WHO WE ARE

California Barbering & Cosmetology Apprenticeship Learning Center, Inc., Joe and Shirley McNealey, Founders.

WHAT WE DO

Our mission is to target for the apprenticeship program young people, foster youth, divorced and single-mothers and father in the community so that become self reliant, strong contributors to the community. After acquiring and applying their skills in barbering and cosmetology they are no longer dependent on “the system,” as the program assists individuals in transitioning from Welfare to Work. Our apprenticeship program began in 1998 and it grew from four to approximately 300 students in a two year period. In 2000, we were introduced to the Sacramento Employment and Training Agency (SETA) and was listed on the Work Force Investment Act statewide list.

HOW WE DO IT

Funding is provided from various sources i.e., LEA Occupational Center, Faith-Based Initiative organizations, SETA, and Welfare to Work.

This two-year program can be completed in 19 months (for those who choose to). Students attend related instruction class once a week (6 hours on-the-job training and 32 to 42 ½ hours on-the-job training in the shop of their choice. We have a 100 percent graduation rate after completing the two-year program.

Starting the program, we assist the students in obtaining, their license (usually 30 to 48 days) and within 6 months (usually less) they have secured jobs.

Our classroom sizes range from 25 to 35 students using two teachers. Some students that have completed the cosmetology program return as instructors, with the desire to help teach the youth and give back to society.

Training takes place on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and some night sessions.