Community Renewal Good Stories - Santa Ana

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One-Stop Job and Education Centers Help EZ Residents Gain Diplomas

Santa Ana, California, EZ

As he walked the streets of Santa Ana, California's EZ, looking for work, Orlando Roman feared he would find himself in another dead end job. But a chance meeting with a member of the Orange County Conservation Corps put Roman on a new path, one that included a college degree. After learning that he could work for the Orange County Conservation Corps for minimum wage plus receive transportation, job training, and a high school diploma, Roman was ready to give it a try. In August 2003 the 24-year-old Mexican immigrant used his enhanced English skills to deliver a speech to his fellow graduates. A college scholarship awaited him.

The Santa Ana EZ has established several goals, chief among them finding sustainable jobs for 5,000 residents by 2009 and applying for grants for training and education. The Conservation Corps is one of 10 groups assisting with this endeavor. Judy Chen-Lee, director of the Santa Ana WORK Center, said case managers at the 10 neighborhood sites will tailor training to each individual. "We are looking at the person's overall need," she said. "Our hope is that we will not only help get jobs but make sure they can advance." The Conservation Corps, a nonprofit organization serving people ages 18 to 26, offers help with everything from writing a résumé to learning English to dressing for work. The group offers one-stop shopping. "Everything is here," said Roman.

Having dropped out of high school to support his family, Roman tried night school. But his work schedule and reliance on public transportation made it difficult to get to class. Roman's Corps schedule includes time for work and school. A van picks him up at 6:45 a.m. and takes him to his job site. In the afternoon he returns to the Corps office for class until 4:15 p.m. Fridays are devoted to studies, including public speaking and computer skills.

Roman turned down a $12-an-hour construction job in favor of his $8.75 Corps job because it allowed him greater flexibility in starting college. "He understands the importance of education and lining himself up with a good job," said Gaby Gonzalez, director of Conservation Corps member development. In late summer 2003, 800 EZ residents began receiving free personalized job-placement assistance. The zone planned to spend $1 million for the year to offer the program to adults eligible to work.

For more information on the programs of the Santa Ana EZ, contact EZ Director Deborah Sanchez at (714) 647-6548.