New Strategic Leadership Roles to Support STRIVE’s Next Decade of National Growth

As STRIVE enters our growth plan to expand into new locations annually beginning with recently announced New Orleans in 2024, we are excited to share three new roles that will elevate and support STRIVE’s ambitious goal to grow from serving 2,000 people per year to 10,000 by 2033. 

MONIQUE BAPTISTE, STRIVE CHIEF PROGRAM OFFICER

As STRIVE’s inaugural Chief Program Officer (CPO), Ms. Baptiste will lead all aspects of STRIVE’s national workforce programming, including program strategy and design, program support for STRIVE’s national network of sites, performance management and evidence-building. She will guide a rigorous, collaborative approach to program development and implementation as STRIVE continues a fast-paced growth trajectory and work closely with regional Executive Directors to ensure that STRIVE’s programs continue to have high impact at scale while they are evaluated and improved. Monique will be a critical representative for STRIVE with key funders and external partners. 

Read the press release.

“I’m excited to be joining STRIVE at this pivotal time and am ready to hit the ground running. It’s been my life’s work to move the needle on economic equity by driving intentional, strategic approaches to helping people who have been failed by the system. Opening doors to opportunity is one of the most effective ways to implement change, and I look forward to building upon the phenomenal impact that STRIVE has in every community they enter,” says Monique Baptiste, STRIVE Chief Program Officer 

Ms. Baptiste brings over two decades of talent development and global philanthropy expertise that will richly inform STRIVE’s innovation and national growth as an industry-leading workforce agency. Ms. Baptiste comes to STRIVE from JPMorgan Chase where she held key leadership roles in global philanthropy and the development of corporate talent diversity strategies firmwide. She helped launch a $350 million global investment in education and workforce training systems to promote economic opportunity and reduce labor market inequality and launched an award-winning Second Chance hiring initiative for justice-impacted individuals. Prior to her tenure with JPMorgan Chase, Ms. Baptiste served as VP of Programs of the Greater Newark Workforce Funders Collaborative at the Newark Alliance. 

“Monique is an extraordinary and inspiring social purpose leader who will contribute incredible insight and vision to STRIVE as we launch into this next stage of national expansion. Her expertise in creating high-performing workforce development and reentry employment initiatives and her ability to partner strategically and effectively in big, impactful ways is a perfect match for STRIVE as we drive toward new levels of innovation, impact and growth,” says Phil Weinberg, STRIVE President & CEO    

JONATHAN BONAIUTO, STRIVE VP OF STRATEGY & GROWTH

In this new executive leadership role, Jonathan will be responsible for shaping and executing STRIVE’s strategic direction while ensuring the successful achievement of our mission and goals. He will lead the development and implementation of innovative strategies, partnerships and initiatives to drive impactful change to allow STRIVE to achieve its ambitious growth and expansion goals into new communities. Jonathan will lead the overall strategic planning for STRIVE, establish a sustainable organization-wide project management infrastructure and will build and lead the team responsible for the identification, cultivation and project management of new sites. He will play a key role in implementing the organization’s goal of achieving more sustainable funding focused on the public sector and represent STRIVE in a variety of workforce and reentry coalitions. 

 Jonathan is an experienced executive dedicated to empowering underinvested communities with innovative, human-centered solutions to mobility. He has a background in strategy, business development and operations across the social enterprise, technology and healthcare industries. Before STRIVE, Jonathan served as VP of Strategy and Business Development at Honest Jobs, facilitating connections between companies and talented individuals with justice involvement barriers. Early in his career Jonathan worked as a strategy consultant in the corporate sector. His career journey spans Fortune 500 corporations, venture-backed startups and leading national nonprofits including The Center for Employment Opportunities and The Fortune Society. After experiencing his own involvement with the criminal justice system, Jonathan has been committed to helping multi barrier justice impacted individuals gain access to quality employment and a second chance.  

VAN FREEMAN, STRIVE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC POLICY & INVESTMENT

As Director of Public Policy & Investment, Van will build and lead our short and long-term policy influencing efforts around driving more local, state and federal investment in economic mobility though occupational skills training, supporting both our own programming and our wider mission to increase the proportion of workforce development funding available to those who need it the most. He will play a key role in implementing the organization’s goal of achieving more sustainable funding focused on the public sector. Van will provide expertise and targeted technical assistance to STRIVE leadership and employees on a wide range of topics, with specific emphasis on criminal justice and workforce development policy. He will also assist in building relationships with public officials and their staff in order to educate stakeholders about STRIVE and our evidence-based programs.  

 Van has a passion for solving problems at the intersection of business and government, particularly in economic opportunity and workforce development. Over two decades Van has been pivotal in elevating minority businesses and refining diverse workforce strategies. Previously the Principal Consultant at QED Solutions, a Government Affairs Consulting firm, Van steered the creation of Government Engagement Strategies for various clients. At Opportunity@Work he served as the Regional Head for the Washington DC vicinity. Early in his career Van was an appointee in the Obama Administration, holding key roles at the Minority Business Development Agency as Senior Advisor and Deputy Director in the Office of the Secretary at the Department of Commerce.  

 These roles were developed on the heels of major investments from MacKenzie Scott, Ballmer Group and The Justice and Mobility Fund of Blue Meridian Partners, to help drive STRIVE’s ambitious 10-year growth plan.   
Read more about Leadership at STRIVE. 

Angela Shiloh Cryer named Founding Executive Director of STRIVE New Orleans

A celebrated nonprofit change agent whose public service career spans over two decades, Ms. Shiloh Cryer was carefully selected after an extensive search to identify a standout leader with a proven track record serving the people of New Orleans to spearhead STRIVE’s newly announced site. View the press release.

“As a proud lifelong resident of New Orleans, I am overjoyed to take the reins as Founding Executive Director of STRIVE New Orleans. I am committed to serving our community and leading the charge for holistic economic healing and growth and social progress for our residents, who have long experienced equity disparities. I know what the power of STRIVE can do for people who are ready for real change—I have seen it with my own eyes. This is a time for great celebration in the Crescent City and I am dedicated to continuing my work creating positive change and growth and eliminating equity barriers for a better New Orleans for all,” says Angela Shiloh Cryer, STRIVE New Orleans Founding Executive Director.

Angela Shiloh Cryer has over 35 years’ experience in administration and implementation of federal and state programs and has worked in the nonprofit area for over 25 years. She has a passion for working in her community and has primarily focused on equitable systems change in re-entry and workforce development.

Ms. Shiloh Cryer comes to STRIVE from New Orleans Business Alliance (NOLABA), the official economic development organization for the City of New Orleans. Ms. Shiloh Cryer served as the Senior Director of Advancing Cities/Talent Partnerships. Ms. Shiloh Cryer has a Bachelor of Criminal Justice from Louisiana State University and a Master's in Social Work from Southern University at New Orleans, where she has been an Adjunct Professor at their School of Social Work for over 20 years. Ms. Shiloh Cryer has a long history with STRIVE, serving as the head of STRIVE’s highly successful partnership with The City of New Orleans to deliver services beginning in 2015.

Angela Shiloh Cryer at a STRIVE affiliate program graduation ceremony in New Orleans, 2015.

Angela Shiloh Cryer with STRIVE affiliate program graduates in New Orleans, 2015.

“I can think of no better leader to drive the empowering impact of STRIVE programs in our great city of New Orleans than Angela. She understands our communities and what it takes to partner effectively with the rich fabric of local organizations and employers committed to generating mobility through opportunity. Mayor Cantrell and the Office of Workforce Development are excited to build with STRIVE New Orleans and look forward to a robust partnership creating pathways to living wages and advancement with in-demand industries,” says Sunae S. Villavaso, Director of the Office of Workforce Development.

STRIVE New Orleans was announced in July of 2023 and will launch STRIVE’s signature Career Path program in 2024. Grounded in evidence and proven practice, Career Path includes a dynamic combination of curricula, job readiness training, coaching and occupational skills for students to build the hire-ready toolkit that employers demand. Strong employer partnerships inform the program and ensure graduates enter career pathways that offer opportunities to advance. To meet the high industry demand of the region, STRIVE New Orleans will initially offer an on-ramp to careers in nonclinical healthcare support, with additional industry pathways developed over time. Long-term accountabilities with follow up and wrap-around supports ensure conditions for success beyond graduation.

