Upon release from federal prison, after a six year sentence, I found myself having to start my life over from scratch. A resident at the half-way house I was released to told me about the Center For Learning and Living. He said they had some resources that might be helpful. I decided "why not"? I'll give it a try.
I set an appointment for an intake interview, and from the time I stepped foot in the door, I knew I made a good decision. Kenny Walker was there to make me feel at home and prepared a resume for me that made me excited to go out and look for employment.
Dawnisha Thomas ran me through a couple of mock interviews that really helped me prepare to answer some of the tough questions that I knew were coming my way.
Nancy Ramos, my caseworker, talked to me like a friend. She asked about what my needs were and didn't hesitate to pull her resources together to help me meet my needs. From clothing, to food, to transportation, even got me involved with paid training for cognitive behavioral intervention as well as offered me a training program in the soler field. She continued to follow up with me week after week to see my progress. Not once did I feel like a burden to them. Nancy was a person that I took my burdens to.
Here I am, 10 weeks after my initial contact with CLL, going to College at night and going to Truck Driving School during the day. I should have my class A license in about 4 weeks and ready to send out those resumes Kenny helped me with.
All in all, without CLL, I would probably still be spinning in circles. This place has been a bleeding. I'll be always grateful
i am not exaggerating when I say that the Center for Living and Learning contributed greatly in my journey to getting my life back. When I arrived at their doorstep I was jobless, homeless and pretty much hopeless. They helped me with job contacts, told me how to find programs to get housing but most of all they provided emotional support so that gave me the hope I needed to keep pushing and fighting to get my life back. A year later I am in a permanent home, I've had my job for over a year and have made contacts and relationships that I know I will have for a lifetime. If CLL did not have a resource you were looking for, they would not stop looking until they found it for you. I will be forever grateful for what this organization has helped me accomplish in my life!
I started off with being a client with Center for Living & Learning as a TSE (Welfare to Work Program. After my 10 months was up, I was hired on as a Job Search employee. I have been promoted to the Probation contract and have been gratefully working still with Center for Living & Learning.
It is a reward every day making a difference in one's life. Knowing that we help eliminate some of barriers that was preventing individuals move forward. Watching the joy in ones face when they landed a job is so rewarding or giving the hope that their life will change is explainable.
I believe this non-profit is very useful, helpful, convenient and when it comes to helping clients and volunteers learn more about resources that can and maybe useful for them in the future.
Client who come in and out of Center for Living & Learning leave with the the knowledge and hope of a successful future.
Center for living and learning is a great place.
They offer many resources such as dress for success, job placement, programs for people who were formally incarcerated, job readiness and many more.I am currently a TSE participant and i am receiving paid training from center for living and learning .I am thankful specially to Valorie who gave me the opportunity to train in a position that i had no experience she has also help me put my resume together to find a job.
Hi everyone my name is Francisco Rodriguez Carrasco I am currently participating in the TSE program with the center for living organization I am thankful to say that I have learned many strengths and weaknesses about myself and how to turn the weaknesses into strengths, as a trainee-receptionist at El proyecto del Barrio ive maintained myself open to any possible opportunities for myself and individuals with thee desire to advance. I would like to announce a BiG Thank You to *Valorie Balderas*(Center4Living Representative) for supporting and encouraging me in the best of her ability to further better myself as an individual/person. All of we the people matter! I definitely recommend this non-profit organization to anyone with the desire to succeed. Thank You Center4Living!!!
My experience in this nonprofit organization I have learned to interact with people who are in a bad situation and help them with job search, and direct them to the resources we provided if any needed. I've gained computer skills typing skills and filling, data entry and confidence in my self. I highly recommend this place for any resources and a great place for training.
It's a good center. All staff members are nice and friendly.You'r able to write you'r resume and look for a job.
Center for Living and Learning has by far gave me all the right tools to get the experience in the job field I want. The staff there are great and really help me. They go beyond for the people that need help and want to move foward. They inspire me to overcome obstacles and always move forward.
The Center for Living and Learning is a great place to go when you want to learn and acquire resources. They have helpful staff members that I learned a lot from in my 8 months as a TSE participant. The staff helps you with a simple resume update to employment contacts, to some housing resources and more. When at the Center it feels more like a family and then friends because they truly care about you. The staff doesn’t judge you because they have been through what you have been through, and that’s why they care and help their clients.
Center for living and learning is a great place to get job readiness training. Helps people get job ready with interviewing prep as well as resumes. I was apart of the TSE program for 8 months and after my time was up they hired me. Now because of the job opportunity they gave me i help manage various of contracts. I want to personally thank The Center for Living and Learning.
