Success Stories

Frutoso, a 41-year-old husband and father of four daughters, was enrolled by
Managed Career Solutions, Social Purpose Corporation (MCS SPC, MCS hereafter) in
the 2023 Severe Winter Storms National Dislocated Worker Grant (SWS-NDWG) as the
lead Participant Supervisor based on his previous employment history. Despite facing
several significant personal barriers to employment, Mendoza was determined to build a
better future for himself and his family. His resilience, professionalism, pride in his work,
dedication to the participants he supervised, and always on-time, “can-do” work ethic
quickly became evident during his paid work experience opportunity.
Assigned to Monrovia Canyon Park approved worksite, Mendoza displayed outstanding
leadership, mentorship, and collaboration with MCS staff, City of Monrovia Park staff,
Park Rangers and trail volunteers. His ability to build strong relationships and motivate
his team stood out, and as a result, he was hired as a full-time permanent employee by
MCS as the Lead Supervisor for the 2023 SWS NDWG Program.
Currently, he leads an LA County RENEW funded clean-up crew at Monrovia Canyon
Park—an area severely impacted first by the Bobcat Fire in 2020 and then by the
devastating 2023 winter storm. Thanks to his tireless efforts and those of his team, the
park was able to reopen to the public for the first time in over five years.
On June 26, 2025 during the Grand Re-Opening of Monrovia Canyon Park, Mendoza
received heartfelt recognition not only from the park rangers he worked alongside but
also from Monrovia City Council members, including Mayor ProTem, Dr. Tamala Kelly
who praised his exceptional contributions to the park’s restoration. His journey from
overcoming employment challenges to becoming a respected leader and steward of
public land is an inspiring success. His experience exemplifies the purpose of disaster
NDWG programs and in his role on the MCS disaster clean-up team, he will continue to
help others overcome their barriers to employment.

Jeremias, a 31-year-old father with a growing family, faced long-term unemployment and several barriers to securing stable work. He learned about the 2023 SWS NWDG and enrolled with Managed Career Solutions, Social Purpose Corporation (MCS SPC, MCS hereafter). Despite these challenges, he entered the 2023 Severe Winter Storm program with determination and a strong desire to create a better life for his family by gaining valuable work experience.

Assigned to work at Malibu Creek State Park, Jeremias quickly distinguished himself through his punctuality, professionalism, and strong work ethic. His reliability and hands-on skills did not go unnoticed. State Park Rangers overseeing the crew’s clean-up efforts took note of his dedication and performance.

Although there were no open positions with Malibu Creek State Park where he was assigned, the Park Rangers were so impressed with his work that they informed him of a vacancy at a neighboring park property and its organization, the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA). Seizing the opportunity, Jeremias applied—and was hired full-time by MRCA as a Park Assistant III. This position will allow him to grow in his career with MRCA, potentially advancing to a higher-level Park Assistant or Ranger role. His employer, MRCA, is known for long-term employment and career development opportunities.

Jeremias’ journey is a powerful example of how work experience programs and perseverance in the face of barriers can lead to successful, stable unsubsidized employment with ample opportunities for career growth.

Jeremias, pictured below next to the Malibu Creek State Park Ranger who recommended him for the opportunity with MRCA.

Boyle Heights WorkSource Center WIOA co-enrolled NDWG program participant
Richard Reynolds has transformed his life through determination and opportunity. After
serving a 20-year prison sentence and reentering society in 2019, the 47-year-old
began a journey to change his life. Richard first joined the 2024 Winter Storm NDWG
program and later the 2025 Wildfire Program, he completed his hours on September 19,
2025. Through this vital paid work experience program, Richard secured stable housing
for his family, (including his first child born this year) and reliable transportation. As a
result of his punctuality, daily demonstration of leadership and by mentoring and talking
with younger program participants about making positive choices his supervisors took
note. His dedication and work ethic earned him recognition from both MCS’ crew
supervisors and assigned worksite Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority
(MRCA), supervisor who identified him as a potential hire. In September 2025, just
before the government shutdown, Richard began working as a supervisor within
MRCA’s Franklin Canyon Park, earning $24 per hour and working full-time—solidifying
his journey toward stability and success. However, as a result of the government
shutdown Richard has transitioned from employment with MRCA to employment with
MCS as field operations supervisor at the same rate of pay, 40 hours per week.

Adrian D., 39 enrolled at Hollywood WorkSource Center
“I just wanted to thank the City of LA and MCS, the operator of the Hollywood
WorkSource Center, for giving me the opportunity to work. I truly appreciate it. Just
believing in me has really changed my life in more ways than one. (This program) keeps
me out of the negative environments that I used to be in. It has taught me how to deal
with and be around a group of different people. I have learned a lot in the time that I
have been working in this program including how to handle various tools, how to do trail
maintenance and fire clearance. I keep learning more as the days go by. Thank you
once again.”

Darren T., 29 enrolled at Boyle Heights WorkSource Center
“I appreciate the opportunity and honor to be a part of a team and program that actually
cares about individuals who are trying to better their lives. This program helped me to
stay focused and be able to provide for my family. I wake up every morning knowing
that I have people that have my back and help me to make progress daily.”

Will Rogers State Historic Park sustained significant damage as a result of the
Palisades fire in January 2025. The Backbone, Betty Rogers Trail has been an area of
focus for 2025 NDWG participants’ clean-up efforts. One particular scope of work which
the crew members are currently completing is the removal and complete rebuild of a
system of burnt pedestrian stairs and linking footbridge. The crew members working
alongside the State Park Rangers have gained a unique skill set throughout the
multi-phased process and have contributed to what will hopefully be a lasting portion of
the trail that will be utilized and appreciated by all Park visitors.