Job Training for Single Mothers in Colorado
Colorado Job Training for Single Mothers (2025 No‑Fluff Guide)
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, state‑specific playbook to help Colorado single moms pay for job training, find child care while you train, and keep the lights on during the process. Every program below includes the rules, the money, how to apply, documents you’ll need, timelines, and direct contacts.
Quick Help Box (start here)
- Call your nearest Workforce Center and say, “I’m a single mom seeking WIOA training funds.” If you’re in Denver, call Denver Workforce Development at 720‑337‑9675 (WORK). For other counties, use the statewide directory linked under “Find a Workforce Center.” (denvergov.org, cdle.colorado.gov)
- Check if your program is free right now through Career Advance Colorado (construction, education, early childhood, firefighting, forestry, law enforcement, nursing). Funding is limited and varies by college. (cccs.edu, colorado.gov)
- If you’re on SNAP, ask for Employment First (Colorado’s SNAP E&T) for training plus gas/bus and other supports. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Need child care while you train? Apply for CCAP (child care assistance). Most counties cap entry at or below 85% of State Median Income (SMI); several counties are under an enrollment freeze—see notes below. (cdec.colorado.gov, weld.gov)
- On Unemployment Insurance? Ask your Workforce Center to approve your training so weekly job contacts can be reduced or waived while you’re in class. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- Have a disability? DVR can fund training and supports. Call 303‑318‑8571 or find your local DVR office below. (dvr.colorado.gov)
- Always file FAFSA. The Federal Pell Grant max for 2025‑26 is $7,395 (not a loan). Many short programs qualify. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Don’t see what you need? Dial 2‑1‑1 for a live navigator (Mon–Fri, 8–5), or text your ZIP to 898‑211. (211colorado.org)
What’s new in 2025 (Colorado snapshot)
- Colorado published updated 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) on July 23, 2025; Colorado’s median hourly wage is $27.99. Use this to judge whether a training’s target wage actually beats your bills. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- Connecting Colorado (the state jobs/training portal) has been modernized. You now log in with your email at ConnectingColorado.gov. (cdle.colorado.gov, connectingcolorado.net)
- Colorado Works (TANF) Basic Cash Assistance grant standards increased July 1, 2025 (see amounts below). (law.cornell.edu)
- CCAP child care: many counties (e.g., Weld, Denver, Jefferson) froze new enrollments in 2025 due to funding gaps; current families keep benefits if they recertify on time. Plan B options below. (weld.gov, denvergov.org, jeffco.us)
The fastest path to paid training (5 steps)
- Get pre‑screened for WIOA at your Workforce Center and ask for the “ITA” (Individual Training Account) or Work‑Based Learning (OJT/Apprenticeship). WIOA can cover tuition, fees, books, tools, exams, and supportive services for in‑demand careers. Training must be on the state ETPL. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- In the same appointment, ask to be connected to Apprenticeship Colorado programs (earn‑while‑you‑learn) and to see “Hiring This Year” on the state RA directory. (apprenticeship.colorado.gov)
- If your field is covered by Career Advance Colorado (free tuition in 7 high‑need sectors), call the college now; seats and funding vary by campus. (cccs.edu)
- File FAFSA to unlock Pell Grant money (up to $7,395 in 2025‑26). Even short‑term programs can use Pell; schools know the drill. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- If you get SNAP, tell the county or your Workforce Center you want Employment First (SNAP E&T). They can fund training and must reimburse reasonable participation costs like transportation. (cdhs.colorado.gov, fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your Workforce Center for other grants (local or time‑limited). Then check COSI scholarships at the Colorado Department of Higher Education; many colleges have COSI‑funded awards for low‑income student parents. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Table 1. Who pays for what (Colorado training money at a glance)