My name is Valorie, I started working as a TSE in Sep and got offered a position with Center for Living and Learning. I make resumes help clients with applications, mock interviews, pretty much everything prep them for interviews for employers. Working here is amazing and because of them I had the chance to over some of my own barriers. I finished going to school and graduated, Now I have my High School Diploma. They connected me with an attorney at no cost, to help me fix a few warrants I had from 2013. The attorney went and represented me in court . Now my record is clear and I was able to get my drivers license back. In two weeks I will be getting life scanned to work with Ab109 and supervised felony probation. Working here has allowed me to do what I love to and that is helping others better themselves. I know the struggle I was once there. I've overcome homelessness, drug addiction, being involved with gangs, domestic violence and at one point lost my children for 7 months. Thank you Center for living for everything you do to help others and making the society a better place.
It has been a good learning experience for me. The staff is very helpful. This center is giving me back confidence to get back into the working world.
My name is Natasha, I'm attending the Living and Learning Center as a TSE. So far i am learning phone skills which i can use for office purposes. It's a great company to pick up some office skills. It also has a lot of opportunity within the center as far as job skills and job readiness, .
my name is Roxana Jimenez The Center for Living & Learning. This place has been nothing but great to me, they have taught me so much during my time here & i am grateful
They have a lot of great resources that help the community in need of help.They provide computer training and job training For people transitioning back into the workforce.
THEY HAVE GREAT RESOURCES THAT HELP PEOPLE IN NEED IN THE COMMUNITY.
THEY HELP YOU WITH YOUR RESUME, AND JOB PLACEMENT. THIS NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION ALSO HAS A FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL STAFF THAT WILL HELP YOU WITH ALL THAT YOU NEED.
Center for Living & Learning helped me get get back on my feet. When Center for Living & Learning signed me on as a TSE (welfare to Work Program) it open so many doors for me. The Center helped with understanding my lack of communication skills, and working with colleague in a professional manner. Center for Living & Learning has so much compassion in making a difference in one's life.
Center for living and learning is great at what they do. They went beyond helping me find a job and other services. They are friendly and a great atmosphere to be in. All the staff helps and are hands on with questions or concerns. They helped me get ready for my interview.
This place is amazing for helping to find jobs and build resumes! I had a resume already but Crystal overlooked it and helped me to improve it along with getting me numerous interviews. She helped me land a great job and very supportive. The whole staff is very approachable and genuinely want to see you get a job to succeed. I send my friends who are unemployed and serious about work here. THank YOU Center for Living and Learning... and thank you Crystal! Youre the BEST! - DP
my experience for CENTER FOR LIVING AND LEARNING HAS BEEN FOR ME THE BEST PLACE I CAN IMAGEN. I IDENTIFY MYSELF WITH EVERYONE AND EVERY OPPORTUNITY THEY HAD OFFER .I HIGHLY RECOMMEND ANYONE THAT HAS DIFFICULTY ON FINDING A JOB OR ANYTHING YOU MAY NEED THEY ASSIST YOU WITH ALL YOUR QUESTION IN A PROFESSIONAL WAY. I AM VERY HAPPY TO BE PART OF THIS EXPERIENCE THANK YOU TO EVERYONE
Great Place, people are really nice and helpful when it comes to get a job. I recommend it to anyone.
Center for the Living and Learning is the best place to go if your looking for help with your resume and looking for work.
Amanda S.
Hello!! I've been with center for living and learning for a little over 2 years now. They are great staff. I was in the TSE program which is apprenticeship program for mother on welafe to work. Rhonda and Alex offered me a job after my 10 months in my program were up. I am now a administration assistant for Rhonda here at the center. I am so grateful for my job and thankful Rhonda and Alex saw something in me and gave my this wonderful job opportunity. If you need any employment services please feel free to come in and get the help we provide.
My name is Evelyn Aguilar, I am currently in the apprentice program here at The Center for Living & Learning. This place has been nothing but great to me, they have taught me so much during my time here & Im grateful that I was placed in a place like this, where they help people in every situation they may be in. :)
Prestigious people of Southern ,Northern California I Mahisha Wiggins a virtuous participant of the Center for living and learning Organization have over come numerous Barriers in life including Homelessness,Gang Involvement and mild unlawful incidents.I am now a Renter,No longer involved in street affairs, Working full time, a proud mother of 4 and actively involved in the up rise of our community.At the center 4 Living and Learning we learn that barriers are made to be broken and I am a living Testimony that it can be done! With support,direction,determination the past is just a mere Memory!
Greetings everyone! My name is Lesly I'm a current beneficiary of The Center for Living and Learning. Upon my arrival I was met with support and encouragement as I faced an eviction and financial hardship. I am a single mother of three extraordinary children God has blessed me with and I was in need of help. I am forever grateful to all the staff members who work passionately and diligently. The program works if you work it. The staff is here, not do things for you, but for you to learn how to obtain the life skills that are needed to continue on your journey. Take the help and continue to sharpen your skills and position yourself in line for your next blessing.
hi my name is Ashley Lopez and i just wanted to write a quick review about this company.
well first off i had no idea there was even a place like this for people to come in and get the massive amount of help they offer: jobs, resume, what to do and not do in a in a interview, common questions that you will be asked in a interview i mean the list goes on and the staff there from Alex, Rhonda,Alicia, Larry ,Bob and the staff in the back all really care about helping those who want to be helped so i would just like to say thank you so much for taking to time to help get people back into the work force.
