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Volume III | Chapter 9 OTHER TRAINING PROGRAMS Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Training funds for employers may be available through the federally funded training programs established under the existing Workforce Investment Act (WIA). WIA is administered through the Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES) through contract with the Mississippi Development Authority and four workforce investment areas. The Workforce Investment Network, or WIN, is the primary framework for the delivery of WIA services in Mississippi. The larger or comprehensive WIN Job Centers offer co-located partner staff, such as the Department of Employment Security, Department of Rehabilitation Services, local community colleges and various other partners. The smaller or affiliate centers offer services by the Department of Employment Security and provide information about other partners’ services. Coordination with WIN Job Centers will broaden the range of services offered to WIA programs specifically to help the following individuals: 1. Economically Disadvantaged a. Youths (14 to 21) b. Adults (22 and older) c. Older Workers (55 and older) 2. Dislocated Workers Because the economic conditions and demographics of each region vary, the programs offered will vary from county to county. This may require different methods of coordinating and documenting the information on the TWP participant. The case manager and job readiness trainers must work with their local WIN Job Center to incorporate the services of WIA training with countable TWP activities and establish procedures for making, monitoring and tracking referrals. The following chart lists some of the programs and services provided utilizing WIA funds and how they should be identified in the TANF Work Program. 9172