EDD Announces Workforce Training Grants to Help Young Adults

NR No. 24-19
Contact: Loree Levy/Greg Lawson
916-654-9029
mediainquiries@edd.ca.gov

What You Need to Know: California is investing in education and workforce training programs to meet the needs of opportunity youth or young adults (ages 18-28) who are not active in education, employment, or training. This 100 percent federally-funded investment provides opportunities for these young adults to access pathways to new careers and financial self-sufficiency.

SACRAMENTO – The Employment Development Department (EDD) announced today that it has awarded federally-funded grants to 10 organizations through the Opportunity Young Adult Career Pathway Program. Awardees will use grant funds to design and implement projects aimed at empowering young adults from underserved communities to obtain high-quality, well-paying jobs that offer opportunities for advancement. 

“This program will help capable, young adults find valuable job training and career opportunities,” said EDD Director Nancy Farias.

Participants will have access to certification programs, on-the-job training, work-based learning opportunities, personalized career planning, and mentorships. These opportunities will ensure that participants are better-prepared for relevant and in-demand careers in industries, including healthcare, construction, information, technology, public service, and science and engineering. The programs focus on quality jobs and trauma-informed case management support.

Grant awardees will work with employers, educational institutions, public agencies, and community-based organizations to support the workforce development needs of their young adult participants. Services will include industry-focused training and education, career development, and job placement.

“Knowing the barriers that young adults and younger workers face, we are excited for an opportunity to reinforce their sustained optimism and build upon their resilience with quality opportunities,” said Rebecca Evans, Executive Director, Workforce Development Board of Ventura County. “This funding allows access for young adults to learn in a safe environment and to advance on a career pathway to earn life sustaining wages. These projects will also yield strong outcomes for employers who have the opportunity to develop the skills they need and recruit a stronger workforce. In our region the win-win of having young adults participate in paid internships throughout Ventura County will provide younger workers with experience and learning while also providing employers a pipeline of local talent with skills and abilities.”

The programs will also include support services and personalized case management, so participants are empowered to overcome barriers, achieve economic stability, and remain engaged in their education and training. 

“This grant will allow our young adults to benefit from the training and support services needed to obtain the necessary skills to succeed in the workplace,” said Dr. Nohemy Ornelas, Vice Chancellor of Educational and Student Support Services at the San Bernardino Community College District.

Please refer to the table below for contact information and to learn more about the services they provide.

The Opportunity Young Adult Career Pathway Program award is funded by a grant of $17,697,313.88 (100 percent federal funds) from the U.S. Department of Labor.