“STRIVE is proud of our long-standing commitment to the city of New Orleans and its residents. We are grateful for the deep partnerships we have cultivated with local leaders and employers who share our vision of building a more equitable economy for stronger communities. With Angela at the helm, we are confident that STRIVE New Orleans will hit the ground running in 2024 and quickly grow to provide an impactful service for both residents and local employers, that fostering upward mobility and financial empowerment for local residents,” says Phil Weinberg, STRIVE CEO & President.

Since 1984 STRIVE has served over 85,000 individuals with the training and supports needed to build a career. STRIVE provides access to good jobs with living wages and opportunities to advance. STRIVE is proud to hold an 80% graduation rate, 75% placement rate and a 70% retention rate.

At capacity STRIVE New Orleans will serve upwards of 200 individuals annually.

“Ochsner is proud to partner with STRIVE New Orleans in creating accessible entry points to healthcare careers. Our industry has an ongoing need for fully trained and credentialed candidates to fill key roles that offer great benefits and opportunity for growth. STRIVE is a key partner in linking talent to career pathways, especially for those with traditional societal barriers such as the justice impacted. Knowing that Angela will be at the helm affirms our belief that STRIVE has come to New Orleans at a most opportune time and we can’t wait to get started on this work together,” says Missy Hopson, Vice President of Talent Management at Ochsner Health.

At the 2023 STRIVE Birmingham partner reception, from left to right: STRIVE New Orleans Founding Executive Director Angela Shiloh Cryer; STRIVE National Training Manager Latisha Smith; STRIVE VP of Development & Communications Cynthia Trevor; STRIVE Board Co-Chair & ‘03 Graduate Roy Castro; STRIVE Birmingham Executive Director Quiwintre Frye; STRIVE Birmingham Program Director Archie Stewart.

The launch of STRIVE New Orleans arrives at a turning point for STRIVE as we embark on an ambitious new growth plan that includes an increase in the annual budget from $14 million in 2023 to $20 million by 2025. The plan will deepen the STRIVE impact in existing locations, expand into new markets, and grow from serving 2,000 annually to 10,000 individuals each year by 2033.

STRIVE New Orleans is grateful for early funders such as the Greater New Orleans Foundation, United Way of Southeast Louisiana, Truist Foundation, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and the Justice and Mobility Fund from Blue Meridian Partners. Growth will also be fueled by a recent investment by philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

STRIVE New Orleans is actively launching the new site and building a local team. A search is in process for a Director of Programs. View the job description.

On Thursday, September 28, 2023, STRIVE announced a historic $8 million in unrestricted funding from MacKenzie Scott whose highly coveted and validating support will allow STRIVE to significantly expand national impact and advance our vision of a more equitable and inclusive economy and society.  

Ms. Scott’s support arrives at a turning point for STRIVE as we embark on an ambitious growth plan that includes an increase in the annual budget from $14 million in 2023 to $20 million by 2025 to deepen our programs in existing locations, expand into new markets and secure long-term financial strength with the goal of increasing the number of people served from 2,000 to 10,000 annually by 2033.  

This affirming gift comes on the heels of a $5 million gift from The Justice and Mobility Fund to drive STRIVE’s growth deeper into the most disconnected communities of our nation including the justice impacted. The Justice and Mobility Fund is a collaboration launched by The Ford Foundation, Blue Meridian Partners and Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies. 

“We are so grateful and humbled at STRIVE to earn MacKenzie Scott’s meaningful support,” said Phil Weinberg, President & CEO of STRIVE.  “This investment is a testimony to STRIVE’s proven impact and our vision to significantly scale-up our evidence-based workforce services. I’m deeply proud of our team at STRIVE and grateful to our board and many partners who share our strong belief in creating pathways to economic mobility for everyone in our country.”    

Through her groundbreaking approach to philanthropy with Yield Giving, Ms. Scott has committed to giving away significant portions of her fortune as unrestricted funding to carefully vetted non-profits that impact underserved communities. STRIVE serves people navigating some of the most difficult societal barriers to employment: 92% are BIPOC, 78% are dependent on public services and 44% are justice impacted. Through comprehensive professional training, intensive personal support, career coaching and life-time services for graduates STRIVE is proud to hold an 80% graduation rate, a 75% job placement rate and a 70% job retention rate.   

“I have the utmost admiration for how Ms. Scott is using her unique position to improve the lives of millions of people across our country,” said Roy Castro, CEO of Castro Ventures, who is a STRIVE ‘03 Graduate and serves as Co-Chair of the Board.  "STRIVE helped me beat the odds when I was caught up in a system designed for me to fail. With support from audacious funders like Ms. Scott, there is no limit to what STRIVE can do for people fighting to break free from the cycle of generational poverty. This money is going to do so much good for so many, just watch.” 

 “MacKenzie Scott’s support highlights what so many of us have known to be true for years—STRIVE works and is worth bold investment,” said Brian Friedman, President, Jefferies Financial Group Inc. and STRIVE Board Co-Chair. “Economic mobility is essential for everyone and STRIVE is a lynchpin in making it happen for those who have a tougher road. With support from The Justice and Mobility Fund, and now Ms. Scott, we are well-fueled to expand our reach into more communities in need, driving forward the vision we share with our local partners. This is a solid start, with much more needed to carry us through to meet society’s needs. I know we will get there.”  

STRIVE is a national workforce development leader that for nearly 40 years has successfully provided services to populations facing significant societal barriers to employment. STRIVE’s proven program model moves students into careers that lead to upward mobility and economic empowerment. Headquartered in East Harlem, New York and with operations in 14 locations, STRIVE has helped more than 85,000 graduates prepare for career success through employment programs geared toward adults of all ages, including those with involvement in the justice system. The impact extends from STRIVE graduates to their families, friends, and communities. 

Congratulations to the Graduates!

STRIVE Birmingham graduates and staff at the pilot cohort graduation in August 2023.

STRIVE Birmingham has graduated its pilot cohort! We are deeply proud of this tenacious group of students who chose to believe in the power of STRIVE and put themselves first. Now, more ready to work and determined to succeed than ever, these graduates are building their careers and working towards the economic mobility that will help them transform their lives. 

On Friday, August 25, 2023, STRIVE Birmingham gathered with community partners and loved ones for a culminating graduation of their pilot cohort. Led by Founding Executive Director of STRIVE Birmingham Quiwintre Frye, she and several community partners shared words of gratitude, pride and encouragement that charged the room with heartfelt emotion, optimism and a collective sense of growth.  

“In preparation for this day, I have been reflecting on my own career journey,” said Quiwintre. “My first job after college was an administrative support role in a healthcare setting, just like what you all have now prepared yourselves for. So, when I say to you this is only the beginning, I truly mean it. And I can’t wait to see what you all do next.” 

Keynote Speaker Angela Abdur-Rasheed, Director of Communications at Prosper, infused graduates with inspiration, helping them to always remember what they now carry thanks to STRIVE as they embark on their new career paths “Success. Tenacity. Integrity. Vision. Expectations”. 

Perhaps most memorable among the speakers was STRIVE Birmingham pilot graduate Raven Bonner, who spoke passionately about her fight for a career and her belief in the power of STRIVE to get people on track and ready to achieve the success they desire. 

“STRIVE has been so much more than a job training program,” said Raven. “Yes, I gained the skills and certifications I was looking for, and I learned a lot about my career path options, as I expected. But I was honestly surprised to get so much encouragement during the process. I found myself suddenly a part of this big support system. We are the first graduating class of STRIVE Birmingham, and over the past ten weeks, we have built a true sisterhood that will help carry us through whatever life throws at us from now.”

Dean of Workforce Development Education at Jefferson State Community College Leah Bigbee was visibly moved as she took to the podium following Raven’s testimony. She spoke on behalf of Jefferson State Community College, which provides phenomenal occupational training for STRIVE Birmingham students to ensure they are prepared with the skills and certifications that quality local employers are actively seeking. 

“I’ll be honest, I’m a little bit shaky after hearing that testimony,” said Leah. “Thank you. This is why we do what we do.”  

STRIVE Birmingham currently holds classes in a temporary workspace while our permanent home is established. Stay tuned for the announcement and ribbon cutting.  

In our nonclinical healthcare & office operations training, each graduate earns the credentials needed to become a certified administrative medical assistant (AMA), helping them get their foot in the door to build a rewarding career with fair pay, good benefits and onramps to advancement. With strong employer partners like Ascension St. Vincent's Birmingham, Baptist Health Systems, Cahaba Medical Care, Christ Health Center and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, graduates of STRIVE Birmingham have the advantage of direct access to good jobs locally. 

