The Farmworker Career Development Program (FCDP) at Indian River State College (IRSC) has been empowering farmworkers and their families since 1973. This comprehensive program is specifically designed to assist unemployed or underemployed farmworkers in transitioning to full-time, year-round employment that pays a livable wage of $10.00 per hour or more. If you’re a farmworker looking for a career change or advancement, the Farmworker Career Development Program offers the resources and support you need to succeed.
FCDP provides a personalized approach to career development. Each participant receives a tailored program that may include vocational training, on-the-job experience, job placement assistance, and crucial educational support. This support can range from basic skills improvement to GED® preparation and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. For eligible individuals, the farmworker career development program can also provide tuition assistance, making education and training more accessible.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor through the Florida Department of Education, the Farmworker Career Development Program is committed to helping farmworkers build brighter futures.
Comprehensive Support Services for Farmworkers
The farmworker career development program at IRSC offers a wide array of support services to ensure participants have every advantage as they pursue new career paths. These services are designed to address the unique challenges faced by farmworkers and include:
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Personalized Counseling and Evaluation: Experienced counselors provide individualized guidance to help participants assess their skills, interests, and career goals. They work with each individual to create a personalized plan for success within the farmworker career development program.
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Tuition Assistance: Financial support is available to eligible participants to help cover the costs of training and education programs, removing a significant barrier to career advancement for farmworkers.
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Basic Skills Tutoring: Recognizing that foundational skills are crucial for career success, the program offers tutoring in basic skills to help participants improve their literacy and numeracy.
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Book Loan Program: To further ease the financial burden of education, the program provides a book loan service, ensuring participants have access to necessary learning materials.
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General Education Development (GED®): For those who need a high school equivalency diploma, the farmworker career development program offers GED® preparation and testing support.
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English as a Second Language (ESL): ESL classes are available to help participants improve their English language proficiency, opening up more job opportunities and enhancing their communication skills in the workplace.
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Diverse Career Training Options: Participants can access career training in high-demand fields, including:
- Automotive Service Technology
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Cosmetology
- Welding Technology
- Early Childhood Education
- Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Technology
- Law Enforcement
- Medical Assistant
- Business Certificates and more
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Job Placement Assistance: The program doesn’t just provide training; it actively assists graduates in finding employment. Job placement services are offered to connect participants with potential employers and help them secure stable jobs after completing their training.
Image ALT Text: A group of farmworkers harvesting crops in a sunny field. This image represents the hardworking individuals the Farmworker Career Development Program aims to support in achieving new career opportunities.
Eligibility for the Farmworker Career Development Program
To be eligible for the Farmworker Career Development Program, applicants must meet specific criteria designed to ensure the program serves its intended population – migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their dependents. Eligibility requirements include:
- Citizenship or Legal Residency: Applicants must be United States citizens, permanent Resident Aliens, other eligible aliens approved by Immigration and Naturalization Services, or possess a DACA Employment Authorization Card. This ensures that the program adheres to legal guidelines and serves eligible individuals within the U.S.
- Farmwork History: Applicants, or their spouse or parent, must have recent farm work experience. Specifically, they must have performed farm work within the 24 months (2 years) prior to their pre-application date. This criterion confirms a genuine connection to the farmworker community.
- Income Guidelines: Applicants must meet certain income guidelines. These guidelines are in place to ensure that the program prioritizes assistance for those who are most in need of career development support and economic opportunity.
Simple Application Process for Farmworkers
Applying for the Farmworker Career Development Program is a straightforward process designed to be accessible to all eligible individuals. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply:
- Schedule an Appointment: Applicants must apply in person and meet with a Case Manager to determine their eligibility. To schedule your appointment, call 772-462-7916. While appointments are recommended, walk-ins are accommodated as scheduling permits.
- Gather Required Documents: To complete your application efficiently, it’s essential to bring all necessary documents to your appointment. These documents are required for both the applicant and all members living in the household. Please allocate 1 to 2 hours for the enrollment process.
