The AHA/Catalyst Program is a work-transition initiative designed to assist public housing residents become self-sufficient. Adults between the ages of 18 to 61, who are receiving Atlanta Public housing assistance and are not disabled or caring for a family member who is disabled, are required to engage in at least 30 hours of employment, educational, and /or job training that leads to fulltime employment, in order to retain their housing benefits.

AWDA has partnered with the Atlanta Housing Authority to offer residents not in compliance, the opportunity to access the services and training needed to gain and maintain their housing assistance. After assessing the basic skill levels of non-compliant Atlanta Housing residents, AWDA staff members provide these customers with resume writing assistance, job readiness training, GED Prep, skill training, computer literacy classes, and employment referrals.

Marvin Nesbitt, Director of Resident Programs & Services for Atlanta Housing
Authority, and Huxie Wilkins, Manager of Special Programs for Atlanta
Workforce Development Agency, register AHA customers for AWDA employment and training services. AWDA Executive Director Deborah Lum, Sedarius Beck.