Youth Rising, Violence Falling

Youth economic advancement

Central LA East LA San Gabriel Valley City of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a citywide benefit)

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

In Los Angeles, a significant number of youth are disconnected from education and employment opportunities, leading to increased vulnerability to crime and violence. The lack of access to job training, mentorship, and safe spaces combined with systemic inequities and generational poverty creates a cycle where young people feel they have few viable options for success. Healing Urban Barrios addresses this urgent issue by offering grassroots, trauma informed workforce development that prepares youth for sustainable careers while also focusing on their emotional, mental, and social well-being. Our programs go beyond technical skills we build confidence, purpose, and community responsibility. By meeting youth where they are and showing them what is possible, we create real alternatives to street life, reduce recidivism, and build safer, more empowered neighborhoods.

We are expanding our workforce development programming for teens and young adults. Our goal is to create clear and supportive pathways to employment, vocational training, and educational advancement that lead to personal growth, economic mobility, and long term professional development. Through a holistic and culturally responsive approach, participants will have the tools, skills, and confidence needed in today’s workforce. Programming will include job readiness workshops, career exploration, mentorship, trade certifications, and linkages to higher education opportunities. Addressing barriers such as justice system involvement, lack of access to education, gang involvement, or intergenerational poverty, we empower individuals to rewrite their narratives and pursue sustainable futures. Investing in workforce development is not only a strategy for individual empowerment it is a catalyst for community transformation. The Program is a multi-segmented approach that goes beyond traditional job training. Our model integrates gang intervention, conflict resolution, mediation, and urgent community response services. Participants are supported through self reflection, emotional intelligence development, and culturally competent mentorship. Addressing the underlying challenges that often hinder employment such as trauma, system involvement, or community violence we help individuals succeed in the workforce.

Los Angeles County benefits significantly from our workforce development program through increased community safety, reduced youth crime, and long-term economic stability. By equipping system-impacted and opportunity youth with the tools, training, and mentorship needed to secure meaningful employment, the program directly addresses the root causes of violence and poverty. As more young people transition into the workforce and away from cycles of incarceration, neighborhoods become safer, public resources are used more efficiently, and local economies are strengthened. Additionally, by fostering leadership and self-worth among participants, the program nurtures a new generation of engaged citizens who are empowered to reinvest in their communities and promote positive social change throughout Los Angeles County. Lastly, youth will prioritize employment rather than choosing violence. Our program's impact will also lead to youth investing in their own ideas to increase entrepreneurism.