Programs that provide information and guidance for people who need to evaluate their aptitude, abilities and interests in order to choose a vocation or career and select the type of training that will enable them to obtain and progress in positions in the public or private sector that are productive and fulfilling.

Programs that provide instruction for people who need to acquire the basic "soft skills" and tools that are required to successfully apply for and secure employment, and retain a position once they have been hired. These programs provide information and guidance regarding preparing a resume, writing job application letters, completing job application questionnaires, responding to job ads and taking employment tests; offer tips regarding appropriate dress, personal appearance and interview techniques; and address other similar topics.

Programs that assist low-income single parents, teen parents, displaced homemakers, public assistance recipients or other targeted individuals and families to achieve economic independence and long-term stability through an integrated group of services which may include education and job training, microenterprise development, mentoring services, life skills training, personal enrichment classes, counseling services, parenting skills development, legal assistance, housing assistance, child care and transportation assistance, information and referral and advocacy. The services may be delivered using an intensive case management model which involves assignment of a case manager, development of an individualized case plan and assessment of progress in meeting agreed upon goals and objectives.

Individuals who are generally between the ages of 18 and 25 depending on the ages that specific programs use for qualification.

Individuals (primarily women) who, in their middle and later years, having fulfilled the role of homemaker, find themselves displaced because of dissolution of marriage, death of a spouse, or other loss of family income. As a consequence, displaced homemakers have a greatly reduced income, a high rate of unemployment due to age, lack of paid work experience and discrimination, and limited opportunities to collect assistance from social security, unemployment compensation, Medicaid and other health insurance benefits, or the pension plans of their spouse.