The Center For Living And Learning is my go to place to find work. The staff is great and very helpful. They helped me get a Ca ID card and find work. They are very professional in everything they do. They even helped me get off the street. I love this place. If you need to find work, come here. They will not turn you away.
I came into center for living and learning as a client in the apprentice program in may since than they have helped me with my resume, Also gain experience in the work field . Rhonda and Alex are exceptional at the jobs and have helped me along the way these last 8 months. all the staff are always helpful and always hands on. if you need help this is the place to go.
every helpful place ,positive environment,Always respectful and clean communication,positive manners,forsure and well learned how to apply and make resume...always updates on new coming jobs fares.
I was released from federal prison in August 8 and came here to this center two weeks later. I was warmly received and given help to find jobs in my field. I have not found any yet, but received encouragement by Crystal and Lorraine to not give up. I am so very much appreciative of this place and all it has to offer. God Bless You
Staff is very helpful and very friendly to all the clients. They found employment for me with in 2 days
I went to CLL for assistance in getting a job and a resume and got hired. They have helped me in many ways.
I came to Center for Living and Learning as a broken and lost soul. They are patiently connecting me to a variety of jobs. The first few persons I met was Larry, Lorraine, Mary and Ron. Then I met the management team, Rhonda and Alex. Months passed by, I got a job and I along other friends of mine continue to come regularly to use its resources esp the computers. The staff continue helping us. Try it for yourself and refer others. Great people. Thanks personally from me, Martin C.
If you are looking for help in getting it together the Center for Living and Learning is a great place to start. While professional, the atmosphere there is warm and friendly making for a more comfortable learning experience. At the Center for Living and Learning you are given the tools you will need to get you started in building for yourself a better path to success. I, myself, am grateful for the time I have spent at the center. I learned a lot about process of searching and interviewing for perspective jobs. Along that process I became more confident about my abilities and what I have to offer to an employer. The center for Living and Learning build their clients up so that they can enter into a challenging, and often unfriendly, work environment prepared to take on the challenges of finding a job in this economy. Thank you to all of the staff at the Center for Living and Learning.
My name is Aldon Avila and I've been receiving personal help in what resource are available to me in gaining in sight to better help myself and encouragement and there professional curtsey and I'm very appreciative and grateful for there service's. Thank You!!!...
Sincerely, Aldon Arellano Avila
I came out of rehab with little confidence, no money and even less prospects. Center for Living and Learning provided me with a clean and safe environment to look for employment. They also helped me to built by resume, prepare me for the interview process and answered all my questions about finding a job for someone in my position.
One of their employees, Lorraine, called me numerous times to inform me of new openings and job prospects as they opened up. Thank you Center for Living and Learning for making my transition back into the workforce possible!
E.K.
I am currently in treatment and looking for work, I have received support from the staff who have all been in the same position I am in. Being able to go to a place where the staff understands what I need has been invaluable. They have provided me with a resume and resources I need to help me find employment. I would recommend the Center for Living and Learning to anyone who is looking for work. Thank you Center for Living and Learning for all the help you have given me.
The Center for living learning are excellent when it comes to helping out their clients in finding jobs, personal matters one goes thru life everyday. I've only been coming here for a week and they already set me up with 3 job offers, so I can say honestly that I am glad I came here in the first place. Rhonda, Mary and Terry are great staff.
I am currently participating in the TSE program and receiving paid training here at Center 4 Living And Learning, Before coming in to this program I feel that I had hit rock bottom. CLL has not only giving me that second chance to get back into the work force, but I have also been given the chance to help other that may have or be in the same situation I was once in. I'm truly grateful to the staff that believe in me and always give me that extra push. Thank you for the second chance.
I am currently participating in the welfare to work program and am receiving paid training here at the Center for Living and Learning. Being here thus far has allowed me to sharpen my computer skills, develop and utilize my professional skills, and rebuild my confidence in my abilities. In addition to resume, and job search training skills, I am now a Covered California Certified enrollment councilor, educating consumers on health care options and guiding them through the enrollment process. Not only am I helping myself but, I am also helping others who are struggling to find work. I have more control over my future and a way to provide for my family. For that I owe a great amount of gratitude to the Center for Living and Learning. Thank you for believing in me!
I recently began interning at the Center 4 Living and Learning in September of 2014. My first impression of the staff as well as the agency as a whole was warm and welcoming. The staff have created an inviting environment for not only the employees, but the clients who come as well.
This agency cares about its clients as well as its employees. The interaction displayed among employees and clients is proof that the people involved in the agency care about the well-being of everyone, employee and client as well.
