Original Source Date: October 30, 2024
Impact Highlights
| Annual ROI | Time Horizon | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| 16.7% | 14.0 years | 2 - Strong |
| Activities | Outcomes | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| Employment | Opportunity | Income, Job Availability, Labor Force |
| Geography | Demographics |
|---|---|
| Texas, United States | Working Age |
Article Details
A comprehensive 14-year study has highlighted the significant economic benefits of Project QUEST, a San Antonio-based workforce development program established in 1992. The research indicates that participants experienced an average income increase of $54,000 over the study period, with those aged between 35 and 64 seeing gains of nearly $139,000 compared to a control group. This translates to a 234% return on investment, considering the average program cost of $16,244 per participant.
Project QUEST was founded by a coalition of working-class neighborhood and church leaders in response to the decline of low-skill manufacturing jobs in the 1980s. The program aims to equip San Antonio residents with skills aligned with employer needs in burgeoning sectors of the local economy. It offers support such as tuition assistance, help with transportation and childcare expenses, mental health services, and job placement assistance. Participants engage in full-time occupational training at community colleges, leading to certifications and sustainable employment. To date, Project QUEST has served over 6,000 individuals, with an impressive 87% program completion rate.
The study’s findings are particularly relevant as Project QUEST serves as a model for San Antonio’s taxpayer-funded Ready to Work initiative. This program aims to connect residents with training and education opportunities in high-demand industries, thereby addressing workforce gaps and enhancing economic mobility. The demonstrated success of Project QUEST provides a compelling case for the potential long-term benefits of such workforce development programs.
In summary, Project QUEST exemplifies how targeted workforce development initiatives can yield substantial economic returns and improve individual earning potential. The program’s success underscores the value of investing in comprehensive training and support services to meet the evolving needs of both workers and employers.
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