The City of Atlanta’s Department of Labor and Employment Services (ADOLES) has marked a transformative year of achievements, setting a strong foundation for workforce empowerment, youth engagement, and employee advocacy. Since its official launch in 2023, ADOLES, under the leadership of Commissioner John Flanagan, has made significant strides in advancing employment opportunities, expanding resources, and cultivating meaningful partnerships.

Aligned with Mayor Andre Dickens’ Moving Atlanta Forward agenda, ADOLES serves as a cornerstone of the city’s efforts to foster economic mobility, provide equitable training programs, and promote fair labor practices.

Major ADOLES 2024 Accomplishments:

• Empowered over 5,700 youth through the 2024 Summer Youth Employment Program, providing hands-on training, employment opportunities, and an average wage of $17.70/hour.

• Secured $7.6 million in local, state, and federal grants, complementing Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding allocations.

• Acquired strategic funding to expand opportunities for underserved populations:

• $486K grant from the Arthur M. Blank Foundation to train and employ justice-involved individuals aged 18-30 in the English Avenue and Vine City neighborhoods.

• $190K grant from the Annie E. Casey Foundation to help 18-24-year-old SYEP participants transition to permanent employment.

• Coordinated comprehensive training and employment services through Federal and Signature programs for more than 1,000 Atlanta residents.

• Facilitated employment for over 100 individuals through partnerships with Walmart and FEMA, earning an average wage of $22/hour.

• Introduced the Labor Rights Education Program (LREP) microgrant initiative, awarding $20K to Georgia Stand Up and Partnership for Southern Equity for labor education campaigns.

“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.”

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.”

With Flanagan transitioning from his current role to focus on family, the City welcomes Interim Commissioner Theresa Austin-Gibbons, who assumes leadership of ADOLES on December 18, 2024. Austin-Gibbons, who previously served as Deputy Commissioner of Signature Programs, spearheaded transformative initiatives, including Mayor Dickens’ Summer Youth Employment Program, which served over 11,000 youth since 2023.

“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.”

Austin-Gibbons will oversee a suite of programs aimed at workforce development, including Apprenticeship, Employment Services, Summer Youth Employment, and On-the-Job Training. She will also manage partnerships with businesses and unions to strengthen labor practices and support the city’s ambitious workforce agenda.

As the department transitions leadership, ADOLES remains steadfast in its mission to create economic opportunities, enhance career readiness, and foster a resilient workforce that drives Atlanta forward.