The Grand Rapids LFA program encouraged clients to move quickly into work without being selective about which job to take. Participants spent two weeks in a job club operated by public school staff, then began applying to jobs for up to three weeks. Participants who did not find a job during this period participated in unpaid work experiences, more job searching, vocational training, or basic education. Participants who completed job club but remained unemployed could receive multiple rounds of short-term education or vocational training for periods of nine months.

Clients were assigned case managers who helped identify education and job development opportunities that were appropriate for them. Education opportunities included life-skills workshops, adult basic education, GED courses, or English-as-a-second-language courses. Job development opportunities included vocational skills training, work experience (including internships), on-the-job training, or unpaid work. The program also offered reimbursements for child care and transportation expenses.