New Social Worker Trainees Graduate, Ready to Serve the Community

Twenty-two new social worker trainees are ready to make a difference in the lives of older adults and adults with disabilities following the graduation of two training cohorts in November and December 2025.

Both cohorts completed eight weeks of comprehensive training, including policies, Adult Protective Services (APS) procedures, and field shadowing. AD’s Interim Director, Maral Karaccusian, MSW, welcomed the cohorts at the start of training and attended both graduations to congratulate and encourage them.

“Thank you for the work that you do. I truly appreciate you being here,” Karaccusian said. “Know that you are joining a supportive team, and I am personally committed to your growth and success.”

APS offers a unique experience for social worker trainees, explained Veronica Sigala, Program Manager of the APS Line Operations Division. “It is very different from other programs because social workers are intervening at a time when clients are vulnerable and most in need of help. Some of these clients are isolated, neglected, or lonely. You might be that ray of sunshine who walks in through the door to help them.” She reminded trainees that they will not be alone in the field; colleagues and supervisors are there to mentor and support them whenever needed.

Several graduates shared what drew them to APS. Octavia McClain, who transferred to the Aging & Disabilities Department (AD) from the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS), said, “Training is amazing. Each Human Services Administrator offered a unique perspective. They made me feel comfortable in my decision to join APS.”

Alexandra Sotelo, also a transfer from DPSS, noted, “The training covered heavy subject matter and was extensive, but it was eye-opening. I was pleasantly surprised to see how personable our administration is. It shows the department is connected to the clients we serve and to front-line workers.”

For Daniel Andres Franco, helping people has been a lifelong passion. “To me, the greatest thing you can offer someone is a genuine connection, even if it’s only for a few moments. I firmly believe the only way to build a better community is to make everyone feel like they are a part of one.”

With their training complete, these new social worker trainees are prepared to support older adults and adults with disabilities across Los Angeles County, bringing compassion, skill, and dedication to the field.