Skip to content

Empower

Empowerment that Builds Futures

Explore Workforce Programs Explore Reintegration Programs

The Reality

Opportunity Changes
What’s Possible

Access to education, job training, and economic pathways shapes what someone can build for their future. When those pathways are limited or difficult to navigate, structural barriers can stand in the way of income growth and long-term independence.

Graduates of the Fortifi LA program.

OUR APPROACH

Empowerment
Through Skills
and Access

Empower programs equip individuals with the training, guidance, and resources needed to move toward economic self-sufficiency. Building new skills and expanding access to career pathways allows people to increase their earning potential and shape their own direction. 

This work is rooted in dignity. Having the tools to grow professionally, navigate systems, and make informed choices strengthens both confidence and long-term independence. Through partnerships with public workforce systems and community organizations, these pathways become more accessible and sustainable over time.

Invest in Skills That Change Futures

Impact at a Glance

152

Job Training Graduates

94%

Graduation Rate

250+

Clients Served

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Pathways to
Career Growth

Workforce development programs provide practical training and career pathways that help individuals build skills, gain confidence, and move toward stability.

Hands-On Culinary Training

This 12-week program prepares students for entry-level roles in the food industry through practical training with a professional chef. Participants gain real-world experience and complete restaurant internships that often lead to employment.

Learn More

Impact Focus

Culinary Skills Professional Experience Job Placement

Digital Skills for Careers in Technology

A 16-week web technology training program helps underserved women build foundational web development skills through hands-on projects. Graduates leave with a portfolio and practice experience for entry-level roles in fields such as UX design, front-end development, and project management. 

Learn More

Impact Focus

Technical Skills Professional Confidence Career Entry

Technology Training for Career Advancement

Fortifi LA provides hands-on technology training for adults seeking to rebuild or strengthen their careers, including individuals impacted by the justice system and economic hardship. Participants gain practical digital skills and professional development support to prepare for employment in growing industries. 

Learn More

Impact Focus

Digital Skills Professional Development Career Advancement
Get Support Support Workforce Development

REINTEGRATION & ECONOMIC STABILITY

Rebuilding Foundations
for Independence

Navigating public systems, securing income, and rebuilding life after disruption requires coordinated guidance and steady support. 

Guidance for Income and Benefits

Case managers work alongside individuals to identify realistic income options and connect to public benefits and other financial resources that help cover basic needs. Support may also include practical money management guidance, helping individuals maintain stability while continuing to move forward.

Impact Focus

Benefits Navigation Financial Guidance Income Stability

Support for Community Reintegration

Re-entry services provide coordinated case management and connection to essential resources that support a stable transition back into community life after incarceration. Through individualized guidance and consistent support, individuals are empowered to move forward with greater independence and long-term stability.

Impact Focus

Community Reintegration Stability Independence
Get Support Support Our Work

Community Impact

Stories of Hope

Every story starts with someone reaching out and then finding a path forward.

  • Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet sing alongside St. Joseph Center co-founders Sister Louise Bernstein and Sister Marilyn Therese Rudy during a 1976 liturgy.
    Read Sisters’s Story

    “Women of faith and action, dedicated to uplifting the dear neighbor, without distinction.”

    Sisters

  • High school student Amirah hugs another volunteer during her donation drive for menstrual care products supporting women and girls served by St. Joseph Center.
    Read Amirah’s Story

    This was Amirah’s first assignment as our intern at The Pocket Panty, and we’re really proud of the initiative she took and her drive to complete the task,” said Ashlee L. Turner, Founder and CEO of The Pocket Panty and The Pocket Panty Project.

    Amirah

    The Pocket Panty Project

  • Daniel Castilleja smiles while holding a tan ‘WELL. KNOWN’ cap from his clothing brand, photographed in his apartment
    Read ‘s Story

    “Grieving the loss of his father while living in his car for three years, Daniel felt invisible—until St. Joseph Center offered shelter, support, and compassion. With their help, he healed, regained dignity, and launched his own apparel brand, “Well Known,” to remind others that they deserve to be seen and valued.”

Read More Stories of Hope