PCF was the Program Manager of M-PaTH, a $2 million, three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Labor.  Completed on June 30, 2011, M-PaTH’s objective was to train 400 dislocated workers over three years for careers in the growing Michigan healthcare industry.  These dislocated and displaced workers had either previously held positions or were successful homemakers that faced unemployment during the economic downturn. 

Drawn from the Flint Healthcare Employment Opportunities Program as a model, M-PaTH emphasized collaboration with healthcare employers and regional education providers.  This two-phased project quickly became not only a resource for the mid-Michigan region to train workers who lost their jobs, but it also was a test in regional cooperation.

Phase 1: Genesee County/Flint

Beginning in the Genesee County/Flint area, PCF worked with local partners to recruit, train, and support dislocated workers as they pursued their careers in the healthcare industry.  With the help of the Greater Flint Health Coalition, PCF managed the administration of training 250 formerly dislocated workers to start them on the path to a new career.

Phase 2: Mid-Michigan

PCF worked to regionalize M-PaTH throughout mid-Michigan through partnership with the Lansing Community College, Baker College, and Mott Community College.  This expanded M-PaTH beyond the borders of Genesee County into Ingham County and into the thumb of Michigan.

The collaboration of the M-PaTH partners made the program an immense success.  The number of trained healthcare professionals far exceeded the required minimum and over 450 dislocated workers were retrained!  These workers receive support from M-PaTH partners for job placement beyond the end of the grant and will continue to receive this assistance until participants have secured employment.

As participants are assisted with their search for employment, PCF is working with the Corporation for a Skilled Workforce to produce a “Learning History” that will act as a guide for other regions and state considering programs for training and job placement of dislocated workers.

For more information on M-PaTH, please contact:
Amiee Evans, Project Manager (517) 708-4247.