Community Services Employment Training - CSET

🥘 Taste Test for a Good Cause! 🥘

The Senior Services department recently held a taste test for the frozen meals provided to nearly 350 housebound seniors participating in the Meals On Wheels program. To ensure that our local senior citizens receive nutritious and delicious meals, CSET staff sampled a variety of frozen meal options and provided feedback. This taste test allows our team to describe the meals' flavors more accurately to participants and community members interested in learning about the program.

CSET offers temporary and long-term meal services for individuals aged 60 and older who, due to chronic illness or recent hospitalization, cannot prepare nutritious meals for themselves and lack support from friends, relatives, or paid assistance. The Meals On Wheels program is dedicated to helping housebound individuals maintain proper nutrition and ensuring that our elder residents receive the care they deserve. For more information about our Senior Services, please visit our website at www.cset.org/senior-services.

Empowered women empower communities! On , we celebrate the incredible strength and resilience of women everywhere. Together, let's continue breaking barriers and driving change, ensuring every woman has the opportunity to lead and succeed. 💪✨

¡Las mujeres empoderadas fortalecen a nuestras comunidades! En el , celebramos la increíble fuerza y resiliencia de las mujeres en todas partes. Juntas, sigamos rompiendo barreras y generando cambios, asegurando que cada mujer tenga la oportunidad de liderar y triunfar. 💪✨

🎉 Celebrating Women's Equality Day with Empowerment and Opportunity! 🎉

This Women's Equality Day, we're proud to announce the launch of our all-women crew within the Sequoia Community Corps Back2Work program in Bakersfield, CA! 🚧💪

Thanks to our incredible partnership with the Butte County Office of Education, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Casa Aurora, and CalTrans, these trailblazing women are breaking barriers performing highway maintenance and beautification projects while gaining valuable skills and certifications that will shape their futures. 🌟

At SCC, we're committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, and this new crew is a shining example of what happens when women are given the tools and opportunities to succeed in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Join us in celebrating their achievements and the ongoing fight for gender equality! 🙌✨

We’re excited to share that the Visalia Navigation Center (VNC) is almost ready to open its doors! 🚪

🏠 What is the VNC?: The VNC is a dedicated facility that will provide vital services to those facing housing insecurity in our community. From shelter and meals to medical care and job training, the VNC is here to support individuals on their path to stability.

✨ Progress Update: With construction now complete, we're putting the finishing touches on the center to ensure it’s fully equipped to serve our community. We're working hard to finalize everything so we can start making a difference as soon as possible.

🤝 Looking Ahead: Visit www.cset.org/vnc to discover more about the VNC and how you can get involved. The Visalia Navigation Center is a beacon of hope for those in need, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone soon!

Thank you for your ongoing support. Together, we're building a stronger, more compassionate community.

To be referred to the VNC please call 211 or 1-800-283-9323.

📣 Attention Tulare County High School Juniors & Seniors! 🌟

Are you ready to unlock your leadership potential? The (Leading, Educating, Advocating, and Dedication) program is now recruiting for our next cohort!

Join to gain valuable skills for your future, including:

✨ College & career readiness
✨ Mentorship from professionals
✨ Volunteer service projects
✨ Field trips & cultural experiences

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to grow, learn, and lead! Apply now at www.cset.org/lead by September 29, 2024.

📅 Deadline: September 29, 2024
📍 Who can apply: High School Juniors & Seniors in Cutler-Orosi, Dinuba, Porterville, Tulare, and Visalia

For more info, contact Coordinators Matthew Glasgow or Airolynn Salazar at (559) 713-5170 or [email protected].

Let’s build a brighter future together! 🌟
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📣 ¡Atención estudiantes de tercer y cuarto año de preparatoria en el Condado de Tulare! 🌟

¿Estás listo para desarrollar tu potencial de liderazgo? ¡El programa (Liderazgo, Educación, Abogacía y Dedicación) está reclutando para nuestra próxima cohorte!

Únete a y adquiere habilidades valiosas para tu futuro, incluyendo:

✨ Preparación para la universidad y carrera profesional
✨ Mentoría de profesionales
✨ Proyectos de servicio voluntario
✨ Excursiones y experiencias culturales

¡No te pierdas esta increíble oportunidad de crecer, aprender y liderar! Aplica ahora en www.cset.org/lead antes del 29 de septiembre de 2024.

📅 Fecha límite: 29 de septiembre de 2024
📍 Quién puede aplicar: Estudiantes de tercer y cuarto año de preparatoria en Cutler-Orosi, Dinuba, Porterville, Tulare y Visalia

Para más información, contacta a los coordinadores de , Matthew Glasgow o Airolynn Salazar, al (559) 713-5170 o envía un correo a [email protected].

