After more than 25 years working with youth in our community, we know that many high school students facing economic challenges don’t pursue higher education—not because they lack ambition, but because they aren’t prepared for college. We’ve seen this firsthand with students from our former PAL-UP schools, and recent research supports it: many high schoolers in Boyle Heights struggle with college readiness and expanding access to vocational programs and trades offers them valuable alternatives.
Since 2019, our PAL-UP Career Guidance and Awareness Program has offered a nonprofit pathway for these students to explore real jobs, careers, and vocational education that fit their strengths and interests. With the support of industry professionals, in-school sessions, and group coaching, PAL-UP gives young people a network of resources. Here, they can learn about different careers and trades, build practical skills, and get the guidance they need to navigate the working world.
Career & Guidance Program
PAL-UP Launches To Help Teens With Career Development
Become a Partner
PAL-UP partners like you are a key component of our program’s success. Because it “takes a village” our partners can be part of the program in a variety of ways.
- Help us recruit young people
- Industry Professionals can lead career presentations at scheduled PAL-UP sessions
- Become a volunteer
- Provide Information on Educational Pathways at scheduled PAL-UP sessions
- Provide grants and Sponsorships to Support the PAL-UP Program
- Provide PAL-UP students internship opportunities
- Host workplace tours for PAL-UP students