Alternative Staffing: A rapid path to job training and sustainable income 1

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Why is the staffing industry significant? The staffing industry generated $ 106 B in revenue in 2013 Contract work is “the New Normal” Contract staffing is the fastest growing workforce segment and a key pathway to employment – 15% of all job growth in the US in 2012 – 40% of employers plan to hire contract workers this year – 80+% plan to increase their flexible workforce in 2014 – 17 million workers (12%) in the US are independent contractors – 39% of temporary workers will transition into full-time jobs However, the industry makes limited efforts to serve workers with barriers 3

Alternative Staffing Organizations (ASOs) ASOs serve job-ready individuals with obstacles to employment such as: – Disabilities related to military service – Other physical or mental disabilities – Criminal History – Past substance abuse issues – Lack of education or literacy – Lack of work history Typically focus on job placement, supportive services and workforce development 4

Non-profit ASO based in Atlanta, GA Established in 2007 Helped 2,000+ homeless and at-risk men and women re-enter workforce Created wages of over $ 5 M Annual sales of $ 1 M Employed an average of 100 people per day in 2013 Workers moved into better opportunities in about 124 days We work primarily in the logistics, manufacturing, hospitality, driving, and event businesses 5

Alternative Staffing’s Value Proposition for Employers Mitigates employment risk (workers’ compensation, unemployment, healthcare, general liability) Saves the recruitment cost of bad hires by allowing employers to “try out” employees Provides employees who have support (i.e. pre- employment training, coaching, transportation, child care) Gives employers a flexible option for fluctuations in their business 6

Value for Employees Rapid employment when needed An introduction to new industries Provides a career ladder when paired with real job training (classroom and/or on the job) Flexible employment fits different needs at different times Builds current experience into a resume Offers supportive services An opportunity to “practice working” Connection to a natural network of support 7

Take the Second Step: Build on What Works Rapid employment – Basic skills – Short-duration training – Immediate placement Average annual salary: $15 - $19 K Sustainable employment – Flexible Options 2 nd /3 rd shift work provides income flow while training – Focused Intervention specific math, literacy, vocational and life skills – Length of Training rapid & realistic – Community Connection mentors, coaches Average annual salary: $30 - $35 K HIGH-DEMAND JOBS FIRST STEP SECOND STEP Commercial Drivers License$38,300 Welding$33,400 Machinists/Machine Operators $35,900 Freight, Stock & Material Handlers $22,000 Fork Lift Operators$28,000 Sales Representatives$45,400 8

CONTACT INFORMATION Barbara Peters First Step Staffing 302 Decatur Street SE Atlanta, Georgia , ext