Welcome to the 16th edition of

"In-the-Know with SELACO"



July 2024

The Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board's (SELACO WDB) Executive Director, Yolanda Castro recently participated in a panel discussion at the California Workforce Association (CWA) WORKCON 2024; Bridging the Gap Conference in Rancho Mirage, California. The panel, titled "Workforce Trends 2024: Brave New World," facilitated by David Shinder, Workforce Consultant, featured other esteemed Executive Directors such as Blake Konczal from the Fresno County Workforce Board, Marlena Sessions from the Nova Workforce Board and Michael Cross from the Northern Training and Rural Consortium (NoRTEC) Workforce Development Board.

The panel delved into the imminent changes facing the traditional world of work, going beyond the post-COVID-19 return to partial normalcy. With seismic shifts in politics, social norms, and modes of inter-generational communication, the workforce development system is set to undergo significant transformations. The discussion revolved around the top ten identified trends in the workforce for 2024, including remote/hybrid work, artificial intelligence, the crumbling paper ceiling, quiet quitting, the rise of contingent workers, and shift shock.

A central question posed during the panel was the role of the workforce system in preparing customers – both individuals and businesses – as well as the organization itself, to navigate the challenges presented by the "Brave New World of Work." This critical dialogue aimed to explore how the workforce system can adapt and evolve to meet the evolving needs of the workforce in the face of these transformative trends.

On Wednesday, June 19, 2024, the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) staff coordinated a day of celebration for Juneteenth. The celebration began with a “walk through history” with ten fact stations followed by a trivia quiz and commenced with fellowship and refreshments. The celebration was a great opportunity to learn more about why Juneteenth is celebrated and why this day is important to members of our community whose ancestors were impacted by slavery.

Meet Asia Poston

From June 2, 2022, to September 24, 2023, Asia worked as an Accounting Assistant in the Fiscal Department for The Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) through the Los Angeles County Transitional Subsidized Employment (TSE) and the SELACO WDB Work Experience (WEX) programs.

On September 25, 2023, Asia was officially hired as an Accounting Clerk for SELACO WDB. Asia appreciates working for SELACO WDB due to its positive impact and multitude of resources to enhance the quality of life in Los Angeles County. She is grateful for the firsthand experience with programs that support her personal growth and provide stability for her two children. Outside of work, Asia enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new sights, and indulging in her passion for cooking various dishes, with egg rolls being one of her favorites.

Meet Jerry Santos

Jerry was hired as a Business Engagement Specialist, and joined the Employment Training Panel at the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) on May 13th, 2024.

He finds fulfillment in helping companies enhance their employees' skills through training, thereby propelling their careers and improving their overall quality of life. Jerry is eager to delve deeper into SELACO WDB's impact on the local community and explore ways to positively influence individuals' lives through business services.

Outside of work, Jerry cherishes spending valuable moments with his family, particularly engaging in his children's travel sports activities, which keep him actively involved in practices and games throughout the week and weekends.

On April 16, 2024, three staff members of the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) participated in the annual "Passing the Baton" Women in Business Luncheon, hosted by the Paramount Chamber of Commerce at Progress Park in the City of Paramount from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Rosa Cuellar, Youth Career Development Specialist II, Casey Chaves Business Engagement Specialist, and Stefany Morales Career Development Specialist I, found inspiration in the panel discussions led by accomplished young women and engaging Q&A breakout sessions.

ABC Adult School (Cuesta Campus) in Cerritos held their annual Career Fair on April 19, 2024. Renee Fakhfouri and David Cardenas, Career Development Specialists II's from the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB), provided details on no-cost job search services and hosted a prize wheel activity. Attendees had the chance to engage with employers across diverse industries and discover potential career paths and job opportunities.

Stefany Morales, Career Development Specialist I, and Deborah Lizette Gonzalez, Career Development Specialist II, from the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB), reach out to potential customers at the Paramount Adult School every third Thursday of the month. This outreach initiative is a key component of the "Boots on Ground" effort, demonstrating that SELACO WDB staff actively engage with the local community, facilitating access for individuals to discover the numerous no-cost job search resources offered at the Cerritos America's Job Center of California.

The Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) team, led by Adult Services Coordinator Amber Hernandez and Program Analyst II Vanessa Ramirez, hosted a comprehensive orientation session for participants from the Los Angeles County of Education (LACOE) and Cerritos College. This session aimed to introduce interested individuals to the program's offerings, which include the chance to earn industry-recognized certifications: Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) and Certified Logistics Technician (CLT), along with OSHA 10 Safety and Forklift Operator Certifications provided through the Regional Equity and Recovery Partnership (RERP) grant.

Those who completed the training from May 6th to June 13th through Cerritos College participated in a graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 13th, 2024, at LACOE in Downey. The ceremony celebrated all of their hard work and dedication. The graduates can now look forward to job placement assistance as they embark on their professional journeys.

On Friday, June 21st 2024 at 10:00 a.m., the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) organized an information session for the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Recruiter Antonio Diaz provided details on the available job opportunities, the necessary qualifications, and the application process. A total of nineteen attendees participated in the event, with several expressing interest in applying for positions in the field.