¡Construyamos juntos un futuro más brillante! 🌟

Highlight: 🏠✨ Meet Guadalupe, who recently experienced the incredible benefits of our Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). When her mother's home faced a serious gas leak, Guadalupe turned to us for help. Thanks to our dedicated team, her mother now has a new wall heater, water heater, weather stripping, low-flow showerheads, and a repaired glass window—at no cost! Guadalupe's advice? "If you qualify for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), do it! The services we've received helped my mother tremendously." We're proud to make a difference in the lives of our community members every day. 🌟

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: 🏠✨ Conoce a Guadalupe, quien recientemente experimentó los increíbles beneficios de nuestro Programa de Asistencia para la Climatización (WAP). Cuando la casa de su madre enfrentó una fuga de gas grave, Guadalupe acudió a nosotros en busca de ayuda. ¡Gracias a nuestro equipo dedicado, su madre ahora cuenta con un nuevo calefactor de pared, calentador de agua, sellado de ventanas, duchas de bajo flujo y una ventana de vidrio reparada, todo sin costo! ¿El consejo de Guadalupe? "¡Si calificas para el Programa de Asistencia para la Climatización (WAP), hazlo! Los servicios que hemos recibido ayudaron enormemente a mi madre." Estamos orgullosos de marcar la diferencia en la vida de nuestros miembros de la comunidad cada día. 🌟

Recordatorio: ¿Emocionado por dar tu primer paso hacia tener una casa propia? 🏡 Únete a nuestro Taller para Compradores de Casa por Primera Vez el 10 de agosto. 🗓️ Esta sesión se realizará en español, pero todos son bienvenidos. Aprende todo lo que necesitas saber sobre el proceso de compra de vivienda en nuestro webinar en vivo. ¡No esperes más, reserva tu lugar hoy mismo! Para más detalles, llámanos al (559) 782-7460 o envía un correo a [email protected].

Reminder: Excited to take your first step towards owning a home? 🏡 Join us for our First Time Home Buyer Workshop on August 10th! 🗓️ This session will be conducted in Spanish, but everyone is welcome to join. Learn everything you need to know about the home-buying process in our live webinar. Don't wait—reserve your spot today! For more details, call us at (559) 782-7460 or email [email protected].

📸🌟 : Celebrating our exceptional youth volunteers from Earlimart! These dedicated students have made a significant impact this summer by representing the VITA program and sharing crucial information about the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC). They also helped with cleaning, assisted at Community Food Banks, and supported our Family Resource Centers and Senior Centers.

Additionally, they participated in the Substance Use Prevention (SUP) Program, engaging with the LifeSkills Training curriculum to learn vital skills like self-esteem building, decision-making, problem-solving, anxiety management, and resisting peer pressure.

In total, 50 scholarships were awarded, with 16 outstanding volunteers from Earlimart each receiving a $500 scholarship. We are incredibly proud of these young leaders and their dedication to our mission!

👏❤️ EITC

In his 1964 State of the Union address, President Johnson declared, "Our aim is not only to relieve the symptom of poverty, but to cure it and, above all, to prevent it." This vision led to the signing of the Economic Opportunity Act (EOA) in August 1964, authorizing the formation of local Community Action Agencies. For 60 years, these agencies have been at the forefront of the War on Poverty. Founded in 1976, has been a proud part of this movement, offering services that not only alleviate immediate needs but also address the root causes of poverty, ensuring lasting change and community empowerment.

CSET is soliciting competitive bids for a 6,000-square-foot metal building. The metal building will be constructed on a piece of property owned by CSET in Visalia, CA. The Request for Proposals (RFP) describes the selection process, specifications, and requirements to apply.

The RFP is due Thursday, August 8, 2024 @ 3:00 pm. The full building specifications and RFP requirements can be found at www.cset.org/rfp.

⭐Mission Monday Highlight⭐

Do you have unresolved tax questions or need help with your tax preparation? We are here to assist! Join this in-person session on Saturday, August 24th, from 10AM - 3PM at the Porterville Employment Connection, 1063 W Henderson Ave., Porterville, CA 93257, for our Porterville Tax Assistance Day!

The event will have support from the IRS as Stakeholder Partnerships, Education and Communication (SPEC) and Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) will be in attendance.

Don’t forget to bring the following documentation:
- Taxpayer Identification Numbers (SSNs or ITINs) for everyone listed on the tax return
- Original government-issued photo identification (ID) for the primary and any secondary taxpayer
- Letters from the IRS and any other relevant correspondence
- Contact information for follow-up correspondence
- Copies of relevant tax returns or documents
- Other pertinent financial information

For more information, contact us at (559) 368-9023.


