Workforce Technician Education Center

Profile Not Current (Last updated: Jan 10, 2026 )

PROGRAMS

RISEUP Pre-Vocational Training Program

The RISEUP Pre-Vocational Training Program is a comprehensive initiative designed by Human Works Foundation to address the unique challenges faced by justice-involved and impacted youth. This program provides participants with the skills, support, and confidence they need to transition into meaningful careers, offering a pathway to long-term self-sufficiency and personal growth. Program Overview The RISEUP Pre-Vocational Training Program is a holistic approach that focuses on job readiness, vocational training, and the personal development of participants. The program is specifically designed for youth who have been involved in the justice system or come from underserved communities, where resources and support are limited. The individuals in the program often face multiple barriers, such as lower academic performance, lack of family support, English as a second language, and mental or physical health challenges. Key Components of the Program: Vocational Training: The core of the program provides hands-on training in high-demand industries, such as construction, skilled trades, and customer service. Participants learn marketable skills that can lead to sustainable careers with living wages and advancement opportunities. Training begins while youth are still in custody (when applicable) to provide a seamless transition to employment upon release. Skills Development: In addition to vocational skills, the program emphasizes essential soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving. These skills are vital for success in any work environment and help participants thrive in professional settings. Job Readiness: Participants are prepared for the job market through résumé-building workshops, mock interviews, and job search strategies. The program also connects them with potential employers and industry professionals to support their entry into the workforce. Supportive Environment: The program fosters a safe and supportive educational environment, promoting emotional well-being and confidence-building. Participants receive mentorship and guidance from trainers and staff, who understand the unique challenges they face and work to empower them to succeed. Holistic Support Services: RISEUP addresses the whole person by offering mental health services, life skills coaching, and resources that promote personal and professional growth. Participants are encouraged to set personal goals, build healthy relationships, and make informed decisions about their futures. Transitional Support and Resources: Upon completion of the training, participants receive continued support to help them transition into employment. This includes access to tools and equipment necessary for their trade, as well as housing assistance, when applicable, through partnerships with transitional housing programs.

Budget
$130,000
Outcomes

The RISEUP Pre-Vocational Training Program has been designed to create real, measurable change in the lives of justice-involved and impacted youth. By offering a holistic approach that combines job readiness training, vocational education, personal development, and supportive services, RISEUP helps participants overcome barriers to employment and self-sufficiency. The program’s outcomes reflect its success in reducing recidivism, promoting economic independence, and fostering personal growth.
Reduced Recidivism: One of the primary goals of RISEUP is to break the cycle of reoffending among justice-involved youth. The program has demonstrated significant success in reducing recidivism rates. Youth who complete the program are significantly less likely to return to the justice system, as they gain the skills and resources needed to secure stable employment and make positive life choices.
Job Placement and Career Advancement: RISEUP equips participants with in-demand skills in industries such as construction, skilled trades, and customer service. These skills directly translate into job opportunities upon completion of the program. Sustainable careers: Participants are placed in positions that offer living wages and opportunities for career growth, providing a clear path to long-term economic independence.
Educational and Skills Development: Many participants come from underserved communities with limited access to quality education and vocational training. RISEUP fills these gaps by offering both hard and soft skills training that helps youth develop confidence and independence.
Increased Confidence and Personal Growth: Beyond vocational skills, RISEUP emphasizes personal development, helping participants build self-esteem, set personal goals, and develop a sense of purpose. Youth who complete the program report increased confidence and a clearer vision of their future.
Holistic Support and Mental Health Improvements: The program’s holistic approach provides access to mental health services, life skills coaching, and supportive mentorship, which are critical to the overall well-being of participants. Mental health improvements: Participants show increased resilience and emotional stability, reporting improvements in their mental health due to the program’s support services. Life skills: Participants develop practical life skills such as financial literacy, time management, and conflict resolution, enabling them to thrive both professionally and personally.
Stable Transitions Post-Training: Many participants benefit from transitional support, such as assistance with securing housing and accessing essential tools and equipment for their new careers. This support ensures they can make a successful transition from training to employment.
Long-Term Community Impact: By helping justice-involved youth secure stable employment and avoid recidivism, RISEUP contributes to broader community improvement. Participants who successfully reintegrate into society become positive role models and active contributors to their communities, reducing the long-term social and economic costs of incarceration.

Spotlight Program

The Spotlight Program is designed to support community groups, nonprofits, and small businesses by addressing their marketing and outreach needs. Through tailored services, we provide essential tools and resources to help these organizations amplify their impact, grow their audience, and achieve their missions. The program focuses on: Brand Development: Assisting with logo creation, messaging, and brand identity. Marketing Strategy: Crafting comprehensive marketing plans, including social media, digital marketing, and print campaigns. Content Creation: Providing professional services in graphic design, photography, videography, and copywriting. Community Engagement: Helping organizations build meaningful connections with their target audience through events, outreach programs, and public relations efforts. By leveraging our expertise, the Spotlight Program empowers organizations to enhance their visibility, tell their unique stories, and increase their community impact without the burden of high marketing costs.

Budget
$30,000
Outcomes

The Spotlight Program aims to deliver measurable, impactful results for community groups, nonprofits, and small businesses by helping them strengthen their marketing capabilities. Key outcomes include:

Increased Brand Visibility: Organizations experience enhanced visibility within their target communities through strategic marketing initiatives, leading to greater recognition and awareness of their mission and services.

Improved Community Engagement: By optimizing outreach strategies, participants foster stronger relationships with their audiences, resulting in higher engagement levels, increased participation in programs or services, and a more loyal supporter base.

Enhanced Marketing Capacity: Participants gain valuable marketing tools, resources, and knowledge, empowering them to independently manage and sustain future promotional efforts.

Stronger Digital Presence: Through tailored social media and digital marketing support, organizations see improved online presence, increased website traffic, and greater reach across digital platforms.

Growth in Funding and Support: With heightened visibility and refined messaging, organizations attract more donors, volunteers, and community partners, leading to increased financial and operational support.

Success in Mission Delivery: Improved marketing leads to more effective communication of an organization’s mission, ultimately helping them achieve their goals and make a larger impact in the communities they serve.

Professional Development for Staff: Organizations benefit from the training and guidance provided, which enhances the skills and confidence of their staff in marketing, communications, and public relations.

These outcomes empower organizations to operate more efficiently, reach their target audience, and scale their impact, while promoting long-term sustainability.

CONTACT

Workforce Technician Education Center

1231 WARNER AVE
#ROOM 203
TUSTIN, California 92780

megan@human-works.org

www.human-works.org/