The FACES for the Future Imperial Valley Regional Occupational Program works with students to prepare them for academic and personal success, and transitions them into careers in the health professions. Below are some examples of how FACES – El Centro accomplishes these goals.

Programs

Health Career Exploration

• Clinical rotations with health professionals at three partner locations: El Centro Regional Medical Center, Pioneers Memorial Hospital, and Clinica de Salud del Pueblo. 
• Monthly “Power Lunches” which introduce students to guest speakers from the medical professions who discuss their career pathways and experience, while offering advice that guarantees success.
• Job shadowing program that continues the students’ exposure to caring health providers acting as mentors and sources of information about health career options. Students make rounds in the hospital setting as well as follow professionals in office environments.

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Academic Support and Enrichment

• Weekly tutoring sessions and study groups held at the IVROP location with a focus on helping our students in areas that are needed for health career pathways such as math and science. In addition, we provide our Summer Academic Academies in math, science and English. In the English Academy there is a focus on writing college and scholarship essays.
• University field trips are scheduled throughout the year to assure continued exposure to the college option. Our students have toured UC Riverside, UC San Diego, CSU San Bernardino and other campuses.
• Student workshops that provide guidance toward higher education and consist of SAT preparation, the financial aid process, scholarship options and how to prepare for entering college.

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Wellness Support and Psycho-Social Intervention

• Psycho-social assessment completed at the beginning of the program and reviewed every six months to ensure student well-being. Students are referred to our partner Imperial County Behavioral Health center when appropriate. 
• Regular parent meetings to fully involve families in understanding the pathway to college (i.e. understanding test preparation, required coursework, financial aid options etc.)
• A stipend given to students during their rotations and job shadow program in order to provide some financial assistance in a county with one of the highest unemployment rates in CA. 

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Youth Leadership Development

• Participation in the IVROP Showcase event attended by over 1200 parents and students seeking information about pipeline education programs in Imperial County. Presentations are also made to peers explaining the program and highlighting work in the health professions.
• Presentations at the Center for Family Solutions on health issues to broaden awareness of health concerns and health disparities facing their communities.
• Seniors participate in leadership training curriculum and conduct outreach projects to their peers in schools and youth-oriented community based organizations. IVROP FACES students have been selected to participate in state leadership conventions, giving them increased opportunities to develop their professional networks.

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