Name of program: Local Conservation Corps (LCC)

What is the program’s goal? LCC provides young adults with employment, training and education to become productive and contributing members of our community. The LCC operates a variety of grant and fee-for-service programs to meet critical community needs. Diverse programs within the LCC specialize in supporting youth in their pursuit of self-sufficiency including: a homeland security initiative and educational awards through AmeriCorps, comprehensive youth and adult employment training, educational services through EOC’s charter school - School of Unlimited Learning (SOUL) – community-wide recycling and conservation education, construction and building maintenance training through YouthBuild, plus landscaping and grounds maintenance through local City partnerships.

The majority of young adults come to LCC looking for a second chance to succeed in life. In return for their efforts, they receive job training and guidance by staff that serve as mentors and role models. Participants receive an hourly wage; AmeriCorps members, a modest stipend. Youth are provided with a wide range of member development services including significant educational opportunities, career preparation, and the opportunity to invest in their communities.

When was the program established at EOC? LCC has been building a structure for success and community service since its inception in 1993, and continues to grow and respond to local needs.

Who do you help (client base)? LCC provides services primarily to at-risk young adults (ages 18-26); AmeriCorps serves adults 18+. The majority of our LCC target population resides in south Fresno. All of our young adult trainees, with the exception of AmeriCorps, reside in low to very-low income households.

What are the eligibility requirements? Varies by LCC program; must be at least 18 years of age to apply for employment and training services

How many clients do you serve monthly/annually? Approximately 150 active trainees; 300 served annually

Who is the current program manager? LCC senior management team: Paul McLain-Lugowski, Director; Michelle L. Tutunjian, Assistant Director; Tom Zizzo, General Manager-Enterprise Operations, Salvador “Sal” Terry, Assistant General Manager

How many employees work for this program? Approximately 50 staff work for LCC.

Where is your office / are your offices located? Currently, LCC has only one (1) physical office located at 1371 Stainislaus, Fresno, CA, 93706. By the Summer 2008, LCC will relocate to EOC’s Neighborhood Youth Center (NYC). The NYC is located at California and C Street in Southwest Fresno.

Tell us about one of your “success stories”
Current LCC trainee, Francisco Vizcarrondo was selected as one of six exceptional youth from across the country awarded The Corps Network’s 2008 Corpsmember of the Year Award during its Annual Corps Forum, held in Washington, DC, February 10-13. Francisco was selected from more than 21,000 Corpsmembers nationally.

Anything else you’d like to tell us about your program?
We are currently looking for mentors for our adult youth trainees. If you are interested in becoming a mentor for our LCC youth, please contact us at 264.1048!