“Getting Ahead” Class

The Compassion Center is hosting classes that are designed for individuals in generational or situational poverty who are ready to make life changes.

Rather than being a traditional class, “Getting Ahead” is a co-investigative process. Participants are treated as experts in their own experience and collaborate to explore systems and opportunities.

Schedule:

*Now accepting applications for our pilot class (dates/times below)

August 26th, 2025 - December 9th, 2025

Tuesdays Nights - 6:00pm to 8:30pm

*Childcare will be provided

**Meals provided to participant

***Transportation is not provided

More Details:

  • Group setting, typically 10 –12 participants (called investigators)

  • Facilitated over 14 sessions, often weekly for 2–3 hours each

  • Led by trained facilitators, often from similar backgrounds

Requirements:

  • Below the 200% Federal Poverty Rate

  • Must have reliable transportation

  • Commit to participate in ALL 14 sessions

What will I learn?

🔍 Understanding Poverty and Its Effects

  • How poverty affects decision-making, relationships, and daily life

  • The "hidden rules" of economic classes (poverty, middle class, wealth)

  • The impact of instability and how to build more stability

🧠 Self-Assessment and Self-Discovery

  • Exploring your own resources: financial, emotional, mental, physical, spiritual, support systems, etc.

  • Identifying personal strengths, goals, and areas for growth

  • Gaining insight into how your experiences shape your worldview

📊 Analyzing the Environment

  • How community, social services, schools, employers, and other institutions affect your progress

  • The barriers that exist (and how to navigate or overcome them)

  • Understanding how systems work — and how to build relationships with them

📈 Building a Future Story

  • Defining your long-term goals and dreams

  • Creating a personal plan for moving ahead (called your "Future Story")

  • Learning to set achievable goals and track progress

🤝 Building Social Capital

  • Strengthening communication and problem-solving skills

  • Connecting with others who are working toward the same goals

  • Learning how to work with allies and mentors

💬 Practical Tools and Planning

  • Budgeting and financial planning

  • Time management and organizing life

  • Career planning and educational pathways

✅ Outcomes You Can Expect

  • Increased confidence and sense of control over your life

  • A concrete plan tailored to your goals

  • A stronger support network

  • Greater awareness of the steps needed to escape instability and poverty

Ready to register for “Getting Ahead” class?

We are now taking applications for our New “Getting Ahead” class (Pilot)

Simply fill out an application to be considered for our next available class.

Once submitted, please allow 2-3 business days to process.

Want to submit an application via Fax?

Please print/complete the PDF application below and fax to: 404-474-0622.

*Attn: Getting Ahead Class