FAQ

RochesterWorks!

Frequently Asked Questions

Services | Policies | Help

What services do you provide?

We offer a wide variety of services for Job Seekers, Businesses, and Youth; from workshops and training grants to recruiting events and our job board.

See a comprehensive list of services for Job Seekers
View services for Businesses and Employers
Explore programs and services for Youth

Can you place me in a job?

We don’t make direct placements like a staffing agency, but we can help make your job search easier. We have programs and services such as workshops, e-learning, one-on-one advisement, and recruitment events designed to equip you with the resources you will need for a successful job search, in addition to providing you with support throughout the career development and job search process.

Do you work for the Department of Labor (DOL)?

No, RochesterWorks! staff do not work for the Unemployment Insurance Division of the New York State Department of Labor.

We are a 501c3 nonprofit workforce service provider that engages with people in the UI system, but we are not responsible for the approval and awarding of benefits. RochesterWorks! staff cannot make changes to, or review the status of, any Unemployment Insurance claims.

Our role in the Unemployment Insurance process is to provide auxiliary programs; We have programs and services such as workshops, e-learning, one-on-one advisement, and recruitment events designed to equip you with the resources you will need for a successful job search, in addition to providing you with support throughout the career development and job search process.

For specific questions regarding Unemployment Insurance, we recommend contacting the Department of Labor (DOL) directly by calling 1-888-209-8124, or by visiting www.labor.ny.gov.

Can you check on my Unemployment (UI) claim?

For specific questions about your claim, you'll need to contact the Department of Labor (DOL) directly by calling 1-888-209-8124, or by visiting www.labor.ny.gov.

Do I need to be unemployed to use RochesterWorks! services?

No. You can be employed full-time, part-time, unemployed, changing careers, or brand new to the workforce. With the support of the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act grant, we provide all our services free of charge.

Do you offer scholarships/grants/funding to go back to school?

RochesterWorks! offers a training grant of up to $5,000 for customers to return to school or a training program for demand occupations. There are specific eligibility requirements for this funding. Visit tinyurl.com/RWtraininggrant for information on who is eligible, what type of training is allowed, and how to start the application process.

Do you provide services to individuals without a high school diploma, GED, or other high school equivalency?

Yes! We work with customers with every level of education and experience. If you’re interested in earning your high school equivalency, we can direct you to free, local resources to help you study and prepare for the exam.

Is there a fee for workshops and services?

No. Every service and resource provided by RochesterWorks! is completely free of charge to jobseekers, regardless of income or employment status.

Do you have services for individuals with disabilities?

Yes. In addition to the resources available in our accessible Resource Room (equipped with JAWS, Zoom Text, mini keyboard, and Interpretype) we offer ASL interpretation, a Disability & Disclosure workshop/e-learning, and the Ticket to Work program.

Do I have to be registered with RochesterWorks! to receive services?

Yes. Registration involves a one-on-one appointment with a Career Services Advisor. During this appointment, you and the Career Advisor will discuss your work experience, goals, and any barriers you have in finding employment. The advisor will introduce you to RochesterWorks services and community resources you may find helpful.

During this appointment, you’ll receive your NY ID number which you can use to register yourself for workshops, the e-learning platform, and any events hosted by RochesterWorks!

Do you offer resume writing services? Will you write my resume for me?

We know that writing a resume can feel intimidating or overwhelming, but we’ll provide you with all the tools you need to write your own confidently! We offer on-demand e-learning courses on resume writing, interactive live workshops, and resume review by our staff.

RochesterWorks!

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