Success Stories and Client Testimonials
This is the story of Saeida Wali, a client of the Health and Well-Being Program. She enrolled in our program after being referred to us while experiencing homelessness, a lack of support, and significant challenges that led to a mental health crisis requiring ongoing care. She urgently needed assistance in securing stable housing, accessing mental health services, and applying for essential benefits such as food stamps, cash aid, and Medi-Cal, as well as finding employment to meet her basic needs.
The Health and Well-Being “PEI” Program intervened to provide comprehensive support. We assisted Saeida in applying for Medi-Cal, cash aid, and food stamps to address her immediate financial and healthcare needs. For her mental health concerns, she was referred to La Familia for counseling services. Additionally, she secured a housekeeping position with a salary of $16.50 per hour. Recognizing the importance of stable housing in her recovery journey, we supported her in finding safe and affordable housing. Through our referral and connections, she also received a generous $1,000 donation from United Citizen Law to help cover her first month’s rent.
Today, Saeida has successfully transitioned into stable housing and is on a path toward long-term self-sufficiency. Her story is a testament to the power of compassion, support, and community resources in transforming lives. Her journey reflects LFCD’s mission to advance economic mobility and well-being. This is a true success story of a PEI client, demonstrating that with the right guidance and determination, positive change is always possible.
Shared by-
Sadia Mazlumyar
Case Manager
Journeywoman Workforce Development Professional (JOURWDP)
A 3205 Hurley Way, Sacramento, CA 95864?
P 916-537-4216 M 916-359-2788 C 510-459-4665
E [email protected] W www.lfcd.org
Successfully Completed for January, 2024
Mr. A journey at the Care Campus is truly inspiring and showcases the positive impact that supportive programs can have on individuals seeking to improve their lives. Mr. A, arrived at the Care Campus on August 9, 2023, in need of shelter and support. He was unemployed at the time but expressed a strong desire to improve his life. demonstrated discipline and eagerness to work hard. He was engaging with his care manager regularly, showing commitment to his personal development. And also, he was participating in the IDA Saving Plan. Now he has a secured job as an ambassador at Urban Alchemy, showcasing his commitment to employment. His monthly income of $3,300, signifying financial stability and independence. Mr. A became a mentor, influencing and encouraging other clients at the Care Campus to strive for improvement. He successfully moved into permanent housing on January 2, 2024, with his wife. The LFCD supported his move-in and IDA Saving plan with a total contribution of $4,450. However, Mr. A got Married a few days before moving to his new place, marking a significant personal achievement. He also, introduced his new wife to the Care Campus, showcasing the supportive community he found. He volunteered to share his story through a video, inspiring others with his journey. Wished Mr. A the best of luck, a happy life, and a successful marriage in his new chapter outside the Care Campus. Mr. A’s success story highlights the transformative impact of the Care Campus, emphasizing the importance of supportive programs, dedication, and community engagement in helping individuals regain stability and move towards a brighter future.
Successfully Completed for March, 2024
The remarkable journey of Mr. F during his time at the Care Campus. Despite facing significant challenges, Mr. f determination and commitment have led to a transformative experience, and we are delighted to provide his progress. Mr. F joined the Care Campus on April 13, 2023, seeking stability and a fresh start. Homeless and in desperate need, he showed immense resilience from the outset. Throughout his time at the Care Campus, he fully embraced the program by demonstrating exemplary discipline and engagement. One of his key goals was securing stable housing, and LFCD was able to support him in achieving his milestone. Through his unwavering dedication to the program and adherence to its rules and policies, he completed the program requirements successfully. Moreover, Mr. F’s proactive approach extended to his professional aspirations. While initially working at Digg Deep, he remained ambitious and sought opportunities for career advancement. His persistence paid off when he secured a higher-paying job as Tree Planter Justice, earning $25 per hour. Mr. F’s passion for his work is evident, and he is eager to continue growing in his role. As he transitions to new place in Oakland, CA, LFCD has provided support with move-in expenses and facelifted his participation in the IDA Saving Matching Plan, totaling $4, 500. This assistance with further empower him as he embarks on his new chapter. We congratulate him on his achievements and with him the very best for the future. His success serves as a testament to the impact of our programs, and the resilience of individuals like Mr. F.
