Delta supports homeless youth through career readiness program

Policy

Jim Davis, Vice President - Airport Operations - International | Delta Air Lines

By Sky Industry News

Dec 10, 2024

The annual Sleep Out event organized by Delta Air Lines took place on November 14, with over 200 volunteers and their families participating to raise awareness and funds for homeless youth during Youth Homelessness Awareness Month. The event was held at G.O. and LGA, marking its fifth year. Similar events have been conducted in various locations including Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, and Los Angeles.

During the Sleep Out, participants listened to stories from Covenant House alumni and Dr. Alie “Dr. A” Redd, Executive Director of Covenant House Georgia. Dr. Redd discussed a new strategic plan aimed at providing direct care to homeless youth while also introducing prevention and aftercare programs.

Homelessness among young people remains a significant issue in the United States, affecting more than 4 million individuals aged 13-25 annually. Vulnerable groups such as LGBTQ+ youth, people of color, and pregnant or parenting youth are disproportionately affected. Many of these youths are survivors of child abuse or have aged out of foster care.

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Delta's support for Covenant House extends beyond providing safety and shelter; it includes education, workforce development, art therapy, music therapy, and health care services.

The Delta Career Readiness Program (DCRP) is a key component of Delta's collaboration with Covenant House over the past 12 years. Initially launched in Atlanta with a few dedicated employees, the program has expanded to New York City. It offers job training and mentorship opportunities for Covenant House residents interested in airline careers.

Participants undergo six weeks of job training under the guidance of Delta employees who act as mentors. At the end of this period, they can apply for positions at Delta or its business partners. Although there is no guarantee of employment upon completion, receiving a job offer is considered a significant achievement.

A notable success story from the DCRP is Cheyenne Bunch, a former resident of Covenant House New York who became a Delta Air Lines flight attendant in June 2023 after completing her training with encouragement from Sr. HR Manager Greta Boggan and mentorship from IFS Health and Safety Specialist Keisha “Kiki” Christie and Flight Attendant Gregory Howard.

“This is life-changing work,” said Greta Boggan about the program’s impact on participants' lives. “The world opens up [for youth] because they become part of Delta.”

Dr. Alie Redd emphasized that opportunities provided by Delta contribute to "an opportunity to affect generational change."

As fundraising efforts continue through the end of the year, Delta teams have already raised over $316,000 for Covenant House.