In 2009, SkillUp Washington convened an “Economic Opportunity Steering Committee” to develop specific recommendations for helping homeless families succeed in getting the employment and training needed to become self-sufficient.  SkillUp also conducted in-depth research and interviews with homeless families and service providers, to inform and guide the recommendations of the committee.  Based on the committee’s recommendations, King County’s Department of Community & Human Services created Project Self-Sufficiency for Families and Singles, which launched in October 2009.

The program links educational, vocational, and employment opportunities to housing and support services. This project uses an individual, dynamic, and holistic approach to employment and education services, helping people break the chain of intergenerational poverty and homelessness. By December 2011, the Project will have served 100 homeless families/individuals with education, employment and support services.  King County will host and facilitate education and employment workshops on-site and at partner locations.  Ultimately, the goal of the project is complete self-sufficiency for these families and individuals. 

Attainment Fund
SkillUp Washington created a support services fund to help King County’s clients succeed.  This “Attainment Fund” will fill resource gaps and help remove financial obstacles standing in the way of educational advancement and job placement.  A sum of $65,000 has been allocated to the Project for client support services, and SkillUp leveraged additional support from the City of Seattle’s Office of Economic Development to pay all costs for Attainment Fund management, allowing the full $65,000 to be used for direct support services.