SOCIAL IMPACT – POSTS, PEOPLE & POSSIBILITIES

PCCS Goes Social 

Pacific Coast Community Services (PCCS) is now active on social media—and we’re excited to continue to connect with you in new and dynamic ways.

This page is your go-to hub for all things social, featuring impactful posts, upcoming events, client success stories, community highlights, and job search resources—all designed to inform, empower, and inspire.

We invite you to check back often and stay engaged as we share the voices and stories that shape our mission.

Explore the links below to follow us on social media and become part of the growing conversation.

Our Social Media Handles

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The Changing Landscape of Job Search:

What’s New, What’s Next (2019–2024)

By Otto DeLeon, April 21, 2025

 

How Job Seekers with Barriers Can Adapt and Thrive in Today’s Market

Over the past five years, the job search landscape has shifted dramatically. For many job seekers, those changes have brought both new opportunities and unfamiliar challenges.

For individuals with disabilities, veterans transitioning into civilian life, or those re-entering the workforce after a gap, navigating this evolving terrain requires resilience, adaptability, and the right tools. Here’s what’s changed and how you can make the most of it.

 

🌐 What’s Changed in the Job Market (2019–2024)?

From the rise of remote work to the widespread use of AI in hiring, the game has changed in big ways:

  • Remote & Hybrid Work: A major shift that opens doors for many who face mobility or caregiving challenges.
  • AI and Automation: Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) now play a huge role in filtering resumes—often before a human ever sees them.
  • The Gig Economy: Contract and freelance roles are more common, offering flexibility but less long-term security.
  • Increased Emphasis on DEI: Many employers now aim to hire more inclusively—though follow-through varies.
  • Digital Presence Matters: A well-crafted LinkedIn profile is no longer optional; it’s expected.

 

💡 Opportunities: Where Progress Meets Possibility

These changes have opened doors that didn’t exist before:

  • Remote work eliminates geographic and mobility barriers, allowing job seekers to access roles nationwide.
  • Flexible gig roles are helpful for easing back into the workforce after time away.
  • Employers are becoming more open to non-traditional work histories, prioritizing skills over linear resumes.
  • Online learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Coursera offer accessible ways to upskill.
  • DEI efforts (when genuine) mean more inclusive hiring practices—a big win for underserved job seekers.

 

⚠️ Challenges: What to Watch Out For

However, these shifts also bring some hurdles:

  • ATS software may filter out resumes that don’t match keyword expectations.
  • Remote roles require tech access and digital communication fluency.
  • Gig work often lacks benefits or long-term security.
  • Stigma still lingers around gaps in employment or disability disclosure.
  • DEI initiatives aren’t always fully implemented—and may be deprioritized.

 

🔧 How to Adapt and Stand Out

The good news? You can turn today’s realities into advantages with the right strategy:

  • Customize your resume with keywords that match the job description.
  • Create a professional online presence: LinkedIn, email address, job board profiles.
  • Learn how to navigate ATS systems using tools like Jobscan or Teal.
  • Tap into veteran services, disability employment networks, or workforce development programs.
  • Frame your story through your transferable skills and lived experiences.

 

🧰 Tools to Stay Competitive

Use these resources to strengthen your toolkit:

  • Jobscan, Teal, ResumeWorded – Optimize your resume for ATS.
  • LinkedIn – Highlight achievements, follow employers, and connect meaningfully.
  • Interview Prep – Practice virtual interviews and become fluent with Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet.
  • Accessibility Tools – Explore screen readers, closed captioning, and other tools in Google and Microsoft platforms.

 

🗣️ Self-Advocacy Matters

When navigating the workforce with a disability or unique background:

  • Know your rights under the ADA (Title I) and Section 503.
  • Practice how and when to disclose a disability and request accommodations.
  • Use vocational rehab and other support services to stay prepared.
  • Craft a personal narrative that emphasizes resilience, growth, and contribution.

 

🌱 Setbacks as Strengths

Sometimes, the very things we view as “barriers” are actually our strongest assets:

  • Career gaps? They might reflect personal growth or caregiving responsibilities.
  • Military service? A clear signal of leadership, adaptability, and mission focus.
  • Disability? A marker of ingenuity, creativity, and problem-solving in a world not built for you.

💬 Your path may be different—but it’s still powerful.

