Program Services

Program services are provided in all 10 of our parishes located in Northwest Louisiana, LWDA 70, with a priority of funding focused on out-of-school youth. Out of School youth must between the ages of 17-24, who are eligible to work in the U.S. and have one of the following barriers:
     • Individual with a disability
     • School dropouts
     • Not attended school for at least the most recent complete school year calendar
        quarter
     • A high school graduate who is basic skills deficient
     • A high school graduate who is low-income and either English-language learner or basic skills deficient
     • An offender (juvenile who is or has been subject to any stage of the criminal justice process)
     • A homeless Youth or runaway Youth
     • In foster-care facility or has aged out of foster care
     • Pregnant or parenting
     • Disabled
     • A low-income individual who requires additional assistance to complete an educational program or to secure and hold employment

Youth are connected with the full range of services, including tailored internships and jobs with a prioritization of career pathways, work experience, and industry-recognized degrees and certificates. Each participant undergoes a comprehensive assessment to review:
     • Skills
     • Interests, strengths, and aptitudes
     • Support needs

Then they work with a Youth Program Specialist to identify a career goal, service plan, and outcome related to education and employment.

Services include:
     • Tutoring, study skills training, and instruction leading to secondary school completion
     • Alternative secondary school offerings
     • Summer employment opportunities directly linked to academic and occupational training
     • Paid and unpaid work experiences, including internships and job shadowing
     • Occupational skill training
     • Leadership development opportunities
     • Supportive services
     • Adult mentoring
     • Follow-up services
     • Comprehensive guidance and counseling