Paid jobs & support for young people beginning new careers
LIFE SKILLS & EMPLOYMENT
Are you a young adult ready to launch your career? Lyon Workforce Academy provides the skills, resources, and opportunities you need to succeed. Through hands-on training and professional development, we’ll support you every step of the way as you build a strong foundation for your future. Join our dynamic program and start thriving in the workplace and beyond!
Shape Your Career, Shape Your Future
When you sign up for Lyon Workforce Academy, you’ll get a one-year, paid training program in trade and professional careers with real hands-on experience from industry experts. You’ll be able to explore a variety of jobs available through our corporate partners, allowing you to freely choose and interview for positions that match your interest. Along the way, you’ll have personalized support, skill-building workshops, and financial management training to help you build a solid future.
WORK, LEARN, & EARN
Gain work experience & learn new skills while earning a competitive wage
CAREER-FOCUSED
Receive guidance to explore & pursue a career that aligns with your passions
COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT
Access assistance for financial stability, clothing, and transportation
ONE YEAR PROGRAM
Get personalized support throughout your entire journey
PATHS TO EMPLOYMENT
Resources for securing transportation and interview skills
SKILL-BUILDING WORKSHOPS
Strengths-building exercises from the Orangewood Foundation team
A VIBRANT COMMUNITY
Connections with other Orangewood Foundation program recipients
ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS
Referrals to other Orangewood programs for full support
This is LWA
What to Expect
If your application is approved, we’ll help you move into a safe, affordable apartment owned by Orangewood Foundation. We’ll also help you cover bills while you look for a job.
To join Lyon Workforce Academy, participants must be 18-25 years old and eligible to work in the U.S. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, as well as some work experience. Participants must also be drug-free with no active substance use. Here’s what you can expect in the program.
Regular Check-Ins
Connect with the Lyon Workforce team for personalized support.
Commitment
Dedicate one year to your personal and professional growth.
Training & Workshops
Acquire valuable skills and knowledge through our comprehensive sessions.
Monthly Budgeting
Develop financial management skills for a secure future. Plus, you can participate in a savings match program!
Learn More about Rising Tide Program Support
Lyon Workforce Academy Partners
Our partners believe in investing in the future, one young person at a time. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and workplace opportunities, they help prepare youth for the road ahead. We’re proud to work alongside companies who share our commitment to community and possibility.
Our partners believe in investing in the future, one young person at a time. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and workplace opportunities, they help prepare youth for the road ahead. We’re proud to work alongside companies who share our commitment to community and possibility.
Our partners believe in investing in the future, one young person at a time. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and workplace opportunities, they help prepare youth for the road ahead. We’re proud to work alongside companies who share our commitment to community and possibility.
Our partners believe in investing in the future, one young person at a time. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and workplace opportunities, they help prepare youth for the road ahead. We’re proud to work alongside companies who share our commitment to community and possibility.
Our partners believe in investing in the future, one young person at a time. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and workplace opportunities, they help prepare youth for the road ahead. We’re proud to work alongside companies who share our commitment to community and possibility.
Our partners believe in investing in the future, one young person at a time. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and workplace opportunities, they help prepare youth for the road ahead. We’re proud to work alongside companies who share our commitment to community and possibility.
Here’s How We Served Orange County
54
young people had a safe place to stay in Orangewood housing
268
days is the average amount of time that young people lived in Orangewood housing
$27k
was used to help young people find safe housing in emergency situations
$246k
in funding helped young people pay move-in costs in 2023
Rising Tide Program Gallery
Ready to Get Started? Contact Us Today!
Apply to Lyon Workforce Academy and start building the skills and experience you need for a successful career. Have questions? Email us—we’re here to help you get started!
Want to Help? Become a Partner.
Is your company looking for talent? Partnering with the Lyon Workforce Academy gives your company access to motivated young adult candidates (ages 18–25) ready to learn and contribute. Through a one-year, paid training program, apprentices gain hands-on experience while developing essential life and professional skills, preparing them to be valuable members of your team.
Read Their Stories & Imagine a Better Future
See More Programs from Orangewood
ORANGEWOOD RESOURCE CENTER
Hot meals, groceries, clothing, & daily supplies for young people
Basic Needs & Support
Housing Assistance
Financial aid for move-in fees, housing stabilization, furnishings, & utility bills
Housing Support
Rising Tide
Safe housing for young people experiencing or at-risk of homelessness
Transitional Housing
Support Our Mission
Donate today to help a young person start building their future.
Resources For Young People
Need support? See which of our programs may be right for you.