Successful Completed for June, 2024
Mr. S moved to the Care Campus on May 13, 2023, desperate for housing and essential services. He faced significant challenges, including the need for a social security card, credit assistance, and obtaining his high school diploma. Despite these obstacles, Mr. S demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. With the dedicated support of the LFCD, he managed to secure his social security card and make substantial improvements to his credit scores. These achievements were critical in stabilizing his financial situation, laying the groundwork for a more secure and independent future. Through LFCD’s comprehensive employment services, Mr. S secured a well-paying job, earning around $3,600 per month. This newfound financial stability opened the door to the possibility of moving into permanent housing—a goal that had once seemed out of reach. Despite this progress, Mr. S remained committed to continuing his hard work, striving to improve himself further and fully transition to independent living. He diligently followed the program’s procedures and processes, regularly meeting with his case manager and participating in various activities designed to enhance his skills and confidence. Education was a crucial part of Mr. S’s journey, and with LFCD’s help, he enrolled in classes to complete his high school diploma. Achieving this milestone marked a significant step forward in both his personal and professional development. Beyond his educational and financial advancements, Mr. S also took full advantage of LFCD’s additional support services. He attended financial literacy workshops, job readiness training, and counseling sessions, all of which contributed to his overall growth and preparedness for a successful future. As Mr. S neared the completion of the program, LFCD provided critical assistance with his move-in expenses, totaling $3,735. This support was instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition into his new permanent home. Additionally, we provided $477.85 for his move-in necessities, further helping him settle into his new life. His commitment and perseverance paid off, and on June 28, 2024, Mr. S successfully completed the program and exited, ready to embrace his future with confidence. We wish Mr. S the very best in his future endeavors, fully confident that his dedication and hard work will lead to even greater success and fulfillment in the years to come. His journey is a powerful example of what can be achieved with the right support and a steadfast determination to overcome life’s challenges.
Successful Completion for July 2024
The highlighted story of July is Mr. B’s inspiring journey. He enrolled in the program and moved to the Care Campus on July 1, 2023. When Mr. B arrived at the Care Campus, he was unemployed, homeless, and struggling to find work. With the support of the Care Campus program, he secured his first job at the CEO company, earning about $15 per hour. As he continued living at the Care Campus, he advanced to working for the City and County of San Francisco, where he earned $21 per hour. Through hard work and determination, Mr. B eventually earned a promotion and is now in management training, where he will be paid $38 per hour. The Care Campus played a pivotal role in helping him rebuild his life and achieve full independence. On July 1, 2024, he moved into his new permanent residence in Oakland, CA. The LFCD assisted him with move-in expenses and provided an IDA Saving Plan amounting to $3,500. Mr. B is incredibly excited and thrilled about the improvements and transitions in his life. He continues to express his deep gratitude for the opportunities provided by Care Campus, often calling to thank us for how his life has changed. As Mr. B embraces this fresh start, we extend our sincerest wishes for his continued success and happiness.
Successful Completion for July 2024
Mr. J was part of the AB109 Probation program. When he transitioned to the care campus on July 28, 2023, he faced significant challenges in adhering to the program’s requirements due to his mental health struggles. These difficulties caused a disconnection from his family and a pervasive mindset that returning to jail was inevitable. Mr. J also grappled with anger management issues, which hindered his ability to function effectively and follow instructions. However, with the dedicated and compassionate support of his Case Manager, L’Nette, he began to make remarkable progress. Through her patient guidance, he learned to follow directions, actively participate in program activities, and gain confidence in himself. Over time, he shifted away from thoughts of incarceration and started rebuilding relationships with his family. His family gradually began to accept him again, extending invitations and strengthening their bond. Additionally, with L’Nette’s support, he secured permanent income-based housing, requiring only a third of his SSI income. This new arrangement includes resident support services, providing him with resources to better manage his mental health. He moved to his home on November 12, 2024. As part of the BSCC Retention Program, we continue to follow up with Mr. J for up to six months. Three weeks after he transitioned from the Care Campus, we visited his new residence to deliver an Amazon order (home necessities) and check in on him, as he does not have a car. It was heartening to witness his excitement and pride in his new home, reflecting the positive changes in his life. We wish Mr. J continued success, health, and happiness as he embarks on this new chapter.
