In carrying out the provisions of this division, the department shall conduct activities including, but not limited to, the following:
(a)
Establish a council of corporate executives consisting of 13 members drawn from the business community including, but not limited to, retired or former chief executive officers of major California corporations. Seven members shall be appointed by the Governor, three shall be appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules, and three shall be appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly. Appointments shall be made no later than January 31, 1998. This council shall provide ongoing advice and assistance to the department in recruiting private employers to hire recipients of aid.
(b)
In consultation with the council described in subdivision (a), establish a clearinghouse for information on the Internet or other forms of toll-free communication for private sector employers to obtain information about assistance and resources for hiring CalWORKs recipients and to register their pledges to assist the state in finding the jobs necessary to meet the local welfare-to-work goals throughout the state.
(c)
In consultation with the council described in subdivision (a), provide a forum for leaders in the faith-based communities, as well as other civic leaders, to assist the state in promoting welfare-to-work goals as part of the civic duty of their constituents.