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FAQ

Do you have more questions about the Chavez Center and our programs? Perfect! You’re in the right place then. Here you’ll – hopefully – find all of the answers you need. If your questions is not addressed here, please e‐mail info@chavezcenter.org or call 925‐682‐8248.

To help you navigate, click on the area that you have questions about.

Chavez Center FAQ

What does the Chavez Center do?
The Chavez Center fights poverty and unemployment that persist throughout the Monument Corridor and wider Concord community. As a training and job connection center, we help low‐income and unemployed individuals acquire the skills and confidence to get back in the workforce and make a living.
Can you get me job? / Are you a temp agency?
The Chavez Center is not a temp agency. Our programs are based around developing skills and helping job‐seekers get back on their feet. While we may help connect people with jobs, we are not a temp agency. Our goal is to place residents into permanent long‐term employment that follows their career path.
Can you pay for my classes and training?
Depends. In some cases, scholarships, government funding, and donations are available to pay for classes. This depends on eligibility requirements and can sometimes be a long process with a lot of paperwork. However, for those who do qualify, we can help you attain the funding you need to take classes and get training.
Do you help undocumented immigrants?
The Chavez Center does not take a stance on documentation. We stay out of the issue in order to focus our efforts intentionally on the need of the community. In general, we find that this approach builds a stronger relationship of trust, community involvement, and productivity in our programs and clients as we do not leave any person marginalized and without options. In addition, opportunities for self‐improvement for everyone in need often have the added benefit of often reducing crime, domestic violence and poverty.
Do you only help Latinos / Spanish speakers?
No. While we find that the largely Spanish‐speaking population falls among those of greatest need in the area that we serve, we realize that all community members need access to the resources that we provide. Each program has services targeted at both Spanish‐ and English‐speakers in order to accommodate those of diverse backgrounds and walks of life.
Where does the Chavez Center get funding from?
The Chavez Center is funded by corporations, government agencies, foundations, and donors. It has been the priority of the Chavez Center to diversify funding this year in order to guarantee our long‐term sustainability. Find out how you can support us in this endeavor by becoming a donor. Also check out our partners who so generously support our work in the building a vibrant, self‐sufficient community.
I plan to donate to the Chavez Center. Is my donation tax deductible? What is your EIN number?
You donation is tax deductible. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, any donation you make to the Chavez Center is fully tax deductible. Our EIN number for your records is 94‐ 3370919. For more information about donating and how your donations are spent, visit our Donate page.
Do you offer legal services?
Currently the Chavez Center does not offer any legal services. However, we do have the resources available to refer you to those who can help with legal issues.
Do you offer services for children?
Yes. At the Chavez Center we believe in the enrichment of entire families. While our programs target adults, the skills they learn directly affect the wellbeing of the entire family. In addition, throughout the year the Chavez Center purposefully holds activities targeted at children. Story time and crafts are some of the activities we have done in the past. This year we will be holding family cooking classes that are fun and educational for kids and parents. Each year we also hold various opportunities to provide gifts to children, especially around the holidays. Our Career Development program is also available to teenagers at least 15 years of age.
Why do you work with immigrants?
In our work we have found that immigrants are among the most at‐risk in the community as they tend to face more barriers to resources, education, and opportunities. Differences in language, culture and appearance tend to leave them more isolated and vulnerable. At the Chavez Center, we are acutely aware of this issue, and so we offer a trusted place where immigrants can find the resources they need to lead productive lives that contribute to the wellbeing of themselves, their families, and the wider community.
What does it mean to be Green Certified?
Being Green Certified means that we are recognized as an environmental leader; we operate efficiently; and we improve employee morale, health and productivity. Although there are many ways to become a Green Business, the general rules are that you intentionally adhere to policies in water conservation, recycling, energy conservation, and pollution prevention. See what we are doing to follow these standards [link to Green Business]. For more information about what a green business is and how to become one, visit http://www.greenbiz.ca.gov/.
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Day Labor FAQ

Are your members’ undocumented immigrants?
Our Center is focused on filling the needs of the community. As such, we do not delve into immigration status. Our priority is to ensure that individuals and families do not suffer unnecessary hardship, which can often lead to crime. However, employers hiring our members can request a worker who can voluntarily provide proof of proper documentation.
Are your members insured?
The members attend various safety trainings related to occupational safety and they invest in an emergency fund monthly that is only used if some one is injured on the job. Our members are not employees therefore we do not provide workers compensation and insurance.
Do you perform background checks on your members?
While we do not perform official background checks on our members, we can provide references from employers who have hired the workers in the past as well as personal references. The members of the Center are pre‐screened and undergo a rigorous application process to join the program. Many members have been a part of our organization for years and uphold an outstanding reputation.
What are the benefits of hiring workers from your center versus picking up someone in the street?
Unlike workers on the street, members of the Chavez Center’s Day Labor program have specialized skills to complete the specific job that you need help with. You have the flexibility to choose workers with a variety of skills that fit your needs – including tiling, landscaping, carpentry and more. The requirements for program members ensure that workers at the Chavez Center meet higher standards. Through the program members gain trade skills, practice English, learn job safety, acquire computer skills and volunteer their time in the community. In hiring a member from the Day Labor program you also contribute to an individual who has a proven commitment to improving his quality of life and contributing to the broader community.
What is the pay rate?
The minimum is $12.00 an hour, but this can vary depending on experience and the type of work that is being performed. The workers can also bid jobs such as tiling, handyman work, carpentry or other work that is not traditionally paid by hour.
What is the minimum or maximum number of hours a member can work?
As a general rule, the minimum is five hours. We ask the employer to estimate the hours that the job may take, if the job requires less than five hours we can accommodate your needs.
Do I have to provide lunch?
Providing lunch is voluntary, though encouraged in longer jobs. However, we do ask that you provide water especially during hot weather.
Do I have to provide transportation?
Providing transportation is not required. We have members who have their own transportation and others who do not. Many employers prefer coming to the Chavez Center in person to meet the worker they are hiring. However, we are flexible and if we have members available, we can send them to you.
How do I reserve a worker?
There are two ways to reserve a worker for your project. Online you can hire a worker for whatever dates you need on the Hire a Worker page. You can also reserve a worker by calling the front desk at 925‐682‐8248. To hire a Day Labor member, you do not need to make a reservation. You can drop by the during the Day Labor’s business hours from 6:00am to 12:00pm to pick up a worker that day. However, we do not guarantee that we will have someone available if you do not reserve someone in advance.
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Technology Empowerment FAQ