Client Name: Mohammadi, Bakhtiar
Challenges Overcame:
Mohammadi, Bakhtiar, who’s from the Afghan capital city of Kabul, has been living in Sacramento for more than two years. he says he left his home in Afghanistan with his family for safety.The Taliban entered Kabul and took control of the country on Aug. 15, 2021. It triggered tens of thousands of people to rush to Kabul’s airport in hopes of evacuating via any flight out of Afghanistan. Mohammadi says he had to wait months for a flight from Afghanistan to the U.S. due to dangers and chaos at the Kabul airport. he, along with his family, secured travel to a refugee camp in the U.S. in 2021.Mr. Mohammadi was a walk-in client to LFCD. He faced many challenges since he entered in to the United States.Mr. Mohammadi had financial hardship and he was asking for any entry level job in order to support his family. He applied in many jobs before he came to Loa Family Community Development but did not hear back from employer.
Successful Outcome:
Mr. Mohammadi was a walk-in to LFCD by one of our pervious client which was assisted through the employment Services. After explaining all the policy and procedure to client, he was interested to enroll with LFCD. The employment specialist at LFCD assisted Mr. Mohammadi through the employment opportunities, activities and Pre employment skill training as well apply him at many available positions. Client was interested to get to get an entry level job in order to support his family since he was facing with the financial hardship. The counselor informed client regarding an available position at Aerotek. He has been assisted with the position at Aerotek. Fortunately Mr. Mohammadi was successfully pass the interview and started his new career at Aerotek. Client was in need of financial support in order to pay the rent and he has been assisted to request one month rent.The Counselor at LFCD following up to keep checking on his employment on regular basis. Mr. Mohammadi going normally to his work and he is doing great
Summary of the Arrival for Masoud Ariana
Couple months ago Mr. Masoud Ariana, his wife Qudsia Ariana and three kids arrived in the US with their Parole Visa from Afghanistan. Masoud quickly enrolled in the AIRS Program through the affiliated Loa Family North office.
Mr. Masoud and his wife were referred by one of his family members to the LAO family North office, who was a very well educated person with high talent and various skills. He has been enrolled in to the AIRS program as a client on 06/04/2024, where at the beginning, he had stress, depression and he has been lost. He lost his way where to start and how to start with having no financial support as well as no knowledge about the country, culture, tradition, jobs, and resettlement. After he has been in taken in to AIRS program, then I as a Case Manager started working with him on each and every aspect of life including applying for their county benefits, social security, work authorization, refugee clinic, enrolling him to security guard card classes and achieving it, enrolling him and his wife to highland charter school, and multi pre-employment workshops to make him self-sufficient.
His life was changed unexpectedly within the very first two months after his arrival through the LAO family services. The client was a quick learner and eager to learn and run, therefore within the first six weeks with the help of the Case Manager he got out of depression, stress, and he achieved extreme success and prosperity in his new life which makes him able to help his entire family financially and emotionally.
Attached video is a short story of the client by himself about his life in the US since his first day significantly after he has been enrolled in the AIRS program and affiliated with the LAO family north office.
Many thanks
Employer Testimonials
Oakland Museum of California
“Asia Calhoun has been an absolute blessing for our programs. Asia has worked in several different areas and has been a lead for new volunteers. Our school group has requested Asia by name. Our Education team has inquired about upcoming events”.
Oakland Museum of California
“We have been working with Chloe McClure. Chloe has taken on a new role with us. More responsibilities and an excellent “entry” level position in our Volunteer office. Chloe is doing an amazing job and we want to keep her in the program. Other departments have worked with her and began to notice her diligence and work ethic. I can honestly say Chloe will be a good fit for some upcoming positions at the museum”.
