Frequently Asked Questions

About the Program

  • The Reengagement Center is a free resource hub for New Orleans youth ages 16-24, providing support in education, employment, mental health, and life skills development to help young people transition into adulthood.

  • REC offers support in financial independence, healthy life skills, and a holistic approach to overcoming obstacles such as self-doubt or depression. We provide tools to manage school, work, social relationships, and personal growth.

  • At the Reengagement Center we provide direct help, like connecting you with advisors or offering mental health support, and we also guide you to other organizations that offer the services you need, such as job training or school programs. We’re here to help you access the right resources to reach your goals and successfully transition into adulthood.

  • Wrap-around services are a comprehensive approach to support that addresses multiple aspects of a person's needs. At the Reengagement Center, this means we don’t just focus on one area like education or employment; instead, we provide or connect you with a range of services—including mental health support, basic needs assistance, and life skills development—to help you succeed in all areas of your life. We wrap around you with all the support you need to reach your goals.

  • Unlike programs that directly offer certificates, jobs, or licenses, REC refers participants to those opportunities and serves as a "counselor for adulthood," helping young people navigate their transition into adult life.

  • Yes, REC has a physical location:
    1840 Euterpe St
    New Orleans, LA 70113

Joining the Program

  • Yes, to join the program, you need to be between the ages of 16 and 24 to stay in the program, you need to remain engaged with your Transitional Advisor or Opportunity Youth Ambassador. If we don’t hear from you for 30 days, we’ll reach out. If there’s still no contact, you may be dismissed, but you can always rejoin later.

  • You can join by reaching out to an Opportunity Youth Ambassadors or filling out our REC Application Click Here.

  • Within 24 to 72 hours, an Opportunity Youth Ambassadors will contact you with information about your next steps in the program.

  • No, the program is completely FREE. We will never ask you for money, and all services are provided at no cost to you.

  • After you apply, you'll meet with an advisor to create a personalized plan and get connected with the resources you need. We'll provide ongoing support through regular check-ins and help you engage in programs that align with your goals.

  • Once you’re in the program, you can access it by contacting your Transitional Advisor or Opportunity Youth Ambassador. They are your go-to people for any help or support you need.

Program Information

  • The general ways REC assists with educational goals

    • Academic Guidance: Helping participants choose appropriate educational paths, whether that's continuing high school, enrolling in college, vocational training, or other educational programs.

    • Resource Provision: Connecting youth with tutoring services, study materials, and academic workshops to enhance their learning experience.

    • Enrollment Assistance: Assisting with the enrollment process for schools, colleges, or training programs, ensuring that participants have the necessary information and support.

    • Skill Development: Offering workshops or resources that build study skills, time management, and other competencies essential for academic success.

    • Overcoming Barriers: Providing support to address challenges such as learning difficulties, absenteeism, or other obstacles that might impede educational progress.

  • The general ways REC assists with employment goals

    • Career Guidance: Helping participants explore different career paths based on their interests, skills, and goals, whether they're looking for immediate employment or long-term career development.

    • Job Search Assistance: Providing support in searching for job opportunities, including access to job boards, networking events, and job fairs, tailored to the participant's needs and interests.

    • Resume and Interview Preparation: Offering workshops and one-on-one assistance with creating resumes, writing cover letters, and preparing for job interviews to ensure participants are ready to present themselves to potential employers.

    • Skill Development: Connecting participants with training programs, workshops, or certifications that enhance employability, such as computer skills, customer service, or trade-specific training.

    • Employment Placement: Working with local businesses and organizations to facilitate job placements, internships, or apprenticeships, helping participants gain practical experience and employment.

    • Overcoming Barriers: Assisting participants in addressing challenges that may hinder their ability to gain or maintain employment, such as transportation issues, lack of childcare, or other personal obstacles.

  • The general ways REC assists with mental health needs

    • Mental Health Counseling: Providing access to licensed counselors or therapists who can offer one-on-one support to address a variety of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma.

    • Emotional Wellness Programs: Offering workshops and group sessions focused on emotional wellness, coping strategies, mindfulness, and stress management to help participants build resilience and maintain mental well-being.

    • Crisis Intervention: Assisting participants during times of acute mental health crises by connecting them with immediate support, whether through in-house services or external emergency resources.

    • Referrals to Specialized Care: Connecting participants with specialized mental health services, such as psychiatrists or long-term therapy programs, when needed, to ensure they receive the comprehensive care required for their mental health journey.

    • Support Groups: Facilitating peer support groups where participants can share experiences, gain mutual support, and build a sense of community with others facing similar challenges.

    • Holistic Wellness Approach: Integrating mental health support with other areas of life, such as physical health, education, and employment, to provide a well-rounded approach to overall well-being.

  • OY Ambassadors, or Opportunity Youth Ambassadors, are individuals who represent the Reengagement Center in the community. They help connect young people to the center, guide them into the program, and serve as an initial point of contact for participants.

  • Transition Advisors at the Reengagement Center are like adult guidance counselors. They help you navigate your journey into adulthood by removing barriers, setting goals, and providing personalized support to help you succeed in all areas of your life. They work closely with you to ensure you have the tools and resources needed to reach your goals.

  • Yes, there are volunteer opportunities at the Reengagement Center. To volunteer, you can reach out to us directly through our social media. We offer various ways to get involved, from assisting with events to supporting our ongoing programs.