PACT eligibility in Charlotte: what providers usually require

Charlotte business owners need skilled talent and neighbors want to see their communities thrive. Many people start by asking who can join PACT Pre-Apprenticeship.

GiveNGo does not run PACT or decide who is accepted. Partner providers set their own requirements. This guide explains what providers typically ask for so you can prepare, and how GiveNGo helps you find a fit.

Typical age bands

PACT pathways commonly separate participants into a youth track for ages 14 to 17 and an adult track for ages 18 and older. Keeping the groups distinct lets providers match training methods to each stage of life.

• The youth track serves ages 14 to 17, often Charlotte-Mecklenburg youth referred by schools, courts or community agencies.
• The adult track serves people 18 and older who want to explore the trades.

Education requirements

Many providers do not require a high school diploma for the youth track. Many youth participants are still in school, so activities are often scheduled around the CMS calendar. Adults without a diploma can often join an adult track, and providers can usually point you to GED resources.

Testing for high school equivalency in North Carolina has fees that depend on the exam. Check current prices with the testing provider because they change.

Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) offers high school equivalency preparation classes. Do not let missing paperwork stop you from asking questions.

Justice-involved applicants

PACT pathways are designed to serve returning citizens, people on probation and youth referred by the courts. Providers usually review eligibility case by case, looking at the specific offense, current conditions and future goals. A past record does not automatically rule someone out, but each provider decides for itself.

Our guide on PACT for justice-involved youth and returning citizens has more detail.

How referrals work

People usually reach PACT providers through four pathways:

• School counselors in CMS and neighboring districts.
• Probation officers and court staff.
• Workforce development agencies and youth-serving nonprofits.
• Self-referral. You can start by using our contact form.

It helps to have the name and phone number of your school counselor or probation officer ready. Referral partners who want to build a relationship with GiveNGo can reach out through the same form.

Parent or guardian role for youth

Providers typically ask a parent or guardian to co-sign for any participant under 18. Many programs also invite parents into a family-support component such as the Guiding Good Choices framework. Caregivers should bring their work schedules to the first meeting so everyone can plan around real life.

What the process usually looks like

Each provider runs its own intake. A common sequence is:

1. Reach out to the provider, or contact GiveNGo so we can help you find one.
2. Have an intake conversation about your goals and schedule.
3. Go through an eligibility review covering age, schedule and any probation conditions.
4. If accepted, attend orientation and start.

Timelines vary. Answer calls and check your spam folder, since missed messages are a common cause of delay.

Costs

Costs vary by provider. Some partner programs are tuition-free for eligible participants, funded through grants, sponsorships and workforce development dollars. Ask each provider what it charges and what help is available. Transportation can be a real cost, so ask about bus passes or other support.

Schedule realities

Youth programs often follow the Charlotte school calendar. CMS classes generally run from late August through early June. Adult programs often offer more flexible schedules for people who work. If you have court-ordered community service or probation meetings, bring those schedules to intake so the provider can plan around them.

How GiveNGo helps

GiveNGo does not run training. We connect people in Charlotte-Mecklenburg with partner training providers.

1. Tell us what you are looking for.
2. We match you with a partner provider that fits your schedule, eligibility and funding options.
3. You move forward with support from our team.

Get matched with a provider. Requirements, costs and start dates vary by provider, and we cannot promise acceptance, funding or placement.