Train and gain for ending poverty

In an effort to help individuals deal with problems caused by poverty, a large number of education and job-training programs have been instituted and tried for many years.

Results have been far from universally successful, but there have been some good results.In his book The New Poverty, Ralph daCosta Nunez offers details on the Train and Gain (TAG) program, which integrates a variety of services of broad-based support in order to achieve success.

According to Nunez, Train and Gain consists of the following components:

• Pre-employment workshops. Participants attend a weeklong pre-employment workshop before beginning job training.
• Education and GED preparation. Participants without a high school diploma enroll in an on-site alternative high school to prepare for the GED exam. Those with a diploma take part in basic education and family literacy programs.
• Mentoring and skill-building internships. Participants choose to receive employment training in a variety of career fields.
• Supportive workshops: practical living/useful skills. Workshops help participants learn about the issues involved in living independently.
• Employment and basic-skill building. Participants attend weekly workshops providing support and guidance on issues related to finding and working at a job.
• Job search and placement. Job placement caseworkers assist participants in securing permanent employment.
• Postplacement services. Caseworkers assist with issues such as childcare, transportation or health that could threaten new-found employment.