A new and successful partnership in San Joaquin County is bringing the ValleyBuild program into the jail, where nearly 20 inmates have completed the introductory training in building and construction trades.
Even with two and sometimes three jobs, Nidia Chicas struggled to help support her family.
Nidia had to tell her seven children “no” more times than she liked. She worried about making rent and hated to miss time with her family due to work or exhaustion.
Twenty-two students celebrated the completion of their ValleyBuild training program at graduation ceremonies attended by family, friends, the mayor of Fresno and other local, state and federal leaders.
The Nov. 17 ceremony, conducted during National Apprenticeship Week and at the Fresno Fairgrounds, featured many well-deserved accolades and two speakers from
Raquel Pizana took a big leap of faith when she quit her job to sign up for apprenticeship readiness training in the building and construction trades.
After spending more than two decades behind bars, Larry Tripp wanted to make amends and find a steady career to provide for his family.
Daniel Iosefa has worked as a cross-country truck driver, warehouse worker, solar installer and stay-at-home dad. He never really had a clear career path.
Juan Lara wanted to pursue a construction-related career but didn’t think his math skills were good enough.
Alexis Rowberry arrived in the Fresno area with little more than her two children, a few suitcases and the dream of a better life.
