LIFE SKILLS

Welcome to the Life Skills Learning Center (LSLC)

Where every day is a chance to learn, grow, and belong.

At LSLC, we believe in meeting people where they are and helping them take the next step toward independence. Our Day Training Activity Center (DTAC) program focuses on real-life skills—communication, health, technology, self-advocacy, and creativity—all taught in ways that are engaging, supportive, and fun.

Learning in the community:
We’re bringing more of our training into real-world settings—partnering with local businesses, volunteering, and connecting with the people and places that make our community vibrant and inclusive.

Our values:
Respect and dignity are at the heart of LSLC. Everyone here is valued, supported, and encouraged to discover their strengths and reach for their goals.

Who can join:
Adults 18 and older with a referral from the Central Valley Regional Center (CVRC).

What makes LSLC special:

  • A personalized approach to learning and growth.

  • Real experiences that build confidence and connection.

  • A caring community where everyone belongs.

At LSLC, your journey toward independence starts with belonging—and belonging starts here.

MEET OUR TEAM

Gilbert Betancourt

LIFE SKILLS SUPERVISOR

Gilbert Betancourt

LIFE SKILLS SUPERVISOR

Jean Beck

CASE COORDINATOR

COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

Community Employment Services (CES)

Building inclusion through meaningful work.

At CES, we believe true community integration means more than just being present—it means belonging. Here, individuals with disabilities work, learn, and grow alongside their peers, discovering confidence and purpose in real-world settings.

Our mission:
To create pathways to paid employment while fostering inclusion, independence, and pride.

How it works:
Each participant is paired with a job coach—a mentor who provides one-on-one support, encouragement, and training every step of the way. Together, they build the skills and habits needed to thrive in the workplace and, when ready, transition into competitive integrated employment.

Our approach:
We blend hands-on paid work experience with engaging classroom learning—three hours of each. It’s the perfect balance of practical job skills and essential “soft skills” like teamwork, communication, and professionalism.

What’s new:
With our expanded training model, CES can now serve twice as many participants—opening doors for more people to gain experience, build confidence, and connect with the community.

Partnership matters:
We collaborate with local employers, educators, and industry partners to ensure our training remains relevant and impactful. Together, we’re shaping workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and belong.

At CES, it’s not just about finding a job—it’s about finding your place in the community.

MEET OUR TEAM

Ramon Camerena

PROGRAM MANAGER

Dee Mendoza

EMPLOYMENT SKILLS COORDINATOR

Janice McCarthy

CASE COORDINATOR

Dee Mendoza

ESI COORDINATOR

COMMUNITY INTEGRATED EMPLOYMENT

Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) is not just a program; it’s a pathway to a brighter, more inclusive future.

Picture this: individuals with developmental disabilities stepping into the workforce with confidence, armed with the specific job skills they need to thrive. That’s the magic of integrated employment. We’re not just training; we’re empowering. Because we believe that everyone deserves a fair shot at success in the workplace. But here’s the thing: integrated employment isn’t just a checkbox on our list. It’s a lifeline for many in the communities we serve. We’re talking about individuals who’ve already proven their worth, and who’ve shown their dedication through stellar work histories. And guess what? We’re here to match them with the perfect job fit. But we don’t stop there. Oh no, we’re in it for the long haul. With frequent job coaching support during those crucial first 90 days, and ongoing coaching for as long as our clients remain employed, we’re there every step of the way. Because success isn’t just about landing the job; it’s about keeping it, thriving in it, and growing from it.

Community Integrated Employment represents the future: 

  • Although other wonderful programs in our area work with our clientele, the majority focus on adult day programs (such as our Life Skills Living Center).

  • Even though these are very much needed, very few resources exist for job training specifically around soft skills. 

  • No other opportunities in Tulare County exist that focus on actual job placement.

MEET OUR TEAM

Joe Hayward

JOB DEVELOPER

Tony Tadeo

VISALIA ADULT SCHOOL

Transporter Forms for our Financial Management Services (FMS) are available for download below

Our mission is to integrate people with disabilities into the community by creating person-centered opportunities for empowerment, independence, and employment.

Once complete, email logs and packets to FMS@ableinc.org