Youth R.I.S.E. — Reaching Independence through Skills & Employment
Year-round support for City of Atlanta youth and young adults: paid work experience, job readiness, education support (GED/HS), and training that leads to in-demand careers.
What You Can Access
Career & Education Support
- Career advisement & coaching
- GED/High School support
- College & training navigation
Training & Credentials
- Short-term training for in-demand fields
- Industry-recognized certificates
- Financial literacy & life skills
Experience & Readiness
- Paid work experience & internships
- Job readiness workshops
- Resume & interview prep
Already working with a WSA case manager? Contact your case manager directly for enrollment steps and documentation.
How It Works
1) Complete Online Orientation
Complete the online orientation and acknowledgment form on the Youth Orientation page.
2) Review Required Documents
Use the Pathway to Eligibility checklist provided below to gather documents.
3) Create Your Customer Profile
Register and set up your profile in the WorkSource Georgia Portal. Be sure to record your State ID (SID) number.
4) Upload Required Documents
Upload your documents using the instructions linked from the orientation page.
5) Schedule Eligibility Appointment
Book via the orientation page or email WSAYouth@AtlantaGa.Gov with your name, phone, and SID. Subject line: Ready to RISE.
6) Take the Career Assessment
Visit My Next Move, complete the assessment, and save/print your results for your appointment.
7) Eligibility Review
A WSA Eligibility Specialist will verify your documents. If approved, you’ll move on to next steps with your case manager.
Eligibility Snapshot
- Ages 16–24 (City of Atlanta residents)
- WIOA-eligible youth (in-school or out-of-school)
- Additional criteria may apply — see full Youth R.I.S.E. eligibility.
Who We Serve
In-School Youth (ISY)
Generally ages 14–21 who are currently attending school (including high school, alternative, or post-secondary).
- Must meet income and other eligibility criteria.
- May have one or more barriers such as: disability, English language learner, justice-involved, homeless/runaway, pregnant or parenting, foster care, or requiring additional assistance to complete education.
See full details on the Youth R.I.S.E. eligibility page.
Out-of-School Youth (OSY)
Generally ages 16–24 who are not attending any school at the time of enrollment.
- May be a school dropout, or a youth with a diploma who is low-income and basic-skills deficient or an English language learner.
- Other qualifying barriers can include: homelessness, foster care, justice-involved, pregnant/parenting, disability, or needing additional assistance to enter or complete education or employment.
Check the eligibility page for documentation and full criteria.
High-Demand Occupations (2025)
The 2025 High-Demand Occupations List will be posted here. This guide highlights in-demand careers in metro Atlanta to help you choose training and work experiences that lead to jobs.
Questions? Ask your case manager which occupations align with your goals.
WIOA Youth Program — 14 Elements
Tutoring & Study Skills
Academic help, study skills, and dropout prevention support.
Alternative/Recovery Education
Alternative secondary school services or dropout recovery.
Work Experiences
Paid & unpaid experiences: summer jobs, pre-apprenticeship, internships, job shadowing, OJT.
Occupational Skills Training
Organized programs of study that lead to credentials.
Concurrent Education & Training
Education offered together with workforce prep and training.
Leadership Development
Opportunities to build confidence, teamwork, and service.
Supportive Services
Help with barriers like transportation, childcare, and more.
Adult Mentoring
At least 12 months of one-to-one mentoring.
Follow-Up Services
At least 12 months of ongoing support after placement.
Guidance & Counseling
Comprehensive guidance, counseling, and referrals as needed.
Financial Literacy
Budgeting, banking, and smart money habits.
Entrepreneurial Skills
Foundations for starting and running a business.
Labor Market Info
Trends, wages, and in-demand careers in Atlanta.
Postsecondary Preparation
College readiness and transition activities.
You may receive a mix of these supports based on your individualized plan.
Youth R.I.S.E. Talks
Free virtual sessions for City of Atlanta youth ages 16–24. Build confidence, gain skills, and take part in real conversations that support your growth.
Register NowFAQ
Does this cost anything?
No. Youth Services are funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and provided at no cost to eligible participants.
Do I need to live in the City of Atlanta?
Yes — Youth R.I.S.E. serves City of Atlanta residents. Use the Youth Interest Form and we’ll help confirm eligibility.
How long do I have to submit documents?
Participants have 30 days from orientation to submit all required documents and to contact the Eligibility Specialist. If this is not completed within 30 days, your application may be closed and you may need to restart the process.
Equal Opportunity: WorkSource Atlanta is a division of the Atlanta Department of Labor and Employment Services and is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. TTY/TDD: 1-800-255-0135 or dial 711 on mobile devices. Limited English-speaking customers may contact iSpeakATL at (404) 831-0149 or iSpeakATL@AtlantaGa.gov.
Availability of Services: Participation in WIOA programs and services is conducted on a first-come, first-served basis and is subject to availability of funds.
Participation in WIOA programs and services is conducted on a “First Come, First Serve Basis” and is based on availability of funds.
