Community Services Employment Training helping workers find careers for nearly 50 years
By Mike Danahey
With programs ranging from job training and energy assistance to youth development and housing support,
the nonprofit Community Services Employment Training (CSET) looks forward to celebrating 50 years of
Community Action and service to local residents and communities in 2026.
“We’re working to make sure everyone knows about CSET’s programs and comes to us as a
trusted resource for opportunity and support,” said Jeff Forbes, the organization’s director
of communication and information systems.
CSET offers a broad range of services designed to support Tulare County residents at every stage of
life.
“From operating eight senior centers and delivering meals to homebound seniors, to empowering
youth through leadership and job readiness programs, our work touches thousands each year,” Forbes
said.
CSET provides critical support including housing assistance, job training for adults and youth, energy
bill relief and home weatherization services to improve safety and reduce costs. Its Family Resource
Centers serve as trusted hubs for families seeking guidance and connection to essential resources
through a whole-family approach.
In late 2024, CSET deepened its impact with the opening of the Visalia Navigation Center (VNC), a
100-bed facility that provides crucial services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Guests have access to job training, counseling and transitional housing, all with the goal of helping
them secure stable employment and permanent housing.
“Across all departments, CSET is committed to creating opportunities for lasting change in our
community,” Forbes said.
In the past year alone, CSET engaged approximately 15,000 people in impactful programs. That
included:
• Serving 116,000 meals to seniors facing food insecurity.
• Supporting 1,200 people entering the workforce.
• Helping 520 households move toward housing stability.
• Empowering youth through programs focused on leadership, civic engagement, and job
readiness.
CSET is a driving force in building a stronger, more skilled workforce in Tulare County. It equips both
youth and adults with the tools they need to succeed by offering career coaching, resume support,
leadership development and paid on-the-job training that leads to real-world experience and long-term
employment.
Through its partnership with the Workforce Investment Board of Tulare County, CSET participates in the
Employment Connection system, helping job seekers prepare for local jobs through comprehensive career
services and access to vocational education and supportive services.
Its Sequoia Community Corps takes workforce development a step further by training young adults in
high-demand fields such as construction, weatherization, urban forestry, and public works. The Corps
also runs community improvement programs that not only enhance neighborhoods but provide job readiness
and hands-on experience to individuals ages 18-26, including those experiencing homelessness. The Corps
partners with the John Muir Charter School to assist those in need of a high school diploma.
“At CSET, we’re not just helping people find jobs. We’re helping them build careers
and brighter futures,” Forbes said. “Thus, CSET generates a powerful ripple effect across
Tulare County’s economy. By helping people build job readiness, gain certifications and connect
with high-demand careers like truck driving or becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant, we’re not
just helping individuals find work, we’re boosting local industries.”
Illustrating that point, Forbes noted that CSET’s VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program
alone brings over $5 million back to local families each year, dollars that are reinvested right into
Tulare County communities.
“And through rental and housing assistance, we help families stay housed and stable, preventing
homelessness and supporting economic security,” Forbes said. “Ultimately, our programs are
designed to guide individuals and families toward long-term self-sufficiency, reducing reliance on
public assistance and creating a stronger, more resilient local workforce and economy.”
In turn, CSET’s work is supported by community involvement:
• People can volunteer at the Visalia Navigation Center (VNC) to support individuals
overcoming homelessness. Volunteering opportunities include workshops, activities, hospitality, grounds
maintenance, and other projects. To learn more about the center’s services, the public is invited
to attend periodically scheduled “Get to Know VNC” sessions.
• An annual Youth Regional Education STEAM Summit inspires young leaders to explore
career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Professionals in STEAM fields
are invited to speak and inspire these aspiring youth.
• From January through April, people are needed for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
(VITA) program from January to April, or supporting community beautification efforts during Make a
Difference Day.
• In October, people are welcome to attend Make a Difference Day (MDD) and volunteer
for impactful community projects throughout the County.
• In December, people can contribute financially on Giving Tuesday.
“Whether you’re interested in event support, direct service or in contributing to one of
our key initiatives, there’s a way for everyone to make a meaningful impact,” Forbes said.
To learn more, go to cset.org/donate-volunteer.
“Across all departments, CSET is committed to creating opportunities for lasting change in our
community.”
— Jeff Forbes,
Community Services Employment Training director of communication and information systems