We provide residents in Central and East Contra Costa County with the skills and confidence needed to pursue more stable and better financial opportunities. Our programs include Technology for Success, support for Emerging Businesses, and services for CalWORKs recipients. Each program is designed based on community feedback to ensure it meets the real needs of those we serve.
Our Technology for Success programs are comprehensive 10–20 week courses designed for Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced computer skill levels, taught in both Spanish and Farsi. Our structured Beginning and Intermediate programs provide progressive skill development that prepares participants for Caminos, our career-track program combining advanced computer skills, English and professional development.
Our Emerging Business Support Program is the only support for low-income small business owners in Central and East Contra Costa County that is offered in participants’ own language and specifically addresses the barriers of this population. To date, we have formalized over 230 small businesses from handyman services, housecleaning, food industry, landscaping, florists, online sales, contractors, hair salons, clothing alterations and home organizing.
“I sincerely appreciate the training I received from my case manager Jawed Latif and his help in finding work with Uber Eats, and his support for my two daughters, who are also looking for work.”
Abdul Hai Zarifi, CalWORKs participant & refugee from Afghanistan
“The success of a business depends on the entrepreneur and how they continue to educate themselves… Don't be afraid to fail. It is not easy, but if you put passion into your project, you fall in love with it even more, giving you the motivation and commitment to grow.”
Ingrid Castro, Emerging Business participant, owner of Los Secretos del Inca Food Truck
