Opportunity Young Adult (OYA) Career Pathway Program

Funder: California Employment Development Department (EDD) / U.S. Department of Labor

Geographic Scope: Sacramento County, California

Focus Areas:

• Career pathway development for formerly incarcerated young adults
• Workforce development and job placement
• Training in high-demand industries including manufacturing, public sector, healthcare, construction, information technology, and science/engineering

Target Population:

• Young adults ages 18-28
• Formerly incarcerated individuals
• Individuals facing significant employment barriers

Program Components:

• Personalized career and life planning
• Certification programs
• On-the-job training
• Work-based learning opportunities
• Mentorship and pre-apprenticeship programs
• Trauma-informed case management support
• Stipends for workforce readiness and training
• Career coaching and supportive services

Partner Organizations:

• NextGen Policy (grant recipient)
• The Clover Agency (program implementation and management)

Background: This is the first grant in California history focused on empowering young adults from Sacramento County's formerly incarcerated community. The broader OYA Career Pathway Program is funded by a $17.8 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Labor (100% federal funds). According to The White House, nearly 75% of formerly incarcerated individuals are unemployed a year after release; this program aims to bridge that gap.