Programs in New Orleans

What's out there for you

Career training, education pathways, mental health support, mentorship, and wrap-around services. All free. Pick what fits.

Career TrainingFREE

Building Trades Training (Electrical, Welding, HVAC)

New Orleans Career Center · Ages 17–24

Hands-on training that leads to industry-recognized credentials and direct placement into high-wage construction & infrastructure jobs.

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Career TrainingFREE

Healthcare Careers (EMT, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Tech)

New Orleans Career Center · Ages 17–24

Industry-based healthcare training with credentialing, clinical hours, and job placement assistance.

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EducationFREE

Re-Engagement Center

NOYA · Ages 16–24

Walk-in hub that helps reconnect youth to school, GED, training, and work — with 18 partner organizations under one roof.

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EducationFREE

GED / HiSET Prep

YEP, Delgado, NOPL partners · Ages 16–24

High school equivalency prep classes across the city, with childcare and transit support available.

Career TrainingFREE

Opportunity Works

EMPLOY / partners · Ages 16–24

Bridge program connecting HiSET completers to post-secondary pathways and employment.

Mental HealthSliding scale / FREE

Youth Mental Health Counseling

Children's Bureau of New Orleans · Ages 0–24

Trauma-informed therapy, group support, and case management for young people and families.

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MentorshipFREE

LOYAL Mentorship

LOYAL · Ages 14–24

Pairs young people with consistent, trained mentors for academic, career, and life guidance.

Wrap-AroundFREE

Opportunity Pass

City of New Orleans / RTA · Ages 16–24

Free unlimited RTA bus + streetcar pass. Sign up at any New Orleans Public Library with proof of age.

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Career TrainingFREE (paid fellowships)

LEDE New Orleans

LEDE · Ages 18–25

Journalism and storytelling training for young creatives from underrepresented communities.

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Wrap-AroundFREE

SNAP Employment & Training

Statewide / NOLA partners · Ages 16+

Funded support for childcare, transportation, books, uniforms, and certification fees while in training.

Frequently asked

Is everything really free?: Yes. Programs listed here are free to participants. A few have sliding-scale fees, which is noted on the card.
Do I need to have finished high school?: No. Many programs are designed specifically for young people who are out of school — including GED/HiSET prep and the Re-Engagement Center.
I have a job already / kids / no transportation. Can I still join?: Yes. Schedules are flexible, and SNAP E&T plus the Opportunity Pass exist specifically to remove childcare and transportation barriers.
How do I get started?: The fastest door is the Re-Engagement Center (NOYA) or NOCC. Or just chat with the youth guide on this site and we will route you.

Not sure where to start?

Chat with a guide