The Heldrich Center is evaluating the Lifelong Learning Account (LiLA) program on behalf of the Families and Workers Fund and in coordination with the New Jersey Office of Innovation and the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The purpose of the LiLA program is to execute a two-year pilot program that funds training for unemployed and underemployed low-income individuals without a degree or credential in New Jersey. In this innovative design, LiLA participants receive up to $9,600 per person to pay for training and wraparound services that may be necessary to complete their education and training programs.

The Heldrich Center has been engaged with the LiLA program since 2023, documenting the program rollout, early implementation phase, and learnings. In the past year, the Heldrich Center engaged with LiLA grantees and project stakeholders monthly to assess program implementation, as well as conducted a series of data collection efforts at the beginning of the program’s rollout and at the end of Year 1. The Heldrich Center conducted a series of interviews with the LiLA grantees and multiple focus groups and interviews with program participants. The Heldrich Center also assessed program data to share insights on program enrollment, supportive services, career services, training, and employment information for Year 1 program participants.