The Gulf Coast Employment Initiative (GCEI) serves challenged youth 18-24 years of age that have limited education and work experience and are displaced Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita residents.  Youth eligible for the program may or may not have completed high school and may be adjudicated from the criminal justice system.  The program provides GED Preparation, Educational Enhancement, Job Readiness, Case Management and Personal Development.&; These services are designed to build participants strengths and improve their deficiencies through a carefully planned set of activities centered on rewards, work, and service.

Participants receive a stipend while they are enrolled and fully participating in GED, life skills, job readiness and community service training.  Other services offered include referrals to supportive services for housing, healthcare, childcare, emergency assistance, computer training and other needs as necessary. GCEI is a multi-year grant from the U.S. Department of Labor through the National Urban League Workforce Development Division.

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