology and do not have access to a computer or broadband service. The three WDBs are collaborating with various initiatives at all levels of government to decrease the digital divide. Before the pandemic, the Orange County WDB began the development of a comprehensive virtual One-Stop Center. While work on the project was somewhat slowed during the pandemic, a fully functioning virtual AJCC will be available by late 2024. The virtual one-stop delivery system will use a customized learning management system (LMS) that provides local boards and AJCC partners with a single system for the online delivery of services. The LMS system will help jobseekers access job search assistance, training, and essential support services from any location. Businesses will be able to conduct virtual hiring events and remotely access AJCC support. The system provides significantly expanded access for Orange County residents, including those in remote areas. Services provided online during the pandemic are still available via the web and in-person under the hybrid approach. Such services include orientations, workshops, and rapid response events. AJCC educational partners continue to provide instruction online. Workforce development system partners have also developed a blended model that includes online and in-person service delivery. Some of the boards and AJCC partners provide hardware resources, including internet hotspots, laptops, and Chromebooks, to program participants, while others make these tools available at their facilities or accessible community-based locations. Another effective strategy for making workforce services widely accessible is the Orange County WDB's use of a wheelchair-accessible mobile unit that functions as a One-Stop on wheels. The mobile unit has twelve computers and a monitor on the outside used for outdoor orientations and workshops. It is available for the boards and system partners to use to serve the community. The unit is regularly dispatched to community events, EXHIBIT 2