Promising Futures Ahead for Region’s Youth as CWI Expands JAG Programs

VALPARAISO, IN – When Gov. Holcomb announced plans to double down on Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) across Indiana, the Center of Workforce Innovations sprang into action — meeting with educators across the Region. As a result, the 13 JAG schools CWI started the last academic year has ballooned to 22 programs as the 2024-2025 school year begins. 

Since 2006, the national program has taken root in Northwest Indiana, offering resources for high school students who often deal with systemic issues preventing their personal and academic success. To better assist them during this crucial time, CWI is adding seven additional multi-year programs at area schools and establishing two college success courses at Ivy Tech Community College campuses in Lake and Porter counties.   

“The goal is to provide students with the skills they need to overcome their most daunting challenges and build confidence in their choices,” explained Tammy Stump, Senior Workforce Associate for the Center of Workforce Innovation. “Our JAG students are smart and resilient, yet just need a little guidance from us to help them reach their goals.”  

The development is in keeping with a key 2023 initiative launched by Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb, which sought to expand Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) to 250 programs in Indiana by the 2024-2025 school year. The Hoosier state will invest over $23.1 million in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grants, which the Department of Workforce Development will oversee through WorkOne. 

For more information about JAG in Region 1, please contact Michelle Ginder at (574) 772-6882 or mginder@gotoworkonenw.com.