The Inland Empire Regional Planning Unit, composed of Riverside County Workforce Development Division and San Bernardino County Workforce Development Department, has been awarded $1.8 million to launch the Opportunity Young Adults Career Pathway Program. The initiative is designed to serve 160 young adults facing barriers to employment and education, offering them a chance to build sustainable careers.

The program provides each participant with an $8,000 training voucher, supportive services, and ultimately job placement. “This grant is helping students in many different ways,” said Trisha Jenkins, CTE Coordinator/Principal, Riverside County School of Career Education. “The student that qualifies is one who has already experienced some barriers in life and is really looking to jump into a health career. The programs we offer are comprehensive technical education programs where students get trained with the skills and knowledge they need to be hired right after the program.”

Transforming Lives Through Education and Support

For many participants, the program represents more than just training—it’s a lifeline. Jermiah Lala shared:

“When I grew up it was kind of hard. I always lived with my grandma—that’s the only person I had. My mom struggled with addiction, and my dad wasn’t around much. To me, I see this program as a stepping stone to do something great—to be a nurse, to help people. I see myself as being something different from my family. When I heard about this, I couldn’t pass it up. Now I’m here, focusing on my exams and school, and I feel like there’s light at the end of the tunnel.”

Pedro Mulato described how the program helped them overcome financial hardship:

“I was working in the fields, struggling to pay rent, while my family faced serious health challenges. My brother needed surgery, my father lost his vision, and my mom was injured at work. I almost broke down because I couldn’t provide enough. My aunt told me about this program, and at first I thought I couldn’t afford it. But they helped finance it, and I gave it a shot. I’m very grateful to OYA for the chance they gave me to study and improve my life.”

Building Pathways to Employment

The program has already supported students in Indio and Riverside, including 26 participants at the School of Career Education. By combining education, supportive services, and workforce connections, the initiative aims to ensure that young adults not only complete training but also secure meaningful employment.

“This is about more than just jobs,” said program staff. “It’s about giving young people the tools, confidence, and opportunities to break cycles of hardship and build a future they can be proud of.”

To learn more about Riverside County Workforce Development, visit www.RivCoWorkforce.org.