STRIVE currently operates in 14 locations across the country, including a recently announced site in New Orleans, slated to open in 2024. As we leverage new knowledge and insights from this expansion process, we will work to continue advancing growth in other new cities and existing locations over the next decade as we expand from serving 2,000 people annually in 2023 to 10,000 people annually by 2033. 

Truist Foundation invests $1 million in STRIVE to kick off new growth plan, starting in Birmingham

(L-R) Truist Alabama Regional President Burton McDonald; Truist Chief Teammate Officer and Head of Enterprise Diversity Kim Moore-Wright; STRIVE Birmingham ‘23 Graduate Speaker Shakita Rivers; STRIVE Birmingham Executive Director Quiwintre Frye; Truist Foundation President Lynette Bell; and STRIVE President & CEO Phil Weinberg on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023, Birmingham, Alabama. Photo credit: Heavyn Jordan.

 On Wednesday, August 23, 2023, STRIVE and Truist gathered in Birmingham with local partners to celebrate the $1 million in funding. The funding will help fuel the launch of STRIVE Birmingham and provide crucial support for STRIVE as we embark on our ambitious ten-year growth plan to further expand our programs and services nationally, bringing increased access to economic mobility for those most disconnected from opportunity in communities across the country. 

STRIVE Birmingham Executive Director Quiwintre Frye and STRIVE President & CEO Phil Weinberg were joined by Truist Foundation President Lynette Bell, Truist Chief Teammate Officer and Head of Enterprise Diversity Kim Moore-Wright and Truist Alabama Regional President Burton McDonald, to speak before local community and employer partners, investors, staff and members of the local press, about the funding.  

"Truist Foundation aims to fulfill Truist's purpose of inspiring and building better lives and communities, which often begins with helping build pathways to steady employment and financial independence," said Lynette Bell, President of Truist Foundation. "We believe we can help communities achieve this through increasing access to training, creating professional networks and breaking barriers to employment, especially for those in historically excluded communities, and that is exactly the type of work STRIVE seeks to do in Birmingham and beyond." 

At the time of the announcement STRIVE Birmingham had just completed a pilot of its job-training program preparing students for careers in nonclinical healthcare and office operations and has already begun classes with a new cohort of students who have seen the power of STRIVE and are ready to take control of their lives and build the careers they dream of. Over time, STRIVE Birmingham expects to serve 100 students annually. 

STRIVE Birmingham pilot graduate, Shakita Rivers, spoke at the Truist event as a representative of her cohort. Shakita shared why she chose STRIVE and encouraged others in her community to sign up and spread the word about our life-changing programs and services. Shakita also reflected on how she got so much more out of STRIVE than she had anticipated: 

“I learned to trust myself and the decisions I make, and to stay confident in building the life I want for myself,” said Shakita. “I 100% would recommend STRIVE to anyone who is seeking more for their career and life. I truly believe that STRIVE can open doors for so many Birmingham residents who, like me, just need a little jumpstart to get on the right path.” 

STRIVE students are 92% BIPOC, 44% justice-impacted and 41% parents of minor children. With an 80% graduation rate, 75% placement rate and 70% retention rate, STRIVE is uniquely successful in helping those facing the toughest societal barriers to employment access the training and support needed to build a family-sustaining career and break the cycle of systemic poverty for good.  

"We've just announced our new growth plan, which involves significant expansion of our national impact over the course of the next decade”, said Phil Weinberg, STRIVE President & CEO. “Our vision is ambitious in terms of both the new cities we will be engaging and the individuals we will be serving annually, with an increased focus on justice-impacted populations. This well-timed grant arrived during a historic and exciting time for STRIVE and will be a tremendous support as we amplify the STRIVE impact right here in Birmingham, in Atlanta, and next year, New Orleans." 

STRIVE Birmingham is currently operating in a temporary workspace. We are grateful for the ongoing support of early local partner Woodlawn United who continues to ensure STRIVE Birmingham can hold classes while a permanent location is established. Stay tuned for the announcement and ribbon cutting. 

STRIVE currently operates in 14 locations across the country, including the recently announced New Orleans site, which is slated to open in 2024. As we leverage new knowledge and insights from this expansion process, we will work to continue advancing growth in other new cities and existing locations over the next decade as we expand from serving 2,000 people annually in 2023 to 10,000 people annually by 2033. 

STRIVE Receives Largest Gift To Date: $5 Million for Jumpstart of Ten-Year Growth Plan

New Partnership with Justice and Mobility Fund to Expand People Served and Reach More Justice-Impacted

STRIVE has launched an ambitious growth and impact plan to scale its nationwide programs and services over the next decade to expand from serving 2,000 annually in 2023 to 10,000 annually by 2033. STRIVE has worked with The Justice and Mobility Fund with support from The Bridgespan Group on an extensive action plan to measure milestones for success over the next two years. All STRIVE-operated sites will gain expanded programs and services with a focus on increased support for the justice involved. STRIVE aims to serve 2,800 annually across national sites by 2025. STRIVE New Orleans has just been announced to open in 2024.   

 “We are honored to be partnering with The Justice and Mobility Fund at this pivotal moment of growth for STRIVE. With this historic funding in hand we can clearly see the new road ahead and have begun vigorous steps with the announcement of STRIVE New Orleans for 2024. Over the next two years we will continue to work closely with The Justice and Mobility Fund to reach even further into some of our most disconnected communities across the nation and provide the much-needed access to mobility that our multi-barrier neighbors are fighting for—especially the justice-impacted,” says STRIVE President & CEO Phil Weinberg.  

 The Justice and Mobility Fund is a collaboration launched by The Ford Foundation, Blue Meridian Partners and Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies. The Justice and Mobility Fund seeks to scale the impact, reach and influence of solutions to problems caused by interaction with the criminal justice system, both nationwide and in targeted regions. Reducing convictions and incarceration and mitigating their negative downstream effects is critical to giving people – especially Black people and other people of color, who are disproportionately impacted — greater access to jobs, educational opportunities and housing that will help break the cycle of poverty and injustice. With an 80% graduation rate, 75% placement rate and 70% retention rate STRIVE is a strong and promising investment for The Justice and Mobility Fund.  

“The Justice and Mobility Fund is dedicated to organizations that serve those who face multiple barriers to economic mobility due to interactions with the criminal justice system. STRIVE has been doing this work for decades. Because of their strong track record of impact with people too often excluded from the workforce, we are excited to fund STRIVE as they scale to new cities and bring the hope of opportunity to thousands of individuals across the country.  With nearly a third of Americans bearing the weight of a criminal justice record, it is essential that we invest in effective and reliable programs like STRIVE to help these individuals rebuild their lives and get a true second chance,” says Le’Ann Duran, Senior Director, Portfolio, Justice & Mobility Fund. 

Today 92% of STRIVE students identify as BIPOC, 84% are unemployed upon enrollment and 44% are justice impacted. With strategies in place to increase support for those navigating the justice system to at least 50%, STRIVE’s new Growth Plan pairs seamlessly with The Justice and Mobility Fund investment to provide impactful, forward-thinking organizations with the growth capital needed to reach their goals. 

 “This is an exciting time for STRIVE. We are growing rapidly to meet a tremendous need, especially for people returning from prison. And we are confident that we will be able to maintain this growth and meet our goal in 2033. STRIVE works because we help fill the gap that society has left open for the vulnerable to fall into. Especially people returning from prison. It changed my life, and I know it can change the life of every single person who chooses to commit and trust the process,” says Founder & CEO of Castro Ventures, STRIVE Board Co Chair and ‘03 Graduate, Roy Castro. 

 STRIVE’s ambitious new growth plan aims to increase people served annually from 2,000 in 2023 to 10,000 in 2033. Even with this historic $5 million gift, STRIVE will need to secure significant additional support to fully fund this growth. STRIVE’s budget is projected to increase from $14 million in 2023 to $20 million in 2025. 

Announcing our newest site STRIVE New Orleans

STRIVE ‘15 graduate of New Orleans partner programs

We are excited to announce the 2024 launch of STRIVE New Orleans! Our fourth operated site, STRIVE New Orleans will build upon the strong and longstanding local partnerships STRIVE has cultivated over time with city officials, community organizations, philanthropic leaders and employer partners dating back to 2015. We thank our early funders who committed to backing this latest STRIVE venture, including local investors Greater New Orleans Foundation; NOW Collaborative; W.K. Kellogg Foundation; and United Way of Southeast Louisiana. 

