The GEAR Program

GEAR Programs

• GEAR Youth and Young Adult (Ages 14-24)
  • This program empowers youth and young adults to unlock their full potential through education, training, and career opportunities. Participants receive guidance, mentoring, and financial assistance to pursue high school completion, postsecondary education, or hands-on training that leads to meaningful employment.
  • To be eligible for the WIOA Youth program an individual must meet the following specifications:
    • Out-of-School Youth (OSY) individuals who are:
      • Not attending any school (as defined under State law);
      • Not younger than age 16 or older than age 24; and
      • One or more of the following:
        • A school dropout: Age 18+, or 16+ with parental consent;
        • A youth who is within the age of compulsory school attendance, but has not attended school for at least the most recent complete school year calendar quarter;
        • A recipient of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent who is a low-income individual and is–
          • basic skills deficient; or
          • an English language learner.
        • An individual who is subject to the juvenile or adult justice system;
        • A homeless or runaway youth;
        • A current/prior foster youth;
        • An individual who is pregnant or parenting;
        • A youth who is an individual with a disability;
        • A low-income individual who requires additional assistance to enter or complete an educational program or to secure or hold employment.
          
          
    • In-School Youth (ISY) individuals who are:
      • Attending school (as defined by State law);
      • Not younger than age 14 or (unless an individual with a disability who is attending school under State law) older than age 21;
      • A low-income individual; and
      • One or more of the following:
        • Basic skills deficient;
        • An English language learner;
        • An offender;
        • A homeless, runaway, or current/prior foster youth;
        • Pregnant or parenting;
        • A youth who is an individual with a disability;
        • An individual who requires additional assistance to complete an educational program or to secure or hold employment.
          
           
• GEAR Adult
  • This program offers access to training funds, job placement assistance, and personalized career planning for individuals seeking to improve their skills, earn credentials, or transition into higher-wage employment opportunities.
    • Eligibility info coming soon.
      
       
• GEAR Dislocated Worker
  • This program helps individuals re-enter the workforce after job loss or layoff. Participants receive one-on-one career coaching, training assistance, and job placement support to help them regain financial stability and re-establish their careers in high-demand industries.
    • Eligibility info coming soon.