Workforce and Development Programs

Turn your Central Ohio K-12 students’ potential into purpose.

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Exceptional Programs Lead The Way to Bright Futures

Lead The Way provides year-round youth development and workforce readiness programming designed to help students grow into their purpose.

“Lead The Way has been instrumental in providing opportunities to our students at New Albany High School. Through their programming, our students are earning 12-point credentials, career and college exploration support, apprenticeship opportunities, and most importantly, another supportive adult role model in their lives.”

—Christopher Stiel, Assistant Principal at New Albany HS

Our Youth Development Program Continuum

Each program is part of a larger continuum of support that removes barriers and guides young people toward meaningful opportunities.

  • Career Readiness

    Career success starts with preparation. Our Career Readiness programming helps students build workplace skills, explore career pathways, and develop the confidence to step into the future with direction.

    Register for Career Readiness

  • College Readiness

    For students pursuing higher education, we provide the planning, support, and exposure needed to navigate the road to college. This program helps students prepare for what comes after graduation with clarity and purpose.

    Register for College Readiness

  • Fourteen Elements

    Fourteen Elements is a holistic youth development program focused on building the personal, academic, and leadership foundations students need for long-term success. It supports skill development both in and beyond the classroom.

    Register for Fourteen Elements

  • Summer Programs

    Learning and growth don’t stop when school lets out. Lead The Way Summer Programs provide enrichment, career exposure, and structured support that keep students engaged, connected, and moving forward.

    Register for Summer Programs

  • Work Experience

    Work Experience programming connects students to real-world opportunities that build skills, responsibility, and confidence. Through hands-on learning and employer engagement, youth gain exposure to what meaningful work can look like.

    Register for Work Experience

  • Case Management

    Students thrive when they have consistent support. Case Management provides individualized guidance, goal-setting, and care coordination to help youth stay on track academically, personally, and professionally.

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  • Supportive Services

    Barriers shouldn’t determine outcomes. Supportive Services help students access essential resources (like transportation, supplies, and stability support) so they can stay focused on growth and opportunity.

    Request Support

  • Individual Training Accounts (ITAs)

    Individual Training Accounts help eligible participants access career-focused training and credential opportunities that lead to stronger job pathways and long-term workforce success.

    Learn About Training Support

  • In-School Programming

    Lead The Way partners directly with schools to provide consistent, relationship-based programming during the school day. Students receive academic enrichment, mentorship, and career development support where they already are.

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  • After-School Programming

    After-school hours are full of opportunity. Our After-School Programming offers structured enrichment, leadership development, and supportive guidance that help students stay engaged and growing beyond the classroom.

    Register for After-School Programs

  • ACT Strategies

    ACT Strategies provides targeted preparation and skill-building support to help students strengthen test readiness, confidence, and postsecondary options.

    Register for ACT Support

  • Follow-Up Services

    Success doesn’t end at program completion. Follow-Up Services provide continued support, accountability, and guidance as students transition into college, careers, training, or employment.

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Not Sure Where to Start?

Every student’s journey looks different. Our team is here to connect you with the right program and pathway.

Let’s Talk

“Lead The Way is helping me by sharing with me opportunities to do mechanical internships and get an understanding of what I will be doing as a mechanic once I graduate.”

—Calesha Clark, Student at The Charles School

Programming Frequently Asked Questions

  • Lead the Way serves youth in Franklin County and surrounding Central Ohio communities. Program eligibility varies by program, age/grade level, and partner school. Contact us to confirm fit and next steps.

  • You can start by clicking the “Register” button on the program you’re interested in. If you’re not sure which program is right, use the Contact form and select “Registering” to get routed to our team.

  • Programs may take place at partner schools, community sites, or event locations, depending on the program. Once you register or inquire, our team will share location details.

  • Some programs may be free to participants or supported through funding, while others may have eligibility requirements tied to grants or training funds. The fastest way to confirm is to contact our team.

  • That’s where our Case Management and Supportive Services come in. We help families identify needs and connect students with resources that remove barriers to participation and success.

  • Transportation support may be available through Supportive Services, depending on the program and eligibility. Contact us, and we’ll walk you through options.

Opportunity Is Closer Than You Think

Lead The Way is ready when you are.

Register Today