Youth Success Stories:
Youth participant Ms. A has made a remarkable journey with the Youth Employment Program. Ms. A was coming from a background as a foster youth, new to Oakland, loss of her mother and struggling with financial hardship. Ms. A sought support from the Lao Family to navigate the challenges she faced. She enrolled in the Youth Employment Program with the hope of gaining employment skills, valuable work experience and attaining a stable job afterwards.
Ms. A attended 40 hours of job-readiness training where she learned about resume and cover letter writing, employment law, financial education, workplace communication and other pre-employment skills. During the training with her fellow participants, Ms. A frequently raised her hands to ask questions, contribute to the discussion, and led small team discussions.
Ms. A’s commitment and enthusiasm led her to a 100 hours of paid work experience at the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) as an intern. Ms. A has acquired a diverse set of skills, including collaboration, reliability, and leadership from assisting the gardener and Friday Street events to leading small group tours. During her paid work experience, she was promoted to a lead intern which would assist supervisor with leading other interns and volunteers as well as managing their schedules.
After completing 100 hours of paid work experience, Ms. A was hired by the OMCA as full-time Ticketing & Retail Associates. She is responsible for selling and checking tickets, assisting her supervisor with coordinating with the volunteers and managing the shift schedule.
Ms.L is a new immigrant and came to Lao Family Community Development upon her arrival in the United States. Initially, LFCD counselor assisted her with the VESL class where she made significant strides in improving her English Proficiency and communication skills.
Upon graduating from the VESL class, Ms. L transitioned to LFCD’s Youth program. The youth counselor assisted her with one-on-one counseling sessions as well as 40 hours of job readiness workshops. Throughout these workshops, Ms. L has gained essential skills such as resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, financial literacy, career planning, time management, and workplace communication. Following the completion of the job readiness workshop, Ms. L embarked on 100 hours of paid work experience with the
Environmental Science Project. During this experience, she learned about working collaboratively with the team to collect and analyze soil, air, and water samples.
Having completed the VESL class, job readiness workshops, and paid work experiences, Ms. L found her career goal is to be a nurse in the future. Now, she is working as a full-time caregiver at Raksha Care Homes. According to Ms. L. she will continue to enhance her skills, get back to school, and become a nurse in the future.
Adult Success Stories
Rafaela V.
A previous WIOA participant requested help for a better job from her delivery position since the job she had was not enough to cover her expenses. She had always dreamed of working for the U.S. Post Office and her counselor supported her in completing the application and hiring documentation. Currently, the participant is working as a Mail Delivery person for the U.S. Post Office and is now enjoying benefits, a better income for her family, and serving the community she has lived in for over 20 years.
Gabrielita A.
A dedicated participant for her family was enrolled in the WIOA program. After having finished raising her children, the participant decided to return to the workforce full-time. During Lao Family San Pablo’s Spring On-Site Recruitment, the participant was interviewed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Shortly after, her counselor assisted her with interview preparation and the hiring process and paperwork.
The participant was hired on August 14, 2023, with SSA, and in December she came to the Lao Family’s office with her family to thank us and express how happy and grateful she is. She thanked us for having supported her in achieving the job of her dreams and informed us that she had just finished her six months of training and is recently taking cases working as a Claims Specialist.
Namrata D.
Nepalese WIOA participant, Namrata D., was holding medical jobs awaiting a career position as an office manager. Through Lao Family’s partnership with Berkeley, CA engineering firm, Alan Kropp & Associates, on December 7, 2023, the participant was interviewed and hired as an Administrative Assistant. She can now move ahead in her dream career and accomplish her goals of improving her administrative and business English skills through this position.
She has been taking ESL classes at Highlands Community Charter Career and Technical Schools at the Lao Family San Pablo CARE Center since July 5, 2023. She was given an English assessment in December to move to the final level of English. Lastly, her family petition was approved November 29, 2023 and her family joined her in the U.S. on Christmas after three years of waiting for them to arrive! She said, “Thank you, Lao Family, for looking out for me. I really appreciate you. I am also happy that I am getting the opportunity to improve my career.”
