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.