| Program | Who it’s for | What it pays | Typical amounts or caps | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WIOA (Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act) | Adults, dislocated workers; priority for low‑income and barriers | Tuition, fees, books, tools, exams; supportive services; also OJT wage subsidies | Local caps vary by region; ask your Workforce Center. Colorado has a waiver allowing OJT reimbursements up to 90% of wages for businesses with ≤50 employees in PY 2024–2025. | Contact your local Workforce Center; training must be on the ETPL (state list). (cdle.colorado.gov, wioaplans.ed.gov) |
| Career Advance Colorado (HB23‑1246) | Anyone enrolling in approved programs at community/technical colleges | Free tuition, fees, course materials in 7 sectors | State invested $38.6M; funding availability varies by college and term | Check the CCCS program list and call the college financial aid office. (cccs.edu, colorado.gov) |
| Care Forward Colorado | Short‑term healthcare certificates | Free tuition/fees/materials while funds last | Funded by SB22‑226 ($26M); availability varies by college | See Care Forward Colorado and participating colleges. (cccs.edu) |
| Registered Apprenticeships | Anyone who meets sponsor qualifications | Paid job + related instruction; credentials | Wages set by employer; earning starts day one | Search the Apprenticeship Colorado Directory; filter “Hiring This Year.” (apprenticeship.colorado.gov) |
| SNAP Employment & Training (Employment First) | SNAP recipients/applicants | Training, job search; required reimbursements for reasonable costs (transportation, dependent care) | Reimbursements must cover reasonable expenses; states may set caps; amounts vary by provider | Ask your county human services office or EF partner. (cdhs.colorado.gov, fns.usda.gov) |
| Colorado Works (TANF) & CW STEP | Families with children, very low income | Cash aid; subsidized work/training via CW STEP | Cash grant maximums below; CW STEP provides subsidized work experience | Apply via county or online (PEAK/MyCOBenefits). (cdhs.colorado.gov) |
| Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) | People with disabilities who want to work | Tuition, tools, job coaching, accommodations | Based on your plan and eligibility | Request services; find local DVR office below. (dvr.colorado.gov) |
| Pell Grant (federal) | Low‑income students without prior bachelor’s | Grants; no repayment | Max $7,395 (AY 2025‑26) | File FAFSA; college financial aid office packages it. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| COSI scholarships | Low‑income Coloradans at public colleges | Scholarships + success coaching | Grant pools vary by campus; multi‑year cycles | Check CDHE COSI and your college scholarship page. (cdhe.colorado.gov) |
How to use WIOA (the main training fund) without delays
Most moms get the fastest “yes” by choosing an in‑demand program from the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) and showing the job is real in your area.
- Eligibility basics: age 18+, legally present; males 18–25 must have Selective Service. Low‑income priority is based on federal poverty/LLSIL guidelines; dislocated workers also qualify. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- What to bring: photo ID; Social Security card (or work authorization); Selective Service (if applicable); proof of Colorado address; layoff notice or UI letter (if dislocated); income proof (pay stubs/benefit letters). Your case manager will tell you anything else.
- Pick training from the ETPL: use My Colorado Journey’s Program Finder (ETPL integrated) to filter for “Eligible Training.” Print the listing and take it to your appointment. (cwdc.colorado.gov)
- Work‑based options: ask about OJT. Colorado has a current waiver to reimburse up to 90% of wages for OJT with small employers (≤50 employees) in Program Years 2024–2025—this can make employers eager to hire you. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
- Timeline: expect 2–4 weeks from intake to training approval if your documents are ready and your program is on ETPL.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about other Workforce Center grants, WIOA Youth (up to age 24), Dislocated Worker, or short bridge courses. If tuition is the only holdup, combine a smaller WIOA award with Pell or COSI. (cdle.colorado.gov, fsapartners.ed.gov, cdhe.colorado.gov)
Career Advance Colorado: free tuition in 7 fields
If your program is one of these—construction, education, early childhood, firefighting, forestry, law enforcement, nursing—training can be fully covered (tuition, fees, materials) at participating community and technical colleges while funds last. Seats are limited and vary by campus and term. Some colleges reported exhausted funds last year; others still have openings. Call before you apply. (cccs.edu, frontrange.edu)
