Whittier First Day: Partnership Throughout Community

As the agency’s employment specialist, I aim to provide my clients with as many opportunities as possible—no matter where they are in life. Everyone deserves a second chance, especially after facing many hardships. That’s why I work to connect my clients with resources and opportunities that can help them move forward.

Since I operate out of First Day’s Whittier interim housing site, I work with a diverse group of individuals—some coming directly from the streets and local encampments, and others exiting the justice system.

We offer several programs to assist our clients. These include a culinary course that teaches basic skills for working in the dining industry, a Bible study hosted by Whittier Seventh-Day Adventist Church, a garden that our clients manage and care for, as well as employment services, mental health support, housing assistance, case management, workshops, and other enrichment activities. We are also deeply grateful to Whittier Area Community Church, which generously supports our program through regular donations and friendship dinners for our clients.

Our clients are supported by a dedicated team of staff members who show up every day to help them take the necessary steps toward achieving their goals. The shelter is also overseen by a caring and passionate team of directors who have helped First Day grow into what it is today.

I’m reaching out to explore potential partnerships between First Day and local Whittier businesses. As part of our workforce development program, we aim to support our local economy by connecting businesses with a trained, reliable workforce. Our clients are individuals who are ready to re-enter the workforce, and we take a thoughtful approach in making referrals to ensure a strong match between employer and employee. Our goal is to help businesses gain dependable, motivated team members while giving our clients a meaningful opportunity to build stability and long-term success. By partnering with First Day, you’re not only giving someone a second chance—you’re strengthening our local economy with individuals who are ready to contribute.