Summer Kickoff Party at A.J. Padelford Park (11870 169th Street) took place on Friday, June 7th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Southeast Los Angeles Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) Business Engagement Specialist, Linda Bouman supported the event by connecting with Parks and Recreation employees and Joshua Acevedo, Recreation Supervisor. Both Joshua Acevedo and lead singer, Stacy Anne, with The Platinum Beat Band, thanked SELACO WDB for what they do and for participating in the fun.

Padekwa Cafe & Create, located at 5841 Bellflower Boulevard in Lakewood, celebrated its Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting ceremony on June 22, 2024. Willy Castillo, Business Engagement Specialist from the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB), was present at the event to show support for this small local business and to offer SELACO WDB no-cost business services. Padekwa Café is a unique coffee shop that provides a creative space for customers to enjoy sip and paint activities, along with two private meeting rooms that can double as workspaces. The name "Padekwa" translates to "you are welcome" in Creole.

The City of Norwalk's Fourth of July Independence Day Pageant took place on July 2, 2024, at the Norwalk City Hall. The event was organized by the Recreation and Park Services Department and was a free community gathering that received support from the Southeast Los Angles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) Business Services Engagement Specialist, Linda Bouman. The entertainment featured music by Bruno and the Hooligans, a Bruno Mars Tribute Band. Attendees enjoyed various activities including games, a kids zone, and food trucks, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. Food trucks were available throughout the day, and complimentary parking was provided at the parking structure adjacent to Norwalk City Hall.

The Paramount Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Planet Fitness on Wednesday, July 10th, 2024. The new Planet Fitness location can be found at 14601 Lakewood Blvd., Paramount, CA 90723. Linda Bowman, Business Engagement Specialist from the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB), showed her support by attending the event and offering SELACO WDB's no-cost business services. Guests at the event enjoyed a variety of food options from an In and Out cookout truck which included hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and Double-Doubles. Refreshing drinks were provided by Dr. Pepper, and a talented DJ kept the party alive with music.

Excitement fills the air as eager students register for this summer's highly anticipated Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) class. The Southeast Los Angles County Workforce Development Board's (SELACO WDB) Youth Services is partnering with the California Advancing Pathways for Students (CalCAPS) and local high schools to offer students a summer, 4-week EMT class.   

With pens in hand and anticipation on their faces, students were ready to embark on a journey of lifesaving skills and medical knowledge. This summer promises to be full of learning, service and bright opportunities ahead!  

Orientation was held on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at Somerset High School's after school EMT class. Orientation Included students from various local high schools: Bellflower, Paramount, Lynwood and Mayfair.

We are thrilled to provide an update on the remarkable efforts of The Los Angeles Community Action for Unity, Social Justice, and Acceptance (LA CAUSA) YouthBuild students as they progress through their Work Experience (WEX) program with Habitat for Humanity. Their current focus lies in the construction of two units of affordable housing, where their hands-on contributions are truly making a difference.

Operating across two locations, the students are divided to maximize efficiency. One site is dedicated to the construction of frames and the preparation of essential components for the homes. These components are then carefully transported to the second location, depicted in the accompanying image, where the students skillfully piece everything together.

In addition to their role in laying the foundation and framing the walls of the first floor, the students have diligently ensured that all plywood installations adhere to code regulations. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident as they now focus on the construction of the second floor.

LA CAUSA YouthBuild is a non-profit organization that serves as a one-stop youth resource center for disenfranchised youth and young adults ages 16 to 29. Their primary objective is to equip young people with the necessary skills and knowledge to enter the workforce and/or pursue higher education. Through their educational and occupational services, LA CAUSA aim to empower youth to create a sustainable future for themselves, their families, and their communities. Through their partnership with YouthBuild Charter Schools of California (YCSC), LA CAUSA offer the following services: fully accredited high school diploma • occupational skills training opportunities • college and career readiness • leadership development • free resources: meal program, TAP cards.

What is Toastmasters?

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, the organization's membership is approximately 280,000 in more than 14,700 clubs in 144 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders.

The Lunchtime Leaders is a local Toastmasters Club that meets every Wednesday at the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) in Cerritos from noon to 1:00 p.m. Visitors are always welcome to attend meetings and learn how Toastmasters can become a valuable educational and professional development tool. Being a Toastmaster member looks impressive on any resumé. The leadership and communication experience can equip participating members with some of the most essential skills to succeed on the job!

For more information

on how to visit or join the

Cerritos Lunchtime Leaders Toastmaster Club,

please contact:

Lillian at lillian.lucero@selaco.com / (562) 484-5003

or

Tammy at tammyf@selaco.com / (562) 484-5052

July 25, 2024

3:00 p.m.- Workforce Development Board (WDB) Meeting

August 20, 2024

Noon - Policy Board Meeting

September 26, 2024

3:00 p.m.- Workforce Development Board (WDB) Meeting

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SELACO WDB is an equal opportunity employer/program operator, serving the following eight cities:

Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, Downey, Hawaiian Gardens, Lakewood, Norwalk and Paramount.

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

TDD/TTY 562-403-2125, CRS (800) 735-2922