Seven organizations in Los Angeles and Orange counties were collectively awarded more than $3 million in federal workforce development funds for training programs to help U.S. Armed Services veterans obtain jobs in a number of fields, it was announced Tuesday.
About $5 million budgeted under the federal Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act was allocated to agencies in six counties, according to the California Employment Development Department. In addition to Los Angeles and Orange counties, funds were also awarded to groups in Riverside, Contra Costa, San Diego and Ventura counties.
"EDD is proud to provide California veterans with the tools they need to transition into sustainable careers," said EDD Director Patrick Henning. "This funding will help train and prepare former military personnel for high-growth civilian jobs."
The EDD, which administered the federal allotment for the state, determined which organizations should benefit based on a competitive application process. Among the local organizations receiving funds were the City of Pasadena/Foothill Workforce Development Board; Goodwill Industries of Orange County; the South Bay Workforce Investment Board; and the United States Veterans Initiative in Los Angeles.
According to state officials, the goal is to prepare up to 1,200 veterans for jobs in administrative services, computer technology, construction, healthcare, manufacturing, renewable energy and retail trade.
