As part of its ongoing community development efforts, SHE recently completed a pilot training program designed to help prepare the next generation of water system operators in rural communities. 

Funded through a USDA Technical Assistance Training grant, the program combined online coursework with hands-on training for participants already working in local water systems. The pilot focused on Tulare County and supported ten participants identified by senior operators preparing for retirement. 

Seven participants successfully completed the program, including Gaspar Andrade, who works in drinking water and wastewater operations in Lindsay. 

“I honestly didn’t think I’d be here,” Gaspar shared. “Having experienced operators guide us made a big difference and helped me see new possibilities for my career. I’d definitely recommend this program to anyone interested—it’s a life-changing opportunity.” 

Participants were supported by experienced water operators, including Ralph Gutierrez, who helped mentor trainees throughout the program. Trainees also toured nearby water facilities to gain real-world experience and learn how different systems operate. 

With a shortage of trained water operators in the region, programs like this are critical to ensure communities have safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services. The success of the pilot has highlighted both the growing need for trained operators and the potential to expand this model in the future. 

SHE is now preparing for the next phase of the program to support additional participants and communities. 

Many families in the San Joaquin Valley live in older homes that need critical repairs to remain safe and functional. Through its Housing Rehabilitation Program, SHE helps preserve this housing by providing deferred payment loans and grants for essential health and safety improvements.  

John Pedregon, a longtime Orosi resident, learned about the program when he visited SHE’s Visalia office seeking assistance for his mother’s water well. After seeing a housing rehabilitation flyer, he reached out to ask about repairs for his own home.  

John, who has lived in his home for more than 30 years and recently underwent knee and hip replacement surgery, needed accessibility improvements to safely remain in his home. Through the program, his house recently received a new walk-in shower with grab bars, a roof replacement, kitchen cabinet repairs, and a new garbage disposal.  

“My bathroom was completely torn apart when I had surgery, and I didn’t know when I’d be able to finish it,” John shared. “The new shower has been life changing. I can get around safely on my own now, and I’m so grateful the roof was replaced, too. There’s no way I would have been able to do that myself.”  

John’s repairs were completed recently. At the same time, his mother, Elvira Pedregon, who has lived in her home for nearly 40 years, is currently receiving rehabilitation assistance. Her home improvements include a new shower and new heating and cooling units, with work now nearing completion.  

Together, their experience highlights how SHE’s Housing Rehabilitation Program supports families across generations, helping homeowners remain safely and securely housed. 

Thanks to a $5,000 grant from Farmers Insurance, Self-Help Enterprises is using its Gateway to Homeownership program to offer additional opportunities for financial education to communities interested in homeownership. As part of this effort, SHE recently partnered with Valley Teen Ranch to host a free resume and financial literacy workshop at Sierra Crossing, a community in Northwest Fresno. 

With rising housing costs and limited affordable options, many youth and families face challenges in finding safe, stable places to call home. The workshop offered hands-on guidance on budgeting, savings, and career readiness. 

“I didn’t realize how much money I was spending,” said one participant. 

“I can actually start my savings!” said another. 

Partners like Farmers Insurance and Valley Teen Ranch have been instrumental in enabling SHE to expand its reach, enhance program quality, and deliver meaningful, long-term impact. SHE looks forward to continuing these efforts and offering more financial education opportunities to communities working toward homeownership. 

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