Long-term economic self-sufficiency will only be achieved through employment. As such, the Housing Authority has a number of initiatives to help residents obtain and retain family supporting jobs.

The Housing Authority has two resident employment coordinators who work very closely with the W-2 coordinating agencies to ensure that residents do not "fall through the cracks." In 2001, the Housing Authority partnered with the Private Industry Council to provide employment and training opportunities for young adults who have not completed high school. The Housing Authority also has a partnership with the Milwaukee Area Technical College to provide on-site training at the Hillside Family Resource Center to help adults improve their skills and prepare for job promotions. In 2002, the Housing Authority is implementing a series of "strategic alliances" with Milwaukee area employers and other community-based organizations that will provide enhanced training opportunities for residents.

Between January 1997 and 2001, wage income among working adults increased 70%, with more than 200 residents placed in jobs with family sustaining wages. In 2000, 100 residents completed their G.E.D., 20 residents received their driver's license, and 100 residents completed short-term training programs.

The Housing Authority is also involved in several educational initiatives that are designed to help every youth achieve academic excellence. In 2000, the Central City Cyberschool opened a $7 million state-of-the-art technology school at the Parklawn Housing Development. Over 38% of Parklawn families have computers and Internet access because of the Cyberschool, which is helping to bridge the digital divide among low-income families living in public housing.

The Housing Authority also provides scholarships to adults who are pursuing post-secondary education, and awarded 16 scholarships in 2000. Housing Authority staff are also helping with the design and planning for an MPS neighborhood school at the Westlawn Housing Development.