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CSET

@cset_tulareco

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Community Services Employment Training (CSET). We make connections, build community, and empower people. Here is our story, one photo at a time.

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50 Alumni in 50 Days | Jose Ruiz

Program: Sequoia Community Corps (SCC) – DOR
Years of Participation: 1 year

After graduating, Jose Ruiz joined a CSET program called Brownfields, where he had the opportunity to receive training and earn certifications in several different fields. He chose to pursue forklift certification, which helped him develop practical, job-ready skills and opened the door to employment opportunities. Through this training, Jose was able to pursue a position with International Paper, taking an important step toward his career goals. His experience highlights how CSET’s programs help participants gain valuable certifications, build skills, and prepare for meaningful employment.

“CSET gave me the opportunity to earn certifications and gain the skills I needed to pursue a career with International Paper.” by @cset_tulareco

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21 hours ago

50 Alumni in 50 Days | Bryan Lopez

Bryan Lopez participated in the CalFresh Employment & Training (E&T) Program and the Sequoia Community Corps (SCC), where he gained valuable work experience and developed skills to prepare for future employment. Assigned to CSET’s Porterville office, Bryan supported the Weatherization Department by answering phone calls, assisting clients, scheduling appointments, and providing administrative support. Through this experience, he strengthened his customer service, communication, and organizational skills while building confidence in a professional setting.

With individualized support from program staff, Bryan worked on resume development, job searching, and interview preparation. Although he faced setbacks and was not selected for several positions, he remained determined to reach his employment goals. With continued encouragement and support, Bryan persevered, continued applying for jobs, and refined his interview skills.

His dedication paid off when he secured a position with the City of Lindsay as an Administrative Secretary. Bryan’s journey demonstrates the power of perseverance and the importance of providing individuals with the work experience, guidance, and resources they need to succeed.

“With determination, support, and the opportunity to gain experience, Bryan turned setbacks into a stepping stone toward a rewarding career.” by @cset_tulareco

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2 days ago

50 Alumni in 50 Days | Marie Gonzalez

Program: Tulare County Youth Corps (TCYC) / SSC
Years of Participation: July 2000 – April 2001

Participating in the Tulare County Youth Corps helped me become more independent and confident in myself. Through opportunities to give presentations and serve as a Crew Leader, I developed valuable communication, leadership, and mentoring skills. My experience taught me the importance of believing in myself and supporting others as they work toward their goals. The encouragement and guidance I received inspired me to help others find their own independence through training and mentorship, continuing the same support that made a difference in my life.

“The support I received through TCYC inspired me to help others build confidence, gain independence, and discover their own potential.” by @cset_tulareco

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3 days ago

50 Alumni in 50 Days

Pedro

Pedro connected with Employment Connection through outreach at the Farmersville Library while seeking support to overcome barriers to stable employment. Despite having more than 15 years of experience as a self-employed handyman, Pedro faced challenges including homelessness, transportation barriers, and not having a valid driver’s license.

With support from his Career Coach, Pedro received housing and re-entry resources, assistance reinstating his license, job readiness training, interview attire, and a bicycle to help him get to work.

In March 2026, Pedro secured full-time employment with Exeter Small Engine Repair as a General Laborer, taking an important step toward long-term stability, independence, and self-sufficiency.

Congratulations, Pedro! by @cset_tulareco

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4 days ago

Gissel’s journey with CSET began in September 2022 when she joined #LEAD through Youth@Work as a young person in Porterville. Through #LEAD, she was given opportunities to explore her interests, gain real-world experience, build relationships, and discover her potential.

One of the people who made a lasting impact on her journey was her mentor, Matthew Glasgow, whose guidance and encouragement helped Gissel navigate difficult seasons in her life while developing skills she continues to use today.

Through #LEAD, Gissel participated in a summer work experience at the Tulare County Public Defender’s Office in Porterville, where she was paired with a social worker and began exploring her interest in social work.

Gissel graduated from high school and made plans to attend Fresno State. Although she eventually returned home due to financial, family, and personal challenges, she continued pursuing her goals. CSET connected her with the Youth Transitions program, and she soon moved into a position with Tulare County HHSA through the TulareWorks program as a self-sufficiency counselor.

Today, Gissel is a Behavioral Health Coordinator with the Tule River Indian Health Center and is well on her way to completing her college degree.

Her journey is a powerful example of how the impact of CSET programs can continue long after a participant completes a program. The opportunities, relationships, mentorship, and support she received helped her discover that helping others was more than a career—it was her passion.

“Words cannot express how deeply grateful I am to CSET, #LEAD, Youth@Work and YT; the support has really changed my life!” by @cset_tulareco

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5 days ago

50 Alumni in 50 Days

Isel Romero

Isel Romero’s journey with the Sequoia Community Corps helped her build valuable skills and prepare for a long-term career.

