Research on Dislocated Workers and Economic Dislocation
As part of the Rural Dislocated Worker Initiative, the Rural Center seeks to understand the many aspects of worker dislocation, from the numbers of people affected to the programs and policies designed to assist them. To this end, the center has conducted its own research and commissioned additional projects. Continue to visit this website for reports as projects currently in progress are completed.
“Help for Dislocated Workers”
Released in May 2009, this report summarized the activities and results of the Project New Start demonstration project. The project teamed local nonprofits and workforce agencies in efforts to assist hard-to-serve dislocated workers.
“Back on Track: 16 Promising Practices to Help Dislocated Workers, Businesses and Communities”
Released in September 2006, this new report describes some of the more successful programs helping workers find new jobs at decent wages. It is based on research by CFED on behalf of the Rural Center.
“Gaining a Foothold: An Action Agenda to Aid North Carolina’s Dislocated Workers”
This report, released in April 2005, describes the characteristics and experiences of rural and urban dislocated workers in North Carolina and examines federal and state policy issues related to services for dislocated workers. It was developed by the Rural Center in collaboration with leaders of about 15 major public and nonprofit organizations involved in workforce development, economic development and human services in North Carolina.
“The NC Resources to Recover Partnerships: A Concept for Economic Disaster Response”
National and state nonprofit organizations play specific roles after a natural disaster. National and state coalitions — such as National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters — help coordinate their efforts. This paper explores how similar coalitions could help in economic disasters, including major business closings and layoffs, and proposes creation of a pilot program testing the model.
“The Impact of Economic and Political Developments on North Carolina’s Tobacco Farm Workers: An Assessment”
This report examines the repercussions of the 1998 tobacco settlement and end of the quota system on livelihoods of tobacco farm workers. It examines the issues against the recent history of tobacco farm workers; explores who makes up the tobacco farm work force; identifies further challenges and opportunities facing North Carolina farm workers; and suggests areas for public policy consideration.
"Facing the Facts: Dislocated Workers"
This data sheet, released in September 2004, looks at individuals who have lost their jobs and what has happened to them.
"Rural Dislocated Workers"
A PowerPoint presentation, used by Rural Center President Billy Ray Hall in September 2004, provides the economic context for the issue and presents data on the challenges laid-off workers have faced in securing new employment.
"Dislocated Workers in Rural North Carolina: Program and Policy Research Report"/Working Paper
Prepared by G. Michael Aheron of GM Aheron Consulting, this report examines the broad range of programs and policies for dislocated workers and recommends ways they could be improved to be more responsive to the needs of dislocated workers.
"Promising Practices to Assist Dislocated Workers"/Working Paper
Prepared by William Schweke of CFED's North Carolina office, this paper provides examples of best practices from around the nation and suggests principles upon which to improve North Carolina's approach.
"Economic Dislocation: Issues, Facts, and Alternatives/A Literature Review"
William Schweke summarizes findings of research papers from around the nation.
Previous Rural Center Research
"Manufacturing Layoffs: Hard Times for Rural Factories, Workers and Communities"
The Rural Center released this report in April 2002, as layoffs spiked following the 2001 recession. It examines changes to North Carolina's manufacturing sector, describes the impacts on rural workers and communities, and recommends measures to improve the state's long-term economic picture.
"Tobacco in North Carolina: What's in Store for Our Economy, Our Communities?"
Released in August 2000, this Rural Center report describes the changes anticipated in the tobacco industry as a result of the 1998 tobacco settlement and broader economic changes. The report includes estimates of projected job losses attributable to the tobacco settlement agreement.
