Free Job Training for Camp Fire Recovery
Paradise RISE
A workforce training and economic recovery program in Paradise, California. Paradise RISE will help up to 500 area residents gain skills and certifications in high-demand fields — at no cost — to support our community's recovery after the Camp Fire.
Funded by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) through the Community Development Block Grant — Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program. Grant No. 18-DRWD-23001 AM.1
About Paradise RISE
The Alliance for Workforce Development (AFWD) is partnering with local colleges, school districts, and employers to rebuild Paradise from the ground up — by investing in its people. Through Paradise RISE, eligible residents can train for stable, well-paying careers in the trades, healthcare, and other in-demand fields, with supportive services to help remove barriers along the way.
- 500residents to be trained
- $18MCDBG-DR grant investment
- $0cost to eligible participants
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for Paradise RISE if you meet the following criteria:
Location & Camp Fire Connection
You live or work in Butte County, or you were affected by the Camp Fire disaster.
Income (LMI)
Your household income is at or below the low-to-moderate income (LMI) limits set by HUD for Butte County. Limits vary by household size.
Ready to Train
You are 18 or older and eligible to work in the United States, and are ready to begin training.
Not sure if you qualify? That's okay — apply anyway. Our staff will review your information and the current HUD income limits with you. Final eligibility is determined during intake.
Income guidelines are based on the most recent HUD income limits for Butte County and range from roughly $54,400 to $102,600+ per year depending on household size.
Training Programs
Training is delivered in partnership with Butte College, the Paradise Unified School District (PUSD), and Valley Contractors Exchange (VCWF). Available programs include:
- Construction & Building Trades
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Welding Fundamentals
- Skilled Trades Apprenticeship
- Workforce Readiness
Program offerings and start dates are being finalized. Training begins Summer/Fall 2026. Sign up to be notified as programs are confirmed.
Supportive Services
We help remove the barriers that can get in the way of finishing training. Eligible participants may receive:
- Transportation assistance
- Childcare support
- Tools & uniforms
- One-on-one case management
Apply / Sign Up
Fill out the short form below and our team will contact you about next steps. There is no cost to apply. Prefer to talk to a person? Call (530) 961-5125 or email paradiserise@afwd.org. Se ofrecen servicios en español.
Our Partners
Paradise RISE is delivered in partnership with leading local training providers and employers.
Public Notices & Program Updates
Paradise RISE is a publicly funded program. Program updates, meeting dates, and public notices will be posted here as they become available.
Have a question or comment about the program? We welcome public feedback. Email paradiserise@afwd.org or call (530) 961-5125.
Contact Us
Paradise RISE Program
Phone: (530) 961-5125
Email: paradiserise@afwd.org
TTY/TDD: 711 (California Relay Service)
Se ofrecen servicios en español. Llame al (530) 961-5125.