 

📚 Final Takeaways & Resources

Start here to build your momentum:

  • Explore resume optimization tools (Jobscan, Teal, ResumeWorded)
  • Access ADA accommodation request templates
  • Check out free upskilling sites like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and GCF Learn Free
  • Connect with local employment networks for veterans and people with disabilities

 

You’ve got what it takes to succeed in today’s evolving job market. With the right tools, self-awareness, and support system, you can turn change into opportunity—and build a career that works for you.

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The Metrics of Success Along the Job Search Journey

By Otto DeLeon, April 16, 2025

 

When you’re looking for a job, it’s easy to define success as “getting hired.” But what if we told you there’s more to celebrate along the way?

At Pacific Coast Community Services, we encourage job seekers to think of the job search as a journey—not just a race to the finish line. There are real, measurable wins that happen well before the offer letter hits your inbox. And when you recognize and build on those wins, your confidence grows, your strategy sharpens, and your chances of landing the right job improve.

Here are just a few of the milestones that matter:

✅ A Resume That Works For You

You’ve updated your resume to current industry standards. It’s keyword-optimized, clean, and easy to customize for each application. That’s a win! It means you’ve built a tool that can stand up to applicant tracking systems and grab the attention of real humans.

✅ A Cover Letter That Tells Your Story

You’ve developed a solid base cover letter, something adaptable that brings your resume to life. Your voice and values come through, and you’re able to tailor it quickly to different roles. That’s progress.

✅ Your Elevator Pitch Is Polished

You’ve practiced a short, confident pitch that explains what you’re looking for and why you’d be a great fit. Whether at a networking event or in an interview, you’re ready to speak with purpose. Huge step forward.

✅ LinkedIn Is Looking Sharp

Your LinkedIn profile reflects your current goals, highlights your strengths, and is aligned with your resume. You’re engaging with posts and making connections. Employers will check; make sure what they see helps your case.

✅ You’ve Scrubbed Social Media

Old tweets, unprofessional photos, and vague bios are all gone. Your online presence now matches the candidate you’re presenting on paper. That’s a smart move that could make the difference in a close hiring decision.

✅ You Know the Job Boards

You’ve mastered search filters, set up alerts, and are saving time by zeroing in on real, relevant leads. No more endless scrolling. This is what strategic searching looks like.

✅ You’re Landing Interviews

Each interview—phone screen, virtual, or in-person—is proof that your materials are working. Even if it doesn’t lead to a job offer, it’s validation that your resume and messaging are on point.

✅ You’re More Comfortable in Interviews

You’ve practiced your answers. You can speak to your experience. You’re getting better at thinking on your feet. And maybe you even like answering, “Tell me about yourself” now.

✅ Your References Are Ready

You’ve lined up people who can speak to your strengths. You’ve organized transcripts, certificates, and writing samples. When a hiring manager asks, you’re ready to deliver.

Progress Deserves Recognition

All of these milestones are signs of progress. And progress is success.

The job search process can be stressful, but when you track your wins, you stay motivated. Remember, it’s not just about getting the job. It’s about becoming ready for it. Every step you take brings you closer to that moment, and that’s something worth celebrating.

If you’re on the journey, keep going. You’re doing better than you think.

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Understanding ADA Title II:

What Equal Access to Public Services Really Means for Job Seekers

 

By Otto DeLeon, April 16, 2025

 

When we talk about disability rights in the workplace, most people think of Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and for good reason. It lays the foundational structure for fair hiring practices and workplace accommodations. But what happens before someone lands a job? What about access to the public services that help people get hired in the first place?

That’s where ADA Title II comes in. Its impact on the job search is bigger than many realize.

 

What Is ADA Title II?

Title II of the ADA requires that all programs, services, and activities run by state and local governments be accessible to people with disabilities. This includes everything from transportation and job training programs to public libraries and government hiring platforms.

In simple terms: If a government-run service helps someone work, get to work, or find work, it must be equally accessible to people with disabilities.

 

Why Title II Matters for Job Seekers

Searching for a job can be a job in itself. Now imagine navigating that process without access to reliable transportation, clear information, or training tools that work with your assistive technology. That’s the reality Title II aims to prevent.

Here are a few key ways Title II supports job seekers:

🚍 Accessible Public Transit

Buses, trains, and paratransit services must accommodate all riders. This includes wheelchair access, clear service announcements, and alternative transit for those who can’t use fixed routes.

