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

More Than Luck

Each March, St. Patrick’s Day fills the world with symbols of luck. Four-leaf clovers, rainbows, and pots of gold remind people to wish for good fortune. At GAIN, however, we see something deeper. Success is rarely luck. More often, it

March 20, 2026

Built for the Job

“Action is the foundational key to all success.” – Pablo Picasso Before enrolling in Virtual Focus 360, Zachery had a clear employment goal. He knew the type of position he wanted, but also understood one key obstacle stood in the

March 3, 2026

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