We are the Los Angeles Healthcare Workforce Development Program, a unique partnership between the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 721. Together, DHS and SEIU Local 721 have established an innovative program that offers a wide variety of educational and training opportunities to approximately 20,000 DHS workers.

For DHS employees to remain competitive in the 21st century, they will need enhanced vocational and other skills, such as computer and cultural competency, and effective communication.

HCWDP conducts its own research to make sure we are creating cutting edge programs, always planning for the future. We believe in high quality and comprehensive educational programs geared towards working adults and valuing their work and life experience.

We understand that our participants are not full-time students, but have extensive responsibilities at work and at home. We try to develop our classes to accommodate busy schedules and provide supportive services to reach career goals.

DHS employees provide healthcare services for people who need it the most - those who lack adequate health insurance or the financial ability to pay. One of the goals of the program is to increase access to healthcare and to improve the quality of patient care by providing training in high demand occupations and offering skills-enhancement workshops for the DHS employees on the front lines.

Our funding comes from the federal Workforce Investment Act, another unique collaboration between the Federal, State, and County governments. We have a central office in the SEIU Local 721 building and satellite offices in DHS hospitals throughout the County.

 

Digital Stories

Please click on one of the links below to hear the personal stories of DHS employees like you who have participated in a class or long term program. Learn through their experiences how HCWDP programs can enhance your job skills, provide you with new opportunities, and change your life!

Pricilla Urena - RN Graduate

Donte Huddleston - RN Graduate

Marcel Perez - LVN Graduate

La Toshia McConnell - Dígalo Todo Student