Are all of your technology classes in Spanish?
No. We offer a 6‐month A+ computer repair certification course in English through a partnership with Stride Center. In addition, for Seniors we offer free one‐on‐one tutoring in both English and Spanish. As of right now, our Broadband Awareness workshops and our basic to advanced computer classes are in only in Spanish.
Why do you offer classes in Spanish?
The majority of our computer classes are in Spanish because in general the Latino community faces the biggest barriers in connecting with technology resources. In fact, some studies place Latinos behind all other minorities when it comes to technology use. This gap is referred to the “digital divide” and is what we aim to bridge at the Chavez Center. In addition, many other organizations offer computer access and classes in English. If you are looking for classes in English, check out Opportunity Junction, EastBay Works, or Mt. Diablo Adult Education.
Why do you charge so little for classes?
We aim to the cost low so that anyone – regardless of financial means – has access to our classes. In addition, in the increasingly technological world that we live in, our goal is to give everyone the opportunity to connect with resources and tap into the power of technology.
Is childcare available during classes?
Not usually. In the past we have been able to offer childcare in a few rare cases. In the future, we will determine this on an as needed basis in compliance with facility use.
Is there an assessment to en roll in intermediate or advanced classes?
Depends. If you have taken previous classes with the Chavez Center and graduated, there is no assessment to enroll in the following course. However, for new students looking to enroll in intermediate or advanced classes, you may be asked to demonstrate your skills in an informal assessment prior to enrolling.
Do I get a certificate for completing the course?
Yes. If you pass all of the requirements for graduating that are outlined at the beginning of the course, you will be awarded a certificate recognizing your achievement. The certificate is not nationally recognized, but does demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and abilities in working with computers.
How old do I need to be to take the class?
Due to the schedule and commitment of the course, we generally do not accept any students under the age of 18. This is to maintain the atmosphere and dynamic of the course, which targets adults.
What if the class times do not fit with my schedule?
Each quarter and semester we rotate the times that we offer each course. If a class does not work into your schedule one quarter, it may the next. There is also the option to set up one‐on‐one tutoring sessions for free [link to free tutoring for seniors] if you are a senior age 55+. These sessions are flexible to many different schedules.
When can I sign up for classes?
Class enrollment comes up quarterly starting in March, June, September and December. Contact the Chavez Center as those months approach to get exact enrollment dates.
Why do classes fill up so quickly?
Computer classes are in extremely high demand and often fill up within the first few days of enrollment. To guarantee your spot, make sure you contact the Chavez Center about classes well in advance. Due to constraints in space, we cannot offer enough classes to meet the community demand, so courses fill up very quickly. Long‐term we hope to develop other locations for our classes to meet this demand and give more people the opportunity to enroll.
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Career Development FAQ

Can you get me a job?
No. You can get you a job. We are here to help. The Career Development staff is here to support and assist you in finding, applying for, and getting a job. Our goal is to empower you with the skills that will help you land that dream job. We will walk you through the process step by step and guide you along the way to make the process less intimidating and to make you a top applicant.
How long does it take to get a job?
In today’s economy, getting a job is taking more and more time. However, unique skills, attributes, and approaches can help you stand out above other applicants. We’re here to educate you on how to do this and get that job faster.
Can you write a resume for me?
No. Through our workshops and one‐on‐one meetings, we will equip you with the tools and give you the advice to write a polished, eye‐catching resume. We want to give you resumewriting skills that will stick with you throughout all of your job searches.
Do I have to attend the Professional Growth workshops?
Depends. We strongly recommend that each and every one of our clients attend all of the workshops. This guarantees that you are given all of the information and tools that you might need for anything you encounter in your job hunt. In rare cases, some clients do not attend the workshops, but in general we find that those who do are more job‐ready and stronger applicants.
What if I can’t attend the workshops?
Each session of workshops, we try to rotate times to accommodate different schedules. If you cannot attend the workshops because of scheduling conflicts, you still have the opportunity to enroll in the program. Contact the Chavez Center to see if you can still enroll by calling 925‐682‐ 8248 x 2180.
What documents do I need to participate?
None. Due to expanded funding, we are able to accommodate people of all backgrounds. The Career Development does not require any documentation, but this can be given voluntarily in order to qualify for certain services.
I was just laid off after working for an engineering firm for more than 15 years. Do you have any services to help me?
Yes. We have services for a diverse group of job‐seekers. In fact, we have had a few engineers come through our program and find work. With a little refresher in searching for jobs, we hope to have you back in the business soon.
How much does it cost to be a Career Development client?
Nothing. Knowing that you are already facing unemployment or underemployment, these services are offered free of charge.
How old do I need to be to enroll in the program?
At least 15 years of age. As a program focused on developing employment plans and careers, we generally focus on adult populations, but have found some demand for services among teens as well, and we are happy to accommodate.
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Business Development

Coming soon
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