From elementary-aged children to experienced residents, individuals from minority and low-income families are getting an opportunity to explore careers in the healthcare industry thanks to this program.

Founded by Dr. Renee Crichlow, The Ladder holds monthly sessions for children and young adults of all ages to explore and learn more about professions such as nurses, doctors and dentists. 

“We wanted to create a culture of support and mentorship and challenge,” Dr. Crichlow told the Star Tribune in an interview. “In order to become a physician, or be in health care, you have to have a level of resiliency to get through. We teach resiliency and we teach [handling] failure, because talent alone won’t get you anywhere.”