From September 2024 through March 2026, Isel fully engaged in the program, gaining experience through construction training, volunteering at the Visalia Navigation Center, and participating in Government Education Day in Sacramento.

Through hands-on training, mentorship, and career development opportunities, Isel strengthened her professional and personal skills, including clerical and communication abilities.

Today, Isel serves as a Program Specialist with CSET’s Weatherization Department, where she continues to grow professionally and build on the skills she developed through the Sequoia Community Corps. by @cset_tulareco

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6 days ago

50 Alumni in 50 Days

Armindo & Wendy

Armindo and Wendy, together for more than 20 years and married for 12, connected with the Visalia Navigation Center in July 2025 after experiencing housing instability and periods of homelessness.

Through case management, treatment support, employment services, and housing assistance, they began rebuilding their lives. Both secured employment through CSET programs, and with continued support and rapid rehousing assistance, they moved into permanent housing on March 25, 2026.

Since then, Wendy has continued reaching her goals. She earned her driver’s license and purchased a vehicle, marking another important step toward long-term stability and independence. Their story is a powerful example of how support, opportunity, and perseverance can help create a path toward a brighter future. by @cset_tulareco

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7 days ago

50 Alumni in 50 Days

Abigail

Abigail’s journey with CSET has been one of remarkable growth, resilience, and determination. After living at the Visalia Navigation Center for the past couple of years, Abigail recently reached an incredible milestone—securing a home of her own for herself and her daughter.

Along the way, Abigail has continued to set ambitious goals and accomplish them. She was elected Women’s YAB President, reached her Tier 2 milestone, and stepped into a new leadership role by presenting alongside CSET staff at the VNC.

Her success is a reflection of both her hard work and the support surrounding her. CSET’s Housing Department, VNC staff, and YAB mentorship provided guidance and encouragement as Abigail worked toward stability and independence.

Today, Abigail is beginning a new chapter in a safe and stable home where she can build lasting memories with her daughter while continuing to grow as a leader in her community. by @cset_tulareco

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8 days ago

Get to Know the VNC!

Join us for our Get to Know the VNC sessions on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month from 12:00–12:45 PM at the Visalia Navigation Center.

Come learn more about what we do, the services we provide, and ways you can partner with us to support our community.

3525 N. Court St., Visalia, CA 93291
2nd & 4th Wednesdays
12:00–12:45 PM

RSVP today!
Learn more at cset.org/vnc by @cset_tulareco

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8 days ago

50 Alumni in 50 Days

Ronnie

At 69 years old, Ronnie had spent 35 years living with his wife in their 125-year-old home in Dinuba, relying on a wood-burning stove for cooking and heat. Winters meant constantly chopping wood and tending the fire throughout the night to stay warm.

After his wife passed away and his health declined, keeping up with the physical demands became increasingly difficult. Ronnie worried about how he would make it through another winter.

Through CSET’s Weatherization Program, Ronnie received utility assistance, attic and floor insulation, a new cook stove, and a wall-heating unit that eliminated the need for firewood.

With these improvements, Ronnie can now stay safer and warmer in his home without the physical burden of relying on a wood-burning stove.

Grateful for the support, Ronnie shared, “CSET saved my life.” by @cset_tulareco

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9 days ago

Join the Sequoia Community Corps team!

We’re currently recruiting Corpsmembers ages 18–26 for immediate openings in Public Works and Recycling Education!

Gain valuable job skills, hands-on experience, and paid training while making a positive impact in your community. No experience necessary—we provide the training you need to get started!

To refer a candidate: raquel.roa@cset.org
Have the candidate call: 559-741-4621

Help us build a cleaner community and a brighter future!

#SequoiaCommunityCorps #CSET #NowHiring #JobTraining #YoungAdults #WorkforceDevelopment #PaidTraining #TulareCounty #CommunityImpact by @cset_tulareco

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9 days ago

50 Alumni in 50 Days
Angela Blankenship
Angela joined CSET’s Reentry Reset Program in March 2021 after being out of the workforce for several years. Through resume development, interview preparation, transitional training, and ongoing support from the Reentry team, Angela gained the tools and confidence needed to return to the workforce.

After completing her transitional training in September 2021, Angela was hired from an internship into a full-time position with CVRS Recovery / Mental Health. Since then, she has maintained stable employment, expanded her schedule from one day a week to five days a week on-site, and earned her professional certification.

Today, Angela continues to grow in the recovery field and hopes to advance into a coordinator position within recovery or community services. Her journey has also made her an inspiration to other participants pursuing careers in the field. by @cset_tulareco

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10 days ago