In October, the California Cradle-to-Career Data System (C2C) held its two fall Advisory Board meetings, on each of which UNITE-LA has appointed representatives. Both appointments span three-year terms, which began last fall. Dr. Lisa Catanzarite, UNITE-LA's vice president of Research and Evaluation, sits on the Data and Tools Advisory Board (DTAB), while Adam Gottlieb, UNITE-LA's director of Postsecondary Strategy and Policy, sits on the Community Engagement Advisory Board (CEAB).

In October, UNITE-LA’s summer Step into Tech program concluded with eight participants completing Part 2 of the program, earning tech certifications—our highest number to date. Three participants earned CCST Cybersecurity Lifetime Certifications, one earned a Networking CCST Lifetime Certification, and four earned certifications in Python Essentials (PCEP Exam) and Data Science through the Cisco Networking Academy. These certifications provide participants with valuable skills to help them stand out in today’s competitive job market.

We are excited to share some wonderful updates about UNITE-LA’s My Pathway to Health participants and the impressive milestones they have achieved over the past month.

The critical need for essential health services remains a top priority within our LAUSD Community Schools Initiative (CSI), as revealed by both comprehensive site-based assets and needs assessments (ANA) and real-time feedback from students, families and school staff. These insights underscore the pressing need for seamless service delivery and focused efforts to address gaps. In September, UNITE-LA, as conveners of the Community Schools Steering Committee (CSSC), launched the Alliance for Opportunity (AFO), a subcommittee dedicated to enhancing much needed comprehensive support for students and families across the CSI.

In early October, UNITE-LA’s leadership participated in California Forward and the California Stewardship Network’s annual California Economic Summit, speaking on two panels, reconnecting with current partners, meeting new leaders from across the state, and hearing from state leadership, including a surprise appearance by Gov. Gavin Newsom. The Summit has served as a powerful catalyst of action, moving policies forward that are responsive to today's challenges that help all Californians share in the prosperity of the state.

In September, UNITE-LA hosted its Fall Virtual Health Care Career Fair with 150 registrants.

Through support from the James Irvine Foundation, UNITE-LA will be conducting research on affinity-group serving chambers of commerce and other business organizations throughout California.

The UNITE-LA Programs Team is excited to welcome our 2024-25 Angeleno interns!

UNITE-LA understands the value of amazing volunteers, and so much of our work relies on their efforts. And sometimes, those who benefit from the work of volunteers can tell that story much better than us. Meet Step into Tech participant, Nashid.