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¡Necesitas ayuda con la preparación de impuestos o tienes problemas fiscales sin resolver? ¡Te tenemos cubierto! Únete a nosotros el sábado 24 de agosto, de 10AM a 3PM en el Porterville Employment Connection, 1063 W Henderson Ave., Porterville, CA 93257, para nuestro Día de Asistencia Fiscal en Porterville.

El IRS, a través de Stakeholder Partnerships, Education and Communication (SPEC) y el Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS), estarán presentes para responder cualquier pregunta o inquietud.

No olvides traer la siguiente documentación:
- Números de Identificación del Contribuyente (SSNs o ITINs) para todos los que aparezcan en la declaración de impuestos
- Identificación (ID) original emitida por el gobierno con foto para el contribuyente principal y cualquier contribuyente secundario
- Cartas del IRS y otra correspondencia relevante
- Información de contacto para correspondencia de seguimiento
- Copias de declaraciones de impuestos o documentos fiscales relevantes
- Otra información financiera pertinente

Para más información, contáctanos al (559) 368-9023.

Exciting news! 🌟 Our South Valley Sequoia Community Corps participants have successfully completed their OSHA 10-hour training, gaining essential safety and health knowledge for entry-level roles in construction and general industry. This certification is a significant milestone, opening doors to numerous construction and warehouse opportunities. Additionally, our team has received CPR training, equipping them with life-saving skills. We are incredibly proud of their dedication to building safer, healthier workplaces! 💪

¿Emocionado por dar tu primer paso de tener una casa propia? 🏡 Únete a nuestro Taller para Compradores de Casa por Primera Vez el 10 de agosto. 🗓️ Esta sesión se realizará en español, pero todos son bienvenidos. Aprende todo lo que necesitas saber sobre el proceso de compra de vivienda en nuestro webinar en vivo. ¡No esperes más, reserva tu lugar hoy mismo! Para más detalles, llámanos al (559) 782-7460 o envía un correo a [email protected].

Excited to take your first step towards owning a home? 🏡 Join us for our First Time Home Buyer Workshop on August 10th! 🗓️ This session will be conducted in Spanish, but everyone is welcome to join. Learn everything you need to know about the home-buying process in our live webinar. Don't wait—reserve your spot today! For more details, call us at (559) 782-7460 or email [email protected].

🎉 A huge shoutout to our amazing CSET team for your unwavering dedication and hard work! Recently, we had a refreshing treat from Kona Ice of Tulare County, with their mobile truck visiting all our offices to help us beat the summer heat. 🍧🌞 Thank you for all that you do—your commitment makes a difference every day! We’re grateful for the chance to celebrate together with some cool summer fun. 🚚🎉

Today marks ADA Day, celebrating the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) signed into law in 1990. As the world’s first comprehensive declaration of equality for people with disabilities, the ADA prohibits discrimination in employment, healthcare, transportation, and government. At CSET, we honor this significant achievement and continue to champion progress towards a more inclusive and accessible world for all. 🌟

Need help with tax preparation or have unresolved tax issues? We've got you covered! Join us on Saturday, August 24th, from 10AM - 3PM at the Porterville Employment Connection, 1063 W Henderson Ave., Porterville, CA 93257, for our Porterville Tax Assistance Day!

The IRS Stakeholder Partnerships, Education and Communication (SPEC) and Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) will be present to answer any questions and concerns.

Don’t forget to bring the following documentation:
- Taxpayer Identification Numbers (SSNs or ITINs) for everyone listed on the tax return
- Original government-issued photo identification (ID) for the primary and any secondary taxpayer
- Letters from the IRS and any other relevant correspondence
- Contact information for follow-up correspondence
- Copies of relevant tax returns or documents
- Other pertinent financial information

For more information, contact us at (559) 368-9023.



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¡Necesitas ayuda con la preparación de impuestos o tienes problemas fiscales sin resolver? ¡Te tenemos cubierto! Únete a nosotros el sábado 24 de agosto, de 10AM a 3PM en el Porterville Employment Connection, 1063 W Henderson Ave., Porterville, CA 93257, para nuestro Día de Asistencia Fiscal en Porterville.

El IRS, a través de Stakeholder Partnerships, Education and Communication (SPEC) y el Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS), estarán presentes para responder cualquier pregunta o inquietud.

