About Us

Economic marginalization, low-incomes, high unemployment, limited educational attainment, limited English proficiency, and inadequate basic skills are all barriers to the pursuit of higher education for too many in Gary and East Chicago Indiana. However, these problems are not insurmountable. Our programs are designed to include proactive case management and a strong focus on skills remediation to mitigate the challenges associated with disadvantaged backgrounds.

Growing up, Gary Indiana was a community that did not provide much college and career supports. Many young people had no plans for their future, they were just surviving.  I saw many neighbors lose their lives, go to jail or miss the opportunity to maximize their potential because they did not have a vision or the resources to achieve something greater. There was a college and career equity issue then and  it still remains today.  There is more to be done in terms of college and career exposure and dedicated hands-on support for success. 

Coates Inc is on the case! Our approach includes: college and career readiness, active engagement and community partnerships, social-emotional learning, and exploration of equity and participation.