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Youth R.I.S.E. Eligibility

Youth Services • Eligibility

Youth Eligibility

Check if you qualify and know exactly what to do next. If you already have a WorkSource Atlanta case manager, reach out to them directly for enrollment steps.

City of Atlanta residents Ages 16–24 No‑cost services First‑come, first‑served
Start Orientation Pathway to Eligibility (PDF) Create Profile (WSG Portal) Youth Interest Form

Who Qualifies

In‑School Youth (ISY)

  • Generally ages 14–21 and currently attending school (high school, alternative, or post‑secondary).
  • Meets income and other WIOA eligibility criteria.
  • May have one or more barriers (e.g., disability, English language learner, justice‑involved, homeless/runaway, pregnant/parenting, foster care, or needs assistance to complete education).

Out‑of‑School Youth (OSY)

  • Generally ages 16–24 and not attending any school at the time of enrollment.
  • May be a school dropout, or have a diploma and be 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 assistance to enter/complete education or employment.

Final eligibility is determined by a WSA Eligibility Specialist based on documentation and WIOA guidelines.

30‑Day Timeline: After orientation, you have 30 days to submit all required documents and contact the Eligibility Specialist. If not completed within 30 days, your application may be closed and you may need to restart the process.

Documents You’ll Need

Identity & Work Eligibility
  • Photo ID (State ID/Driver’s License, School ID, or other government‑issued ID)
  • Social Security card (or official document showing SSN)
  • If applicable: Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization, or other DHS/USCIS documentation

Tip: Upload clear photos/scans—keep originals for verification.

Age & School Status
  • Birth Certificate or Government ID showing date of birth
  • For ISY: Current school schedule, report card, or enrollment letter
  • For OSY: Diploma/GED (if obtained) or withdrawal documentation, if available
Residency (City of Atlanta)
  • Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or official mail with your name and address
  • If under 18 using parent/guardian docs: proof of relationship and shared address
Income / Benefits (if required)
  • Recent pay stubs or employer letter
  • Public assistance documentation (SNAP/TANF/SSI, etc.)
  • Signed self‑attestation, if requested
Selective Service (males 18+)
  • Registration verification or exemption documentation, if applicable
Other Supporting Documents
  • Disability documentation (if applicable)
  • Court/probation documents (if justice‑involved)
  • Homeless/runaway verification (if applicable)
  • Pregnant/parenting verification (if applicable)

Use the Pathway to Eligibility Checklist (PDF) to make sure you have everything before your appointment.

Steps to Get Eligible

1) Orientation

Complete the orientation and acknowledgment on the Youth Orientation page.

2) Checklist

Gather documents using the Pathway to Eligibility PDF.

3) Create Profile

Set up your account in the WorkSource Georgia Portal and save your SID number.

4) Upload Docs

Upload all required documents to the portal.

5) Book Appointment

Schedule your eligibility appointment from the orientation page or email WSAYouth@AtlantaGa.Gov (subject: Ready to RISE).

6) Career Assessment

Complete My Next Move and bring/save results.

7) Review

Your Eligibility Specialist verifies documents. If approved, move forward with your case manager.

FAQ

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 programs serve City of Atlanta residents. Complete 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 not completed within 30 days, your application may be closed and you may need to restart the process.

Already have a WSA case manager?

Please contact your case manager directly for enrollment steps and documentation.

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.