Durham Strategic Plan Dashboard
Prosperity
Status Indicator: 
In Progress | 
On Hold | 
Complete/Ongoing
Initiative: 1.32 Expand employment opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment
Shared Economic Prosperity
Description
Individuals who face barriers such as prior involvement with the justice system, visible or hidden disabilities, educational or skill gaps, or lack of stable housing often experience higher rates of unemployment and workplace discrimination. This initiative leverages the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to connect these individuals with critical resources, including skills training, career development, and comprehensive wraparound support services. The goal is to create equitable pathways to meaningful employment and long-term economic stability.
Key Measures & Data Analysis
The Training to Work program ended in August 2024. The Welcome Home Peer Support program has been moved to the City of Durham’s Community Safety Department.
A new program, Partners for Reentry Opportunities in Workforce Development (PROWD), is a federal initiative that helps individuals prepare for employment in the six months before they are released from federal prison. Durham’s PROWD program partners with the federal prison in Butner and is based at the NCWorks Career Center on South Briggs Avenue in Durham.
NC Training 2 Work Program
Why is it important?
Supporting individuals who face barriers to employment is vital for fostering shared economic prosperity and inclusive growth within communities. By promoting workforce diversity and inclusion, communities can unlock untapped potential, helping to reduce income inequality, improve social mobility, and build greater resilience. Inclusive employment practices not only empower individuals but also strengthen the local workforce, attract businesses, and stimulate sustainable economic development. Investing in the skills and opportunities of all community members is a holistic strategy that benefits individuals, employers, and the broader economy alike.
What have we been doing?
Staff have worked to improve access to employment for residents facing significant barriers — including those with criminal records and disabilities — through targeted programming, employer engagement, and partnerships.
Key activities include:
• Planning an Employer Roundtable to better understand how NCWorks and DWDB can support businesses in hiring individuals facing barriers.
• Developing a Job Club for jobseekers with barriers in partnership with Center Partners and NCWorks staff.
• Working with Center Partners to develop certificates of completion for program participants.
Spotlight: Participating in the State of NC Career Expo (November 10, 2025) to connect Durham jobseekers with statewide employer opportunities.
What's next?
Efforts to expand employment access for residents facing barriers will continue through the following activities:
• Jobseeker Job Club Launch – Introducing the Job Club to the City and County of Durham to serve residents with employment barriers.
• WIOA Collaboration – Meeting monthly with the WIOA Team and Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities.
• Hiring Events – Continuing to host hiring events connecting employers and jobseekers.
• Registered Apprenticeships – Exploring employer and participant opportunities aligned with the Governor's 6% WIOA funding initiative.
City Website Home Page: Durham, NC | Official Website (durhamnc.gov)
Budget Website Page: Budget & Management Services Department | Durham, NC (durhamnc.gov)
Budget and Management Services Department
Office of Performance and Innovation
Strategy and Performance Division