Required Documents Checklist
Be sure to bring the following documents to your FCDP application appointment:
Proof of Residency (Provide ONE of the following):
- Utility bill (e.g., phone, water, cable, or other utility bill)
- Voter registration card
- Lease agreement or home mortgage statement
- Vehicle registration
- Driver’s license
- IRSC-notarized Residency Verification Form
Proof of Income:
- Tax returns
- Pay stubs
- W-2 forms
- Employer payroll records
- Unemployment documents
Employment Authorization:
- Employment authorization card
- Social Security cards
Public Assistance (If applicable):
- Verification of Food Stamps
- Verification of Medicaid
- Supplemental Social Security documentation
- Free Lunch Verification
Proof of Identity:
- Permanent Resident card or passport
- DACA Employment Authorization card
- Birth certificates
- School records
- Marriage license
- High school diploma or GED
- Driver’s license or state ID OR picture school ID
- Voter registration card
Important Note: Applicants under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian during the intake appointment.
Image ALT Text: A friendly case manager is shown assisting a program participant at a desk, reviewing documents. This scene highlights the personalized support offered by the Farmworker Career Development Program case managers.
Take the Next Steps in Your Career Journey
The farmworker career development program provides a structured pathway to help you achieve your career aspirations. Here are key steps to get you started:
1. Register with Employ Florida:
All participants in the Farmworker Career Development Program are required to register with Employ Florida, a valuable online resource for job listings, education and training opportunities, and career building tools.
- Visit www.employflorida.com.
- Click on “Not registered, Option 3-Create User Account” and select “Individual.”
- Agree to the Privacy Agreement.
- Enter all required information, and carefully record your User ID and password.
- Print the confirmation page and submit it to your Case Manager.
2. Complete TABE Test and Kuder Interest Survey:
- TABE Test Requirement: All FCDP participants are required to take the TABE (Test of Adult Basic Education) test. TABE testing is conveniently offered at the Assessment Centers on all IRSC campuses, free of charge.
- Kuder Interest Survey: Take the Kuder Interest Survey to help identify your career interests and aptitudes.
- Go to https://www.floridashines.org/find-a-career/plan-your-future.
- Navigate to “Find a Career” in the top right corner.
- In the right-hand column under “Make a plan,” scroll to “College & Adult Student” and click “Register and Log in” to create an account.
- Once logged in, locate the “Kuder Skills Confidence Assessment” on your personal page and complete it.
- Print or email your “Identifying Your Skills” results to your IRSC Case Manager.
3. Develop an Individual Employment Plan (IEP):
Meet with your assigned Case Manager to create your Individual Employment Plan (IEP). This personalized plan will outline your educational and career goals and the steps needed to achieve employment.
4. Apply for FAFSA:
To explore financial aid options, apply for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Enter all required information, and keep a record of your login details (FSA ID & email). Meet with your Case Manager to register for your chosen classes.
Contact the Farmworker Career Development Program Team
The Farmworker Career Development Program is dedicated to serving farmworkers across four counties. Reach out to the office nearest you to learn more and begin your journey toward a new career.
Sergio Laguerre
Mueller Campus
6155 College Lane, Room D-129
Vero Beach, FL 32966
772-226-2684
[email protected]
City of Fellsmere Site
22 S. Orange Street
Fellsmere, FL 32948
Guadalupe (Lupe) Sanchez
Dixon Hendry Campus
2229 NW 9th Ave., Room A-115
Okeechobee, FL 34972
863-824-6015
[email protected]
Adilene Levins
Massey Campus
3209 Virginia Ave, J-101
Fort Pierce, FL 34981
772-462-7916
[email protected]
You can also find additional information and updates on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/IRSCfarmworker/.
The Farmworker Career Development Program at Indian River State College is your partner in building a stable and rewarding future. Don’t wait to take control of your career path – contact them today!
