Southwest Georgia agency offers free GED classes

ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - As employers struggle to fill jobs, a Southwest Georgia agency is helping workers gain more skills to get hired.

“I oftentimes tell the youth that come in, if you could find something that you love that you could do without getting paid for it, that may be your passion. We provide clothing for them if they need something as far as business attire. We also help them to reach and obtain their levels,“ said Takia Staton, Program Manager for Eckerd Connects Paxen.

The program, funded by Worksource Georgia, was designed to help young people find their passion.

It is a free GED program for adults ages 16-24.

Quevon Davis, 21, is currently going through the program to develop new skills. He is taking the first steps toward furthering his career and he believes this will be a boost to his confidence.

“Well I needed my GED and I’m trying to do better in life so I need it. I know I’ll feel better about myself once I get my GED and I feel like I can do more in life,” Davis said.

As employers struggle to fill jobs, the agency says its goal is to help workers become more marketable and to get them hired.

“There are so many jobs available. Employers are short-staffed everywhere you go. If you will pay attention you will see a now hiring sign. Because employers are in desperate dire need of employees. So right now we need to make sure that we are helping our employers. We are helping them to be able to find employees that meet their needs,” said Carley Huguley, State Director for Eckerd Connects Paxen.

The agency serves seven counties in Southwest Georgia and pays participants weekly incentives to get their GED.

If you’d like to learn more about it, you can call (229) 405-8209.

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