CLL is there for the community and makes great effort to help those who are in need of assistance. I would recommend and will recommend this agency to anyone in need of assistance.
I love center for living and learning because it has taught me that their is always a second chance in life, hope, making a difference, caring for one another, it has taught me how to motivate and congratulate people for making an effort in changing their lives and being sober. I have never experienced what people have accomplished after going through tough situations. I would like to thank Alex, Rhonda, Terry, and Ron for giving me this opportunity for giving me this wonderful experience that has taught me so much and to motivate and help people to cherish their lives.
P.S I love you too Elaine and hope your doing great.
Center4living has been a great place that has help many people in this world ,especially those that been in jail and rehab.
Center for living and learning has help many people that has came out of incarceration.they help you get back on your feet the best thing is they help you job search,help you with your resume and mock interviews.
Center for living and learning is a great place. The staff are amazing people very helpful. This place gave me confidence that I can be successful in life. I am very grateful for this place and the people in it!!! Thank you!!!!
I just want to say thanks to the staff of The Center 4 Living and Learning. They assisted me in job searching and helped rebuild my resume and the end result was that I found a full time job. Many thanks to the dedicated staff members that are always helpful to all clients that walk through their door and I will always be thankful to them all, all the way from the program director to the volunteers that help there. Once again thanks for helping me rebuild my life and making it a great experience.
I am very grateful for CLL. They gave me an opportunity to change my life and do something outside the box and gave me skills to be a productive member of society. I truly believe with out those skills I would not be were I am at today. A professional, responsible and accountable employee in the medical field. Thank You CLL
Previous Stories
Hello my name is Christa, and I am so Thankful for the opportunity that Center for Living and Learning gave me. When I started at CLL, I had just got out of a drug program with no job skills or even the skills to work in a social environment. All I had known for 17 yrs was the life of an addict, the streets and in and out of prison. CLL gave me the skills to be able to work in a social and professional atmosphere and taught me how to work and be accountable in a work environment and be able to go out into society and find a job and get that job. With skills and the training they provided for me, I have had some very successful position in my career. Yes career. The skills CLL gave me, I was able to move to a different state and obtain a position working in the medical field. So now I am helping patients and giving back what was taught to me thru CLL. Thank You for all you have done for me and the skills your organization taught me.
I and others live our days without being able to acquire the skills for living on the outside. Yes, im a convict but i have began the actual steps that repentance leads too. It has been more difficut than i envisioned but because of the Center For Living And Learning i have been able to learn what i was unable to, from an amazing group of people that patiently work together to give give give. This place is a god send. From the first day to the second day and on and on they are steaddast in the works that they do...helping people change their live around.
The Center for Living and Learning provides real help to real people who are trying to reestablish their independence and stability often following involvement in the criminal justice system. Unlike many other groups that provide training, the Center helps people make the leap from training to employment -- a critical foundation for success. Not only does the Center work with individuals, but its director, Alex, is involved in statewide and county-level advocacy to change the policies that put barriers in the way of success for people leaving the criminal justice system. Three cheers for the Center and for Alex! Please keep up the good work!!
CLL does an amazing job at bridging two sides of this sector: service provision and policy/advocacy. There are few organizations that are able to embrace and encompass both pieces of this important work to improve the lives of formerly incarcerated people and enhance public safety through reducing recidivism. CLL produces excellent results in terms of turning around the lives of their many clients, but also makes a tremendous effort to organize and inform other stakeholders, as well as engage with elected officials and other decision makers to achieve the changes in the system that are so desperately needed.
Living and learning has shown me an taught me how to get a job!! They have provided me with the tools to succeed in the working world!! I Thank them from the bottom of my heart. They are very caring an understanding people who doesn't judge you , but lets you be you. If you need Help these are the people to go to. God Bless you... Sincerely David Hulley
The Living and Learning center has helped me out a great deal with my resume and finding a job. The staff are so helpful, kind, understanding, and loving! I'm very grateful to the Living and Learning center!
Thank You!
I serve as a Board Member at the Center for Living and Learning (CLL) because I have confidence in the programs available to the formally incarcerated, former substance abusers, or anyone who has a barrier to employment. Programs include but are not limited to the Apprenticeship Program: 12-18 month paid on-the-job training opportunity. I am proud to say that 92% of those with a criminal record have not been re-incarcerated during their apprenticeship, and develop confidence and self-esteem, enabling them to, upon completion of the program, transition directly to regular employment. What does all this mean? It means an individual is now able to live a healthy and productive life, standing proud and tall in front of their children, family and friends. The Center for Living and Learning is what I like to call a community re-investment program.
I got released two months ago from state prison, and not knowing where to look for a job.
I was referred to a program named, The Center for Living & Learning its one of the great resource's.
