Taller San Jose Hope Builders

Hope Builders

There are close to 30,000 disconnected young adults in Orange County; the largest proportion reside in dense, urban neighborhoods in Central and Northern Orange County, where up to 58% of households struggle to make ends meet (United Way of California’s 2021 study, Struggling to Move Up). These neighborhoods contend with expensive, overcrowded housing, low educational attainment, high unemployment and high rates of crime and violence. Hope Builders recruits 18-28 year-old young adults, who are motivated and capable, but lack access to affordable pathways to advance out of poverty, focusing on those who are: under- or unemployed, basic skills deficient, extremely-low or very-low income (according to HUD guidelines), pregnant or parenting, and impacted by trauma, including domestic violence and criminal involvement. Through a rigorous vetting process, Hope Builders identifies diverse young adults who are ready for change and eager to contribute positively to the workforce. Once students are accepted, our innovative training model consists of four stages: 1. Job Skills: This stage provides contextualized basic skills remediation, a weekly stipend, and financial assistance for childcare and transportation. Trainees are required to show up every day, on time, and dressed professionally for careers in these industries: A) Construction, a 12-week pre-apprenticeship program that teaches construction fundamentals, OSHA-10 Certification, construction theory, daily math and leadership development; and,   B) Healthcare: incorporates HIPAA Compliance and OSHA training in two fields:   1) Clinical Medical Assisting (20 weeks) prepares trainees to measure vital signs, assist physicians with procedures, administer medications and injections, record electrocardiograms, draw blood, and complete records to support medical staff. Training includes a 160-hour practicum at a doctor's office or medical clinic.   2) Child Development (12 weeks): prepares graduates to work in schools and clinics as Behavioral Technicians, Para-educators, Instructional Aides, or Early Childhood Assistant Teachers. Incorporates behavioral technician training/certification, aligns to school district hiring requirements and includes virtual reality training through a partnership with CHOC. 2. Mentoring/Life Skills: Hope Builders integrates life skills and supportive services essential for successful employment transitions. Throughout the training, participants work with a Support Specialist (a licensed social worker or therapist) to address employment barriers, focusing on developing key workplace behaviors such as accountability, initiative, productivity, grit, and leadership. 3. Links to Career and Education Pathways: In partnership with the Rancho Santiago Community College District, Hope Builders offers post-secondary credentials. 4. Employment Services: Through its social enterprise staffing agency, Hope Builders Career Connections (HBCC), staff assist participants in finding, retaining, and advancing in their employment.