Balita

America’s Job Center of California Re-Opening in the Antelope Valley

December 9, 2022

Los Angeles, CA – Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger and the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) with leaders from the State of California Employment Development Department and JVS SoCal celebrated the re-opening of LA County’s newly redesigned America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) in the Antelope Valley. DEO is reopening this Job Center serving the Antelope Valley community following extensive renovations and enhancements, with the goal of connecting residents to quality jobs and supporting post-pandemic economic recovery.

The remodeled facility offers a modern, professional, and inviting experience for local job seekers and industry sectors such as aerospace, as well as a new permanent space devoted entirely to preparing the next generation of workers in LA County. The new Youth Innovation Center is equipped with 3D printers, gaming stations, and career development resources for youth ages 14-24 looking for new career pathways, guidance, mentorships, and more.

“Job centers like this one are exactly what our communities need so they can thrive,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “I fully support offering career training and helping connect residents who are eager to work with jobs that will help them become financially secure. If we are to tackle social problems like homelessness meaningfully, we need offer resources that help people access viable and dependable income sources. Having America’s Job Center of California open its doors in the Antelope Valley is a big step in that direction.”

“Today, we’re not only celebrating the beautiful renovations that have made the AJCC a responsive and modern space for a 21st century workforce, but the vital, dynamic partnerships needed to ensure the best outcomes for every individual or business who walks in our door,” said Kelly LoBianco, Director of the new DEO. “DEO is committed to creating pathways to opportunities, helping small businesses and high-road employers start and grow, and streamlining access to pandemic relief for all in LA County. We’re grateful to the Board of Supervisors for their continued leadership in building an inclusive and equitable economy, and specifically to Supervisor Barger for her support of the Antelope Valley AJCC.”

“Our AJCCs have been home to Los Angeles County’s Youth@Work programs and JVS SoCal career coaches have been long-time allies for local youth in their employment endeavors,” says JVS SoCal Vice President of Programs, Kim Fedrick. “We are excited to offer an upgraded experience to our community members and a place where youth have access to technology that motivates them to explore their possibilities.”

The Antelope Valley AJCC offers a wide variety of in-person and virtual specialized programming that connects residents to job trainings, recruitment opportunities, educational resources, and supportive services, while linking small businesses and high growth sector employers to diverse talent pipelines, hiring incentives, and more. A newly available resource for businesses is the upcoming Economic Opportunity Grants program, which will provide $54 million+ in grant awards ranging in size from $2,500 to $25k to help small businesses, non-profits, and microentreprenuers recover, stabilize, and grow. Applications are anticipated to open in January with technical assistance available now. Residents can also access services from other on-site co-located partners including: JVS SoCal and State of California Employment Development Department.

LA County’s 19 AJCCs serve 4 million residents, including adults, dislocated workers, and youth from 58 of the County’s 88 cities and 150 unincorporated areas. All AJCC services are available for LA County residents ages 14 and older, including special programs and initiatives for priority populations such as veterans, laid off workers, CalWORKs recipients, current/former foster youth, justice-involved individuals, individuals experiencing homelessness, older adults, individuals with disabilities, and more.

To connect with the Antelope Valley AJCC or to request help, call (661) 726-4128 or stop in person at 1420 West Avenue I, Lancaster, CA 93534. All AJCC services are accessible through ajcc.lacounty.gov, by phone at (888) 226-6300, and via email at AJCCJobs@opportunity.lacounty.gov (for job seekers) or BizDev@opportunity.lacounty.gov (for businesses).

About DEO: LA County AJCCs, including the enhanced Antelope AJCC, are part of the newly created DEO, launched in July 2022. The DEO helps job seekers, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and residents access life-changing opportunities. Stay connected with DEO! Follow @EconOppLA on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, subscribe to our newsletter, or visit opportunity.lacounty.gov to learn about DEO services.