🏛️ Inclusive Government Services

Think DMV offices, vocational rehab centers, workforce development hubs, and job training programs—all must provide reasonable accommodations, like:

  • ASL interpreters
  • Accessible formats for training materials
  • Alternate communication methods

💻 Digital Accessibility

Government websites and application portals must be compatible with screen readers and other assistive technology, ensuring that applying for a job, or signing up for unemployment benefits, isn’t a barrier in itself.

🚓 Emergency and Law Enforcement Services

From 911 call centers to interactions with law enforcement, public safety services must also be accessible. This is an often overlooked provision, but vital part of full inclusion.

 

Your Rights Under Title II

If you’re a person with a disability, Title II guarantees your right to access:

  • Public transit
  • State or city-run job training
  • Online government job boards and portals
  • Local hiring programs and events

You also have the right to request reasonable accommodations, and if those aren’t provided, or if barriers persist, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice.

Common violations include:

  • Refusing to provide interpreters or accessible formats
  • Inaccessible public transit routes or schedules
  • Job applications or interviews that exclude or disadvantage people with disabilities

 

Taking Action: Empowerment Through Awareness

Knowing your rights is the first step toward employment empowerment. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, transitioning from school to employment, or shifting careers, equal access to public services is not optional. It’s the law.

If you believe your rights under Title II have been violated:

  • Contact the ADA National Network for free guidance.
  • File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice.
  • Explore accommodation solutions with the Job Accommodation Network (JAN).

 

Inclusion Starts with Access

Workplace inclusion doesn’t start at the office door. It begins with getting there, being able to apply, and receiving the training and services you need to succeed. ADA Title II ensures that access to opportunity isn’t blocked by outdated systems or overlooked barriers.

So, the next time you hop on a bus to head to an interview or access a government-funded job program, remember: You have the right to be there and to be supported every step of the way.

Want to Learn More?

📘 Explore Title II regulations on the ADA.gov website »
🔍 Connect with the ADA National Network »
💡 Visit the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) »

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Reclaiming Confidence and Career Purpose:

Serena Olsen’s Journey Back to Work

By Otto DeLeon, based on an article originally written by April White, April 16, 2025

 

When Serena Olsen earned her graduate degree in 2006, she imagined a future in international development. Adventurous visions came to her of traveling the world, shaping public policy, and working alongside communities to drive change. For a while, that vision held. Serena carved out a meaningful path in the nonprofit sector, particularly within organizations that served the blind community, a space close to her heart, both professionally and personally.

But despite her qualifications and dedication, Serena encountered persistent ableism and limited opportunities outside that niche. Still, she pressed on. In 2014, she joined the Peace Corps and served in the Kyrgyz Republic, overcoming significant institutional hurdles as a candidate with a disability. While there, she partnered with a local initiative to launch a training center for blind adults. This achievement reflected both her leadership and commitment to inclusive development.

After returning to the Bay Area, Serena joined Lighthouse for the Blind in San Francisco, where she spent five years curating and coordinating social and recreational programming. “It was exciting,” she recalled. “I wasn’t doing skills training or Braille. I was taking people to the theater, building community.” But when the pandemic struck, it upended her career and her life.

What she initially thought would be a short break from the workforce turned into a four-year absence. “I assumed I’d bounce back into the workforce when I was ready,” Serena said. “But it wasn’t that simple.” Her job search stalled, and her confidence took a hit. The realization slowly dawned that she needed support. She needed someone to guide and hold her accountable.

Through the California Department of Rehabilitation, Serena was referred to Pacific Coast Community Services (PCCS). It was a turning point.

Working with her PCCS Job Developer, Serena began the process of rebuilding. Her resume was transformed from a traditional reverse-chronological format to one that emphasized her transferable skills and achievements. “It was overwhelming at first,” she said. “But once I saw her method, I thought, ‘This is brilliant.’” Together, they refined her cover letter approach, making it more targeted and effective. These tools helped her begin to believe in herself again.

Serena also began attending PCCS’s twice-weekly Job Club sessions. The sessions provided structure and accountability, helping her gain momentum during a time when it was hard to keep going. Showing up meant she had to report on her progress, which kept her motivated.

When Serena expressed her interest in food justice and urban agriculture, PCCS listened. She was placed at the UC Gill Tract Community Farm in Albany, becoming the first PCCS program participant to be placed there. The site, known for its focus on land rematriation and community nourishment, proved to be a transformative space. Serena contributed both administratively and in the field. She caringly tended to crops, seedlings, and pollinator plants. “It was a magical summer,” she said. “That farm reminded me of what I had to offer. I don’t know that I had ever felt so valued as I did there.”

