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

Breaking Through the Doubt

When Ms. Arroyo stepped into Focus 360, she felt the burden of her disappointment. As a single mother raising three children, she had invested months in job applications without achieving any results. Discouraged by her lack of work experience, she

May 28, 2025

Focused and Forward

When Denise joined the Focus 360 class in East LA, she brought with her the weight of uncertainty. After losing her job at Goodwill in 2024 due to downsizing and budget cuts, Denise felt discouraged. She had enjoyed being part

May 27, 2025

Building a New Foundation

When Rogel joined the Downtown Focus 360 program in March 2025, he knew something had to change. A father of two small children, Rogel was navigating the job search alone while juggling serious challenges, including childcare needs, a criminal background,

May 23, 2025