Hawaiian Gardens recognizes Youth Employment Program partners; ABC Adult School outlines local classes

The Hawaiian Gardens City Council used its March 25 meeting to recognize business and community partners that support the city’s Youth Employment Program (YEP) and to hear education updates from ABC Unified School District and ABC Adult School.

Christina Torrison, YEP coordinator, described the Youth at Work program launched in 2006 that serves Hawaiian Gardens residents ages 14–24, noting participants complete 160 program hours (20 hours of personal enrichment training and 140 hours of paid work experience) and earn $17.87 per hour while placed with employer partners. Torrison thanked multiple current and new worksite partners by name, including Loaded Protein, Way Out Ministries, Straight Up Tacos, Covenant Preschool, Old Navy, Valentinos, Dami Dental, Metroflex Gym and several city departments that host placements.

Mayor Teresa Del Rio and the council presented certificates and acknowledged partners who could not attend (Alex Tires, Claire’s, Plato’s Closet) and invited recipients to a group photograph.

Francisco Noyola, president of the ABC Unified School District board, summarized neighborhood school events (Fetty Middle’s STEM Fest, family workshops, CAASPP score celebrations), Melbourne Elementary’s Measure BB bond phase 2 completion and upcoming events such as open houses and fundraisers.

Nancy Amar, principal of ABC Adult School, introduced instructors Colleen Fox and Todd Tabon and described adult‑education offerings including ESL, career technical education (CTE), high‑school equivalency coursework, community education, and programming for adults with disabilities. Fox described a multilevel ESL program that serves elderly and disabled residents and offers practical supports ranging from document translation help to assistance with doctor appointments.

Council members and community members thanked presenters and asked follow‑up questions about YEP schedules, ways to transition YEP participants into city roles (recreation leader openings) and outreach for adult‑education classes. Torrison and staff encouraged eligible residents to apply; staff said the YEP program will resume in July and that partner outreach is ongoing.

Next steps: City staff will continue YEP placements and partner outreach; ABC Adult School materials were left for council and residents and district board meeting dates were noted for public follow‑up.