JobTrain seeks Palo Alto funding to expand career training programs

During the recent City Council meeting on May 27, 2025, community engagement took center stage as speakers highlighted pressing issues affecting Palo Alto residents.

One of the key discussions came from Ciocee Wovea, the communications and engagement manager for JobTrain, a nonprofit organization based in Menlo Park. Wovea expressed gratitude to the council for considering their funding request, emphasizing JobTrain's 60-year mission to help individuals escape poverty and unemployment through job training. She underscored the importance of public support in fostering community empowerment and collaboration, stating, "We believe in investing in people." The organization aims to expand opportunities for those in need, and Wovea's heartfelt appeal resonated with the council's commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive community.

Another significant topic was raised by Rhys Tureci, a junior at Gunn High School, who advocated for lowering the voting age to 16. Tureci presented compelling arguments, citing examples from various countries and cities that have successfully implemented this change, including Oakland and Berkeley. He argued that lowering the voting age could enhance civic engagement among youth, a sentiment echoed by previous speakers. Tureci concluded by questioning why Palo Alto should not follow suit, inviting collaboration from those interested in supporting this initiative.

The meeting showcased the community's desire for proactive measures to address social issues and engage younger residents in the democratic process. As discussions continue, the council's responsiveness to these concerns will be crucial in shaping the future of Palo Alto.