“The Greater New Orleans Foundation is proud to serve as the convener of the NOW Funders Collaborative and grateful for the opportunity to support STRIVE in building a permanent home in our great city of New Orleans. We have witnessed the phenomenal impact STRIVE’s proven career-readiness training model has on the economic mobility of individuals and their communities, and we look forward to working with STRIVE New Orleans for years to come,” says Kristina Kent, Director of Workforce Programs at Greater New Orleans Foundation.    

“United Way of Southeast Louisiana (UWSELA) is proud to be an inaugural funder of STRIVE New Orleans, which shares our vision of equitable communities. We believe that every person deserves the opportunity to reimagine a brighter future for themselves, especially those most often overlooked, and STRIVE’s proven success in empowering those facing the toughest barriers to mobility will do just that – strengthening our families, our economy and our communities,” says Michael Williamson, UWSELA President and CEO. 

After careful consideration and market analysis, together with our network we have determined to build a permanent local residency with STRIVE New Orleans that will provide full-service pathways to in-demand careers in Non-Clinical Healthcare to the residents of Crescent City. Our signature Career Path program in New Orleans will offer no-cost training, certification, and job placement assistance services for individuals seeking careers that offer access to living wages, full benefitsand pathways to career advancement and mobility.  At capacity, STRIVE New Orleans will serve over 200 individuals annually.

“New Orleans is an incredible city, bursting with talent and determination. After many years of successful local partnerships to advance economic mobility for communities most systemically vulnerable, we are excited to open a permanent home in STRIVE New Orleans as part of our new growth plan,” says Phil Weinberg, President & CEO of STRIVE. 

STRIVE New Orleans increases our national presence to 14 locations in New York, Atlanta, Birmingham, and now New Orleans, as well as our signature STRIVE career-readiness training programs through 10 affiliates across the country. After the successful launch of STRIVE Atlanta in 2020, STRIVE Birmingham in 2023 and now STRIVE New Orleans in 2024, STRIVE is on track to ultimately serving 10,000 individuals per year by 2033.  

“We deeply value our longstanding and impactful partnership with STRIVE in serving young people from New Orleans with their winning job readiness training and services. STRIVE programming is accessible for our Interns and provides the tools and supports to connect them to their professional and personal ambitions. STRIVE really works, and we welcome their permanent presence in our community with the official opening of STRIVE New Orleans,” says Kheri Billy, CEO at Reconcile New Orleans dba Café Reconcile. 

 As a national leader in workforce development, STRIVE is committed to helping those facing the biggest societal barriers to employment access the training and support they need to build a family-sustaining career. We aim to replicate and expand our nationally recognized, 5-pillar model of job training and wraparound support services to where our specialized programming--designed to serve the whole student--is needed most. We work to support the regions and communities of our nation that continue to be systemically disconnected from economic mobility and opportunity, providing a bridge to the gap and a pathway to empowerment. The parishes STRIVE New Orleans will design to serve hold a high 55% percent poverty rate—with the majority of households identifying as BIPOC and headed by single women—two demographics which STRIVE has long specialized in serving and supporting.  

“Building a confident and ready workforce while expanding and diversifying our local economy is a top priority for New Orleans. To do that, we must ensure that our most marginalized, underserved residents have equal access to quality programs and opportunities to minimize the racial wealth gap, build generational wealth and help lean them forward into an empowered future. Mayor Cantrell and the Office of Workforce Development remain committed to connecting students and jobseekers to high wages, high demand industries, while cultivating and strengthening our partnerships. We are thrilled to welcome STRIVE New Orleans into the fabric of local organizations committed to serving and uplifting our communities,” says Sunae S. Villavaso, Director of the Office of Workforce Development. 

In 2024 STRIVE New Orleans is planned to serve 75 individuals and will grow to reach 200 or more individuals served annually over time. We will kick off in early 2024 as a pilot class of our signature Career Path program. Grounded in evidence and proven practice, Career Path includes a robust curricula of job readiness training and occupational skills training for students to gain the confidence, skills and experience that employers demand. Strong employer partnerships will inform the program to ensure long-term success. 

“Ochsner is pleased to partner with STRIVE New Orleans in creating accessible entry points to healthcare careers. Our industry has an ongoing need for fully trained and credentialed candidates to fill key roles that offer great benefits and opportunity for growth, and we can trust STRIVE to connect us with the quality talent we seek,” says Missy Sparks, Vice President of Talent Management at Ochsner Health. 

As STRIVE New Orleans grows, additional career pathway programming with proven success for STRIVE students--construction, maintenance, logistics among others--will be offered to provide greater choice in career opportunity for those facing multiple societal barriers to quality employment including the justice impacted and returning citizens.  

92% of STRIVE students are BIPOC, 78% receive public services. 44% are justice-impacted and 41% are parents of minors. Anticipated outcomes for STRIVE New Orleans include an 80% program graduation rate, an 80% certifications rate, and a 70% job placement rate. Long-term support and wrap-around services ensure conditions for success in the classroom and beyond. 

“STRIVE New Orleans will be a major driver of economic growth across the region, particularly for our communities that have long endured historic disinvestment. We could not be more pleased that STRIVE is here to stay and look forward to partnering in our shared mission bringing holistic and inclusive approaches to economic mobility and development for all citizens,” says Angela Shiloh-Cryer, Senior Director of Advancing Cities and Talent Solutions at NOLABA 

“STRIVE programming has stood the test of time in New Orleans for many years, and I continue to be inspired by their growth, innovation and impact. As a collaborator in helping individuals and communities rise from the struggles of generational poverty, there is simply no better partner,” says Thelma Harris French, President & CEO at Total Community Action, Inc. 

We are grateful to the City of New Orleans and the New Orleans Business Alliance for their belief in the power of STRIVE, and to local employers Oschner Health System and LCMC Health for helping us build the vision of creating a pipeline of talent and opportunity across the Crescent City that will generate unprecedented access to mobility and empowerment for the most economically vulnerable citizens and communities of New Orleans.  

The search for a founding Executive Director of STRIVE New Orleans has begun. We are scouting the local region for talented and experienced candidates with deep community ties who are ready to bring STRIVE New Orleans to life. Click here to view the job description. Click here to learn more about STRIVE New Orleans. 

Gotham, a Social Justice Cannabis Retailer, Opens in New York City with STRIVE as Beneficiary

On March 31, 2021 New York State legalized adult-use recreational cannabis with the Marijuana Regulation & Taxation Act (MRTA). The Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) governed by the Cannabis Control Board oversees and implements the law, issues licenses and regulates how eligible candidates may participate with a focus on social and economic equity. MRTA prioritizes justice-involved individuals and the nonprofits serving them, through initiatives dedicated to restorative justice and rebuilding the Black and Brown communities disproportionately harmed by systemically oppressive cannabis prohibition.

STRIVE fully supports the decriminalization of cannabis as part of the broader movement toward bringing restorative systemic justice and equity to our society. The failed war on drugs and continued mass incarceration of predominately Black and Brown individuals has further disconnected our racially marginalized communities from economic access and opportunity, resulting in a crippling cycle of generational poverty. For nearly 40 years STRIVE has served these communities by providing the training and support needed to build a career, become economically empowered and break the cycle of generational poverty for good. STRIVE serves those facing multiple societal barriers to quality employment, including justice impacted populations.

44% of STRIVE students are justice impacted, 84% are unemployed at the time of enrollment and 92% self-identify as Black or Brown.

STRIVE is a Beneficiary of Gotham

On May 11th, 2023 Gotham, NYC’s premier licensed recreational cannabis retailer, opens its doors to the public at 3 East 3rd Street, NYC. STRIVE is a beneficiary of Gotham, with a portion of profits funding STRIVE programs. Read the Gotham press release here.

STRIVE’s purpose is to ensure that everyone can achieve upward mobility and financial empowerment for themselves and their families through the power of a good career. We envision a society where employers, civic leaders, businesses, donors, and neighbors join us in building an inclusive economy for stronger, safer communities and a more equitable and just society. As a beneficiary of Gotham, we work together toward this goal and moving the needle on social justice in New York.

