Community Services Employment Training - CSET

Thinking about buying your first home?

Join CSET Housing Services for a FREE First-Time Homebuyer Workshop on Saturday, June 27, 2026, in Visalia! Learn everything you need to know about budgeting, credit, mortgage loans, down payment assistance programs, and the homebuying process.

✅ Homebuyer Education Certificate
✅ Expert Instructors & Local Resources
✅ One-on-One Counseling Available
✅ Light Refreshments Provided

Space is limited, so register today!

Questions? Call (559) 741-4641
Register at: www.cset.org/First-Time-Home-Buyer

Dr. Linda Fontanilla-Deissler has dedicated her life to service, leadership, and empowering others through education and community involvement. From serving our country as a United States Air Force veteran during the Vietnam Era to becoming a respected leader in higher education, her journey reflects resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to helping others succeed.

During her military service at Travis Air Force Base, Dr. Fontanilla-Deissler worked as a Radar Approach Air Traffic Controller during the height of the Vietnam War and earned recognition as the Top Female Vocalist in the Military Airlift Command worldwide competition. She later continued her aviation career with the Federal Aviation Administration as an Air Traffic Controller for 11 years.

While balancing work and raising her son as a single mother, she pursued her educational goals and went on to earn a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, a Master’s Degree in Organizational Behavior, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Speech Pathology Audiology. Her passion for student success led to an impactful career in post-secondary education, serving in leadership roles at Irvine Valley College, Cuesta College, College of the Sequoias, San Joaquin Valley College, and most recently as Interim President of San Bernardino Valley College.

Dr. Fontanilla-Deissler’s commitment to community service extends far beyond education. She has served in numerous civic and leadership roles throughout California, supporting organizations focused on education, advocacy, family services, and community development.

Now retired and serving as a Higher Education Consultant, Dr. Fontanilla-Deissler continues mentoring future leaders, consulting with nonprofit organizations and colleges, and giving back to the community she loves. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make through leadership, perseverance, and service to others.

¿Está pensando en comprar su primera casa?

Acompáñenos en el Taller GRATUITO para Primeros Compradores de Vivienda de CSET Housing Services el sábado 18 de julio de 2026 en Visalia. Aprenda sobre presupuesto, crédito, préstamos hipotecarios, programas de asistencia para la compra de vivienda y el proceso de compra.

✅ Certificado de Educación para Compradores de Vivienda
✅ Expertos y Recursos Locales
✅ Asesoría Individual Disponible
✅ Refrigerios Incluidos

¡El espacio es limitado! Regístrese hoy mismo.

Preguntas: (559) 741-4641
Regístrese en: cset.org/First-Time-Home-Buyer

Elder Abuse Awareness Month

The Community Initiatives team participated in an Elder Abuse Awareness event in Armona by Kings County Commission on Aging. During this event the Team connected with attendees from across Tulare and Kings county. Through outreach many community members received valuable information regarding CSET Seniors Services, First time Homebuy education, Tenant Rights, & Free tax preparation services.

The month of June is dedicated to raise awareness about elder abuse prevention and well-being of older adults. This event was a great opportunity to connect with seniors, and families to resources that support housing stability and financial wellness.

VITA Alpaugh Event – Summer Night Lights

During the VITA Alpaugh Event – Summer Night Lights, families from the Alpaugh community gathered for an evening of learning, connection, and fun. The event was made possible through the participation of CSET and Golden State Opportunity, with valuable support from Elizabeth and Yesica Guzman, the coordinators at Alpaugh School. Families had the opportunity to ask questions and receive information about tax credits available to working families, including the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC). Attendees also learned about the many resources and services offered by CSET. For many residents, the closest location to access these services is the Earlimart Family Resource Center, making this information especially valuable.

The event provided a welcoming environment where families could connect with one another, enjoy refreshments, and participate in creative activities. One of the highlights of the evening was a T-shirt painting
activity, where children and adults expressed their creativity by decorating colorful shirts.

The Summer Night Lights event successfully brought together community partners and local families, increasing awareness of important financial and family resources while creating meaningful opportunities for engagement and community building.

Be prepared when it matters most! Join Sequoia Community Corps' First Aid, CPR & AED Training and gain hands-on, life-saving skills that could help save a life. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, employee, or community member, this course is designed for all skill levels.

📅 First Monday of Every Month
⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
💲 $80 per person
👥 15% discount for groups of 10 or more

Learn CPR for adults, children, and infants, how to use an AED, and essential first aid techniques to respond confidently in emergencies.