Arkansas Department of Human Services and WIOA: Building Pathways to a Brighter Future

Arkansas Department of Human Services and WIOA: Building Pathways to a Brighter Future

The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program have formed a powerful partnership to help Arkansans overcome barriers, gain essential skills, and build lasting careers. Together, these programs provide a comprehensive system of support that promotes both economic self-sufficiency and personal success.

WIOA emphasizes collaboration and coordination with partner programs to create a stronger and more effective workforce development system. By expanding service offerings, maximizing resources, and ensuring a customer-centered approach, WIOA and DHS exemplify how working together can lead to transformative outcomes.

Arkansas DHS Logo

The DHS motto, “We Care. We Act. We Change Lives,” reflects the agency’s mission to improve the quality of life for all Arkansans by protecting the vulnerable, fostering independence, and promoting better health. Through a wide range of services—including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Transitional Employment Assistance (TEA), Medicaid, childcare assistance, and case management—DHS helps individuals and families stabilize their immediate needs so they can focus on long-term goals.

Once stability is achieved, clients are often referred to WIOA services, where they gain access to career planning, job training, résumé development, interview preparation, and, in many cases, financial assistance for education or skills certification. This seamless transition ensures that Arkansans are supported at every stage of their journey—from meeting basic needs to preparing for and securing meaningful employment.

The partnership between DHS and WIOA demonstrates the power of aligning social support with workforce development. By working hand in hand, these programs provide the tools, resources, and encouragement Arkansans need to build brighter futures for themselves and their families.