The Getting Ahead program is a 14 week program where individuals explore the theory of change while investigating their lives and their community. Participants develop a plan to build a path out of poverty, after exploring the mental models of economic class. Individuals must commit to attending the 2-hour classes and are provided with a $25 gift certificate for each class as a way to recognize participants for their engagement and work in their individual and community investigation. For each class transportation, dinner, and child care are provided. The class is free.
A national study has validated the effectiveness of the Getting Ahead program for participants from poverty. The study found that as a result of the program, participants felt empowered to overcome the obstacles that kept them from moving out of poverty.