Project Ready
The Columbia Urban League enhances academic success and social skills development in preparing disadvantaged middle and high school students for post-secondary educational success through the Project Ready Program. Project Ready provides a holistic approach in strengthening the academic, personal and social needs of youth.
The Project Ready program uses an evidence-based, best practice curriculum, which integrates academic preparation for college along with 21st century skills development, social, global, and cultural awareness. Also, an essential component of this program is its collaboration with participants’ parents and caregivers. This program currently targets students ages 11-18, and works with students and their families to:
Increase high school graduation rates
Increase college awareness
Improve navigational and 21st century skills
Increase parental involvement with youth education/school administration
Decrease adjudication of youth in the criminal justice system
- Raise confidence and self-awareness around good decision making
Gain greater understanding and appreciation for one’s own cultural identity and diversity
Increase youth’s ability to enter the workforce prepared for entry level positions
Understand the correlation between post-secondary success and financial stability.
Project Ready assists in preventing negative outcomes associated with vulnerable youth who are at a higher risk of dropping out of school, entering the criminal justice system, and being chronically unemployed. Project Ready utilizes a development plan approach that focuses on strengthening the capacity of young people to successfully navigate the challenges of adolescence.