- Official source and sector list: see the CCCS page. Funding total: $38.6M (HB23‑1246). (cccs.edu, colorado.gov)
- Reality check: One college may be full while another nearby still has slots. Don’t assume—call two or three campuses if needed. (frontrange.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Check Care Forward Colorado (healthcare certificates) or pivot to apprenticeship in your field. (cccs.edu, apprenticeship.colorado.gov)
Registered Apprenticeships (earn while you learn)
- You’re an employee from day one, with incremental wage increases and a nationally recognized credential. Search the state directory, and toggle “Hiring This Year.” Look for programs in healthcare, IT, construction, manufacturing, and more. (apprenticeship.colorado.gov)
- Where to start: Search the Colorado apprenticeship directory; if nothing is open, ask your Workforce Center about pre‑apprenticeship or OJT with a similar employer. (apprenticeship.colorado.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your case manager to connect you to employers using WIOA OJT (with the 90% small‑employer wage reimbursement waiver for PY24–25). (wioaplans.ed.gov)
Training while on Unemployment Insurance
If you’re collecting UI, you can ask to enroll in “approved training.” When approved, the state can reduce or waive your weekly job‑contact requirements while you attend your program (especially short, in‑demand training). Talk with your Workforce Center before you start classes. (cdle.colorado.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Keep doing documented work‑search activities each week (the state recommends 3–5). Ask your Workforce Center which workshops count. (cdle.colorado.gov)
Child care while you train: CCAP
Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps with child care costs if you’re working, job‑seeking, or in school/training. Counties set income policies within state rules: entry must be at or below 185% FPL, and exit may be up to 85% SMI; counties can freeze new enrollment when funds are short. (cdec.colorado.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- 2025 reality: Several counties (e.g., Denver, Jefferson, Weld) implemented enrollment freezes for new applicants. Current recipients keep benefits if they recertify on time. Always check your county’s status before you count on CCAP. (denvergov.org, jeffco.us, weld.gov)
- Apply: online (PEAK/MyCOBenefits) or through your county’s human services. If your county is frozen, ask to be placed on the “freeze list” and pursue Plan B below. (cdec.colorado.gov)
Table 2. CCAP monthly income ceilings by household size (statewide 85% SMI max, FY 2025)
(Use this as a top‑line gauge; each county sets entry/exit in this band)
| Family size | 85% SMI (monthly) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $6,266.68 |
| 3 | $7,741.19 |
| 4 | $9,215.70 |
| 5 | $10,690.21 |
| 6 | $12,164.72 |
Source: state child care rules, effective Oct. 1, 2024 (still current in FY2025). (law.cornell.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your Workforce Center whether WIOA or SNAP E&T can cover child‑care or dependent‑care costs during training (supportive services). If not, call 2‑1‑1 and ask for a Child Care Resource & Referral specialist to hunt backups (part‑time care, family/friend care, or sliding‑fee slots). (cdle.colorado.gov, 211colorado.org)
If you get SNAP: Employment First (SNAP E&T)
Employment First is Colorado’s SNAP Employment & Training program. If you’re on SNAP or applying, you can be referred to training, job search, and supportive services. Federal rules require states to reimburse reasonable and necessary costs to participate (e.g., transportation; child care up to state limits). Amounts vary by county/provider. (cdhs.colorado.gov, fns.usda.gov)
How to apply:
- Ask your county human services office for Employment First or use the EF provider map on the state page. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
Timeline:
- Most EF partners can enroll you within 1–3 weeks if you already have an active SNAP case.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use WIOA at the Workforce Center and apply for Pell/COSI. If you’re borderline for SNAP, talk with a 2‑1‑1 SNAP specialist via live chat for help with your application. (211colorado.org)
Colorado Works (TANF) and CW STEP
Colorado Works provides monthly cash plus employment, education, and training. CW STEP places eligible parents in subsidized jobs tied to local labor shortages.
