The Northwest Georgia Center for Independent Living (NW Ga. CIL) has introduced a new program called “Pathways to Partnerships” (P2P) aimed at helping students with disabilities develop skills for life after high school. This program is funded for five years through a grant from the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA). The main goal of P2P is to teach participants necessary skills to find jobs and gain independence.

The initiative is tailored to each student’s goals, helping them with job training or life skills. The program includes lessons on self-advocacy, communication, and personal interests related to future plans.

Currently, P2P is in action at the Roosevelt Warm Springs Center in Cave Spring and certain middle schools in Polk County, with plans to expand to the Bob Richards Youth Detention Center in Rome. Christina Holtzclaw, the Executive Director of NW Ga. CIL, hopes to extend the program across all 18 counties served by the center, which includes Chattooga County, and is focused on getting the program set up for those interested.

Holtzclaw has a personal connection to the program, having faced challenges in public schools as a child with a disability. She believes in the program’s importance for students seeking guidance. P2P is among several free services provided by NW Ga. CIL, which include advocacy, peer support, and skills training, all encouraging independent living for individuals with disabilities.

For more information about the Pathways to Partnerships program, visit nwga-cil.org.