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

Career Services

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

Hiring Spree LA

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

Short Term Trainings

Specialized trainings designed to create employment opportunities.

Re-Entry Project

Assistance in resolving legal issues that constrain career growth.

Vocational Assessment

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

Job Seeker Resources

Online resources for job seekers to improve job search techniques.

Success Stories

Rooted and Rising

“Action is the foundational key to all success.” – Pablo Picasso Kayon enrolled in the Focus 360 Job Club seeking increased work hours and greater employment stability. Before relocating to California, she lived in New York, where she gained valuable

March 2, 2026

Finishing Strong

“Success is built on the courage to keep going.” – Unknown Raquel is a powerful example of what determination and commitment can accomplish. A former high school dropout, she enrolled in the High School Equivalency Program in December 2025 with

February 28, 2026

Focused, Supported, Successful

“Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier Lorena is a 29-year-old graduate of the North Hollywood High School Equivalency (HSE) Program whose journey reflects perseverance, commitment, and the power of supportive

February 27, 2026