I came to the Center for Living and Learning through the Gain program. I needed a chance and a change in my life. The Center provided both. Now I am a full time employee, have advanced in my position and my personal and professional life are finally on track. Thank you CLL and everyone who has been touched by this wonderful non-profit organization.
I just got out of prison I came to center for living and its been great here they help me to find a job and its been a great experience I've met nice people here and its a great opportunity for me to find all sort of resources that I thought were not available so I continue to come here for resources available to anyone that needs the help here
I came from prison to here at center4 living/learning. They help me get into cri help drug rehab. I owe them my life for what they have done for me. before completing cri help, they offered me a job here. they have done everything under the sun to help me like, like myself no one ever has. as well I've had the opportunity to watch them help others .
The Center for Living & Learning is one of the great resources we have in Los Angeles to assist people reentering their communities from prison and jail. Gaining employment is one of the keys to helping people stay out of incarceration and CLL is focused on getting and keeping people employed.
I am a Homeless Navigator and work to assist hundreds of homeless people every year.
The Center for Living and Learning provides an amazing service helping very challenged
Individuals to return successfully to full employment . I know that if a client accesses their
Resume services - they are on the way to getting a great job . The people they help have
fantastic true life experiences changing their lives and achieving their goals .
At one point I was an part of CLL, first as an apprentice, then as a mentor. I can vouch that this program saves lives. In my case, it gave me the drive to, and the resources to achieve my goals and dreams of becoming an attorney. Without them I would not be where I am today. They helped me understand that a criminal conviction is not an automatic bar. I hope that this charity is able to help countless others through their programs.
I came to CLL in October 2012. I was broken and inside ready to make change. I was greeted by the staff with encouraging words. They assisted me in preparing a resume and complete a job search. The energy level of the staff raised my enthusiasm I began to feel better about myself and my situation. I was given choices I had no idea I ever had. On December 20 I was given an enrollemnt into the apprentice prorgram. I'm still to this day working at CLL. Spreading the message of hope can be seen here in our office.
Through AB109 and my residential rehab, I attended and completed a program at The Center of Living and Learning focused on re-entering the workforce. The employment program taught me the tools I needed to get hired and keep a job. I learned interview skills, how to write my resume, and was assisted with job searching. Upon completion of this program, I was fortunate to get hired at the Center of Living and Learning as an apprentice. The apprentice program has taught me basic office skills and given me the opportunity to return to the workforce in an amazing environment. I get to daily help those who are in the same position I was in a year ago, homeless and in recovery.
This program has been very helpful by providing me with a resume, job interview training, and mock interviews. Allowing me to use the computers for job searching and staff been very helpful which is condusie to job hunting and employment avuistion. I recommended that anybody that has barriers to employment and or obstacles can come to Center for Living and Learning and be assisted and actually find a job. (you need this)
I was referred to the center for living and learning through Hope of the Valley, I was homeless, jobless in need of employment as well as getting help with a new resume, interviewing skills and job readiness. The staff was awesome, they even picked me up and dropped me off and gave me bus tokens to get to job interviews. I was very insecure to become employed since I hadn't worked for several years. The staff motivated me to think positive and helped me to see the positives in my self for future employment. I learned how to interview and became an aggressive job seeker, sending out resumes and calling job leads all day. I am so excited to say I have just become employed full time and its all due to the wonderful staff here at the center for living and learning ! Im now on my way to a new life and a new career!
I was introduced to the center for living and learning during a job search phase through a local treatment center. I was apprehensive about the whole job search process, because I had so many employment barriers against me. Years ago I could find a job within a couple of days, but in today's job market I found it to be very competitive and a lot more challenging. I didn’t know where to begin. My first priority was building a resume that would get me an interview. I had major gaps in my employment history, and the facts of my previous employment weren’t very clear anymore. The staff at the Center helped me with every detail. Together we created a resume that I was proud of. They also offered to create various types of resumes so my scope could be larger when picking out positions to apply for. Another concern of mine was answering those tough interview questions. Again with their one on one guidance, mock interviews, and reviewing commonly asked interview questions....helped me immensely in the interview. I was confident in my answers, I didn’t stumble on my words, I was prepared. I started seeing some hope, and my confidence was building. I did end up with 3 job offers in the same week. One of them being part of the Apprenticeship program here at the Center. I chose the Apprenticeship program. I can't explain how happy I've been about this decision. I've never worked for a company that pushes so hard for my personal growth and success. It's up to me and how much effort I put in what's being offered, because the support is here. My life has gradually been improving and today I see myself with a solid career somewhere down the road. I absolutely believe that road began when I walked through these doors at the Center for living and Learning.
I owe my furture to the Center for Living and Learning .This program has helped me in more ways, then words could ever express! It's taught me how to live in society and stay out of prison. There also assiting me with getting my GED and survive skills. I know more about computers now then I ever have due to the Living and Learning Center. One of my goals in life has been to go back to school and I'm starting that now, because of the encouragement I've gotten from the Living and Learning Center.
