A WORKFORCE
DEVELOPMENT BOARD
SOUTH BAY WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD
Meet Joshua Williams
Workforce Challenge:
Joshua Williams, Inglewood resident, grew up in a challenging environment with his parents and siblings. To add to the challenge, his mother had a stroke. This hardship changed his parents’ habits, affecting their ability to be the best role models.
Workforce Solution:
As Joshua’s family matters became worse, the Department of Children and Family Services stepped in and placed Joshua and his siblings’ in foster care. Joshua’s godmother insisted they needed to be under her care. After some time adjusting to these changes, Joshua’s godmother, who was an elementary school educator, worked diligently to bring his grades up and motivate him to believe in himself.
While in foster care, Joshua visited the Inglewood One-Stop for services. He received assistance in counseling with Centinela Youth Services and enrolled in the youth summer program. Joshua interviewed with Warehouse Shoe Sale (WSS) and completed an internship, afterwards he was placed in the Inglewood Youth Department as an office assistant.
Outcome and Benefits:
Joshua also received tutoring assistance through the Hawthorne Teen Center. Being around positive people gave him the confidence he needed to succeed. He applied to colleges and received a few scholarships. Joshua graduated high school with a GPA of 3.7 and is now attending school at Grand Canyon University, Arizona.
“I am truly thankful for the One Stop and all the help they have given me. I hope to find future employment through the One-Stop, once I finish college in the youth department because I want to help youth in need.”
