THE VALUED VOICE

Wisconsin Fast Forward Grant Writing Training Available

High-quality care depends on a high-quality workforce. Wisconsin Fast Forward (WFF) grants can help WHA members build and sustain the workforce that has made Wisconsin #1 in health care quality. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development is offering a free informational grant application training session, “Submitting a Successful Wisconsin Fast Forward (WFF) Grant,” Wednesday, September 13, 2017 from 2 - 3:30 p.m. The training session can be attended in-person or via webex, and will increase applicants’ understanding of the WFF grant application process, goals of the WFF grant program, process for funding and information on what makes a successful WFF grant application.

WHA supported the Wisconsin Fast Forward legislation as another significant investment in workforce development that helps employers recruit and retain employees through training and education. WHA encourages its members to identify regional training opportunities and to connect with workforce partners to develop WFF applications. Grants for health science and health care related occupations range from $5,000 to $400,000. The application period opened July 1, 2017 and extends through the end of the year. Past WHA member awardees include:

• $38,041 to Agnesian HealthCare in Fond du Lac to develop and deliver training to ten incumbent workers and two new hires in nursing informatics.
• $206,702 grant to train 254 workers at the St. Elizabeth Hospital – Fremont Tower to provide staff with the customized performance improvement skills that are required within a new, state-of-the-art facility.
• $175,393 to Upland Hills Health to provide customer service and technology training to 468 workers at its rural hospital. The goal of the training was to increase the skills and knowledge of staff as the organization implements an electronic health record system and other patient-centric tools.

Register now to reserve your seat at http://dwdlearningcenter.wi.gov. If you have questions, contact WisconsinFastForward@dwd.wisconsin.gov or call Andy Heidt, program and policy analyst, WI Fast Forward, at 608-266-0174.