10/14/2026
Gissel’s journey with CSET began in September 2022 when she joined through Youth@Work as a young person in Porterville. Through , she was given opportunities to explore her interests, gain real-world experience, build relationships, and discover her potential.
One of the people who made a lasting impact on her journey was her mentor, Matthew Glasgow, whose guidance and encouragement helped Gissel navigate difficult seasons in her life while developing skills she continues to use today.
Through , Gissel participated in a summer work experience at the Tulare County Public Defender’s Office in Porterville, where she was paired with a social worker and began exploring her interest in social work.
Gissel graduated from high school and made plans to attend Fresno State. Although she eventually returned home due to financial, family, and personal challenges, she continued pursuing her goals. CSET connected her with the Youth Transitions program, and she soon moved into a position with Tulare County HHSA through the TulareWorks program as a self-sufficiency counselor.
Today, Gissel is a Behavioral Health Coordinator with the Tule River Indian Health Center and is well on her way to completing her college degree.
Her journey is a powerful example of how the impact of CSET programs can continue long after a participant completes a program. The opportunities, relationships, mentorship, and support she received helped her discover that helping others was more than a career—it was her passion.
“Words cannot express how deeply grateful I am to CSET, , Youth@Work and YT; the support has really changed my life!”