About The Students At Work Initiative

To address homelessness, CEC developed the Students At Work Initiative. The program is tailored to the unique needs of “at risk” and homeless youth who range in age from 18 to 23 years old. Through SAW and cooperating agencies, these young men and women are transitioned off the streets and into full time jobs, permanent housing, and self-sufficiency.

The SAW Initiative operates in conjunction with colleges and universities and the Los Angeles Unified School District to create a Vocational “Pathway” in the construction industry for homeless emancipated foster youth. SAW also provides a career pathway for college and university students interested in building a community by planning and implementing activities that create structural and social change.

Services Delivered Via The Vocational “Pathway"

• Education Basic education elements include mathematics, reading, problem solving, personal and interpersonal skill development.
  
• Apprentice-level skill development & Paid Work Experience
  Youth obtain marketable workforce skills through a practical and effective hands-on application utilizing on-site skill training. Youth are “learn and earn” while they are` on-the-job training.
  
• Job Placement – Upon receiving Certificates of Completion from the program, youth are guaranteed full-time unsubsidized employment.
  
• “Multiplier effect” - The work experience provided in the program creates a “multiplier effect” creating opportunities to connect and find employment in secondary industries such as suppliers, wholesalers, subcontractors. These include but are not limited to electrical, plumbing, carpentry, etc., home improvement specialists and building maintenance or property management companies.
  
• Case Management & Life Skill development - Youth receive other needed supportive services, including leadership skills, case management, mentoring, counseling, transportation, childcare, training supplies.
  
• Permanent Housing Placement –Eligible youth will be assisted to transition into permanent housing.

Services Delivered Via The Career “Pathway” For College & University Students

For graduate student Social Workers, the SAW initiative offers the following:

• Integration of college and university curricula into “real life” career experiences -- preparing them for a leadership role in ending homelessness and in real world community building.
• Combining practicum and knowledge -- preparing the college and university student with the tools necessary to problem solve the issues of the affordable hosing crisis, homelessness, poverty, unemployment, and the re-education of homeless emancipated foster youth.
• Academic credit for fieldwork -- provides required field experience necessary to complete four year undergraduate and/or graduate degree in Social Work.

SAW Initiative Outcomes:

• Readiness for employment and permanent housing
• Readiness for Independent living
• Attainment of positive social and interpersonal support
• Career & Vocational skills, knowledge of Community Building
• Self-sufficiency, greater emotional maturity and resources
• Skills and knowledge to meet living expenses