732              FAMILIES FIRST

The goal of ATAP Alaska Temporary Assistance Program is to move Alaskans from welfare into jobs so they can support their families, and to maintain a safety net for those truly in need.

The Division has adopted the "Work First" approach, which holds that any job is a good job and the best way to succeed in the labor market is to join it.  Work First participants often engage in a traditional labor market driven work search to find employment, and develop work habits and skills on the job.

For adults who are not successful at meeting their needs through Work First, the Division has adopted the "Families First” approach.  Families First is a holistic approach to supporting the whole family to help those with life complexities be successful in employment and increasing their self-sufficiency.  Families First begins with "discovery” and "service team” planning which includes collaboration with other agencies the family receives services from.  Families First participants often engage in customized employment, which matches the needs of a specific employer with the skills and contributions the participant can bring to that employer’s business.