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
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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.