Empowering Youth Through Time Management
Social Services Manager Miriam Kirby standing to the left and Social Work Specialist Candice Chavis seated to the right assisting Ladders Participants with Ice Breaker game on time management. Photo: Brent Bailey
By: Avé Mullen
ATLANTA, GA – The 3rd Ladders Soft Skills Workshop was held September 27th and centered on the crucial topic of time management.
Assistant Fulton County Solicitor General James White and Sekani Williams-Crawford, the Diversion Program Manager at Fulton County's Solicitor's office joined us. Their dedication to advocating for youth led them to actively participate in the workshop, engaging with our participants and forging valuable connections with the Georgia Public Defense Foundation.
It was inspiring to Ladders participants to have these esteemed guests who share our passion for the Ladders Program's mission.
These soft skills workshops play a vital role in the Ladders Program, a Georgia Public Defense Foundation leadership initiative providing education and resources to young individuals aged 16 to 24 as they transition from the justice system and reintegrate into the workforce. The Ladders Program’s mission is to empower these young people to make significant contributions in their professional and personal lives, bringing about an increase in reconnected families and a reduction in recidivism in the state of Georgia.
Assistant Fulton County Solicitor General James White and Sekani Williams-Crawford, Fulton Diversion Program Manager at Ladders Workshop. Photo: Brent Bailey
A standout moment of the workshop was the inspirational address by Samuel Sawyer. His remarkable life journey served as a powerful source of motivation for our participants. Mr. Sawyer's story highlighted the significance of making better life choices, embracing personal growth, and relentlessly pursuing one's dreams, even in the face of adversity.
Special guest speaker Samuel Sawyer, breaking down what it is like during 24 hours in prison. Photo: Avé Mullen
"The Ladders program is very much needed and informative. It's refreshing to see the judicial system considering ways other than incarceration," shared Mr. Sawyer, "The material was relevant as well as the topics of discussion. I'm glad to have been invited."
Mr. Sawyer's presentation emphasized the importance of time and the opportunity for its reclamation through improved time management. Drawing from his own experiences while incarcerated he initiated a program within the prison to help inmates prepare for education and successful reintegration into the workforce upon their release.
To drive home the concept of effective time utilization, participants engaged in an activity where they created timelines for different entrepreneurial endeavors. The exercise emphasized the essential role of planning and preparation in achieving a prosperous future.
Accepting Applications:
Applications for the 2023 -2024 Ladders Program are being accepted until October 31, 2023. Note: The Ladders Program participant age range has expanded from 17 to 24 to 16 to 24.
For information on how to apply, contact Jarelle Thompson, Client Services Specialist, at j.thompson@gapubdef.org or call (404) 596-8920, ext: 8480. To learn more about the Ladders Program or to partner in our mission, please visit our foundation's website at www.gapdf.org.
Upcoming Event:
The October 25th Ladders Program workshop focuses on Having a Growth Mindset.
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://www.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/.