Dear Salai Tluang
I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for helping me to apply online paper work and referring me to the security Guard at Allied Universal, San Francisco. Your trust in my skills and expertise is truly humbling. I am excited about joining Allied Universal, San Francisco and contributing to its success.
Thank you for your belief in me and for your ongoing support and now I got hiring by paying 25.50 per hourly rate and full-time job with full benefits.
God Blessed You Sir.
Hello Mr T Salai
I appreciate the opportunity to attend this WIOA workshop and job referral on the next day. It is a privilege to connect with you and now I got the job office with your help by paying 23.50 @UPS Support Driver.
Thank you.
Mrs Nasher Shefaa WIOA –Adult (Grant FY 2023-2025 clients)
Hi Salai Tluang
I appreciate your assistance with my job search and with your help I got hired by paying 35.50 per hour @ Realtor Estate Agent position. It is a privilege to connect with you. Thank you. Mr Michael Newton WIOA –Adult (Grant FY 2022-2023 clients)
Hi Salai,
I appreciate you taking the time out of your busy schedule to meet with me and helping me for applying EDD online process. Thank you for help and referral me to the Burmese restaurant, with your help I got job by paying 20.00 at Burma Bites Restaurant, Oakland.
( Mah Thida Aye ) WIOA –Dislocated Worker (Grant FY 2023-2024 clients)
Dear Salai
“I value the career insights and guidance you share with me ‘.
Thank you for helping me again and referral to Maleko Staffing agency.
BINGO I GOT HIRED.
Mr Chrisofo Ontiveros WIOA –Adult (Grant FY 2022-2023 clients)
Hi Salai,
Thank you for helping me with the Sushi food job, I have started with them a few days ago and it looks great. I would like to request you to include me in any affordable housing program if possible. I am trying to find a more affordable home in a safe area around Oakland or Alameda.
Thanks,
Firoza Obaidi
WIOA –Adlut (Grant FY 2022-2023 clients)
Dear Tluang Salai
Thank you very much for reconnecting me back to Mr Pual Wong the owner of Hangten Boiler Restaurant with your help I got back the job again. Now I am working at a part time job by paying 20.00 per hour based on the sales volumes of the restraint. I am very happy and may God bless you more and more for your work and your services of the WIOA program.
WIOA –Adlut Phung Lian (Grant FY 2022-2023 clients)
Dear Mr Salai Tluang
Thang you very much for connecting and helping us job application paper work in Kamdesh Afghan Restaurant @ Oakland. With you help we both got hired by paying 16.00 hourly rate at Cook and Helper position. We both are now in probation period for 3 months and after that we will be receiving full benefit from the company. We are very grateful to Lao Family / WIOA program and we will keep referral our friends and family members.
WIOA –Adlut Miss Mariam Amadi and Miss Firoza Obaidi (Grant FY 2022-2023 clients)
Alexandria Beverly (Oakland Ice Center)
My journey with Lao Family Community Development began with a quest for employment, and it led me to a remarkable opportunity. Through LFCD’s support, I secured a paid internship at the Oakland Ice Center, marking the start of a fulfilling chapter in my career.
Upon completing the rigorous 100-hour internship program, I found myself not just at the end, but at a new beginning. My supervisor recognized my dedication and potential, extending the invitation to continue working beyond the initial commitment. Embracing this chance, I applied for a part-time position as a cashier, and it quickly became more than just a job—it became a passion. In this role, I seamlessly handle transactions, whether in cash or via credit card, while warmly greeting customers with a genuine smile. Beyond the register, I eagerly promote hockey and ice skating lessons, fostering a community of enthusiasts, both new and seasoned.
My role extends beyond the confines of the cashier’s booth. I actively engage in event planning and projects, collaborating with supervisors and fellow staff members to ensure the success of every endeavor. Each day at the Oakland Ice Center is not just about transactions but about building connections, fostering growth, and contributing to the vibrant spirit of the center.
Mamiyana Brown (LFCD Operations Department)
My journey with Lao Family Community Development began with a simple desire: to seek employment assistance.
