Building skills, creating opportunity, and changing lives — through paid work experience and wraparound support for public housing residents and KTAP recipients across Kentucky.
Since 1997, the REACH HIGHER Welfare-to-Work Program has been creating opportunities for individuals to strengthen personal skills, overcome barriers to self-sufficiency, and move successfully into the workforce — with a focus on long-term job retention.
Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, and Warren Counties
Program Highlights
- Participants work 30 hours/week at minimum wage at no cost to the employer
- Participants complete 4 hours/week of job and life-skills training
- Employment sites provided by community partners throughout the service area
Community Partner Industries
- Retail, Manufacturing, Service Industry, Clerical, Medical
- Special Projects, Non-Profit, University, Hospitality
Training Topics
- Resume writing and interview preparation
- Goal setting, workplace expectations, and time management
- Money management, parenting skills, and mental health support
- Other life-skills support based on participant needs
Wraparound Support Services
- Subsidized childcare, transportation assistance, and car repair assistance
- Pre-employment and work-related expense assistance
- Case management connections to education, counseling, and community resources
- Ongoing support for graduates to help maintain job retention beyond program participation
The REACH Program provides public housing residents with paid, hands-on work experience designed to build skills, confidence, and clear pathways to employment.
- 29 hours/week at $12.00/hour
- 6–12 months of on-the-job training
- Training areas include Maintenance, Grounds, Clerical, Housekeeping/Vacancy Crew, and Special Projects
Education Requirement
Participants are required to enroll in education or skill-building programs such as:
- ESL classes
- GED preparation
- Computer training
- Post-secondary training
