ADRIAN — Michigan Works! Southeast delivered its annual report to the Lenawee County Commission on Wednesday, outlining major strides in local workforce development, job training, and economic opportunity.
Executive Director Shemar Herron told commissioners the agency administered more than $15 million in workforce programs across five counties, including Lenawee. The programs aim to reduce barriers to employment such as transportation, training costs, and child care.
In Lenawee County alone, 159 families received support services, and participants exiting the program saw an average wage increase of 93%.
Herron credited strong partnerships with organizations like Lenawee Now and the Align Center, where Michigan Works! helped train workers in child care and construction trades. Commissioners also heard about Career Camp, a summer initiative that uses virtual reality to expose students to careers in health care, skilled trades, and management.
An estimated 81% of participants placed with local employers remain employed.
Commissioners praised the organization’s local leadership and collaboration with schools, businesses, and nonprofits.
Michigan Works! board members from Lenawee include Commissioners Terry Collins and Jim Van Doren.