No olvides traer la siguiente documentación:
- Números de Identificación del Contribuyente (SSNs o ITINs) para todos los que aparezcan en la declaración de impuestos
- Identificación (ID) original emitida por el gobierno con foto para el contribuyente principal y cualquier contribuyente secundario
- Cartas del IRS y otra correspondencia relevante
- Información de contacto para correspondencia de seguimiento
- Copias de declaraciones de impuestos o documentos fiscales relevantes
- Otra información financiera pertinente

Para más información, contáctanos al (559) 368-9023.

Due to the high temperatures this week, CSET will continue to keep its Senior Centers open to be used as cooling centers for community members. Stop by any of our Senior Center locations to get a much needed break from the heat. For any questions please call 1-800-321-2462 or visit www.cset.org/who-we-are for more information.

Debido al calor extremo, CSET ha abierto sus Centros para Personas Mayores como centros de enfriamiento para los miembros de la comunidad. Visite cualquiera de nuestras ubicaciones de Centros para Personas Mayores para tomar un necesario descanso del calor. Para cualquier pregunta, llame al 1-800-321-2462 o visite www.cset.org/who-we-are para más información.

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉 Our Tulare Family Resource Center & Employment Connection Affiliate has moved to a new location just a few blocks away!

Our mission to provide comprehensive support and resources to families and job seekers remains our top priority. The new location offers improved accessibility and convenience, ensuring we can continue to deliver the same high-quality services our community relies on.

📍 New Address: 155 N K St, Tulare, CA 93274

📋 Services: All our existing services will continue, including family support, employment assistance, educational workshops, energy assistance, and access to community programs. We’re also thrilled to welcome Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK) as our new partners at this location, offering additional services.

We are excited about the opportunities this move brings and are confident that the new space will enable us to better serve our community.

For more information, please call (559) 684-1987.

The Sequoia Community Corpsmembers recently had the honor of hearing from Alex Cruz, a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness and a certified expert in behavioral science. Alex shared vital insights on the importance of mental health and wellness, emphasizing that it's okay to speak up and seek help.

Studies show that open dialogue about mental health can significantly increase the chances of saving lives, particularly for those who might experience a breakdown. Alex highlighted the unique challenges individuals face and stressed that breaking the stigma around seeking help is crucial.

In today's world, many jobs encourage and provide support for mental health, and by spreading awareness, we can make a difference and save lives.

Thank you, Alex, for inspiring us to break the norm and prioritize mental health! 💚

Mission Monday Highlight: Due to the extreme heat, CSET has opened its Senior Centers to be used as cooling centers for community members. Stop by any of our Senior Center locations to get a much needed break from the heat. For any questions please call 1-800-321-2462 or visit www.cset.org/who-we-are for more information.

Resaltado de Misión Lunes: Debido al calor extremo, CSET ha abierto sus Centros para Personas Mayores como centros de enfriamiento para los miembros de la comunidad. Visite cualquiera de nuestras ubicaciones de Centros para Personas Mayores para tomar un necesario descanso del calor. Para cualquier pregunta, llame al 1-800-321-2462 o visite www.cset.org/who-we-are para más información.

Excited to take your first step towards owning a home? 🏡 Join us for our First Time Home Buyer Workshop on July 13th! 🗓️ Learn everything you need to know about the home-buying process in our live webinar. Don't wait—reserve your spot today! For more details, call us at (559) 782-7460 or email [email protected].

¿Emocionado por dar tu primer paso de tener una casa propia? 🏡 Únete a nuestro Taller para Compradores de Casa por Primera Vez el 13 de Julio. 🗓️ Aprende todo lo que necesitas saber sobre el proceso de compra de vivienda en nuestro webinar en vivo. ¡No esperes más, reserva tu lugar hoy mismo! Para más detalles, llámanos al (559) 782-7460 o envía un correo a [email protected].

This we are thrilled to share the outstanding success of our recent Summer Resources event! In collaboration with 12 amazing organizations, CSET provided valuable resources and support to over 55 families, serving over 120 meals to attendees. Held in the Nupchi Xo'Oy community in Porterville, the event fostered community engagement and empowerment, bringing neighbors together to discuss Fair Housing rights and explore various support services.

A big shout-out to our dedicated staff members, and partners who made this event possible. Your hard work and commitment to our community are truly inspiring! 👏

Missed the event or eager to dive deeper into homeownership? Join our First Time Home Buyer Workshop on July 13th! 🗓️ This live webinar will offer valuable insights into the home-buying process. Don't miss out—register today to secure your spot! For more information and to register, contact us at (559) 782-7460 or [email protected].

Ready to make your first move towards homeownership? 🏡 Join us for our First Time Home Buyer Workshop on July 13th! 🗓️ Gain valuable insights into the home-buying process in a live webinar session. Don't miss out—register today to secure your spot! Contact us at (559) 782-7460 or [email protected] for more info.

