Our Impact
From Participation to Progress
TAP measures impact through the changes residents experience — not simply the number of activities offered. Across our work, we track case-management engagement, employment and retention, workforce training, youth participation and academic progress, health and wellness connections, supportive-service referrals, and the strength of the partnerships that make those outcomes possible.
Our HUD-funded Choice Neighborhoods work in Birmingham and Baton Rouge provides a strong demonstration of this approach. The measures below are selected, verified outcomes from specific reporting years. They should be displayed with the year and project identified so visitors can understand the context behind each result.
Stories of Opportunity
TAP’s strongest story is not simply that a service was offered—it is what became possible because a resident had access to support, exposure, relationships, or opportunity.
“Through The Ascent Project’s Smithfield Works program, I gained preparation, encouragement, and support to take the next step toward employment. I then participated in the Goodwill cohort and attended a job fair, where I was hired on the spot by Goodwill Warehouse.
Having my own income has given me hope and a fresh start. I’m now working toward greater independence, including a home and reliable transportation of my own.
I’m grateful that TAP believed in me and connected me with opportunities to move forward. Their support has made a meaningful difference in my life and my future.”
Selected outcomes
Birmingham — Smithfield, College Hills & Graymont
88.5% employment retention — 46 of 52 residents maintained employment for 6+ months (2025)
of target youth participated in positive youth development (2025)
of measured residents had health insurance (2025)
of measured residents had a regular source of healthcare (2025)
Selected outcomes
Baton Rouge — Ardenwood Village / Cypress at Ardendale
of target youth engaged in positive youth development (2024)
of residents in an on-site workforce training cohort obtained employment — 10 of 10 (2023)
of students performing at or above grade level in mathematics (2024)
of students at or above grade level in reading/language arts (2024)
What the Numbers Show
Across both CNI communities, TAP’s impact is visible in four consistent areas: sustained resident relationships through case management; employment and workforce advancement; educational and youth opportunity; and strong referral networks that connect households to health, food, housing, senior, and family supports.