Directed to the Youth Center, I eagerly enrolled in their youth employment program, igniting a path towards professional growth. Following comprehensive pre-employment training, I embarked on a transformative 100-hour internship within LFCD’s Operations Department. As an intern, I swiftly took charge of managing inventories, meticulously tracking promotional items, and lending a hand in project management. Additionally, I dove headfirst into the intricacies of event planning and logistics, immersing myself in every detail. Upon the completion of my internship, my supervisor approached me with an intriguing proposition—to consider applying for a part-time role as an Operations Assistant. Recognizing the synergy between my skills and the department’s needs, I eagerly accepted the challenge. Now, as an Operations Assistant, I find immense fulfillment in the work I do each day. Whether it’s streamlining operations, coordinating logistics, or contributing to the success of events, I am grateful for the opportunity that LFCD has provided me. Their unwavering support has not only opened doors to employment but has also empowered me to thrive in a role that I genuinely enjoy. My journey with LFCD is not just a tale of employment; it’s a testament to the transformative power of community and opportunity.
Chloe McClure (Oakland Museum of California)
Growing up as a foster youth, I encountered numerous obstacles in securing employment due to limited resources and opportunities.
Determined to overcome these challenges, I sought assistance from the Lao Family Community Development Youth Employment Program. Through their support, I landed a rewarding paid internship at the Oakland Museum of California, which eventually led to a permanent position as a Ticketing and Retail Sales Associate. Working alongside dedicated staff and volunteers at the museum has been immensely fulfilling. It not only provides me with a platform to develop personally and professionally but also allows me to contribute meaningfully to our community. I cherish the opportunity to grow, thrive, and serve through my role at the museum.
Chyu Yawai Phyo (Oakland Ice Center and Tech Exchange)
Thanks to the invaluable support of the Lao Family Community Development Youth Employment Program, I embarked on a transformative journey with a 100-hour paid internship at the Oakland Ice Center, serving as a cashier.
In this role, I adeptly managed payment processing, actively promoted our skating programs, and provided attentive assistance to our diverse clientele. Interacting daily with a range of individuals, particularly those deeply passionate about their hobbies, has been a source of great inspiration. Engaging with them has not only fueled my own enthusiasm but also fostered meaningful connections. More significantly, this experience played a pivotal role in smoothing my transition during my early months in the United States, facilitating a positive adjustment and enhancing my sense of belonging.
Basheer Dalil (TSA – SFO)
Engaging in the Lao Family Community Development Youth Employment Program opened doors to a transformative internship opportunity with the East Bay Academy for Young Scientists. Collaborating with UC Berkeley staff and fellow interns, I delved into a research project aimed at gathering crucial scientific data to tackle environmental challenges plaguing Oakland and the wider Bay Area. This experience not only deepened my understanding of environmental issues but also empowered me to advocate for positive change within my community.
Upon completing my 100-hour internship, my counselor provided invaluable support in navigating the application process for a position with the Transportation Security Administration as a Transportation Security Officer. Successfully passing the rigorous background checks and interview, I was thrilled to accept the position, eager to contribute to the safety and security of travelers within our nation’s transportation system.
Jamarum Burton (Tech Exchange)
I engaged in the Youth Employment Program at Lao Family Community Development with the goal of establishing a stable career in IT and technology.
Through this program, I had the privilege of participating in a series of paid workshops focused on professional development, communication, time management, and financial literacy, all of which equipped me with essential skills for success. Subsequently, I secured an internship with Own Real Estate, where I was tasked with data entry, research assignments, and project management responsibilities. This experience honed my organizational abilities and provided me with valuable insights into the workings of the industry.
Building on this foundation, I transitioned to the East Bay Youth Technology Accessory Program, an enriching paid apprenticeship that offered comprehensive training in coding, website design, cybersecurity, and more. Over the course of the 8-week program, I immersed myself in these cutting-edge technologies, further expanding my skill set and knowledge base. Upon completion, I embarked on a new internship journey with Tech Exchange, assuming the role of a Tech Hub assistant. Here, I continue to apply and refine my expertise while providing valuable support to the organization’s technological initiatives.