Learn More About Employment Services Available In Monmouth County

This Patch article is sponsored by Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners

Local businesses are the heart of our communities. Patch had a chance to talk with Susan M. Kiley, Deputy Director of Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners.

Patch: Could you please tell us a bit about your role as Commissioner and your connection to the Monmouth County Division of Workforce Development?

Susan M. Kiley: I am the liaison to the Monmouth County Department of Health and Department of Human Services. Each of the five Commissioners acts as a liaison between the various departments and the board. This is a very effective way of communicating with the departments and understanding their needs – both financial and programmatic. We can bring that insight back to the entire commissioner group for discussion. We also present and highlight some of the key happenings in each department for the public in our Commissioner Meetings.

Patch: What is the Monmouth County Division of Workforce Development and to whom is it helpful?

Kiley: The Monmouth County Division of Workforce Development seeks to provide residents access to professional employment services and supports which lead to sustainable employment, and to meet the current and future workforce needs of employers. The funding received helps to remove barriers to long-term employment.

Our diverse menu of services is designed to connect Monmouth County residents in need with assistance with job searching and resume writing, upgrading job skills for career advancement and/or referrals to partnering agencies and community resources throughout Monmouth County.

Patch: Why are career-building, transportation and employment services so important for SNAP and TANF recipients?

Kiley: This program offers a wide range of opportunities and training at little and sometimes at no cost. There are a variety of options on different career tracks available to Monmouth County residents receiving SNAP and/or TANF. You can brush up on skills in your current area of interest, or pursue training and upskilling to strengthen the workforce. We have employers engaged as well to help residents find job placement opportunities. We also offer on-the-job opportunities to help residents obtain employment.

Patch: How can people access these services?

Kiley: For more information on the program, there are several ways to contact us. For more information on the Division of Workforce Development, you can call 732-683-8850 ext. 4111 or email Lisa.albarella@dol.nj.gov. You can also go to www.workinmonmouth.com/workfirst-new-jersey. The Division of Workforce Development is located at 60 North Taylor Avenue, Neptune, NJ 07753.

Patch: Is there anything else you want Monmouth County SNAP and TANF recipients to know?

Kiley: You can achieve long term success by exploring all of the benefits available to you through Monmouth County programs. There is no wrong door into the system. Also, the Monmouth ACTS initiative can provide assistance and guidance in various areas like child care, behavioral health services and so much more. We are here to help – call 732-683-2102, or visit www.monmouthacts.org.