Enabling Opportunity Youth in LA County

Youth economic advancement

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

The Miguel Contreras Foundation has operated its opportunity youth (OY) workforce development program for three years, and the data obtained during that period has demonstrated that focusing on post-employment success for OY is crucial. Overcoming the complex challenges faced by OY and workers requires more than technical skills; it also requires skills for financial stability, emotional well-being, and maintaining social support systems, among many others. Failing to address those factors leads to higher attrition in job placements, reduced ability to navigate the job market, and lower likelihood of job advancement, substantially reducing the effectiveness of a workforce development program. Addressing ancillary skills necessary within the workforce could significantly improve outcomes for those who experience the greatest number of challenges in obtaining and maintaining employment.

The requested funds will support opportunity youth by contributing to the development of a post-employment needs assessment survey and facilitating the development of a mentor network. The survey will collect feedback and insights directly from OY, allowing for the analysis and interpretation of individual factors that illustrate where additional support is needed. While the primary purpose of the survey is to ensure that OY in job placements are receiving adequate support, data from all program participants will be aggregated and analyzed to inform future directions for the workforce development program. Based on the results of their needs assessment, OY will receive post-employment support such as financial literacy training, mental health care, and career counseling. The Foundation already offers many of these services but has noted that peer support is especially helpful. In addition to the development of the needs survey, the requested funds would also be used to expand the peer support and mentor network available to program participants. The mentoring network will allow OY the opportunity to work with a previous graduate of the workforce development program, ensuring that they are able to receive support from an individual who understands the unique challenges and circumstances faced by OY in Los Angeles.

Over the grant period, the Foundation intends to complete the development of the needs assessment survey, begin collecting feedback, and implement procedures for responding to opportunity youth with demonstrated needs. The grant period will also be an opportunity to refine post-employment support for OY, including the rapid expansion of the peer support network. Former graduates of the workforce development program will be asked to participate, and an evidence-based framework will be utilized that allows those mentors to help OY develop social skills, emotional connections, and trusted relationships with peers who have overcome similar challenges. Beyond the grant period, the Foundation will continue expanding its efforts to support OY through comprehensive post-employment services. Over time, Los Angeles County’s workforce will be bolstered by workers who are not only competent and technically adept but also capable of navigating complex social, economic, and emotional challenges.

While the Foundation has seen success with its workforce development program, three years of experience has demonstrated that post-employment support is required to bolster outcomes and ensure that program graduates are prepared to navigate the nuances of employment and economic survival. Currently, outcomes are assessed by observing the progress of those in the program and soliciting qualitative feedback from participants regarding their experiences. The requested funds would allow the Foundation to adopt a more data-driven approach by creating a needs assessment that allows for empirical analysis of individual participant needs and the program as a whole. Indicators of success include accurate depictions of participant needs, reduced job placement attrition, and greater resilience in the face of employment challenges.