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• Unemployment benefits have contributed to a change of attitude in the workforce. • There is a negative perception of the Gifford community that deters possible employers from locating in this area. ISSUES IDENTMCATION The following special issues were identified: • Job opportunities are needed for all population and skill groups within the county. • All lower economic areas of the county should be addressed in any effort. • Transportation options to and from work are a concern in some areas. • Recognize that unemployment benefits have contributed to a change of attitude in the worlsorce. • Integrate people back into the workforce who have paid their debt to society. • The chronically unemployed often lack basic He skills. • Quality infant and child care may be a concern to some families(employees), and may be essential to many prospective employees. • Jobs paying less than $7.00/hn to start do not motivate the chronically unemployed whose work history has been in low paying jobs with no advancement. As a rule, college graduates do not return to Indian River County,future leaders leaving the area. A C T 110 NS TAKE • Survey of needs: Survey of employed and unemployed conducted at two Gifford community civic events. "Attachment I" shows a list of questions asked and the responses. A small sample of 25 people were surveyed. More surveys must be completed to obtain a better sample and reliable statistics. • "Project H.O.P.E." (Hope, Opportunity, Preparation and Employment): A Gifford community event held on November 13, 1999 at the Gifford Youth Activities Center. Representatives from a variety of agencies were available to provide information on available services to improve individual economic status. John V. Burns, an expert on entrepreneurship, provided information to people interested in starting their own businesses. Agencies included: SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives); Treasure Coast Job Training Center, Workforce Development Board; Division of Workforce and Employment Opportunities; Gifford Economic Development Council;Agricultural Labor Program; Gifford Youth Activities Center, Indian River County Public Schools; Department of Children and Families; Gifford Civic Progressive League; Indian River Community College; Economic Opportunities Council; Indian River County Chamber of ,. Commerce_ • Bus Tour of Gifford Communitv: The Workforce Enhancement Task Force spent a morning in March touring specific locations in the Gifford area Task Force Chairman Freddie Woolfork directed the tour. "Attachment II." 7.9