The Partnership under the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA)

Dr. Joanne Mesina
WIOA Program Coordinator
708.482.1182
jmessina@ladse.org

​LADSE receives funding from The Partnership under the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA).  Funding from the grant offers in-school youth with disabilities the opportunity to gain year-round work experience in the community as well as opportunities to attend week-end workshops and work-related activities at the LADSE Business Office.

Our high school districts refer qualified candidates to Dr. Joanne Messina who manages the WIOA Program at LADSE. Candidates for the program must be a full-time student at our respective high schools; reside in Cook County; be living at home with a parent(s); foster parent and/or guardian; and all male students must register with Selective Service upon turning the age of 18.  Students must be between 16-21 years of age. 

After a referral is received, the first step is for students to meet directly with Dr. Messina for an interview and a full explanation of the program.  Eligible candidates are required to have one and/or two goals (1) to gain competitive employment and/or (2) to pursue post-secondary education.

Upon enrollment students receive support on a year-round basis through community work experience, Saturday off-site and on-site workshops, and activities. The majority of work experience is gained during the summer months.  Our relationships with numerous local businesses offer students outstanding opportunities to gain knowledge and skills in the areas of: hospitality; technology; early childhood; maintenance; landscaping; long-term residential facilities; library services; business administration; and local community support.   

To gain additional information on this program, contact Dr. Joanne Messina @ 708.482.1182