- Who can apply: families with a child in the home (or pregnancy), Colorado resident, income under program rules. Apply on PEAK/MyCOBenefits or through your county. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- How much is the cash grant (zero income)? Below are the grant standards effective July 1, 2025, for “one caretaker” families:
1 child: 488∗∗;2children:∗∗488**; 2 children: **620; 3 children: 754∗∗;4children:∗∗754**; 4 children: **894; 5 children: $1,031. (Grant amounts differ if there are two caretakers or no caretaker.) (law.cornell.edu) - Policy note: Current child support payments you make are disregarded when calculating the cash grant amount (per statute). (colorado.public.law)
- CW STEP: subsidized training/employment for TANF‑eligible participants—ask your county caseworker for a referral. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
Table 3. Colorado Works grant standards (one‑caretaker, zero income; effective 7/1/2025)
| Children in home | Max monthly grant |
|---|---|
| 1 | $488 |
| 2 | $620 |
| 3 | $754 |
| 4 | $894 |
| 5 | $1,031 |
Source: state rule 9 CCR 2503‑6‑3.606 (effective July 1, 2025). (law.cornell.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your county’s TANF budget is tight, your caseworker can still refer you to the Workforce Center for WIOA funding. Also combine Pell/COSI. (cdle.colorado.gov, fsapartners.ed.gov, cdhe.colorado.gov)
Pell Grants and COSI (scholarships you don’t repay)
- Pell maximum for 2025–26: $7,395 (July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). Complete FAFSA to qualify. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- COSI (Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative): state‑funded scholarships plus success coaching at many colleges. 2025–26 cycles include “COSI Achieve,” “Career Launch,” and other grants managed through campuses and community partners. Ask your college’s financial aid office about COSI awards for student parents. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Apply for WIOA and check whether Career Advance/Care Forward can fully waive tuition in your field. (cccs.edu)
Adult education and GED/HiSET to unlock training
If you need a diploma equivalent first, Colorado recognizes GED and HiSET. As of May 7, 2025:
- GED tests: 43.50∗∗persubject(4subjects;total∗∗43.50** per subject (4 subjects; total **174).
- HiSET tests at a center: 32.50∗∗persubtest(5subtests;total∗∗32.50** per subtest (5 subtests; total **162.50).
Costs include state admin/test center fees. (cde.state.co.us) - Find local adult ed/ESL providers on the Colorado Department of Education list (many offer free classes). (cde.state.co.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your Workforce Center if WIOA can fund GED prep or testing as part of your training plan. (cdle.colorado.gov)
How to choose a training that actually pays your bills
- Use the newest Colorado wage data published July 23, 2025: statewide median hourly wage $27.99 (Colorado). Compare your target occupation’s wage to your monthly expenses. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- National medians (helpful when state detail isn’t handy):
Medical assistant—44,200∗∗;Electrician—∗∗44,200**; Electrician—**62,350 (national medians, May 2024). Colorado wages are typically higher than national averages. (bls.gov) - Reality check: Look at job postings on Connecting Colorado for your county; if openings are thin, pivot to a related, higher‑demand track. (cdle.colorado.gov)
Real‑world examples
- A mom in Greeley on SNAP used Employment First to cover gas and short‑term training, then switched to WIOA for an ITA to finish her CompTIA A+. Transportation costs were reimbursed through SNAP E&T; tuition and exam fees came from WIOA. (cdhs.colorado.gov, cdle.colorado.gov)
- A Denver mom with toddlers was approved for Career Advance Colorado in early childhood education at a community college; when one college was out of funds, another nearby campus still had seats. Tuition, fees, and materials were fully covered. (cccs.edu)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Starting classes before WIOA enrollment—WIOA cannot pay retroactively.
- Choosing a school not on the ETPL—your funding gets denied. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- Waiting on CCAP approval in a county with a freeze—line up backup care and ask about WIOA/SNAP E&T supports. (weld.gov, denvergov.org)
- Skipping FAFSA because “it’s just a certificate”—you could lose $7,395 in Pell. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Not asking for “approved training” on UI—then getting flagged for missing work‑search activities. (cdle.colorado.gov)
What we saw missing in top search results—and we’ve filled the gaps
- Concrete dollar amounts (Pell, TANF grant standards, GED/HiSET costs) and live phone numbers for Colorado offices.
- How to sync WIOA, Apprenticeships, Career Advance/Care Forward, SNAP E&T, and CCAP so money and child care actually line up.
- Honest alerts about CCAP freezes and program‑by‑program timelines.
