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, or
     • 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 success coach 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; and
     • Comprehensive guidance and counseling.