CALA News & Views | Issue 56 | Innovative Aging

l Gain direct access to talented individuals from numerous college programs l Increase your company’s visibility l Support the development of future leaders they can grow, lead, and make a difference ● Make an impact: You don’t have to be a workforce expert—just be willing to share your story and career journey Interested in becoming a CALA Workforce Champion? Contact Denise@CAassistedliving.org to learn more. Could You Be CALA’s Next Workforce Champion? ● Share your experience: Connect with students through panels, presentations, scholarship events, and more ● Inspire the next generation: Help students discover rewarding careers in senior living where

leadership to explore future workforce partnerships. The events received positive feedback and demonstrated the value of Job Corps as an additional pipeline for recruiting motivated, workforce-ready talent.

Adult Education Programs Create New Opportunities

California Adult Education Programs (CAEP) represent another often-overlooked source of talent. Serving adults across more than 70 regional consortia, these programs help individuals earn diplomas, improve English language skills, gain workforce training and prepare for employment. Many adult education students bring valuable life experience, international education and strong motivation to build meaningful careers. Several senior living providers have found success recruiting graduates from English language, CNA and vocational training programs. A member in Northern California found that by partnering with adult education centers, they connected with talented professionals whose diverse backgrounds and experience from careers in their home countries enriched their Assisted Living communities and strengthened the workforce. In addition, the employees recruited from the CAEP became strong advocates for the opportunities in senior living, which then created an additional referral source. Building Partnerships The most successful workforce strategies focus on relationships rather than one-time hiring events. Community colleges, adult education programs, Job Corps campuses, workforce development boards, veteran transition programs and America’s Job Centers all offer opportunities to build ongoing partnerships that can generate a consistent pipeline of candidates. These partnerships can lead to regular student tours, classroom presentations, internship opportunities, career fairs and customized hiring events that keep senior living visible to future workers. The Opportunity Ahead Senior living offers rewarding careers, meaningful work and opportunities for advancement across numerous disciplines. The challenge is often one of awareness rather than opportunity. By engaging with non-traditional talent sources and investing in long-term partnerships, providers can strengthen their workforce, reduce recruitment costs and introduce more individuals to the rewarding careers available throughout senior living. The future workforce is already being trained in our colleges, adult education centers, workforce programs and community organizations. The organizations that build those connections today will be best positioned to meet their workforce needs tomorrow. 

EMAIL DENISE@CAASSISTEDLIVING.ORG FOR MORE INFO

l Gain direct access to talented individuals from numerous college programs l Increase your company’s visibility l Support the development of future leaders Contribute to the STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP FUND!

EMAIL DENISE@CAASSISTEDLIVING.ORG FOR MORE INFO

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CALA NEWS & VIEWS I ISSUE 56 | AUGUST 2026 16