- Direct links to the state apprenticeship directory and ETPL within My Colorado Journey. (apprenticeship.colorado.gov, cwdc.colorado.gov)
Local organizations that help during training
- Dress for Success Denver — interview outfits, job readiness. Call 303‑832‑1889. (denver.dressforsuccess.org)
- Work Options (Denver) — free, fast culinary training; some paid apprenticeship pathways. (workoptions.org)
- Bayaud Enterprises (Denver Metro) — DVR‑linked training, paid transitional work, benefits counseling, supportive services. Main: 303‑830‑6885. (bayaudenterprises.org)
- CrossPurpose (Denver Metro) — free multi‑month career tracks; participant stipends tied to participation and graduation (e.g., 50familygatherings;∗∗50 family gatherings; **600** at graduation). (crosspurpose.org)
- 2‑1‑1 Colorado — live help to find child care, transportation, and emergency bills help while you train. Dial 2‑1‑1 or (866) 760‑6489; chat available. (211colorado.org)
Table 4. Key Colorado contacts (quick dial)
| Region/Program | How to reach |
|---|---|
| Denver Workforce Development | 720‑337‑9675 (WORK); workforce@denvergov.org; centers in Webb and Montbello. (denvergov.org) |
| Jefferson County Business & Workforce Center | 303‑271‑4755. (cdle.colorado.gov) |
| Arapahoe/Douglas Works! | 303‑636‑1160. (cdle.colorado.gov) |
| Adams County Workforce (adult programs info) | 720‑523‑6898. (adcogov.org) |
| Pikes Peak Workforce Center | 719‑667‑3700. (ppwfc.org) |
| Larimer County Economic & Workforce Development | 970‑498‑6600. (cdle.colorado.gov) |
| Workforce Boulder County | 720‑776‑0822. (bouldercounty.gov) |
| Employment Services of Weld County (Fort Lupton office) | 303‑857‑2725. (cdle.colorado.gov) |
| Statewide Workforce Center Directory | “Find a Workforce Center” (addresses/phones for all counties). (cdle.colorado.gov) |
| Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (statewide) | 303‑318‑8571 or find local DVR office (see directory). (dvr.colorado.gov) |
Table 5. Fast timelines and what to expect
| Action | Typical timeline | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| WIOA intake to training approval | 2–4 weeks | Have documents ready; pick an ETPL program with “in‑demand” proof. (cdle.colorado.gov) |
| Apprenticeship application | Varies (weeks to months) | Filter “Hiring This Year” on the directory; apply like a job. (apprenticeship.colorado.gov) |
| Pell Grant (FAFSA to award) | 1–3 weeks once FAFSA is processed | Answer school emails fast; confirm disbursement timing. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| CCAP decision | 2–4 weeks (if county not frozen) | If frozen, ask for the freeze/wait list; arrange backups. (cdec.colorado.gov, weld.gov) |
| UI approved training | 1–2 weeks | Get approval before classes so job‑search can be reduced/waived. (cdle.colorado.gov) |
Application checklist (print this)
- Photo ID and proof of Colorado address.
- Social Security card or work authorization.
- Dependent children proof (birth certificates) if applying for Colorado Works/CCAP.
- Income proof (pay stubs, benefit letters), layoff/termination letter, or UI claim.
- Program printout from the ETPL (My Colorado Journey) and job postings showing demand. (cwdc.colorado.gov)
- FAFSA confirmation (for Pell), and any school acceptance letter. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Transportation/child care plan you can afford during training (even if temporary through SNAP E&T/WIOA supports). (cdhs.colorado.gov, cdle.colorado.gov)
Diverse Communities: tailored pointers
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Workforce programs serve everyone; COSI providers and college resource centers can add wraparound supports. If you experience bias at a site, call the Workforce Center manager and ask for a transfer.
