Tuscaloosa's One Place Touts Success Of Workforce Development Program

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Tuscaloosa's One Place is highlighting the impact of its Workforce Development program after helping dozens of local residents secure employment and achieve greater financial stability over the past year.

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The nonprofit organization says its program has placed 50 clients into jobs across the Tuscaloosa area since March 2025, with 74% of those individuals still actively employed.

The program has also posted strong retention rates, with 82% of participants remaining employed after 30 days, 72% after 60 days and 60% after 90 days.

Additionally, 16 clients, or 32%, reached the 180-day employment milestone.

The Workforce Development program, operated in partnership with the Alabama Network of Family Resource Centers and the Alabama Department of Human Resources, serves A-RESET and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families recipients.

Tuscaloosa's One Place says participants receive job readiness training, career counseling and opportunities to earn credentials designed to improve long-term employment prospects.

The nonprofit also said program participants are earning an average hourly wage of $14.49, with wages ranging from $10 to $23 per hour. Tuscaloosa's One Place said that average exceeds the regional entry-level wage.

"This work is about building a stronger, more connected Tuscaloosa," Career Counselor Christi Noland said. "When clients gain valuable skills and access to stable employment, the entire community benefits."

Tuscaloosa's One Place Executive Director Kevin Besnoy said the program's impact extends beyond employment statistics.

"These numbers represent more than just employment data," Besnoy said. "They represent individuals and families gaining stability, confidence and new opportunities for the future. Workforce development is one of the most crucial ways we help remove barriers and empower people to reach their full potential."

An accompanying infographic provided by the nonprofit shows production jobs accounted for the largest share of placements, followed by cook, cleaner and industrial cleaner positions.

The organization credited its success to strong employer partnerships, supportive case management, retention-focused follow-up and wraparound services such as transportation assistance and coaching.

Among the program's top employer partners are Newbold Services, Peco Foods, BF Goodrich, McDonald's, Jack's and Taco Casa.

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