Center for
Education &
Family
Empowerment
Why Education & Family Empowerment Matters
Education and family empowerment strengthen individuals and families by expanding opportunities, increasing economic stability, and building stronger, more resilient communities.
PROGRAMS
From entrepreneurship to financial coaching and job training, these programs provide clear pathways from stability to growth.
LEAPs
(Lottery Afterschool Program)
The Lottery for Education Afterschool Program (LEAPs) provides structured academic support and enrichment opportunities for students during critical out-of-school hours. The program strengthens academic performance, reinforces classroom learning, and supports social-emotional development in a safe, engaging environment.
Homework assistance and tutoring
Academic skill reinforcement
Enrichment activities
Mentorship and positive adult engagement
Academic Support. Safe Spaces. Stronger Futures.
IMPACT:
Students participating in LEAPs demonstrate improved academic engagement, stronger study habits, and increased readiness for grade-level progression
Project Ready
Steam Summer Camp
Foundations for Financial Stability and Economic Advancement
Project Ready Summer STEAM Camp is a week-long immersive experience for rising 6th–8th grade students that introduces science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics through hands-on, theme-based learning and career exploration. In partnership with UTC’s College of Arts and Sciences, the camp connects students to real-world applications and high-demand career pathways while building essential academic and life skills.
Students engage in:
Hands-on, theme-based STEAM challenges (e.g., interactive experiments and creative problem-solving projects)
Career exploration and exposure to STEAM fields, including guest speakers and industry insights
Collaborative, team-based learning experiences
Leadership, communication, and critical thinking skill development
Educational field trips and enrichment experiences with community partners
IMPACT:
Participants leave the program with an increased awareness of STEAM career pathways and postsecondary options. Students are encouraged to strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and have shared an improvement in confidence in academic abilities, communication, and leadership skills.
Project Ready Mentor
& National Achievers Society
Project Ready, National Achievers Society (NAS), is a comprehensive college and career readiness program designed to support high school students through a combination of mentorship, academic support, career exposure, and civic engagement. Students are equipped with skills and experiences needed for success after high school.
Students are paired with dedicated adult mentors who provide guidance, accountability, and encouragement throughout the year. As members of NAS, participants are recognized for their commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement, while gaining access to enhanced opportunities for growth and exposure.
Mentorship and goal settings
College and career readiness workshops
Leadership development and exposure opportunities
Civic engagement and community development
Academic accountability and skill-building
SCSEP
(Senior Community Service Employment Program)
Empowering Older Workers. Strengthening Communities.
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) provides paid, part-time community service and job training opportunities for eligible older adults. Participants gain hands-on work experience at nonprofit organizations and public agencies while building skills that lead to unsubsidized employment.
SCSEP supports income stability for seniors while strengthening local institutions that benefit from trained, experienced participants.
Paid, part-time training assignments
Skills development and job readiness support
Host agency placements across nonprofit and public sectors
Transition assistance to unsubsidized employment
IMPACT:
SCSEP participants enhance their employability, increase income security, and remain actively engaged in their communities, contributing both economically and socially.
Workforce Development
The Workforce Development programs within the Family Prosperity Initiative help individuals build the skills, confidence, and support needed to secure stable employment and advance their careers. Through personalized guidance and practical training, participants gain the tools necessary to achieve long-term financial stability.
Resume preparation and interviewing skills
Career counseling and job-readiness training
Job search assistance and referrals
Computer access for online applications
Case management and post-placement support
Level Up Academy
Skills Training for In-Demand Careers
Level UP Academy provides industry-recognized workforce training programs that connect participants to high-growth career pathways. Designed to meet local labor market demand, the Academy equips individuals with technical certifications, hands-on training, and employer connections that lead directly to employment opportunities.
Level UP focuses on practical skills, credential attainment, and career placement, creating direct pathways to economic mobility.
T R A I N I N G P A T H W A Y S
Phlebotomy Technician
Prepares participants for entry-level healthcare careers through clinical training and certification preparation.
Outcomes: Prepared to sit for certification exams and pursue employment in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities.
Google IT Support Certification
Provides industry-recognized credentials in troubleshooting, networking, system administration, and cybersecurity basics.
Outcomes: Earn a recognized credential and prepare for entry-level IT roles in help desk support, technical assistance, and related technology fields.
Construction
Equips participants with foundational building-trade skills, safety standards, and workforce readiness.
Outcomes: Prepared to enter apprenticeships, construction firms, or skilled trade roles with growth potential.
Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)
A free, year-long program designed to help individuals at risk for Type 2 diabetes build healthier lifestyle habits and reduce their risk of developing the disease.
Participants engage in weekly group sessions, receive guidance from a trained lifestyle coach, and work toward sustainable improvements in nutrition, physical activity, and overall wellness.
Program Highlights
Year-long lifestyle change program
Weekly group sessions with a trained lifestyle facilitator
Goal setting and accountability for healthy habits
Peer support and structured curriculum
And more