Fresno County EDC, Denham, partner on new workforce initiative
A new workforce initiative set to launch in Fresno, Kings, Madera and Tulare counties aims to help employers fill critical staffing needs by providing pre-screened, job-ready workers for up to 90 days at no wage cost.
The SEEN Program (Social Enterprise Employment Network) is a collaboration between the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation and Denham Resources, which was selected through a competitive request-for-proposals process to manage employer placements.
The program is kicking off with an initial cohort of 10 candidates and will be capped at 90 participants.
Program leaders say SEEN is designed to differ from traditional workforce placement efforts by focusing on quality over quantity.
Candidates are screened and prepared through Employment Social Enterprise (ESE) partners, approved by the Economic Development Corporation, and then personally interviewed, assessed and matched with employers by Denham Resources.
Participants receive job readiness training, hands-on work experience and ongoing support before and during their placements. The goal is to ensure employers receive candidates who are prepared to contribute from day one.
Denham Resources, known for executive-level recruiting, is applying its screening and evaluation approach to the program’s workforce development model.
Under the SEEN Program, workers are placed at approved job sites for up to 90 days. During that time, wages are covered by the program, while payroll, taxes and workers’ compensation are handled through an employer-of-record system.
Employers maintain full control over supervision, training and day-to-day responsibilities, with the intent of transitioning participants into long-term, unsubsidized employment, ideally with the host company.
The program targets individuals who face challenges entering or re-entering the workforce, including justice-involved individuals, disconnected young adults, long-term unemployed residents, older workers, people with disabilities and veterans.
Participation is not open enrollment, and employers cannot use the program to subsidize existing staff. All candidates must be approved prior to placement, and businesses must meet eligibility requirements.
Supporters point to past outcomes as evidence of the model’s potential. One example is Vanna In, executive director of Hope Now for Youth, who received his first job through a Denham-supported placement.
“That position was more than employment — it restored my dignity, gave me a sense of purpose, and allowed me to begin building a new life,” In said.
Initial placements will focus on high-demand sectors such as professional and financial services, transportation and logistics, manufacturing and construction.
Employers participating in SEEN will receive additional support services, including behavioral-based interviewing, skills testing, culture and fit assessments, and follow-up assistance for up to four years.
With just 90 total placements available, program leaders say interested employers are encouraged to apply early. Qualified employers interested in adding staff through the SEEN Program should contact Denham Resources (559-222-5284) directly to determine eligibility and position approval.
For more updates on Fresno County development and business initiatives, stay connected with the Fresno Chamber of Commerce.
