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."