Ladders Program
Application Opens February 2, 2026
Application Opens February 2, 2026
A Statewide Path to Restoration and Resilience
The Ladders Program is a statewide, fully virtual initiative designed to break barriers and build futures for justice-impacted youth and young adults across Georgia. No matter where participants live, they have equal access to opportunities, resources, and support to help them climb toward success.
Serving individuals ages 16 to 24, Ladders offers a holistic support system that combines personalized case management, GED preparation, vocational training, life skills development, and direct connections to essential resources. The program’s mission is to equip participants with the tools to achieve sustainable employment, self-sufficiency, and positive reintegration into their communities.
The Ladders Program is more than an educational initiative—it is a movement of restoration, resilience, and responsibility. Participation represents a powerful first step toward empowerment, education, and a new path forward.
Your Next Chapter Starts Here
Through the Ladders Program, individuals like Joshua Miller have gained skills, confidence, and purpose. Hear his story and discover how you can take the first step toward your future.
“The Ladders Program didn’t just give me an opportunity — it gave me a second chance to believe in myself again. I want people to know that change is possible when someone believes in you.”
Areas We Serve
One State. One Program. Unlimited Potential.
Ladders proudly serves communities across the entire state of Georgia, connecting justice-involved youth and young adults with meaningful vocational training and career opportunities.
No matter where you live, there’s a pathway to success within reach. Our statewide network of technical colleges and community partners ensures that every eligible participant can access support, education, and opportunity—right in their own community.
Disclaimer: While Ladders is available statewide, a small number of counties have opted out of the statewide public defense system. Currently, services are not available in Cherokee, Cobb, Douglas, Gwinnett, Forsyth, and Houston counties.
Program Eligibility
Justice-Involved Youth & Young Adults
Ladders is designed to serve young people who have had prior or current involvement with the criminal justice system. Our goal is to provide second-chance opportunities that empower participants to build meaningful careers and stable futures.
Offense Restrictions
To ensure safety and compliance with state guidelines, individuals convicted of serious violent offenses as defined by Georgia Code § 17-10-6.1 are not eligible to participate in the program.
Commitment to Growth
Beyond eligibility criteria, Ladders seeks participants who are genuinely motivated to make positive life changes. Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to personal development, accountability, and active engagement throughout the program.
Age Requirement
Eligible applicants must be between 16 and 24 years old at the time of enrollment. This program focuses on supporting young adults who are in a key stage of transition toward independence and professional development.
Incarceration Status
Applicants may not be currently incarcerated. However, those on probation, parole, or other forms of community supervision are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity for career advancement and personal growth.
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From Goals to Greatness
Personalized Case Management
Ladders specialists work one-on-one with each participant to set S.M.A.R.T. goals and build essential life skills. They provide guidance, encouragement, and connections to local resources—creating a clear plan for success now and in the future.
The Ladders Process
We offer a structured program around five core components: case management, life skills, mentorship, education pathways, and workforce development.
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Empowerment Through Education
Ladders partners with the Technical College System of Georgia to help participants earn a GED or gain hands-on training in fields like automotive, construction, HVAC, and more—building real skills for lasting careers.
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Mentorship & Support Networks
Participants are paired with positive role models who provide guidance, encouragement, and real-world perspective. Mentors walk alongside youth, fostering confidence, accountability, and long-term success.
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Life Skills for Success
Participants strengthen communication, decision-making, and financial skills through hands-on learning. ‘Real Life, Real Talk’ workshops make growth real with open conversations about mindset, entrepreneurship, and giving back.
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Workforce Development & Career Pathways
Ladders helps participants get job-ready with training, coaching, and employer connections that build confidence and open doors to lasting success.
Areas of Study
These hands-on, career-focused programs are offered free of charge through Ladders and are available at participating technical colleges near you. Please note that course availability may vary by school.
Automotive Technology
Aviation Technology
Certified Engineer Assistant
Commercial Truck Driving
Computer Programming
Computer Technology
Construction Technology
Diesel Equipment Technology
Early Childhood Care and Education
Electrical Lineman Technology
Health Science
Industrial Maintenance
Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice
Logistics/Transportation Technology
Movie Production Set Design
Practical Nursing
Precision Manufacturing
Welding and Joining Technology
Program Schedule
Ladders is a 12-month program focused on education, life skills, and career readiness, followed by 6 months of continued post-services to support participants as they transition into employment or training.
Application Period: February 2 to March 31, 2026
Program Orientation: April 22, 2026
Program Kick-Off: May 20, 2026
GED Track: April 2026 to March 2027*
Life Skills Workshops: May 2026 to February 2027
Vocational Track: August 2026 to May 2027**
Program Graduation: May 2027
*Participants in the GED Track are given a 12-month period to earn their GED. However, most complete the program successfully in about six months.
**The Vocational Track follows a two-semester program timeline. Programs with longer or shorter durations may have adjusted completion schedules.