LACOE GAIN

A Job. A Better Job. A Career.

Helping Los Angeles County build economic self-sufficiency through gainful employment.

Who We Are

The LACOE GAIN Division is part of a large-scale, welfare-to-work initiative called Greater Avenues for Independence that operates in every county in California. In Los Angeles County, the initiative is under the supervision of the Department of Public Social Services. We serve local businesses and employers by helping them find and hire quality workers who are seeking opportunities for meaningful employment. These prospective workers are participants in the state welfare programs known as California Work Opportunities and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKS) or Skills and Training to Achieve Readiness for Tomorrow (START).

Programs and Services

shutterstock_760359742

Career Services

Programs to prepare welfare-to-work clients for the modern workforce.

DSC00139

Hiring Spree LA

Career events for employers and job seekers in the LA County area.

shutterstock_439214011

Short Term Trainings

Specialized trainings designed to create employment opportunities.

shutterstock_1121506268

Re-Entry Project

Assistance in resolving legal issues that constrain career growth.

shutterstock_713551030

Vocational Assessment

Identify and explore job interests and create career goals for the future.

shutterstock_317064755

Job Seeker Resources

Online resources for job seekers to improve job search techniques.

Success Stories

Courage Beyond the Unknown

When Ani arrived in the United States two years ago, she carried more than luggage. She carried hope for a better life for her family. At 35, she was starting over in a country where the language, systems, and daily

Read More »

Prepared for the Moment

Unexpected change can disrupt even the most stable careers. Cristal experienced this firsthand after losing two jobs in a short period. One employer downsized without warning. Another closed its doors entirely. After nearly seven years working as a Licensed Vocational

Read More »

Restored and Rising

For nearly eighteen months, Naydelin lived with uncertainty. Without a steady income, the responsibility of providing for her family weighed heavily. The holidays were especially difficult. Though she appreciated the support of family and her GAIN worker, moments like standing

Read More »