The funding for the Workforce Development Institute (WDI) may be eliminated by the NYS Senate. WDI funds vital programs that help provide necessary training resources to union members, childcare to working families and a Community College Program serving the disabled population. If these crucial dollars are eliminated, the WDI will not be able to continue serving New York's unions and working families.

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing to you because I understand that funding for the Workforce Development Institute (WDI) may be eliminated by the NYS Senate. This funding is included in the Governor's 2009-2010 Budget Request under reappropriation. This funding is necessary to continue the previously approved programs directed at helping working families.

WDI is working closely with the Department of Labor and other agencies on layoff aversion strategies as well as development of new employment resources. The WDI is also an important and vital partner for NY's labor unions and working families, providing valuable training funds to members and skills training to our workforce at large. Eliminating these reappropriations would have a negative impact on thousands of households in our region. The services provided by the WDI are sorely needed in the Hudson Valley and throughout the state of New York, especially during an economic downturn. Without adequate job training, green innovations and skills upgrades, NY's workforce will remain stagnant leading to further hardship for our families and our government.

I strongly urge you to approve the reappropriation request as submitted by the Governor so that the WDI can continue to serve my family and the working families of our state.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
March 18, 2009