Grant Helps Veterans Rejoin The Workforce In Redondo Beach

SOUTH BAY, CA — Several Los Angeles County area organizations were awarded over $3 million in federal workforce development funds for training programs to teach new job skills to U.S. veterans, it was announced on Tuesday.

According to state officials, the goal of this award is to prepare up to 1,200 veterans for jobs in administrative services, computer technology, construction, healthcare, manufacturing, renewable energy and retail trade.

About $5 million budgeted under the federal Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act was allocated to agencies in six counties, according to the California Employment Development Department.

In addition to Orange and Los Angeles counties, funds were also awarded to groups in Riverside, Contra Costa, San Diego and Ventura counties.

"EDD is proud to provide California veterans with the tools they need to transition into sustainable careers," said EDD Director Patrick Henning. "This funding will help train and prepare former military personnel for high-growth civilian jobs."

The EDD, which administered the federal allotment for the state, determined which organizations should benefit based on a competitive application process.

Among the local organizations receiving funds were:

• City of Pasadena/Foothill Workforce Development Board;
• Goodwill Industries of Orange County;
• South Bay Workforce Investment Board;
• United States Veterans Initiative in Los Angeles