Take the first step toward your new career.
Getting Started
STEP 1
Apply
All of our wins in life come as a result of taking that first step. We’d love to have you take that first step by applying below. We’re excited to hear what dreams and hopes you want to achieve, and how we can serve and support you to that end.
STEP 2
Assess
Once we receive your application, we’ll send you a reading and math assessment, and schedule a time with you for us to review your application together and answer any other questions you may have.
STEP 3
Accept
If after our meeting, you fit our criteria and eligibility markers for admission, there’s room in our next cohort, and you want to move forward with Advance, we’ll complete a background check, and you’ll receive more resources and instructions, ensuring it’s a smooth start in your journey to success.
The journey is just beginning.
Here’s what you can expect next…
Personal Development [6 weeks]
Participate in a 6-week soft skills training that we call the Advance Louisville Institute. Learn from local professionals and Advance Louisville staff on topics such as relational dynamics, conflict resolution, interviewing skills, and upward mobility.
Skills Training [up to 4 months]
Begin pursuing industry-standard certification that will allow you to begin your career as a Certified Nursing Assistant, Clinical Medical Assistant, Medical Office Administrative Assistant, Microsoft Office Specialist, Trades Apprentice, Commercial Truck Driver, and more.
Career Launch [as soon as you’re ready]
You’ve proven that you have what it takes, and we will come alongside you to help you secure interviews with our Employer Partners. You will begin the interview process, and it won’t be long before you secure a position in your new career.
Which brings us to the final phase of…
Celebrating YOU!
Eligibility & FAQs
Who is eligible for Advance Louisville?
- 18-59 years old
- Have legal work status
- Have GED or High School Diploma
- Not be receiving SSI/SSDI government benefits
- Have access to reliable childcare, transportation, and housing
- Not be currently experiencing homelessness
- Live within a 1 hour commute of campus
- Not have a current open legal case that could result in jail time and/or interfere with class participation
- Not be applying for the same class start date as a spouse, parent, sibling, or child
- Be willing and able to work full-time upon program completion
What are you looking for in applicants?
We are looking for candidates who display determination, motivation and excitement for the program, desire to set personal and professional goals, and demonstrate a basic knowledge/understanding of the program.
Can I work during the program?
Yes, many work part time or even full time while in our program. You just need to be at all our classes 9am – 1pm Mon-Thu.
Do you offer childcare?
We don’t offer childcare during our classes M-Thu, but will provide childcare for our Family Gathering hosted on Thursday’s 6-8pm.
What’s your drug policy?
If you test positive for THC that will NOT disqualify you, but to become employable with certain employers, you may need to stop using and agree to regular testing while a part of Advance.
What felonies would keep me from being accepted?
Currently, the only felony that would exclude someone is a sex offense, due to our children and family activities. However, depending on the nature of your felony, it may exclude you from some (but not all) tracks we provide. We’re happy to discuss all of this at the time of application.
Do students need to pay anything back?
No! Our stipends are our gift to you. We want to see you succeed!
What is the turnaround time between application and acceptance?
Our desire is that you would know if you’re accepted approximately 2 weeks after your application is submitted.
What days and times are classes? Are they hosted onsite or online?
Our classes are onsite Monday through Thursday 9am – 1pm for 6 weeks. Once you enter your certification phase, depending on the track you choose, there will be a combination of onsite and offsite training options.
What is Family Gathering and when is it?
Our Family Gatherings are every other Thursday 6-8pm, giving our classes the opportunity to get together for dinner and community building.
Do I have to pay for my certification? What certifications are available to pursue?
This is zero cost to you! We will be providing various tracks for you to acquire industry standard certifications and pre apprenticeship options in the areas of medical, office administration, trades/manufacturing, and truck driving.
How much is the stipend and how often is it paid out?
Participants can earn up to $50 a week over the course of 6 months along with a $600 graduation bonus. Stipends are paid out every two weeks.
Who are “Leaders”?
We call our students/participants Leaders from day one. You have gifts, passions, skills, and amazing potential to lead the change that’s about to happen in your life.
Who are Coaches and how often do we meet?
Coaches are invested in seeing you succeed. Our coaches will check in with you weekly, along with an extended monthly meeting.
Who are “Allies”?
Allies are community volunteers who add another layer of resources and support in your journey. You’ll engage with them mostly at our Family Gatherings.
What are graduation requirements?
In order to graduate, leaders must be employed in the area of their newly acquired certification.
Does Advance Louisville find a job for me?
We’re actively building employer networks, and will help connect you as best we can, but ultimately it is up to the Leader to look for, apply for, and land their new career.
What are reasons some cannot complete the program?
The main reason people may not be able to complete the program is because of life changing circumstances that no longer allow them to be consistent with their attendance.
What do you think?
Are you ready to put in some hard work and see some payoff?
Reach out to info@advancelouisville.org to learn more and get started!