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[DULUTH, MN] At their recent conference, the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) recognized City of Duluth Workforce Development department staff for their exceptional contributions to the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP).

The Minnesota Family Investment Program helps families with children under 18 meet their basic needs, while helping caregivers move to financial stability through work. Caregivers in the program work with a job counselor to create and put into practice an employment plan. With support from Saint Louis County, Duluth Workforce Development staff help program participants with their employment plans to complete their educational goals and gain sustainable employment to move toward financial stability.

At the 2026 annual conference, DCYF partners recognized City of Duluth employees June Carter, Stephanie Randy, Holly Smith, Cole Maki, Penny Godden, Brian Freseman, and Leslie Perrett for their work with the Exceptional Teamwork Award; they also recognized Workforce Development Director Elena Foshay with the Exceptional Leadership Award.

“I am so proud of our team for the excellent work they do every day with the MFIP Program,” said Director Foshay. “The efforts of job counselors working with participants through MFIP Employment Services are truly life-changing, and the care and passion the Duluth team has for participants shines in everything they do. It’s great to see them recognized for this work.”

“This award is a reflection of the dedication and professionalism our workforce development team bring to the workplace every single day,” said Duluth City Administrator Karla Culhane. “Their work through MFIP has a meaningful impact in our community and in the lives of our residents, and we’re proud to see their collaborative efforts recognized at the state level. The City congratulates the team on receiving these honors.”

For more information on Duluth Workforce Development, please visit the City’s website.  For more information on the Minnesota Family Investment Program, please visit the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families website.

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