Breaking Barriers: The Georgia Public Defense Foundation’s Ladders Program Graduates First Participants
ATLANTA, GA – The Georgia Public Defense Foundation's Ladders Program marked a significant milestone as nine graduates donned their caps and gowns at the Villages at Carver Family YMCA in Atlanta, GA. The inaugural graduates demonstrated resilience and determination by overcoming challenges within the criminal justice system and successfully completing the rigorous 12-month program.
"This program has instilled in me the ability to reflect on my choices before making life-altering decisions. It has provided me with a guiding compass, steering me away from regrettable choices and propelling me towards a future filled with promise,” said Ladders graduate Rashida Dennis.
(Left to Right) Miriam Kirby, Social Services Manager; Rashida Dennis, Ladders Program Graduate; Omotayo Alli, Executive Director of the Georgia Public Defender Council; Dr. Victoria Seals, President of Atlanta Technical College
The Ladders Program provides educational and community support to individuals aged 17-24 who have prior involvement in Georgia's criminal justice system. The program utilizes a holistic approach, combining soft skills training, career development, and intensive case management services to prepare participants for the workforce – at no cost.
Special guests at the graduation included Dr. Victoria Seals, President of Atlanta Technical College as well as officials from the Department of Community Supervision, Fulton County's Solicitor General's Office, and the U.S. Department of Energy.
The nine Ladders graduates leave behind an inspiring legacy of hope and inspiration for future students. They will continue pursuing their GED and/or a vocational certificates, in courses such as business management, computer concepts, forensic science, and phlebotomy technician. Additionally, several graduates will become mentors for the second group of Ladders Program participants.
Commending the graduates' ambition, Miriam Kirby, GPDC Social Services Manager, said, “You’ve demonstrated a thirst for improving your life circumstances and allowed us to guide you. We are immensely grateful for your faith in us."
Omotayo Alli, Executive Director of the Georgia Public Defender Council, concluded the on Saturday, June 24th ceremony with an empowering affirmation.
“Today’s event underscores the belief that our past choices do not define us and that a better, brighter future is always attainable,” Alli said. “The unwavering commitment and enthusiasm of the inaugural cohort will pave the way for continued transformative success for years to come,” she said.The Ladders Program is set to welcome its second group of students in July, with vocational studies beginning in January 2024.
The Georgia Public Defender Council
The Georgia Public Defender Council (GPDC) is an independent state agency within the Executive Branch of the State of Georgia responsible for representing approximately 85 percent of all criminally accused persons. GPDC public defenders work tirelessly to provide zealous, effective, and timely legal counsel to all in the care of GPDC. More at https://gapubdef.org.
The Georgia Public Defense Foundation
The Georgia Public Defense Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit that supports the efforts of Public Defenders across the state. It provides comprehensive social services and development programs to assist defendants exiting the justice system. Learn more about the Georgia Public Defense Foundation at https://www.gapdf.org/.
