“When I started classes at Fortune, I wasn’t even sure I could pass my GED exam – much less get into college. I hadn’t been to school in 15 years. But my teachers challenged me to apply, and I ended up getting a scholarship to attend LaGuardia Community College. I actually just got my first A+ on an exam!

The Fortune Society believed in me when I needed it the most, and I can honestly say that I’m a changed man as a result. I just celebrated three years clean and sober, I’m on my way to getting a business degree, and – most importantly – I’m now the kind of father who my daughters can yell from the rooftops, ‘that’s my dad!’” –Francisco G., former Fortune client

The Fortune Society’s Education program opens doors by empowering clients to achieve personal and professional goals that might include earning a GED, attending college, or simply becoming more prepared to enter a tough job market.

Our dedicated team of staff and volunteer teachers creates a comfortable and challenging educational environment where students feel respected as equals and have a say in what they are learning.  In addition, our small class size allows each individual to progress at his or her own pace.  Classes run for three-month cycles, and students are welcome to stay in our program as long as they like. Our young adult classes include career exploration and work experience opportunities as well. By using a variety of activities and approaches that include the use of music, film, video, class trips and technology, we are able help each student make the most of his or her learning experience.

FORTUNE’S EDUCATION PROGRAM INCLUDES:

• Reading and writing classes: We offer a range of reading and writing classes, from basic literacy classes through GED preparation. We also offer one-on-one tutoring for some of our beginning students and students who need help in specific subject areas.
• Math classes: Our classes in math also range from Adult Basic Education to GED-Preparation levels, and cover a broad range of topics that include arithmetic, fractions, percents and decimals, algebra and geometry.
• Computer classes: Our state-of-the-art computer lab offers beginning computer classes on a wide variety of topics, including: beginners basics, administrative skills needed for office positions, and media production.
• Young adult literacy/GED prep: We offer several classes for young adults that combine the services above with career exploration, group projects, and work experience. Designed to provide an intensive experience, with high expectations and a lot of support, these classes give young students a chance to progress quickly, develop team building skills, and begin to explore the world of work.

The College Initiative Program: When students earn their GED and express a desire to go to college, we will refer them immediately to the College Initiative, an organization whose offices are located in our education space, for a consultation. The College Initiative (CI) is a non-profit reentry education program open to all men and women in the New York City metropolitan area who want to begin or continue their higher education after release from prison or jail; during probation or parole; or while fulfilling alternative-to-incarceration commitments.  CI’s free services include one-on-one guidance counseling; help with financial aid and college applications; preparation for entrance examinations; textbook stipends and on-going support and mentoring. To learn more, please click here.