Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 660 § 660.405 — Grant

Grant program for collaborative pilot projects that employ workforce benefits navigators; rules. (1) As used in this section: (a) “Community-based organization” has the meaning given that term in ORS 660.390. (b) “Comprehensive one-stop center” has the meaning given that term in 34 C.F.R. 361.305. (c) “Workforce benefits navigator” means an individual who: (A) Is employed at a comprehensive one-stop center or a community-based organization to advise and assist individuals from priority populations in accessing workforce programs and applying for benefits and services that are available under the programs; (B) Has comprehensive knowledge and understanding of workforce programs and the benefits and services that are available under those programs; (C) Is aware of the cultural and linguistic differences of individuals from priority populations, including knowledge of the lived experiences of such individuals; and (D) Is trained in trauma-informed practices. (2) The Higher Education Coordinating Commission, in consultation with the State Workforce and Talent Development Board, shall establish and administer a program to award grants for pilot projects implemented by local workforce development boards that partner with comprehensive one-stop centers or community-based organizations to employ a workforce benefits navigator to connect individuals from priority populations to workforce programs and to increase access for such individuals to services and benefits made available under those workforce programs. (3) The commission shall establish criteria and standards by which local workforce development boards may submit proposals to receive a grant under this section. (4) The commission may adopt any rules necessary for carrying out the provisions of this section. [2022 c.28 §11]