FORWD (Fostering Opioid Recovery through Workforce Development)

FORWD is a workforce training program led by Employ Milwaukee designed to support individuals impacted by the opioid crisis. Through specialized training, supportive services, and real-world work experience, FORWD helps participants rebuild their careers and futures.

Focus Areas:

• Paid work experience in supportive environments
• Training for recovery-based careers (Certified Peer Specialist, Parent Peer Specialist, Recovery Coach)
• Removal of employment barriers through supportive services
• Personalized career guidance and long-term employment planning

Eligibility (Job Seekers):

• Dislocated workers
• Long-term unemployed individuals
• Individuals affected by a public health emergency (like the opioid crisis)
• Self-employed persons who lost income due to the opioid crisis

Services for Job Seekers:

• Paid work experience with local employers
• Training for recovery-focused careers
• Supportive services (transportation, work clothing, recovery support)
• Personalized career guidance

Services for Employers:

• Wage reimbursement (Employ Milwaukee serves as Employer of Record or reimburses wages)
• Access to trained workforce with lived experience
• Ongoing participant case management and support
• Community impact opportunity

Geographic Scope: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Funding: Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor through a National Dislocated Worker Grant administered by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development

Contact:

• Phone: (414) 270-1747
• Address: Employ Milwaukee, 1322 North 8th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53205

Application Process

For Job Seekers:

• Submit an Inquiry Form via the FORWD Job Seekers webpage
• Program specialist will assess eligibility
• Upon qualification, receive personalized career guidance and placement into training or work experience

For Employers:

• Submit a Worksite Inquiry Form to express interest in hosting participants
• Work with FORWD team to structure paid work experience placements
• Contact: (414) 270-1747

Required Information:

• Contact information
• Background regarding opioid impact (for job seekers)
• Employment history and skills (for job seekers)
• Worksite details and capacity (for employers)