Today, Serena is once again fully employed. “Not having a steady paycheck really chips away at your confidence,” she said. “I have that back, and it’s extremely empowering.”

While the future remains unwritten, Serena now carries with her the tools, clarity, and confidence needed to pursue meaningful employment on her own terms. “PCCS helped me feel empowered again,” she shared. “I don’t have to deplete my savings or doubt my worth. I can stand on my own two feet. That means everything.”

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How Artificial Intelligence (AI) Is Transforming Job Search

By Otto DeLeon, April 8, 2025

A New Era for Job Seekers with Disabilities, Veterans, and Returning Workers

The job search process has changed dramatically over the past few years. What was once a series of in-person interviews, stacks of printed resumes, and endless applications has evolved into a digital-first, AI-driven experience. For job seekers—especially those with disabilities, veterans transitioning to civilian roles, and individuals re-entering the workforce—artificial intelligence (AI) is proving to be a game-changer.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how AI is reshaping the job market and how it can potentially yield benefits to those facing unique challenges.

The AI Job Search Revolution

 AI is everywhere in today’s job market, from resume screenings to interview preparation. More employers are using Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) powered by AI to filter resumes and help them find the right candidates. But how does this affect job seekers? And more importantly, how can you use AI to your advantage?

For job seekers with disabilities, veterans, or individuals returning to the workforce after time away, AI tools are opening doors that might have previously been blocked. With AI, candidates can now access tailored support to help break down barriers that often make job searches challenging and time-consuming.

AI-Powered Tools for Job Seekers

    1. Resume Optimization: AI-driven tools like Jobscan are transforming how job seekers tailor their resumes. Did you know that 75% of resumes never reach human eyes because they are filtered out by ATS? With AI-powered resume builders, candidates can optimize their applications to meet ATS criteria, increasing their chances of being noticed.
    2. Bias Reduction in Hiring: AI has the potential to reduce bias in recruitment. A McKinsey & Co. report found that AI-powered platforms could reduce bias in recruitment by as much as 30% when properly implemented. For people with disabilities and veterans, this could mean a more level playing field.
    3. Interview Preparation: Platforms like Big Interview and MyInterview provide virtual coaching by analyzing candidates’ responses, body language, and speech patterns. This feedback helps job seekers refine their presentation, tone, and clarity before meeting a recruiter.
    4. Military-to-Civilian Career Translators: For veterans, AI-powered military-to-civilian job translators like Hire Heroes USA and O*NET OnLine convert military job skills into civilian job descriptions. This simplifies the process of translating your experience into something that resonates with civilian employers.
    5. Accessible AI Tools for People with Disabilities: AI isn’t just helping job seekers with disabilities improve their resumes. It’s also offering new opportunities for interview coaching. Virtual mock interviews powered by AI can help individuals practice responses to questions, including how to disclose accommodations or discuss work history confidently.

The Pros and Cons of AI in Hiring

While the rise of AI tools brings many benefits, it’s not without its challenges. AI-driven systems, if not properly designed, can perpetuate societal biases. For instance, non-linear career paths, such as those of returning workers or individuals with career gaps, may be seen as a disadvantage by AI ranking systems that prioritize continuous employment.

Moreover, while AI offers improved accessibility, it can also introduce new barriers. For example, voice recognition software might struggle with individuals who have speech impairments, and automated video interview tools might unfairly score candidates based on body language that’s nontraditional or neurodivergent.

How Job Seekers Can Maximize AI

AI can offer powerful tools for job seekers, but it’s essential to stay proactive and use these resources strategically. Here’s how you can make the most of AI in your job search:

    • Optimize your resume using AI-driven resume scanners to ensure it’s ATS-friendly.
    • Practice mock interviews with AI tools, but also seek authentic human feedback to refine your responses.
    • Use AI job matching platforms but don’t forget traditional job search efforts like networking.
    • Advocate for accessible AI practices by giving feedback to employers on any barriers you encounter.

Conclusion: The Future of AI in Job Searching

AI is revolutionizing the way we approach job hunting, and for those with disabilities, veterans, and returning workers, it offers tools to break down long-standing barriers. While AI offers incredible opportunities, it’s important to stay vigilant and use it to your advantage while also advocating for fair, accessible hiring practices.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your job search, don’t hesitate to explore AI-powered tools. With the right strategies, AI can help you find the job of your dreams and navigate the modern job market with confidence.

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