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 Kansas

7 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 Kansas

Kansas district courts handle family matters in each of its 31 judicial districts. The Child Support Services division operates under the Department for Children and Families. Wichita, Kansas City KS, Overland Park, and Topeka are the largest cities. Kansas Legal Services provides statewide civil legal aid, with fathers' rights and family law among the top case types.

7 Resources

1. KANSASWORKS – Workforce Centers — Free

KANSASWORKS is the state workforce system with centers across Kansas offering job search help, career counseling, training scholarships, resume assistance, and employer connections. Fathers looking for work or a career change can register online or visit a center weekdays, including the Topeka office on SW Topeka Blvd. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and work history. Services are free, including computers, job postings, and WIOA eligibility screening.

785-296-5000 · 401 SW Topeka Blvd, Topeka, KS 66603 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

2. Kansas Department of Commerce – Workforce — Free

The Kansas Department of Commerce oversees statewide workforce development, apprenticeships, and job training programs funded through federal and state sources. Fathers exploring career training or employer-sponsored programs can contact the Topeka office on SW Jackson St. Staff coordinate with KANSASWORKS centers, regional workforce boards, and industry partners to connect job seekers with high-demand careers. Services are free, with scholarships and apprenticeship referrals available.

785-296-3481 · 1000 SW Jackson St #100, Topeka, KS 66612 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

3. Goodwill Industries of Kansas — Free

Goodwill Industries of Kansas provides free job training, career counseling, placement services, and work experience programs at locations throughout south-central and central Kansas. Fathers can visit the N Oliver office in Wichita or a regional career center to meet with a career coach. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and work history. Services are free, and staff help with resume writing, interview skills, computer basics, and industry credentials.

316-264-0877 · 3636 N Oliver, Wichita, KS 67220 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

4. Kansas Rehabilitation Services — Free

Kansas Rehabilitation Services, part of DCF, provides employment services including vocational counseling, training, assistive technology, and job placement for Kansans with physical, mental, or learning disabilities. Fathers with a qualifying disability can apply by phone or at the Topeka office on S Kansas Ave. Bring photo ID, medical documentation of disability, and employment or training records. Services are free for eligible participants statewide through local VR counselors.

866-213-9079 · 555 S Kansas Ave, Topeka, KS 66603 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

5. Urban League of Kansas – Employment — Free

The Urban League of Kansas in Wichita provides free career development, job placement, and workforce training services with a focus on supporting Black and other underserved workers in Sedgwick County. Fathers can visit the E 9th St office weekdays to meet with a career coach. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and work history. Services include resume help, interview prep, job referrals, and employer connections. Some programs include paid work experience.

316-262-2463 · 2418 E 9th St, Wichita, KS 67214 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

6. Workforce Partnership – Johnson County — Free

Workforce Partnership operates career centers serving Johnson County job seekers, offering job search help, career counseling, training scholarships, and employer connections as part of the KANSASWORKS network. Fathers can visit the Lenexa office on Bluejacket St weekdays. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and work history. Services are free and include computers, workshops, and WIOA-funded training eligibility screening for high-demand KC metro industries.

913-577-5627 · 8535 Bluejacket St, Lenexa, KS 66214 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

7. Full Employment Council – KCK — Free

The Full Employment Council is the workforce development board serving the Kansas City metro including Wyandotte and Jackson counties, with job search help, training scholarships, and programs for youth, veterans, and dislocated workers. Fathers in KCK can contact the organization for referrals to career centers and WIOA-funded training. Services are free for eligible participants. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and work history to intake.

816-471-2330 · Kansas City, KS 66101 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

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.