§ 5-320. Mentoring program

   (a) Established. -- In cooperation with local directors, the Secretary shall establish a mentoring program for former recipients.

(b) Use of mentors. --

   (1) The mentoring program may include FIP caseworkers in local departments who volunteer to be mentors.

   (2) The Department may contract with other entities under § 5-306 of this subtitle to acquire mentors for former recipients.

(c) Types of assistance provided. -- Mentoring may include:

   (1) providing assistance to resolve workplace problems;

   (2) providing workplace adjustment assistance;

   (3) job coaching;

   (4) providing assistance to develop life skills;

   (5) counseling and tutoring; and

   (6) any other activities that will help former recipients through the first months that they no longer receive temporary cash assistance.

(d) Eligibility. -- To be eligible to participate in the mentoring program, an individual shall:

   (1) have been a recipient in the previous 6 months;

   (2) have been employed; and

   (3) have a demonstrated need and desire for assistance in acquiring and maintaining the skills necessary for a lasting exit from temporary cash assistance.

(e) Participation. -- Program participation may not exceed 6 months.

(f) Incentives. -- The Secretary may arrange to provide pay or other types of incentives to employees who volunteer to mentor former recipients.

(g) Secretary's powers. -- The Secretary's powers under this section shall be construed liberally.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 88A, § 56; 2007, ch. 3, § 2.