Narrative: e. 2. C.

The MSFW Program (bilingual) Resource Guide provides staff and agency contact information. The information is important and sometimes crucial to MSFWs, whether they are seeking agricultural or non-agricultural employment. The MLRs post contact information with local businesses and agencies that are frequented by the MSFWs. In addition to the types of employment services available, this includes tear-off tabs with their names and phone numbers. These postings are written in English and Spanish. This is consistent with our commitment to universal access to labor exchange services and the requirement to ensure that all job seekers with LEP and/or little or no computer knowledge or access to computer-based labor exchange services will be still be provided services and assistance.

Our demand driven philosophy includes the concept that employment services are available to both the employers and job seekers to assist in making the connection of the two parties through a common language and understanding of jobs that are in high demand. In a primarily agricultural area, agribusiness is a cornerstone of employment. Occupations in this industry include agricultural research, sales and farming.

The MLR staff also have responsibilities as experienced Job Counselors/Employment Reps., during the off- season winter months. Minnesota annually holds a collaborative statewide Job Counselor Conference for the Department of Human Services, Department of Employment and Economic Development, partner agencies, and community and non-profit organizations. MLRs attend the conference where the emphasis of the training includes outreach best practices, team coordination with other agencies, complaint process for workers, sharing of information on core programs including Vocational Rehabilitation, Veterans, Unemployment Insurance, rights and protections afforded to MSFWs by state and federal laws. They also receive updated training on customer services, workshops on Dislocated Workers programs, Employer services, SNAP, MFIP, Job Fairs, and WIOA compliance.