Review from Guidestar
I have been aware of the Living and Learning Center for 10+ years and while I worked as a counselor in the Drug Treatment field referred many a client to The Living and Learning. These clients learned how to engage in community, learned resume writing, basic computer skills ie excell, outlook, data entry dealing. By working with the public regarding car donations self esteem building took place naturally, these clients also learned to have integrity in their life. Many obtained full time employment as a result of being clients at The Living and Center and have gone on to promotions in those jobs. As confidence built many also chose to return to school obtaining degrees. Thank you Living and Learning Center.
Review from Guidestar
I (Phillip Williams) received job searching assistance to the fullest from the employees at the Center for living and learning. I also received help in finding affordable housing within my budget. The employees were courteous, respectful and willing to listen to my point of views concerning moving forward in a peaceful, productive and humble way. I appreciate they're presence.
Review from Guidestar
I have been with the Center for Living and Learning for a year now and I can honestly say they have changed my life in a profound way and I don't know where I would be without this program and the people who make it possible. I came to them from the Welfare to work program, my ex-husband was in prison and I was struggling to make ends meet for myself and our baby girl with no family and an overwhelming feeling of failure. I was depressed and lost and I didn't know where to go or who to turn to. I grew up with no guidance or direction and now I had to figure it all out for myself and my daughter. It was a very scary place to be as a mother knowing this little life I helped create was depending on me to not only take care of her but guide her in a direction that will later on teach her how to survive in society and succeed. I don't think people even realize what a place like the Center really does for people like me and our families. They have made me a better person and most importantly a better mother. I went from being helpless and alone to being independed with a support system that I never imagined. It’s not just a job or just another program the people that make it all possible become family and it becomes a place that is not only educational but safe to be who you are and learn at your own pace without anyone placing judgment. With the Center for Living and Learning I can now teach my daughter by example of what it takes to be a strong, confident and successful woman knowing it’s not about where you have come from or who you came from but about where you’re going and who you become.
Review from Guidestar
The Center for Living and Learning and it's staff are life-changers!! Everyone there is professional, knowledgeable, encouraging and immensely helpful. I would definitely recommend their services and advocate that resources in our community contribute to their cause. I have an education and diverse work history and needed the professional insight and feedback from the staff at Living and Learning to inspire a new direction in life, both personally and professionally. Their work space fosters productivity and they provide current / relevant resources (ie: MS Office 2010, Adobe, Software Tutorials, Resume Assistance, Job Leads, etc). I am so very grateful for the Center for Living and Learning and hope to give back what they so generously did for me!!
Review from Guidestar
I was seeking employment and was refereed to the Center for Living and Learning. The staff there was excellent and assisted me on a one on one basis when I went through thier job search program which was helpful to me. I have been employed shortly thereafter for four years. This organization was different to other organizations I went to for assistance because of the one on one atteentention I recieved. I was not very computer literate and needed assistance with job searching, the staff took the time to walk me through it and show me how to do it properly. Other places I went to told me that they were just resources and could not help me and I had a time limit to use those resources that were available. At the Center all the staff works together to help the clients in every possible way.
Review from Guidestar
My experience as a Client far exceeded my expectations, it is incredible how the staff keeps a professional environment as a Client is learning how to find jobs and at the same time sets an example of how to behave and how a Professional environment should be. That helps a lot when someone goes to an interview and successfully cause a great impression with a future employer, as professionalism shows since one cross the door. Without the Center For Living and Learning I wouldn't be able to find a job that suits my needs and skills. I deeply appreciate the help I received for the Center For Living and Learning to find the path for success for the rest of my life.
Review from Guidestar
Iam very greatfull for the center! everyone there is very helpfull! they are helping me get my life back on track!! thankyou
From the moment I walked through the door I knew this would be the first day of the rest of my life. The members of the staff immedately made me feel like I could do something, with their insight on my hidden abilities they put me right to work. I have come a long way since I started this program, such as email, websited, photos and most important of all jobs. Thanks for your guidance and support.
Raymond Allen Burlew III
My experience with this organization first began when I was brought in as a consultant to screen participants in order to determine whether they were eligible for the services and training available through the Center. Immediatley I knew that this was a special program, only because of the attitude and feedback I received from the apprentices. Almost to a person they exhibited a very deep sense of appreciation and commitment to what they were about to begin. These were people who very well may have been written off by most agencies, but that is the mission of this program, to help those written off by many, including employers, family members, and society at large. It was very apparent that there was something special at CLL.
I have worked in non-profit social services for over twenty years and have come across many, many programs which span the spectrum in regards to their values, their modus operandi, ethics, etc.