“New York State is taking the right step in legalizing cannabis and working with innovative business models like Gotham to ensure that the profits from this new industry directly benefit the communities most harmed by extreme marijuana convictions,” says STRIVE Board Co-Chair and Graduate Roy Castro. “STRIVE’s beneficiary relationship will fuel our programs connecting multi-barrier communities, especially the justice-impacted, to real economic opportunity and mobility.”

Some Frequently Asked Questions

How will STRIVE use the revenue received from Gotham?

As a beneficiary, STRIVE will receive 51% of Gotham’s profits above working capital needs. Funds will support STRIVE’s future progress serving the community.

Will STRIVE be involved in the day-to-day operations of Gotham?

STRIVE will not be directly involved in Gotham store operations or management, and donations to STRIVE will not fund the Gotham store. As part of our beneficiary relationship STRIVE graduates will have direct access to apply for the good jobs Gotham is creating, which offer equitable pay and benefits and onramps into a new and rapidly developing industry.

Does STRIVE test its students or staff for cannabis use?

We do not test our students or staff for cannabis or other drug use. Students in need of substance abuse counseling are provided access to services, resources and referrals. As many employers require a drug screen as part of the hiring process, STRIVE strongly encourages sobriety to students and graduates to ensure one less barrier to employment.

Where can I learn more about Gotham?

Visit their website or stop by the store at 3 East 3rd Street, NYC.

What if I have more questions?

You can reach a STRIVE team member who will be happy to speak with you via connect@strive.org

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

STRIVE (strive.org) is a national workforce development leader that for nearly 40 years has successfully provided services to populations facing significant employment barriers. STRIVE’s proven program model moves students into careers that lead to upward mobility and economic empowerment. Headquartered in East Harlem, New York and with operations in 13 locations, STRIVE has helped more than 85,000 individuals prepare for career success through employment programs geared toward adults, young adults, and those with involvement in the justice system. 

STRIVE Receives $100,000 Grant from Ares Charitable Foundation to Advance Equity Through Economic Opportunities for Women in New York and Atlanta

The grant will support STRIVE’s Women’s Empowerment Initiative that aids women living below the poverty line to train for good jobs and access upward mobility 

STRIVE Graduate Ambassadors Jovanna Shaw and Romelia Corvacho at the 2022 STRIVE gala.

NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, March 2, 2023 – STRIVE International, Inc. (“STRIVE”), a national leader in creating pathways toward economic mobility and empowerment for those facing societal barriers to employment, today announced a $100,000 grant from the Ares Charitable Foundation (the “Ares Foundation”), a 501(c)(3) qualifying organization sponsored by Ares Management Corporation. The grant will support STRIVE’s flagship Career Path program for 100 women in New York and Atlanta as part of its Women’s Empowerment Initiative. The grant will also support STRIVE to provide coaching for 100 alumnae through its Bridge to Resiliency mentoring program, which is also part of its Women’s Empowerment Initiative, and thereby better enable comprehensive case management for the alumnae as they seek quality employment.  

“Our partnership with STRIVE to help women transition out of poverty through occupational training and ongoing support aligns with the Ares Foundation’s mission to help accelerate equality of economic opportunity,” says Michelle Armstrong, Executive Director of the Ares Foundation. “We award grants to deserving organizations that help ensure equitable access to the knowledge, resources and opportunities that people need to reach their full potential. Without question, STRIVE’s industry-driven career preparation, mentoring and lifetime upskilling services for alumnae reflect that vision.” 

Since 1984, STRIVE has successfully prepared over 85,000 graduates for good jobs that offer access to career-building opportunities and upward mobility, and thereby empower individuals, families and communities to uplift themselves out of generational poverty. Career Path specializes in targeted occupational training for entry-level careers in Healthcare & Office Operations, Construction, Transportation and Logistics, among other in-demand, employer-driven industries that offer life-changing economic trajectories for individuals and their communities. STRIVE programs currently operate in 13 locations across the country, with the launch of STRIVE Birmingham slated for spring 2023.  

“We understand from decades of program experience and outcomes that women consistently face additional barriers to employment due to societal demands and complications that come with juggling the multiple roles they play in their families and networks,” says STRIVE New York Executive Director Ayesha George. “I am excited for the impact these funds from Ares will have on the lives of the women we serve, their families, and their communities, for generations.” 

In addition, STRIVE has integrated mobility mentoring – the evidence-based practice of partnering with individuals in need of support so that they can achieve economic empowerment – into its Bridge to Resiliency mentoring program. The program focuses on drivers of upward mobility: financial management, family stability, well-being and education/training. Economic Mobility Pathways (“EMPath”) developed the concept of mobility mentoring and STRIVE is currently the only national workforce development organization in EMPath’s Exchange Member Network. 

“Despite economic growth in recent years, Atlanta continues to struggle with pervasive income inequality and is one of the country’s lowest-performing cities in terms of access to upward mobility,” says STRIVE Atlanta Executive Director Jomal Vailes. “Today, children born into poverty have less than a four-percent chance of reaching middle class in their lifetime. It’s unacceptable. STRIVE is working to change that narrative for good, and it starts with empowering the phenomenal women who enrich and hold our communities together, fueling them with the economic resources they need to build family sustaining careers.” 

STRIVE (www.strive.org) is a national workforce development leader that for nearly 40 years has successfully provided services to populations facing significant employment barriers. STRIVE’s proven program model moves students into careers that lead to upward mobility and economic empowerment. Headquartered in East Harlem, New York and with operations in 13 locations, STRIVE has helped more than 85,000 individuals prepare for career success through employment programs geared toward adults, young adults, and those with involvement in the justice system. 

The Ares Charitable Foundation (the “Ares Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) qualifying organization sponsored by Ares Management Corporation ("Ares"), a leading global alternative investment manager. Established in 2020, the Ares Foundation seeks to accelerate equality of economic opportunity through grants to nonprofit organizations whose programming provides Career Preparation & Reskilling, encourages Entrepreneurship and deepens individuals’ understanding of Personal Finance. The Ares Foundation's vision – a world in which people benefit from equitable access to knowledge, resources and opportunities so that they can achieve their full potential – reflects Ares’ core values and staunch commitment to philanthropy. 

Ballmer Group awards STRIVE $1.5M in grants toward additional sites and increased enrollment over three years

STRIVE is honored to partner with Ballmer Group to further the national growth and expansion of STRIVE programs, helping to build a more equitable and inclusive economy. These latest funds will fuel deeper reach into communities in need and provide opportunities for graduates to achieve economic empowerment for themselves and their families.  

“STRIVE is the perfect partner to help us reach those communities that are furthest from opportunity and employ levers of change that hold promise for long-term systemic equity,” said Ballmer Group Executive Director of National Impact Loren Harris. “We look forward to witnessing STRIVE’s continued growth and success over the coming years and remaining in close partnership in its ongoing impact.” 
 

This key investment will serve as a lead funder helping STRIVE to open two new sites by 2025: STRIVE Birmingham in Alabama will begin classes in May 2023 and an unannounced city is currently in exploration and planning phases. 

With the launch of two new sites and expansion of current programming in New York and Atlanta, STRIVE projects a 50% increase to enrollment of our flagship Career Path program by 2025.  

"We are proud and grateful to receive this support from Ballmer Group," said STRIVE CEO & President Phil Weinberg. “These funds will allow us to facilitate significant economic impact across new cities, from individuals and their families to employers and local businesses. I am inspired by this investment and excited for the next leg of STRIVE’s growth as we approach our 40th year of service.”   

As a national workforce development leader, STRIVE replicates where our unique, targeted services are identified and needed most. The largest program, Career Path, is a 10-12-week sectoral model designed to prepare students for careers in employer-driven, growing industries, such as administrative support, healthcare and construction. We coach students in navigating societal barriers, offer resources to address equity gaps, and facilitate lifetime access to alumni services such as upskilling, resume building and wellness services to ensure that graduates can continue to grow and thrive along their career journey, no matter the challenge.   

 “Rising economic inequality has exacerbated the challenges that structural racism has long-posed for communities of color, particularly in Alabama,” said STRIVE Birmingham Founding Executive Director Quiwintre Frye. “This crucial funding from Ballmer Group will allow us to open in Birmingham strong on day one and implement meaningful and effective programming that will finally connect the untapped talent in this region to the opportunities they have historically struggled to access.”   

