PLAYWomen Empowerment Educational Training
This project offers Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist training for women, including mothers and those who identify as female, in LA County District 4. It addresses employment gaps in underserved communities. Participants receive a Chromebook at the start of training and a $1,000 stipend upon passing the certification exam to support their transition into the workforce.
What is the primary issue area that your application will impact?
Community safety
In which areas of Los Angeles will you be directly working?
Long Beach
In what stage of innovation is this project, program, or initiative?
Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)
What is your understanding of the issue that you are seeking to address?
Supporting women in Long Beach—especially those with a history of incarceration or justice involvement—can play a critical role in preventing future incarceration and fostering peace in communities. These women are often underserved and face significant barriers to employment, making reintegration difficult. Statistics show that stable employment reduces recidivism and promotes community safety. By providing targeted opportunities, this initiative helps break cycles of poverty, opens pathways for career advancement, and builds stronger, more peaceful neighborhoods.
Describe the project, program, or initiative this grant will support to address the issue.
This grant will support an incentivized program designed to enhance job skills, provide hands-on work experience, and promote career advancement. Participants will gain practical tools needed for long-term employment success. Incentives will be built into the program to keep students engaged, motivated, and on track toward achieving their goals.
Describe how Los Angeles County will be different if your work is successful.
LA County can see real change by addressing the barriers women face in gaining employment after completing residential treatment. Many women enter treatment to recover and rebuild their lives, but once sober, they struggle to find jobs due to stigma, lack of skills, or justice involvement. Without employment, long-term recovery is at risk. By supporting job readiness and career pathways, we empower women to maintain sobriety, reduce recidivism, and contribute positively to their families and communities.
Approximately how many people will be impacted by this project, program, or initiative?
Direct Impact: 15
Indirect Impact: 15