Atlanta, Georgia – Under Commissioner John Flanagan’s direction, the Department of Labor and Employment Services (ADOLES) of the City of Atlanta has had a historic year reaching remarkable milestones. The department has been instrumental in carrying out Mayor Andre Dickens’ “Moving Atlanta Forward” agenda, which focuses on improving economic mobility and fair labor standards all around the city since its inception in 2023.
Using its Summer Youth Employment Program, ADOLES has effectively empowered more than 5,700 young people across 2024. Paying an average rate of $17.70 per hour, this program gave young participants necessary practical training and job possibilities. ADOLES also obtained significant $7.6 million in combined local, state, and federal awards, therefore augmenting resources beyond the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
A considerable amount of these funds went toward giving historically underprivileged areas greater opportunities. Specifically, ADOLES got a $486,000 grant from the Arthur M. Blank Foundation meant for training and employment of young people aged 18 to 30 from the English Avenue and Vine City areas who have criminal records. To help participants from the summer program aged 18 to 24 move into permanent employment, another $190,000 grant from the Annie E. Casey Foundation was set aside.
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Through several federal and signature programs, the department has also excelled in offering thorough training and employment opportunities for over 1,000 Atlanta residents. Through smart alliances with organizations such as Walmart and FEMA, ADOLES has enabled employment for more than 100 people, with average hourly pay of $22.
Including a microgrant component, one of the new projects unveiled this year was the Labor Rights Education Program (LREP). Through this program, ADOLES provided $20,000 to groups like Georgia Stand Up and the Partnership for Southern Equity to support labor education initiatives.
“Leading ADOLES has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Commissioner John Flanagan. “Together, we have redefined what is possible for workforce development in Atlanta. From creating pathways to financial mobility to expanding opportunities for youth, we have laid the groundwork for a more inclusive and prosperous future. I am deeply proud of what we’ve achieved and excited to see the department continue to grow under new leadership.”
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Mayor Dickens applauded Flanagan’s contribution to the City. “Commissioner John Flanagan has transformed ADOLES into a powerhouse for workforce innovation,” said Mayor Dickens. “His leadership has elevated opportunities for Atlanta’s youth, expanded access to resources for underserved communities, and redefined how our city addresses economic mobility. His dedication leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to impact our residents for years to come.”
The City of Atlanta welcomes Theresa Austin-Gibbons as the temporary Commissioner while Commissioner Flanagan steps down to concentrate on personal matters. Austin-Gibbons, who previously served as Deputy Commissioner of Signature Programs, has been a driving force behind several transformative initiatives, including the expansion of the Summer Youth Employment Program, which has served over 11,000 youths since its launch.
“With decades of experience and a proven track record of innovation, Theresa Austin-Gibbons is the right leader to continue the department’s forward momentum,” said Mayor Dickens. “Her leadership will ensure that Atlantans of all ages and backgrounds have access to the resources, training, and opportunities they need to succeed.”
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ADOLES under Austin-Gibbons will keep running and growing its wide range of initiatives targeted at workforce development. The department remains dedicated to provide economic possibilities, improve job preparedness, and build a strong workforce to drive Atlanta toward a bright future.
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