Year Up

Nonprofit teaches skills, helps young people find jobs

By Clare S. Richie

In today’s economy, businesses struggle to fill positions due to the lack of qualified candidates. Meanwhile, talented under-served young adults lack access to education and work experience needed to change their career trajectory. That’s where Year Up Greater Atlanta comes in. For 10 years, the nonprofit has prepared thousands of under-served 18-24 year olds from Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale counties and empower them to reach their potential through professional careers and higher education.

“Millions of young adults are disconnected from a career path and Year Up is a program that will connect them to opportunities that will change their lives,” Year Up Development Manager Taisia Grissom shared.

The one-year program includes: six months of classroom learning in coursework eligible for college credit, a six month internship, a bi-weekly stipend, and wraparound support from staff,