Economic & Workforce Advancement

Basic Career Services
Job seekers receive an orientation to all services offered through the West Adams WorkSource Center and are granted access to the Resource Room, where they can use computers, job listings, labor market information, and other tools to support their employment search. These services ensure that every individual understands how to navigate the Center and begin their job-readiness journey.

Individualized Career Services
For those needing deeper guidance, staff provide personalized support through comprehensive career assessments and individualized employment plans. Job seekers can receive assistance with job search strategies, résumé development, application preparation, and interview readiness. This hands-on support helps clients identify career pathways and take meaningful steps toward securing employment.

Follow-Up Services
After initial engagement, job seekers may receive follow-up services such as referrals to supportive resources in the community, additional career counseling, and guidance about further education and training options. These services help ensure long-term success and continued progress toward career goals.

Training Services
The West Adams WorkSource Center offers access to industry-specific training designed to help job seekers gain the skills and certifications needed for in-demand careers. Through partnerships with accredited training providers, customers may enroll in short-term vocational programs that prepare them for employment in fields that require technical or occupational credentials. These training opportunities equip clients with the competencies employers are looking for and support a smoother transition into the workforce.

Veterans Priority Services
Veterans and certain eligible spouses may qualify for Priority of Service, which ensures expedited access to job search assistance, training programs, and employment opportunities. You may be eligible if you served in the United States military, were activated as a member of the National Guard or Reserve, or are the spouse of a veteran who died from a service-connected disability. Eligibility also includes spouses of service members who are missing in action, captured in the line of duty, or forcibly detained by a foreign government or power. Additionally, priority applies to veterans who have a Department of Veterans Affairs total disability rating, as well as to spouses of veterans who passed away while such a rating was in effect. Priority of Service helps ensure that those who served our country—and their families—receive timely, meaningful support as they pursue civilian employment.

The West Adams WorkSource Center provides support for individuals interested in starting or expanding a business. Services include a free Business Needs Assessment, access to entrepreneurial resources, and guidance on navigating the early stages of business development. For existing businesses, the Center offers assistance with recruiting, hiring, and training qualified workers to support workforce stability and business growth. These services strengthen the local economy by helping small businesses thrive and connecting employers with skilled talent.

The Center collaborates with a network of community organizations, educational institutions, and industry partners to enhance service delivery and expand opportunities for job seekers and employers. Through these partnerships, clients gain access to additional training programs, supportive services, and employment pathways that align with regional labor market needs.

Up-to-date labor market information is available to help job seekers make informed decisions about their career paths. Clients can learn about high-growth industries, local hiring trends, in-demand occupations, salary ranges, and required skills or certifications. This information empowers individuals to target viable career opportunities and pursue training that aligns with employer needs.

AADAP’s Financial Opportunity Center (FOC), part of the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) national network, is designed to help individuals build long-term financial stability. The FOC supports clients in changing financial behaviors in ways that increase income, reduce expenses, and support assets and wealth building. Services combine financial coaching, employment counseling, and assistance accessing income supports to help clients achieve lasting financial well-being.

Financial Coaching and Education
FOC financial coaches work with clients to explore possibilities, address barriers, and create plans that move them toward their financial goals. Coaching topics include managing expenses, understanding and building credit, budgeting, and strategies for debt reduction. Through ongoing support, clients gain confidence and skills in navigating their financial lives.

Employment Counseling
Employment Counseling provides comprehensive support to help clients pursue their career goals. Services include résumé development, interview preparation, soft-skills training, and assistance accessing supportive services. Clients receive help using the Resource Center’s technology and are connected to job opportunities such as recruitments, job fairs, and employer partnerships. This holistic approach ensures that individuals have the tools they need to secure and retain employment.

Income Supports
The FOC assists individuals in identifying and accessing public benefits for which they may be eligible. Coaches help clients navigate applications, complete eligibility screenings, and connect with local community resources that support housing stability, food access, healthcare, and other essential needs. These supports help build a stronger foundation for financial health and employment success.