The Georgia Public Defense Foundation (GPDF) Solidifies Partnership to Reduce Recidivism
The Georgia Public Defense Foundation (GPDF) has entered into an agreement with the Fulton County Office of the Solicitor-General (FCSG) to reduce recidivism in Fulton County through the LADDERS education and training program.
GPDF Executive Director Omotayo Alli and Fulton County Solicitor Keith Gammage signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on March 9, 20232 during a formal ceremony and record restriction celebration at Atlanta Technical College.
LADDERS is a pilot leadership development initiative of GPDF that provides transformational education and resources for individuals exiting the criminal justice system. This program uniquely combines case management and soft skills training with a vocational certification through a partnership with Atlanta Technical College (ATC). Fulton County Solicitor’s Office will serve as an official referral partner for the LADDERS program.
The partnership between GPDF and FCSG will steer eligible participants toward obtaining an educational certification rather than a mark on their record. Participants from FCSG who complete the LADDERS program will receive a record restriction of their current charges when applicable, allowing them to move forward with a clean slate.
During the ceremony, Solicitor Gammage presented four LADDERS participants with their formal record restriction on their successful program completion.
Last year, GPDF formed a partnership with ATC to serve as an educational partner for the LADDERS program. Through this collaboration, program participants are eligible to obtain a GED and vocational certification, vastly increasing their job prospects and reducing their chances of recidivating through the system.
“Atlanta Technical College is excited to serve as the training partner for the LADDERS program,” said Dr. Victoria Seals, President of Atlanta Technical College. “As the GPDC works to provide second chances, we know that economic mobility is a critical component to ensuring success. Our intentional engagement will allow participants to thrive in their new opportunities.”
This partnership will serve as a model for uplifting indigent individuals involved with the criminal justice system throughout Georgia.
Other participants in the ceremony included Fulton County Commissioner Natalie Hall, Atlanta City Councilman Antonio Lewis, entertainer, community activist and GPDF board chair, Michael “Killer Mike” Render, and Fulton County Public Defender Maurice G. Kenner.