Fast Track to Jobs

A program for non-custodial, non-supporting fathers aged 16 – 21

Fast Track to Jobs is a joint effort between the Departments of Technical and Adult Education Special Workforce Services and Human Resources Office of Child Support Enforcement to serve non-custodial and non-supporting fathers between the ages of 16 and 21. Developed as an anti-gang deterrent, Fast Track to Jobs is a component of the Georgia Fatherhood Program and was established in July of 1998.

The six-week residential program of vocational exploration and summer work experience seeks to help participants develop self-esteem, responsibility, and self-respect. Participants are required to attend school, obtain a high school diploma or GED, and participate in parenting and money management classes. They also perform community service and cooperate with Child Support Enforcement.

The basic components of this progressive program include education, skill development, counseling, and a variety of therapeutic activities. By emphasizing team efforts and individual growth from interaction with peer residents, the program provides access to positive intervention and treatment efforts not previously accessible to the participants.

Of the 32 original participants of Fast Track, 29 successfully completed the program. Of that number:

12 enrolled in high school and will continue their high school education;
13 who have not completed high school are enrolled in or have applied to GED or Basic Education programs at technical schools;
7 who completed high school have enrolled as full-time students at technical institutes; and
2 received their GEDs.

The young fathers in this unique program have the opportunity to acknowledge paternity and to take care of their children. This gives them a sense of pride and self-respect. They also learn skills that help them become responsible and self-sufficient members of society.

For information contact:
Frank Bates, Director
Special Workforce Services
404-679-1698
fbates@dtae.org