After more than 20 years in the restaurant industry, JoJo Acuna thought he had reached the limit of what his career could offer. He had spent decades balancing maintenance work, management responsibilities, and customer service, but despite his loyalty and experience, he no longer felt fulfilled. What once felt like stability had become exhaustion, stress, and uncertainty.
When changes in company ownership left JoJo doing the work of multiple employees without support, the pressure became overwhelming. Sleepless nights, stress, and constant demands pushed him to reconsider his future. “It was affecting my health,” he shares. “I knew I needed to pivot.”
That turning point led him to JVS SoCal’s ApartmentWorks program.
When he learned about ApartmentWorks, he immediately recognized the opportunity aligned with his background and strengths.
“The first day I walked into ApartmentWorks, I felt like I belonged,” adds JoJo.
The ApartmentWorks program helped JoJo transform years of hands-on experience into a new professional path in the property management industry. Through industry-focused training, mentorship, and career support, he gained the confidence and credentials needed to pursue a long-term career rather than just another job.
Because of his extensive management and maintenance background, JoJo quickly advanced in the field. He began as a supervisor at AvalonBay Communities, later transitioned to Decron Properties, and now serves as Chief Engineer at Lumina Hollywood with Morguard Management.
JoJo’s success also came full circle through another ApartmentWorks graduate, Maira Terriquez, who had completed the program years earlier as part of the very first cohort. JoJo first heard about her during his training, where instructors spoke about her long-standing success in the industry.
Later, while working at another property, the two unexpectedly met and discovered they both shared the same JVS SoCal background. Impressed by her experience, professionalism, and industry knowledge, JoJo eventually recruited Myra to join him at Morguard Management, where they continue working together today.
For JoJo, the impact of ApartmentWorks extended far beyond employment. “It changed my life and my family’s life,” he says. “This is a fulfilling career that I look forward to every day.”
Today, JoJo continues giving back to the program that helped launch his career. He stays connected with JVS SoCal, mentors, current students, and wants to create hands-on training opportunities for future ApartmentWorks cohorts at the property he manages.
If you’re inspired by JoJo‘s story and would like to help someone else achieve their dream, please donate today.