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Contact DVR early; request reasonable accommodations in training or on assessments. Ask DVR about paying for tools, equipment, or interpreters. (dvr.colorado.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: You receive Priority of Service in Workforce Centers. For GI Bill/VR&E help, contact the Denver VA Regional Benefit Office (Lakewood). VA benefits hotline: 800‑827‑1000. (cdle.colorado.gov, va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: If work‑authorized, you’re eligible for WIOA and apprenticeships. Adult ESL and GED are widely available via CDE providers. For SNAP E&T and CCAP, eligibility depends on your status; ask the county or 2‑1‑1 to review. (cde.state.co.us, 211colorado.org)
- Tribal citizens: You can use state resources plus any tribal education/employment programs you qualify for. Ask your Workforce Center to coordinate with tribal programs when applicable.
- Rural single moms: Smaller counties often route training through regional centers; use the state directory to find the nearest full‑service office and ask about virtual workshops. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- Single fathers: All programs above serve parents of any gender. Use the same steps and contacts.
- Language access: Workforce Centers and Denver’s programs offer interpretation upon request; ask when scheduling. (denvergov.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Workforce Center (training money, job leads): Use the state directory; Denver: 720‑337‑9675. (cdle.colorado.gov, denvergov.org)
- ETPL (find approved programs): Use My Colorado Journey’s Program Finder. (cwdc.colorado.gov)
- Apprenticeships: Search the Colorado Registered Apprenticeship Directory (“Hiring This Year”). (apprenticeship.colorado.gov)
- Free tuition sectors: Career Advance Colorado (7 sectors); Care Forward (healthcare certificates). (cccs.edu)
- Pell Grant max 2025‑26: $7,395; file FAFSA. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Child care: CCAP (watch for county freezes). (cdec.colorado.gov, weld.gov)
- SNAP E&T (Employment First) for training + reimbursements (transport/gas, etc.). (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Disability supports & training: DVR 303‑318‑8571. (dvr.colorado.gov)
- Statewide help line: 2‑1‑1 (or 866‑760‑6489) to find local support fast. (211colorado.org)
Frequently Asked Questions (Colorado‑specific)
- How much Pell can I get for short programs in 2025–26?
Up to $7,395, depending on your Student Aid Index and enrollment intensity. File FAFSA and ask financial aid to package it with WIOA or COSI. (fsapartners.ed.gov) - Can WIOA really pay all of my tuition?
Often yes, especially for in‑demand, short programs on the ETPL; local caps vary. Ask your Workforce Center about an ITA plus supportive services. (cdle.colorado.gov) - I’m on SNAP—will Employment First pay for child care?
States must reimburse reasonable, necessary expenses for E&T participation (transportation, dependent care up to state limits). Amounts and vendors vary by county/partner. (fns.usda.gov) - What if my county’s CCAP is frozen?
Submit interest paperwork to get on the freeze/wait list, then ask WIOA/SNAP E&T about child‑care support. Consider family/friend care temporarily with help from a 2‑1‑1 Child Care Specialist. (weld.gov, 211colorado.org) - How much is Colorado Works cash aid for a mom with two kids and no income?
Max $620 per month (one‑caretaker unit), effective July 1, 2025. (law.cornell.edu) - Can I train while on Unemployment without doing weekly job contacts?
Yes—if your training is approved. Ask your Workforce Center about UI “approved training” before you start classes. (cdle.colorado.gov) - Is there truly free tuition for nursing or early childhood?
Yes through Career Advance (funds vary by college/term) and Care Forward (short healthcare certificates). Call the college to confirm current funding. (cccs.edu) - Where do I find apprenticeships taking applications now?
Use the Colorado Registered Apprenticeship Directory and filter “Hiring This Year.” Apply like a job—résumé, interview, background per sponsor. (apprenticeship.colorado.gov) - My program requires GED first—how much will testing cost?
GED: 43.50∗∗persubject(4tests=∗∗43.50** per subject (4 tests = **174). HiSET at a center: 32.50∗∗persubtest(5=∗∗32.50** per subtest (5 = **162.50). (cde.state.co.us) - Who do I call in Denver to start?
