IE program offers career and life training to youths, young adults

FONTANA, Calif. (KABC) -- The San Bernardino County Workforce Investment Board's Operation New Hope youth program is working to boost youth employment and give some young adults a second shot at success.

One homeless mother of two is getting a fresh start at life. Theresa Acevedo is a full-time mom. Taking care of her two kids, working and studying to complete her high school diploma wasn't always easy.

"There were so many kids, I couldn't learn like that, so I started to miss school, and stopped going," said Acevedo.

Four years ago Theresa dropped out of high school. She found herself homeless with two kids and struggling to make ends meet.

"I was going through a lot. I became homeless," said Acevedo. "I decided I wanted to do something with my life because I didn't want to be in this predicament anymore."

She found help and hope through the Workforce Investment Board that funds programs like Operation New Hope.

"We are taking, literally, the ones that probably did not think they had no other chances," said Russell Degnan, Operation New Hope executive director.

"What we try to do is find out, What are your strengths? What are your skills? How can we mitigate those skill gaps and get you going down a path towards education and career?" said Sandy Harmsen, Workforce Investment Board, executive director.

The program allows young adults to work in a smaller classroom setting and also gives them work-readiness and occupational skills.

"We're providing financial literacy, parenting/nurturing classes, substance abuse classes, anger management classes, but also job-readiness," said Degnan.

And for students like Theresa Acevedo this was the second chance she needed.

"I have a support system, it's all based on me and what I want to do with my life," said Acevedo.

Now Acevedo will likely get her GED within a year and is interested in starting her own foundation to help others realize their potential.

"If I didn't have any of these programs, I don't think I would be the person that I am today," said Acevedo.

People 14 to 21 years of age can apply: WIA (Workforce Investment Act) Youth Programs and Services.