A recent impact report from the Center for Caregiver Advancement (CCA) highlights the benefits of its Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). The program was completed in late 2025. It supported both students and employers in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs).
The program was made possible through a $14 million grant from the California Workforce Development Board, with additional support from the SEIU 2015 labor union and the Education Fund.
The CNA RAP and LVN RAP established accessible career pathways for incumbent workers in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). It provided training, some financial incentives, and mentorship. The model utilized an “earn-and-learn” approach, which enabled participants to continue working while training.
Snapshot of Training Program Data
- 50% of the CNA participants took part in hybrid classes
- 47% of the CNA participants completed in-person courses (3% not listed)
- 82% of CNA trainees identified as female
- 44% of trainees identified as Hispanic/Latino, while 56% identified as Black, Asian, or White/Caucasian
- 32 years was the average age of CNA participants
CNA & LVN Program Outcomes Show This Training Model Works
The CNA RAP and CNA-to-LVN RAP delivered high impact and created meaningful career pathways for frontline caregivers to advance within health care while helping to strengthen California’s skilled nursing workforce.
This workforce is especially important as California continues to face significant nursing staff challenges. State projections indicate that 50 of California’s 58 counties are expected to experience shortages in one or more nursing workforce categories.
CNAs provide significant support to LVNs and other nursing staff and are the backbone of direct resident care. And research studies show that a minimum of 2.8 CNA hours per resident per day are needed to provide safe, quality care. Workforce development programs that prepare and retain CNAs are essential to helping facilities meet these staffing needs.
Beyond measurable outcomes, the CNA and CNA-to-LVN RAP strengthened relationships across labor partners, empowered caregivers, and supported the delivery of high-quality care to residents in Skilled Nursing Facilities.
The program also strengthened relationships with bargaining unit members that will continue beyond the grant period. And through these connections, participants will retain access to CCA and its Education Fund training programs and workforce development opportunities that support ongoing skill development and long-term career advancement.
Related Reading:
https://advancecaregivers.org/nursing-home-employers/
https://advancecaregivers.org/nursing-home-caregiver-training/