Since 1984 STRIVE has created pathways for those most often left out of the economy to access good jobs and build careers that lead to financial empowerment and upward mobility. STRIVE serves underrepresented individuals who face multiple societal barriers to quality employment. 96% of our students are Black and Brown; 92% are on public assistance at the time of enrollment; 41% are parents to minor children; 37% are between the ages of 18 to 24; and 33% are justice-involved. 

STRIVE receives $600K grant toward economic mobility mentoring

Funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation supports equity initiatives for individuals with high barriers to labor market success  

 This latest investment will help to strengthen our support of students as they work to achieve economic empowerment and upward mobility. The grant will fund a strengthened coaching practice, supporting students as they manage the many hurdles to success at work. 

"We are proud and grateful to receive funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation that will fuel the launch of this work, empowering the people who are most left behind in our economy," said STRIVE CEO & President Phil Weinberg. “This programming will provide the targeted tools and sustained supports needed to guide individuals into careers that offer opportunities for upward mobility.”  

During the 15-month grant, STRIVE will study the progress of our students in New York and Atlanta, using those findings to impact how coaching and case management models can be strengthened nationally. Building off an already strong coaching practice, STRIVE partnered with Economic Mobility Pathways (EMPath) to incorporate their research-backed economic mobility coaching practice – Mobility Mentoring® – to infuse as a core component of STRIVE’s career coaching model.  

"We have a long history of supporting organizations like STRIVE to provide the strongest economic mobility coaching possible to their clients. This partnership allows us to learn so much, impacting more people and establishing a new approach to implementing Mobility Mentoring with national workforce organizations," said Kim Janey, president & CEO of EMPath. 

Mobility Mentoring, a research informed practice, is the professional practice of partnering with individuals in need of support so that over time they may acquire the resources, skills, and sustained behavioral change necessary to attain and preserve their economic empowerment and upward mobility. STRIVE has translated and adapted this work to respond to the specific needs of the students, focusing on their coaching in four core categories that drive upward mobility: financial management, family stability, well-being, and education/training. To date, STRIVE is the only national workforce development organization within EMPath’s Exchange member network. 

“In every city, there is talent that goes untapped because of systemic barriers to the resources and training people need to get hired and stay employed. STRIVE is breaking through those barriers and creating pathways towards good jobs and prosperous careers,” said Executive Vice President of Programs and Impact Lakythia Ferby. 

 Access to effective case management and social services are a vital part of achieving economic mobility for individuals and communities facing multiple societal barriers, such as housing insecurity, food insecurity, and lack of childcare. 93% of STRIVE students are on public assistance. 72% have been unemployed for more than six months. 41% are parents of minors. And 33% are justice impacted. Beyond providing the additional coaching support needed for individuals toward lucrative careers, STRIVE believes the workforce development field can grow stronger from learning more about best practices to support individuals like our students.  

STRIVE Names Quiwintre Frye as Executive Director of STRIVE Birmingham

A proven nonprofit leader in Birmingham, Frye spearheads STRIVE’s newest site in Birmingham, Alabama

NEW YORK, NEW YORK, USA, October 12, 2022 /EINPresswire.com/ -- STRIVE, the leading national workforce development agency serving people who face the biggest societal barriers to employment and economic empowerment, announced the appointment of Quiwintre Frye as Founding Executive Director of STRIVE Birmingham. STRIVE’s expansion to Birmingham will increase the organization’s national presence to 13 cities. Mrs. Frye was carefully selected after an extensive search to identify a standout leader from across the Greater Birmingham region.

“Quiwintre's passion and demonstrated commitment to provide Birmingham's citizens with a better career pathway makes her an excellent fit for bringing STRIVE's proven model to Birmingham,” said Jared Weinstein of the Overton Project, a key local investor and champion for bringing STRIVE to Birmingham. “I'm thrilled she has agreed to take the reins and am excited for the impact Quiwintre and STRIVE will have for the city.”

Mrs. Frye is an accomplished nonprofit leader and passionate advocate for Birmingham residents with a deep commitment to developing the power of education and economic opportunity. Mrs. Frye joins STRIVE from the Birmingham Education Foundation, where as Director of Programming & Operations, she led efforts focused on college and career success for Birmingham students.

“I am excited to join the STRIVE team and to serve Birmingham in this new capacity,” said Mrs. Frye. “STRIVE programming has a near four-decade track record of successfully serving individuals and their communities with proven solutions to the cycle of systemic poverty and access to the necessary tools and opportunities that lead to achieving upward mobility and the building of generational wealth. Every city in America needs a STRIVE in their corner, and I could not be more proud to be spearheading STRIVE Birmingham.”

A lifelong educator, Quiwintre previously served as Manager of Community Partners for Woodlawn High School at the Woodlawn Foundation and as Program Manager at Girls Inc of Central Alabama. She started her life-long journey of educating youth as an 8th grade Algebra teacher for Birmingham City Schools. A graduate of University of North Alabama, Quiwintre has lived in the Birmingham area for the past two decades with her husband and three sons.

“Quiwintre is precisely the type of leader we look for when we lay roots in a new city,” said STRIVE President & CEO Phil Weinberg. “Her high-impact tenure serving the residents and families of Birmingham will provide invaluable insight into how STRIVE can best establish our role in the region and partner with employers to develop new pathways of economic opportunity for Birmingham residents. We aim to expand where our unique approach and targeted services are needed most, and it is equally essential that each new site is led at the local level by well-established leaders who have deep ties and understanding of the community.”

“Quiwintre represents everything that STRIVE Birmingham could ask for in a founding director,” says J.W. Carpenter of Prosper—Birmingham’s cutting-edge coalition of community, civic, and business leaders committed to creating a more vibrant and inclusive economy. “STRIVE Birmingham is poised to be a national leader in building an inclusive workforce for the future, right here in Alabama. With Quiwintre’s experience and expertise leading the charge, I have no doubt that they will have a phenomenal and long-lasting impact that will forever change the narrative for the working people of Birmingham.”

STRIVE Birmingham was announced in June of 2022 and will launch classes in spring 2023 of STRIVE's signature Career Path program. Grounded in evidence and proven practice, Career Path includes a dynamic combination of curricula, job readiness training, coaching and occupational skills for students to build the hire-ready toolkit that employers demand. Strong employer partnerships inform the program and ensure graduates start careers with opportunities to advance. Given the high industry demand of the region, this pilot program will offer an on-ramp to careers in healthcare. STRIVE will be a key partner in the Birmingham Region Health Partnership, supported by the Good Jobs Challenge. Long-term support and wrap-around services ensure conditions for success in the classroom and beyond.

STRIVE (www.strive.org) is a national workforce development leader that for more than 38 years has successfully provided services to populations facing significant employment barriers. STRIVE’s proven program model moves students into careers that lead to upward mobility and economic empowerment. Headquartered in East Harlem, New York and operations in 13 locations, STRIVE has helped more than 85,000 individuals prepare for career success through employment programs geared toward adults, young adults, and those with involvement in the justice system.

STRIVE receives $4 million in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Labor to expand Future Leaders programming nationwide

STRIVE and its partners will expand justice-involved youth with jobs in three new cities. 

 NEW YORK, June 28, 2022 – STRIVE, a leading national nonprofit workforce development organization, was announced after a competitive process as a recipient of a Department of Labor (DOL) grant to connect justice-impacted young adults to careers with a pathway for advancement. This $4 million support will allow STRIVE to expand our Future Leaders program in three cities: Atlanta, Georgia; Chicago, Illinois; and Bridgeport, Connecticut.  

The STRIVE Future Leaders program connects young adults (aged 18-24) impacted by the justice system to career opportunities. The program provides training and support services, all driving toward STRIVE's purpose to ensure that everyone can achieve upward mobility and financial empowerment for themselves and their families. This is the second year in a row that STRIVE received DOL support to expand the program. These combined funds will serve a total of 970 students in seven cities throughout the life of the grants, which will run through 2024. 

“This grant offers more than career opportunities to justice-involved youth," says Jomal Vailes, Executive Director at STRIVE Atlanta. “It also provides a second chance and a springboard to economic mobility for young adults to provide for themselves and their families. We are glad to provide them with resources and support their growth. As the first expansion site, this shows the growth, commitment, and investment that we have here in Atlanta.” 

All the partner sites where the STRIVE Future Leaders program will be implemented with this grant are deeply underserved, with few comprehensive programs meeting the needs of youth with histories of involvement in the criminal justice system. Often, youth struggle to find a good job, which leads to their re-arrest. The Future Leaders program will address the needs of these young citizens upon their release, supporting them on their journey to reintegration and self-sufficiency.   

