THE
OPPORTUNITY
PROJECT
The Opportunity Project (TOP) is a three-week, work-readiness program that helps young people across Duval County understand and maximize their opportunities beyond school—and see and achieve their full potential.
The face-to-face program is designed specifically for disengaged young adults aged 16–21, with a particular focus on those who have experienced foster care or involvement in the juvenile justice system.
As a work readiness program, TOP not only equips students with essential professional skills—such as communication, interview techniques, and networking—but also helps them build confidence, recognize their transferable strengths, and cultivate ambition toward high-skill, high-wage career pathways in Jacksonville. Participants leave the program with a polished resume and LinkedIn profile, ready to share with potential employers.
We’re proud to have an 82% positive outcome rate, with students going on to complete their GED, secure employment, or begin college. Above all, TOP fosters trust in the wider community and empowers our students to become contributing members of society.
- Three-week, face-to-face career exploration program designed to support young adults aged 16–21 with a particular focus on those who have experienced foster care or involvement in the juvenile justice system.
- Small cohorts explore individuals’ aspirations and opportunities beyond school and help them to see and achieve their potential
- Equips students with essential life and professional skills such as communication, interview techniques, and networking
- Connects students with professionals in the community who share their own career journey
- Builds confidence and cultivates ambition toward high-skill, high-wage career pathways in Jacksonville.
UPCOMING
COHORT DATES:
We work in partnership with local employers to support us in sharing local opportunities, delivering key skills sessions, and helping students succeed in the world of work and start a meaningful career in Jacksonville.
The program is delivered face-to-face by qualified facilitators and will be a mixture of life skills, technical learning, and professional development.
During the program, each student will work to:
- Understand themselves and their skills
- Learn the way to behave and succeed in a professional environment
- See the range of opportunities for rewarding careers across Jacksonville
Positive destinations at the end of the program would be:
To complete a GED or high school eduaction
To enroll in a post-secondary program (trade school or college)
To be invited to an interview with a local employer
To start an internship
To start a career or apprenticeship with a local employer.
To offer your services or find out more, please email kate@jaxtpa.org and we can work out a time that works for you.
Who Are The Students?
The students in the program will be between 16-23 years old.
All students must live in Duval County and most of them are known and supported by Family Support services, or the DJJ either as foster kids or economically disadvantaged young people.
Each cohort will serve 10 students and we aim to have 5 cohorts each year.
The students will have different educational backgrounds and we will work with each of them to better understand their transferable skills, find their voice and unlock their potential.
We are actively seeking to engage young people from under served communities, including but not limited to Black, Latinx, and other marginalized groups.
How Can You Be Involved?
Why Collaborate With Us?
Collaborating with us on The Opportunity Project lets employers engage directly with local young people—showcasing company culture, offering practical guidance, and inspiring tomorrow’s talent.
In return, employers help shape future professionals, forge meaningful community connections, and spot potential recruits whose values align with their own.