CLL distinguishes itself as a solid program. I must say that it all begins as a result of the amazing work and intuitions of the two women working tirelessly, Maria Alexander, Executive Director, and her office manager, Rhonda C. Much of what goes on at CLL is untangible, not really seen, but felt when you walk in to their office. There are a million "little miracles" happening all the time. These are people who give HOPE and PURPOSE to those who might not have had it before. If you have never been at a place in your life where there was no hope, than you probably wouldn't understand. For those who have been there, and have been shown a better way, then you know what I am talking about.
I know that car donation programs might have a bad reputation to some, but I can tell you without any hesitation that this program is completely above board. My reputation is important to me, and I would not associate with program that exploits its participants, or practices any other type of unethical behavior. This program saves lives. It also saves society money as the apprentices become productive-tax paying members of society. I totally support the Center for Living and Learning and the good work that they do.
Center for Living has been my tenant in a commercial office building I own in Van Nuys, California, since June, 2000. I am a lawyer by profession and have seen some amazing things happen with those involved in Center for Living programs. One of the most important lessons I have re-learned is that you can't judge a book by its cover. As a landlord who needs to keep his office building full, one wouldn't think that a group of recovering drug and alcohol addicts would make very good tenants. If I had bet against them, I would have missed out on an opportunity to know some really special and highly motivated people.
It has become apparent that those involved in the program offered by Center for Living want to succeed. If they truly strive to succeed, they remain in the program. If not, they are asked to leave.
A prime example of why one shouldn't judge a book by its cover was an individual I observed to be a very tough looking and heavily tattooed man that you wouldn't want to meet in a dark alley. I initially met Billy when he first arrived as an apprentice in the job training program. Billy spent much of his life behind bars. My initial reaction was to judge him by his appearance but after getting to know him my impression changed completely. It can truly be said that Billy is a very capable and nice, a gentle man. In this program I watched him grow into a responsible position as a supervisor, helping others like himself seek employment. Today Billy is working in a very responsible position as a drug counselor for another progam.
I remember when Maria Alexander, now the Executive Director of Center for Living first came to the program many years ago. She appeared to be a very beaten and downtrodden woman starting out in the job training program. I recall her excitement when she scraped up the money to purchase her first used car, an old beat up jalopy. She was so proud of her car. A day later it was stolen from its parking place in front of our building. It seemed to Maria that in losing her car she had lost her whole world. She did recover quickly! It has been a privilege to watch her grow into the person in charge of this entire organization! Who would have ever guessed that would happen? Certainly not Maria. The stories could go on, but can be summed up with these words. Rarely have I seen such a diverse group of recovering addicts who came from horrendous situations, completely turn their lives around and become responsible and productive citizens.
I wouldn't hesitate to hire any one of these hardworking and responsible people. Hopefully society will view them in the same way.
I was in treatment for drug and alcohol abuse and I had not had a job in a while. My time in treatment was coming to an end and I was very scared. I have a very spotty work history along with felony convictions and I did not think I could find a job. I came to the Center for Living and Learning and the staff there taught me vital job search and interviewing skills. I applied to and was accepted to the apprenticeship program here at the Center. I have been here for 3 years, I completed the apprenticeship and was hired on as a mentor. I am now teaching those vital job search and interview skills to our new job search clients. I am very grateful to Alex and Rhonda for giving me the opportunity to become successful. I am in my 3rd semester at Los Angeles City College majoring in Human Services, Drug and Alcohol counseling.
Coming out of prison and going into a treatment facility was a new experience for me, I had never really had a real job and was having a hard time looking for work. The Center hired me as an apprentice and helped me to aquire some much needed job skills. I improved on my typing skills and learned computer and office skills. While working here they helped me to clear up some legal problems that I had hanging over my head. I also got enrolled in college and found a job in the field that I want to work in, all in all, without The Center for Living and Learning I firmly believe that I would have ended up back in prison, instead of the responsible, productive member of society that I am today. Thank you
Hi my name is Marili Sanchez. The Center for Living and Learning has helped me through all my legal matters during my first year of the program. I've gone from four legal matters down to one, which I'm currently completing my requirements now. I have learned alot in customer service and computer skills. I've now gone into the training program where I'll be able to gain management skills. I've struggled with my reading and writing, and the Center for Living and Learning provided me with a private tutor. With that help it's allowed me to grow within our charity. I'm so thankful to the Center for Living and Learning for giving me the opportunity to learn and grow and enlarge my vision and try new things, as well as giving me a second chance in life. I encourage my daughter everyday that all things are possible and never to be discourage.
Several years ago I was sitting in a prison cell feeling lost and hopeless. For the past 25 years or so, I was doing a life sentence on the installment plan, that is, I was in and out of jail and prison mainly due to substance abuse. As much as I hated to admit it this lifestyle had become a normal comfortable routine. When I thought about it I literally had lost my ability to function in society, and I just did'nt know how to live a normal life. My way of thinking was so twisted I actually "believed" that I would spend the rest of my life in prison and die there.