This year’s funding from the DOL will directly equip STRIVE Future Leaders with the resources to serve 415 youth over three years, as operated through STRIVE Atlanta in Atlanta, Georgia and two licensed partner organizations: Chicago CRED (Chicago) and Career Resources Inc. (Bridgeport, CT).  

"Chicago's young people have infinite potential but, due to exposure to gun violence, many have faced extreme trauma in their lives that can create challenges as they transition into the legal economy,” says Arne Duncan, Managing Partner at Chicago CRED and former US Secretary of Education. “This grant will help participants in our violence prevention program succeed in the workplace and live safer, healthier, and more rewarding lives."     

“CRI is excited to expand our great work with justice involved youth in the Bridgeport community,” says CRI President and CEO Scott K. Wilderman. “We are equally ecstatic to be included in this partnership as we work with STRIVE and our sister affiliates to break down system silos and forge career pathways towards self-sufficiency.” 

STRIVE Atlanta, Chicago CRED, and CRI will work in partnership with local employers, community organizations, and the justice system to provide the professional and occupational skills needed to enter the workforce. Accompanying the training, STRIVE Future Leaders includes case management and social supports as part of a proprietary, evidence-based model.  

Tailoring the model for justice-impacted youth, students will connect with adults who have lived through the justice system as mentors, called credible messengers, through a partnership with Credible Messenger Mentoring Movement (CM3). CM3’s mission is to help transform the lives of justice involved youth, their families, and the justice systems that impact them by supporting and advancing credible messenger initiatives in communities nationally. This partnership reunites CM3’s Executive Vice President Lorenzo Harrison with STRIVE, where he served for more than a decade in key leadership roles before building a longstanding career at the U.S. Department of Labor.  

In addition to mentors, students work with career coaches on goal setting and case management through partners at EMPath, a nonprofit whose mission is to transform people’s lives by helping them move out of poverty and provide other institutions with the tools to systematically do the same. Students will engage in pro-social activities, including employment and education, while receiving the support they need to maintain long-term financially sustaining employment, keep a stable residence, and successfully address substance abuse issues and mental health needs.  

STRIVE has a successful track record of partnering with the DOL. This marks the tenth federal grant since 2012 awarded to STRIVE, allowing us to serve 3,500 justice-involved adults and youth across 10 U.S. cities. 

This work product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by a Sub-recipient or a contractor and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. 

Announcing our new site: STRIVE Birmingham

We are thrilled to announce the launch of STRIVE Birmingham! After more than a year of exploration and a warm welcome from the community, we will begin STRIVE’s newest site with classes in Winter 2022-23.

“STRIVE’s expansion to Birmingham builds upon our deep history of partnerships in cities across the country,” says STRIVE President & CEO Phil Weinberg. “Together with local partners, we see incredible opportunity for STRIVE to support the city’s efforts to build an inclusive economy with access to good careers for all residents. We are ready to get to work.”

STRIVE Birmingham increases our national presence to 13 cities. We will operate three site locations directly in New York, Atlanta, and now Birmingham, with our programs present in ten additional cities through local licensed partners, serving an average of 2,000 students annually. STRIVE Atlanta opened in 2020, with STRIVE declaring an intention to open in more locations. In Birmingham, STRIVE will serve upwards of 125 new students annually when at full operation. 

“STRIVE brings to Birmingham over three decades of experience putting citizens on the path to meaningful and lasting employment," says Jared Weinstein, founder of the Overton Project, a social impact investment entity focused on Birmingham. "STRIVE is a win for both local employers and those in Birmingham looking for a new path forward. I'm excited about the long-term impact and long-lasting partnership between Birmingham and STRIVE.”

The Alabama Power Foundation and The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham have committed their support for the launch of STRIVE Birmingham with preliminary investments.

 “We know that STRIVE has a track record of success in communities across the country,” says Houston Smith, Alabama Power Vice President of Governmental Affairs. “After meeting with STRIVE leadership earlier this year, we felt confident that their programs would make a difference in our community. We are proud to be among the first to support STRIVE Birmingham.”

“The Foundation is continually vetting various initiatives for best in quality programs and innovative work," says Christopher Nanni, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham. "We see STRIVE as a welcome addition to the network of solutions available to our region, and to the business community looking to be connected to local talent.”

As a national workforce development leader, STRIVE aims to replicate and expand where our unique, targeted services are needed most. Rising economic inequality has exacerbated the challenges that structural racism has long-posed for communities of color—particularly Black Alabamians. STRIVE’s nationally recognized, 5-pillar model of job training and wraparound services will help to address this crisis and provide an alternative to post-secondary education.  

“STRIVE Birmingham could not be arriving at a more opportune time,” says Mayor of Birmingham Randall Woodfin, who welcomed Weinberg and STRIVE Board Co-Chair and Graduate Roy Castro in a recent visit. “The pandemic has displaced thousands of local workers, which has further stressed our economy. We need to generate a forward-thinking talent development system that offers multiple entry points to good jobs with upward mobility so Birmingham families can build their generational wealth. This is a top priority for the Magic City.”

We also spoke with several local employers, to explore further how STRIVE can serve the specific needs of their growing businesses, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham. "Birmingham is full of talent seeking opportunity,” says Emily Wykle, Director of External Affairs. “STRIVE will connect that talent with the skills and training they need to join the competitive workforce and access the good jobs we offer here at UAB and many others throughout the city."

STRIVE Birmingham will begin as a pilot class of our signature Career Path program this winter. Grounded in evidence and proven practice, Career Path includes a robust combination of curricula, job readiness training, and occupational skills training for students to gain the skills that employers demand. Strong employer partnerships inform the program and ensures graduates start careers where they can advance. Given the high industry demand of the region, this pilot program will offer an on-ramp to careers in Healthcare. Long-term support and wrap-around services ensure conditions for success in the classroom and beyond. Anticipated outcomes for STRIVE Birmingham include an 80% program graduation rate, an 80% certifications rate, and a 70% job placement rate. 

“STRIVE Birmingham is poised to be a national leader in building an inclusive workforce for the future,” says J.W. Carpenter of Prosper—Birmingham’s cutting-edge coalition of community, civic, and business leaders committed to creating a more vibrant and inclusive economy. “I’m excited to have them join the fabric of the future of Birmingham.”  

A search for an Executive Director for STRIVE Birmingham has begun. We are seeking talented candidates from the Birmingham region who are ready to bring STRIVE Birmingham to life.  Click here to view the job description. Click here to to learn more.

U.S. Secretary of Labor Visits STRIVE

US Secretary of Labor, Martin Walsh, visited STRIVE’s headquarters in East Harlem, New York to hear firsthand from our students about their experiences in our programs and their career development. Students, staff, and Board Co-Chair and graduate Roy Castro were on hand to give personal accounts of their paths to good careers.

"These are my happiest days on the job, talking to you," Secretary Walsh told students. "When I see President Biden and Vice President Harris, I will talk about you and what I saw here at STRIVE." The Secretary spoke at length to classes of young adults and adults, including those impacted by the justice system.

Secretary Walsh gave a personal account of his own career journey, opening a dialogue on the challenges he faced as a young man. He described his struggles with alcoholism and encounters with the justice system. "I believe in second chances," said Secretary Walsh. "These programs at STRIVE are an amazing and important part of the plan for anyone looking for a second, third, or even sixth chance."

"The US Department of Labor has been an essential partner for STRIVE in building pathways to good careers,” says STRIVE President & CEO Phil Weinberg. “We’re proud and grateful that Secretary Walsh took the time to meet our students, listen to their voices, and share his own story. His connection to them was phenomenal. Secretary Walsh’s commitment to those most excluded from economic opportunity was truly inspiring.”

STRIVE is a proud recipient of a 2021 $4.5 million Department of Labor grant for our Future Leaders program, operating in New York, Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Diego. The program connects justice-involved youth aged 18-24 to career opportunities and provides training and support services, a true example of STRIVE's commitment to equity through economic opportunity. Since 2012, STRIVE has been awarded 9 federal grants across 10 U.S. cities.

"This gives me motivation to do more," said Braulio, a student in the Future Leaders program. "If he can do it, I can do it."

