Our Story

STRIVE was founded in East Harlem in 1984 to address chronic unemployment and poverty that plagued historically marginalized communities across New York City.

Our groundbreaking approach of career mindset training with long-term wraparound support services has become a proven model for helping people overcome barriers to upward mobility and secure good jobs and economic prosperity.

In the 40 years since our founding, STRIVE has refined its workforce model, expanding through our East Harlem site and national partnerships, preparing over 85,000 people for success with a 76% job placement rate.

Today, the need for STRIVE across communities remains critical, as workforces seek to scale mission-critical positions—just as communities seek proven partners in workforce development.

At STRIVE we recognize that people need more than a job to succeed. Our comprehensive model and holistic approach train students with in-demand skills and match people’s talents and determination with top-ranking employers, paving the way for upward mobility and financial independence for people and their families.