Denver Workforce Development at 720‑337‑9675 (WORK), workforce@denvergov.org. Walk‑in hours Mon–Thu 9–4 at Webb or Montbello centers. (denvergov.org)
Regional resources and contacts (examples)
- Denver County: Denver Workforce Development 720‑337‑9675; Dress for Success 303‑832‑1889; Bayaud Enterprises 303‑830‑6885. (denvergov.org, denver.dressforsuccess.org, bayaudenterprises.org)
- El Paso/Teller: Pikes Peak Workforce Center 719‑667‑3700. (ppwfc.org)
- Larimer County: Larimer County EWD 970‑498‑6600. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- Boulder County: Workforce Boulder County 720‑776‑0822. (bouldercounty.gov)
- Adams County: Workforce Adult Programs 720‑523‑6898. (adcogov.org)
- Weld County: Employment Services (Fort Lupton office) 303‑857‑2725; note CCAP freeze as of Feb. 1, 2025. (cdle.colorado.gov, weld.gov)
Table 6. Training + child care + income: how to stack supports
| Need | First call | What to say | Backup/Plan B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition/fees | Workforce Center (WIOA) | “Requesting WIOA ITA for ETPL program in [occupation].” | Career Advance/Care Forward; Pell; COSI. (cdle.colorado.gov, cccs.edu, fsapartners.ed.gov, cdhe.colorado.gov) |
| Paid “earn‑while‑learn” | Apprenticeship directory | “Filter: Hiring This Year.” | WIOA OJT with small employer (90% wage reimbursement waiver helps). (apprenticeship.colorado.gov, wioaplans.ed.gov) |
| Child care | County CCAP | “Applying as student/trainee.” | WIOA/SNAP E&T supports; 2‑1‑1 CCR&R; flexible hours. (cdec.colorado.gov, cdhs.colorado.gov, 211colorado.org) |
| Transportation/tools | WIOA or SNAP E&T | “Request supportive services.” | Ask school emergency funds; 2‑1‑1. (cdle.colorado.gov, fns.usda.gov) |
| Bills while training | Colorado Works; 2‑1‑1 | “Need cash aid; in training.” | SNAP, utility help; EF supports. (cdhs.colorado.gov, 211colorado.org) |
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Colorado Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Our editorial commitments include primary sources (.gov and statewide nonprofits), cross‑verification, link testing, and 48‑hour updates when policy changes are confirmed. The editorial standards page (last updated August 2025) details our verification and update cycles. (cccs.edu)
Disclaimer
- Program rules, dollar amounts, and availability change. Always verify with the agency or college before you enroll or spend money.
- We do not provide legal advice, guarantee outcomes, or accept responsibility for agency decisions.
- Security note: for your privacy, never email full SSNs or upload identity documents to public computers. Use official portals like PEAK/MyCOBenefits, ConnectingColorado.gov, and your college’s financial aid portal. Keep your devices updated and use multifactor authentication.
Sources cited (selected)
- Workforce Centers directory and program pages (CDLE); Connecting Colorado updates. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- My Colorado Journey ETPL integration. (cwdc.colorado.gov)
- WIOA/OJT waiver (up to 90% wage reimbursement to very small employers, PY 2024–2025). (wioaplans.ed.gov)
- Career Advance Colorado (HB23‑1246; 38.6M);CareForwardColorado(SB22‑226;38.6M); Care Forward Colorado (SB22‑226; 26M). (cccs.edu)
- Colorado Works (TANF) grant standards (effective 7/1/2025) and statute on child support disregard. (law.cornell.edu, colorado.public.law)
- CCAP income rules and 85% SMI amounts (FY 2025); county freezes. (law.cornell.edu, cdec.colorado.gov, denvergov.org, jeffco.us, weld.gov)
- SNAP E&T (Employment First) and required reimbursements. (cdhs.colorado.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Pell Grant maximum 2025–26: $7,395. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- GED/HiSET Colorado test costs (updated May 7, 2025). (cde.state.co.us)
- Colorado 2024 OEWS statewide wages (published July 23, 2025). (cdle.colorado.gov)
- National OOH wages (for context). (bls.gov)
- Denver Workforce Development contact. (denvergov.org)
- DVR statewide contacts. (dvr.colorado.gov)
- 2‑1‑1 Colorado (phone, text, chat). (211colorado.org)
If any link is broken or out of date, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it within 48 hours per our editorial policy.
🏛️More Colorado Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Colorado
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
