The GradUS Project

Gradus means ‘another step’ in Latin and The GradUS Project led by Survivor in Chief, Dr. Penny Mickey provides transitional employment, job placement assistance and domestic violence prevention services to the Greater Memphis and Mississippi Delta area.  Additionally, The GradUS Project has expanded to serve Autistic Youth and seeks to support special populations with transitional employment.  The mission is to deploy workforce innovations to help special populations take another step toward economic mobility.

This program is completely FREE and valued at $3,500 per participant.

The program requirement is that all participants are domestic violence survivors at any stage in their journey and have a GED or high school diploma.  Individuals with justice involved backgrounds are welcome. 

Our Signature program is called, Project E.A.T. (Earn/Assistance/Training)

Project E.A.T. is a 60 day program specifically designed for domestic violence survivors to gain economic mobility.  The 60 day program’s benefits include:

Earn - participants will receive a cash stipend for a transitional work experience in  a gourmet popcorn factory.

Assistance - participants will receive support to find a job paying at least $17 per hour with benefits.  Assistance with transportation, child care and other emergencies are available.

Training - participants will complete one or more industry certifications in manufacturing safety or sanitation.

Apply to be in the next Project E.A.T. Class Here!

Check out The GradUS Project in the NEWS!

Thank you to our funders:

  • Community Lift Foundation

  • Delta Regional Authority

  • Women’s Foundation of Mississippi