Flintridge Center program participants in training and at work (Photo – Flintridge Center)
As the Flintridge Center in Pasadena recently celebrated a major milestone, the graduation of its 50th cohort from its transformative Apprenticeship Preparation Program, here’s a glimpse into its impact.
By News Desk
Since its inception in 2008, the Flintridge Center’s 10-week, 240-hour training initiative has provided participants with hands-on trade skills, financial literacy, and an industry-recognized Multi-Craft Core Curriculum certification. This holistic approach has equipped over 1,100 graduates with not only practical skills but also the confidence to rebuild their lives. In fact, nearly 70% of graduates secure stable employment within a year, and fewer than 10% experience recidivism—a stark contrast to California’s overall 50% recidivism rate.
Flintridge Center’s Executive Director, Josh McCurry, reflected on the significance of the program’s success, noting its lasting impact on participants and their families. “It’s truly humbling to be recognized today,” McCurry said. “This milestone isn’t just ours, it’s the result of collaboration with community partners, including the County and City of Pasadena. At our most recent graduation, a mother shared that she no longer worries about her son’s future. For her, that peace of mind means everything.”
The program’s influence extends beyond individual success stories, contributing to the broader community. As Flintridge Center graduates enter sustainable careers, they not only secure their own futures but also help rebuild and shape the future of Los Angeles County, particularly in the construction sector. The center’s partnerships with organizations like 2nd Call and the LA/OC Building Trades ensure that graduates are well-prepared for long-term success in unionized, well-paying construction careers.
The County of Los Angeles plays a vital role in supporting Flintridge Center’s mission, with key investments from its Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department, Department of Youth Development, and Department of Economic Opportunity. These collaborations help ensure that more residents have access to life-changing opportunities that can transform their futures.
The Flintridge Center’s Apprenticeship Preparation Program stands as a powerful model of rehabilitation, demonstrating that with the right training and support, individuals who have experienced incarceration can forge a new path, contributing not only to their own success but also to the well-being and growth of the community as a whole.
Flintridge Center’s graduates with officials (File Photo – Brian Biery)
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