What is an American Job Center?

Free walk-in career center funded by the US Department of Labor. Services include job search help, resume writing, interview practice, computer access, WIOA training grants, and direct employer connections. Nearly 2,400 centers nationwide — find yours at careeronestop.org.

Can I get help if I have a record?

Yes. Many states have reentry employment programs; the Center for Employment Opportunities runs transitional jobs in 30+ cities. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit incentivizes employers to hire formerly-incarcerated workers. Fair Chance laws in many states restrict early background checks.

What's an apprenticeship?

Paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction leading to a journey-level credential. Common in trades (electrician, plumber, carpenter, HVAC) but expanding into healthcare, IT, and finance. Earn while you learn — no student debt. Find programs at apprenticeship.gov.

What if I'm on unemployment?

You likely qualify for free reemployment services through your American Job Center and for WIOA-funded training while receiving benefits. Dislocated worker services are priority for anyone laid off — including severance, retraining, and relocation support.

Job & Career in Arkansas

4 verified resources.

About Job & Career for Fathers

Job and career resources for fathers run through the American Job Center (AJC) network — there are roughly 2,400 physical locations nationwide, every one of which offers free services. AJCs provide job search assistance, resume and interview help, WIOA-funded training (often up to

0,000+ in tuition and fees for in-demand occupations), and connections to apprenticeships. Every state has a workforce agency that oversees unemployment insurance, labor market information, and rapid response services for laid-off workers. Registered Apprenticeship programs pay workers while they train for skilled trades (electrician, plumber, HVAC, heavy equipment, and increasingly healthcare and IT). For formerly incarcerated fathers, state Department of Labor reentry programs and organizations like the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) provide transitional jobs and placement. This directory includes AJCs, workforce boards, apprenticeship programs, and reentry services.

Job & Career in Arkansas

Arkansas circuit courts hear family law matters in all 75 counties, with the Office of Child Support Enforcement under the Department of Finance and Administration. Little Rock, Fort Smith, and Fayetteville are the largest metros. Legal Aid of Arkansas and the Center for Arkansas Legal Services provide free civil representation to eligible fathers statewide.

4 Resources

1. Arkansas Division of Workforce Services — Free

State agency administering unemployment insurance, job listings, and workforce training programs through local Arkansas Workforce Centers. Fathers can call the toll-free line or visit the Capitol Mall office to file for unemployment, register for job search help, or enroll in training. Bring photo ID, Social Security number, recent pay stubs or separation notices, and prior employer names and dates.

855-225-4440 · 2 Capitol Mall, Little Rock, AR 72201 · Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

2. Goodwill Industries of Arkansas — Free

Nonprofit offering free job training, career counseling, digital skills classes, and job placement services at Little Rock headquarters and statewide career centers. Fathers looking for work or a career change can call or visit the Scott Hamilton Drive office. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, work history and references, and copies of any certifications or diplomas so staff can match you with training and openings.

501-372-5100 · 7400 Scott Hamilton Dr, Little Rock, AR 72209 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

3. Arkansas Rehabilitation Services — Free

State vocational rehabilitation program helping Arkansans with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep work through assessments, training, assistive technology, and job coaching. Fathers with a qualifying physical or mental condition can call or visit the Capitol Avenue office to start an application. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, and medical or psychological records documenting the disability.

501-296-1616 · 525 W Capitol Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

4. Arkansas Career Pathways — Free

Statewide program offering free education, training, and support services at participating Arkansas colleges to help low-income adults, including many parents, earn credentials in high-demand fields. Fathers can call the Little Rock office for information on eligibility and participating campuses. Typical intake asks for photo ID, proof of income, child support or custody paperwork, and high school or GED records.

501-371-2000 · Little Rock, AR 72201 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Job & Career — Common Questions

What is an American Job Center?: Free walk-in career center funded by the US Department of Labor. Services include job search help, resume writing, interview practice, computer access, WIOA training grants, and direct employer connections. Nearly 2,400 centers nationwide — find yours at careeronestop.org.
Can I get help if I have a record?: Yes. Many states have reentry employment programs; the Center for Employment Opportunities runs transitional jobs in 30+ cities. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit incentivizes employers to hire formerly-incarcerated workers. Fair Chance laws in many states restrict early background checks.
What's an apprenticeship?: Paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction leading to a journey-level credential. Common in trades (electrician, plumber, carpenter, HVAC) but expanding into healthcare, IT, and finance. Earn while you learn — no student debt. Find programs at apprenticeship.gov.
What if I'm on unemployment?: You likely qualify for free reemployment services through your American Job Center and for WIOA-funded training while receiving benefits. Dislocated worker services are priority for anyone laid off — including severance, retraining, and relocation support.