New Opportunity for Young Adults: ION Program Now Enrolling (Class Starts January 12, 2026)


Young adults in Shelby County now have access to a powerful new career pathway through the ACTS Career Center’s Increasing Opportunities Now (ION) Program. This newly funded initiative is designed to support individuals ages 18–24 who are ready to build a stable future and need the right tools, guidance, and support to get there.

The ION Program focuses on helping participants overcome barriers to employment by offering a comprehensive, supportive approach to career readiness and long-term success.

What the ION Program Offers

Participants in the ION Program will receive:

  • Soft skills training (communication, professionalism, workplace readiness)

  • Financial literacy education

  • Career training and coaching

  • Monetary incentives for completing program milestones

  • Job placement assistance upon successful completion

This program is intentionally structured to meet participants where they are and help them move forward with confidence.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the ION Program, participants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Be a Shelby County resident

  2. Be 18–24 years old

  3. Be justice-involved and/or did not finish high school

How to Get Started

Interested individuals or referral partners can begin the process by completing the ION Program referral form below. Once submitted, a member of the ION team will follow up directly.

👉 ION Program Referral Link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfXn0xSvWFewodJMRULDXArLEO8U0EtbWUmpod534qidBUxtQ/viewform?usp=dialog

Questions or Need More Information?

For additional details, contact the ION Program recruiter:

Mr. Brandon Cox
📧 brandon@actscareercenter.org