For Youth

Ericka Palmer is the Founder and Program Director of ReadySet Work (RSW): a workforce readiness and mentorship program based in Hampton Roads, Virginia. With over a decade of experience in youth development, crisis services, and community-based programming, Ericka created RSW to bridge the gap between the juvenile justice system and real-world opportunity. Under her leadership, ReadySet Work helps justice-involved youth ages 15–21 develop essential life and employment skills that lead to long-term success. Ericka’s work emphasizes accountability, confidence, and second chances , empowering young people to transition from supervision to stability through mentorship, career exploration, and hands-on job readiness training. A passionate advocate for equity and empowerment, Ericka also serves as a Mental Health and Community Programming Advisor, a Norfolk Virginia Health Planning 5 Local Human Rights Committee Member, where she serves on teams across her local region. Her work is rooted in empathy, structure, and creating systems that support both accountability and growth. Core Beliefs: Every young person deserves a fair shot at a fresh start. Preparation and mentorship are the foundation of opportunity. True community change begins when compassion meets structure. When Ericka isn’t leading RSW, she’s developing creative programs that combine education, entrepreneurship, and music to inspire the next generation of leaders.