Reflections on Black History Month from Perfecting Apps

For Black History Month, we’d like to honor one of STRIVE’s amazing partners. Jacqueline Marrant is the President of Perfecting Apps, a company that helps provide STRIVE students with software and technology training. In Ms. Marrant’s own words: 

“Being a Black Business Owner means operating in a state of excellence every day to provide top-tier services to all of my clients. I believe my job as a Black Business Owner is to support other Black-Owned Businesses in Harlem, ideas, and resources, so we can all rise together. 

It is essential to work with my community because I understand the struggles and the negative or false narratives surrounding us and want to make a change. The saying “Each one teach one” is an African proverb that originated in America during slavery. Enslaved people were denied Education, so when one enslaved learned to read or write, it became their responsibility to teach the next person.   

There are numerous ways we can begin to change the story. We must start with something that, once obtained, can’t be stolen, and that is Education. We must continue to educate one another. The facts about our past can’t change. But the story we tell ourselves going forward can lead us to prosperity. 

Black History Month means taking the time to honor those who have paved the path to be who I am today. I pay homage to my parents, educators, mentors, and national heroes such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and Harriet Tubman, to name a few. 

Many of our Black heroes never lived to enjoy the fruits of their labor. It is incumbent upon us all not to let them die in vain. Therefore, I will take this month to acknowledge my history, evaluate my present, and organize my future while thanking the trailblazers before me. Without their sacrifice, my achievements would not be possible.”

We thank Ms. Marrant for her words and her commitment. We would not be able to do the work without partners like Perfecting Apps.

STRIVE Elects New Board Members Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry and Phil Salinger

Board expansion to support national growth plans.

Harlem-based STRIVE, a leading national workforce development nonprofit for individuals who face the biggest obstacles to employment, announced the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors. The addition of Amplify Advisors, LLC Chief Executive Officer Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, and Bridgewater Associates’ Global Currency Market Lead Phil Salinger brings to 19 the total board members at STRIVE, governing the organization nationally in 12 cities through operated sites in New York City and Atlanta and partner organizations in 10 cities.
--------------------------------------
Following an early career as a mechanical engineer in the technology sector, Ms. Leatherberry became a management consultant in the 1990s before serving as one of Deloitte’s most sought-after global experts in information technology strategy and implementation, data analytics, IT due diligence, and post-merger integration. Her global client work included multiple long-term global IT transformation and implementation assignments in Europe and Asia.

Now retired as Managing Principal of Deloitte’s $300M northeast regional data analytics practice where she led a team of more than 2,000 professionals, Ms. Leatherberry is the CEO of Amplify Advisors, LLC, a firm she founded following three decades with Deloitte where she held leadership roles of increasing responsibility. She advised Fortune 100 companies and served as a strategic advisor to CEOs and C-suite executives for three of the five largest US companies. Her client portfolio generates annual revenues of over $250M, which she grew from $30M over five years. In addition, Tonie advises companies on information technology, governance, brand, reputational risk management, strategic disruption, and resilience.

Ms. Leatherberry served as a member of the Deloitte Consulting board of directors and three of Deloitte’s most important governing committees, including the Nominating, CEO succession, and senior leader compensation committees. She is a long-time director and current chair of the Executive Leadership Council (ELC), the preeminent association for Black leaders. In addition, Ms. Leatherberry serves on the Widener University Board of Trustees (where she chairs the Trusteeship committee), the Boston University Board of Overseers, and its Engineering Advisory Board.

Ms. Leatherberry has an MBA in Operations from Northeastern University and a Bachelor of Science/Mechanical Engineering from Boston University. An advocate of lifelong learning, she is pursuing a doctorate in higher education at Widener University.
--------------------------------------
As Global Currency Markets Lead at Bridgewater Associates, Mr. Salinger is responsible for overseeing the firm’s FX portfolio across all major global currencies in developed and emerging markets. In addition, as a participant on Bridgewater’s Investment Committee, he is responsible for developing, prioritizing, and directing research initiatives to inform Bridgewater’s investing views, specific to understanding currency markets.

Mr. Salinger’s work also includes devising and directing the development of new trading strategies. He is a regular contributor to the Bridgewater Daily Observations, the firm’s premier daily research publication widely read by policymakers, heads of state, and decision-makers for the world’s largest pools of capital. Mr. Salinger also serves as a partner and advisor to Bridgewater’s institutional clients on currency management. In addition, Mr. Salinger is a Corporate Leader at the Council on Foreign Relations. He joined Bridgewater—the world’s largest hedge fund—after graduating summa cum laude with a degree in economics from Dartmouth College.

The board appointments are effective immediately.

About STRIVE
STRIVE (www.strive.org) is a national leading workforce development solution for populations who face the biggest obstacles to employment. STRIVE’s proven model propels students into careers that lead to upward mobility and access to the promise of the American Dream. Headquartered in East Harlem, NY, and since its founding in 1984, STRIVE has helped more than 80,000 graduates prepare for career success through employment programs geared toward low-income adults, young adults, and those with involvement in the justice system.

STRIVE Leadership Featured in New Reentry Article

“One of the greatest difficulties any ex-offender will have to overcome will be getting a job. That was true before the Covid pandemic. It's probably even harder now, even with the national labor shortage.”

- Ron Claiborne, former ABC News Correspondent.   

In his new article, "THE LONG, HARD ROAD HOME FROM PRISON," Ron Claiborne examines the challenges faced by justice-impacted individuals. Mr. Claiborne cites STRIVE co-founder and former CEO, Rob Carmona: "The biggest [challenge] is: do you have a place to stay? That's number one." Another challenge is employment. The Prison Journal indicates that employment is crucial in successful reentry. Those employed are less likely to return to criminal activity. 

There are many reasons to be optimistic about the futures of justice-impacted individuals. This article features Roy Castro, STRIVE graduate and Board co-chairman, as a success story. Roy had a justice-involved background when he joined STRIVE, where he benefited from our programs and supports. Not only did he start his own company, he now serves as co-chairman of STRIVE’s Board.

Meet LaRae Brown!

Thanks to the Center for Urban Families (CFUF), our affiliate in Baltimore, individuals like LaRae (pictured below) have been able to access resources that can help them reach their career goals. We are proud to see how students benefit from our programs on our partners' sites.

LaRae Brown attended the STRIVE program through CFUF to achieve her career goal. After graduating in August 2021, LaRae quickly found a job. Currently, she works full-time as an Administrative Assistant for an architectural firm that pays her a high hourly rate of $17.00 with benefits. 

This is only the beginning of her journey. Through CFUF's Baltimore BOOST initiative, LaRae is now pursuing an education as a Community Health Worker in the Human Services field at Baltimore City Community College. 

LaRae enrolled in STRIVE with  her husband Daniel, who graduated in the same cycle and is also pursuing a Community Health Worker certification. The couple recently moved into a new home. Both overcame barriers and moving into careers of their dreams, and their uplifting stories inspire others to do the same.

“STRIVE helped me to realize I knew the things it took to be successful; I just didn’t realize that what I knew was enough. STRIVE gave me the confidence to move forward”

— LaRae Brown, STRIVE Graduate

STRIVE receives $1.8M from Gotham Gives, one of STRIVE’s largest private grants to date, for new reentry employment program

Every year, over 600,000 people make the difficult transition from prison back to their communities. The transition comes with many challenges, and employment barriers are one of the most problematic. Thanks to a $1.8 million grant from anchor funder Gotham Gives, STRIVE’s reentry program – Fresh Start will ensure that 300 low-income adults experience a smooth transition by providing employment opportunities in industries where they can advance.

By partnering with Gotham Gives, STRIVE graduates will be fully supported in their drive toward building successful careers. This grant will allow STRIVE to bring innovative & proven programming to more New Yorkers, focused on emerging industries with growth potential, including the burgeoning cannabis industry and other promising fields.

"This is what equity through economic opportunity looks like in practice. What Gotham Gives and STRIVE aspire to do together is help those returning citizens looking for a second chance to unlock their potential," said Roy Castro, STRIVE graduate and Board Co-Chairman.

”Gotham Gives is committed to giving people second opportunities. We are inspired by Roy Castro's success and his vision and are thrilled to be partnering with STRIVE. STRIVE has proven that they understand the complex obstacles faced by people re-entering society from the prison system and we believe this program will address all those challenges. Gotham Gives hopes that our example of support will persuade other private funders to make this kind of investment that advances social justice and significantly benefits the New York community," said Joanne Wilson, Co-Founder / President, Board of Directors of Gotham Gives.