¿Listo para dar el primer paso hacia la propiedad? 🏡 Únete a nuestro Taller para Compradores de Casa por Primera Vez el (13) de Julio. 🗓️ Obtén valiosos conocimientos sobre el proceso de compra de vivienda en un webinar en vivo. ¡No te lo pierdas! Regístrate hoy mismo para asegurar tu lugar. Contáctanos al (559) 782-7460 o [email protected] para más información.

🌟 We are thrilled to announce that the CSET Board of Directors has approved our newly revised Mission, Vision, and Values! 🌟

These changes reflect our unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring we serve our entire community with dignity and respect.

Our updated Mission, Vision, and Values were developed through a collaborative effort, with input from staff members across all departments and board members. This comprehensive approach allowed us to incorporate diverse perspectives and needs within our community and organization.

Mission Statement:
Community Services Employment Training combats poverty by providing individuals, families, and communities with the resources, skills, and opportunities to thrive.

Vision Statement:
CSET envisions a community equipped with the tools, resources, and confidence to pursue a better quality of life.

Core Values:
Belonging: Embracing diversity and inclusion so that all people are treated with dignity and respect.
Hope: Providing resources and opportunities to individuals to reach their full potential.
Growth: Fostering continuous learning and development for both our staff and the communities we serve.
Connection: Believing in the power of collaboration and partnerships to create lasting change in the community.

These updates symbolize our dedication to serving our community, staff, and partners with inclusivity and excellence. We are excited to continue this journey together toward a brighter future for all.

Thank you for being a part of CSET's journey. 💙✨

Final reminder for residents! CalEITC is a cash-back tax credit designed to support California’s hardworking families and individuals. Households earning under $30,950 might be eligible to receive up to $3,529 for the tax year. The exact amount of the tax credit and refund depends on household income and family size.
Check your eligibility at: www.cset.org/caleitc

¡Último recordatorio para los residentes del ! CalEITC es un crédito fiscal de devolución de efectivo diseñado para apoyar a las familias y personas trabajadoras de California. Los hogares que ganan menos de $30,950 podrían ser elegibles para recibir hasta $3,529 para el año fiscal. El monto exacto del crédito fiscal y el reembolso depende de los ingresos del hogar y el tamaño de la familia.
Verifique su elegibilidad en: www.cset.org/caleitc

Join us on Thursday, June 27th, from 4-7 PM at the Nupchi Community, 648 W. Mulberry Ave., Porterville, CA 93257, for our Summer Resource Fair! Connect with local agencies to discover valuable resources and support, and dive into discussions on Fair Housing to understand your rights. Enjoy delicious food, live music, and the chance to win exciting prizes.

We also welcome local exhibitors to join us! Secure your spot by reaching out to Homer Ruiz at [email protected].

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and have fun! 🌟

Únete con nosotros este jueves 27 de junio, de 4 a 7 PM en la Comunidad Nupchi (648 W. Mulberry Ave., Porterville, CA 93257) para nuestra Feria de Recursos de Verano. Explora recursos valiosos de agencias locales, participa en discusiones sobre derechos de vivienda justa, y disfruta de comida deliciosa, música en vivo y la oportunidad de ganar premios emocionantes.

¡No te pierdas esta oportunidad de aprender, conectar y divertirte! 🌟

The Sequoia Community Corps department recently gathered for an inspiring all-staff team development session! 🎉 They had the privilege of hearing from the incredible speaker, Love Jefferson, who shared invaluable insights on how to better serve corpsmembers and trainees. The focus was on meeting people where they're at and treating them how they want to be treated, fostering an environment where every individual can thrive. 👫🌍

Jefferson covered three essential topics:
- Self Awareness 🧠
- Social Awareness 👥
- Leadership Abilities 🌟

With these tools, the staff is now even more equipped to work effectively with diverse personalities and create a positive impact in the community! 💪✨

🌟 Mission Monday Highlight: Did you know that CSET operates 8 senior centers in Tulare County, with 7 currently open? Our centers connect elder adults to essential services, helping them stay healthy and independent. Our Senior Centers are hubs of activity, connection, and support, promoting positive aging and enhancing the quality of life for seniors.

Consider these questions to determine eligibility:

Are you or the person you care for 60+ and in need of assistance?
Interested in socializing and enjoying meals with peers?
Housebound due to illness or disability and need home-delivered meals?

If yes, call our hotline at 1-800-321-2462 (Mon-Fri, 8 AM - 5 PM) or email [email protected].

Join us in supporting our seniors. Share this resource! 💪💖