Today my whole life has changed! The Center for Living & Learning has, and is, playing a major role in restructuring my life. I am no longer on parole. And, for the first time in my life I was able to get a drivers license! Today I am able to be a giver rather than a taker. I don't have to make phone calls to my family from prison, at their expense, to request money or packages. I have become an asset when I was nothing more than a liability and a loser in the past. My deepest thanks to the Center for Living & Learning for the opportunity they gave me!
This Charity has helped transform me into a working class citizen. Alex and Rhonda have patiently guided me in a professional and positive direction!
Hi my name is Vanessa Bolton I've been here at the Learning Center for a year and one month. I really have learned a lot of job skills that i never thought I could learn. I am getting my GED with the help of the Center. I'm very proud of myself. Plus, they have a job search program that really works if you work it. The Center 4 Living and Learning helped me a lot, I hope they are still around when my daughter starts looking for work.
Vanessa Bolton
I volunteered for Center for Living and Learning and I hope to continue to do so. The experience was outstanding. I was continually impressed by the way the Center was run by Executive Director Maria "Alex" Alexander, and, as a result, her benefactors. Every time i walked in the door I felt a sense of calm and warmth, not to mention productivity, seriousness of learning skills taking place, especially regarding business/office skills and computer, as well as a sense of colleagues’ professional yet genuine relationships. Alex never interfered in the learning process I volunteered for Center for Living and Learning and I hope to continue to do so. The experience was outstanding. I was continually impressed by the way the Center was run by Executive Director Maria "Alex" Alexander, and, as a result, her benefactors. Every time I walked in the door I felt a sense of calm and warmth, not to mention productivity, serious of learning skills taking place, especially regarding business/office skills and computer, as well as a sense of the colleague's professional yet genuine relationship. Alex never interfered in the learning process going on as I tutored program participants in things such as gaining the skills to pass their G.E.D. and, as they were inclined, availing themselves of my expertise in business writing and grammar, among other things I endeavored to help with. Each and every person I encountered at the Center met me with a smile and a welcoming sense of acceptance, as well as respect. During the time I worked there, I saw progress in all participants, even those I did not directly work with. Those I had informal conversations with consistently impressed me with their positive attitudes and desire to succeed, leaving behind often destructive and damaging lives to move ahead to betterment and growth. Center for Living and Learning offered an Education room with computers and software which had tutorials in the latest programs needed to succeed on the job market, and I always saw avid learners glued to the terminals volunteered for Center for Living and Learning and I hope to continue to do so. The experience was outstanding. I was continually impressed by the way the Center was run by Executive Director Maria "Alex" Alexander, and, as a result, her benefactors. Every time i walked in the door I felt a sense of calm and warmth, not to mention productivity, serious of learning skills taking place, especially regarding business/office skills and computer, as well as a sense of the colleague's professional yet genuine relationship. Alex never interfered in the learning process going on as I tutored the program participants in things such as gaining the skills to pass their G.E.D. and, as they were inclined, availing themselves of my expertise business writing and grammar, among other prowess. Each and every person I encountered at the Center met me with a smile and a welcoming sense of acceptance, as well as respect. During the time I worked there, I saw progress in all participants, even those I did not directly work with. Those I had informal conversations with consistently impressed me with their positive attitudes and desire to succeed, leaving behind often destructive and damaging lives to move ahead to betterment and growth. Center for Living and Learning offered an Education room with computers and software which had tutorials in the latest programs needed to succeed on the job market, and I always saw avid learners glued to the screen. Alex herself worked every moment I stopped by her office to say hello and she was always kind enough to chat with me, sharing her vibrant and impressive ideas, be it computer web page overhaul, public relations re-working, ways to increase revenue, how to help her protégés, or whatever it might be. Alex was always supportive of me and what I was trying to do. I've volunteered for many organizations but i can honestly say that this was up amongst the most rewarding and motivating experience. Center for Living and Learning deserves this recognition!!! Please feel free to contact me with any further questions .
Coming to the Center for Living and Learning I was just out of treatment and on house arrest. My life was very unmanageable and I brought all my problems with me to the work place. CLL saw something in me, when I didn't see it in myself and kept me around. The Center for Living has taught me so much such as: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Frontpage and Quickbooks. I gained clerical, customer service, and management skills as well. CLL has been my stepping stone to a better life and I'm so thankful to them.
True I am some what biased as I am a board member. I have worked in the non-profit field for the past 15 years and have rarely seen a program as dedicated to their mission statement as the Center. Without any resevations and with inside knowledge I can attest to the fact that all of the resources obtained by Center for Living and learning are used for client support.
Center for Living and Learning took me into their paid on the job training program as I was finishing drug treatment. Right before that I had been to prison. I was very afraid to go out and find work. CLL helped me get many job skills, a GED, dental assistance and alot more. The directors there helped me in so many ways and were real examples to me. Today I am drug free, I have a job and give back to those trying to get off drugs as well.