Strive in Boston, MA | Careers

Strive

The Strive employment model was introduced in New York in 1984. The characteristics that set the model apart are its four weeks of intensive attitudinal training and its two years of graduate follow-up. Together, these produce low costs, fast entry into the workforce, and high job retention rates. Because of the effectiveness of this approach, Strive has been featured on "60 Minutes" three times since 1997. Elements of the model have been widely adopted throughout the employment field in the U. S.
Boston Strive was the fourth "Strive" to open, after New York City (the first), Pittsburgh and Chicago. Strive centers are now in 20 U.S. cities plus London. Plans are underway to open a Strive in Israel and possibly South Africa. As is the case with Boston, all the centers are independent in terms of governance and funding; some are free standing (like Boston) and others are components of existing organizations (including Goodwill Industries, the Salvation Army, homeless shelters, government entities, churches, family centers, and community action groups). In 2001 "Strive National" was set up to provide training and communication among the centers.
Training
The Strive job-readiness training is an intense process by which the hardest to employ are transformed into job-ready individuals. Stressing accountability, responsibility, and personal growth, the entire training takes place in a simulated work environment where participants are given the opportunity to aggressively address personal obstacles to success. With the challenges and support of the trainers, individuals become empowered, discovering their own strengths and gaining the life skills necessary for success in the world of work.
Social Services
When Strive's demanding program mixes with participants who often carry difficult personal histories and complex behavior patterns, strong support services must be in place. Strive ensures access to social services as needed, allowing participants to break down the multiple barriers that could prevent them from completing training and later, maintaining employment.
Job Development
After completing training, Strive graduates are assigned a Placement Specialist. The two work one-on-one, pushing the graduates to be proactive in their job search and teaching them how to effectively market themselves to employers. Strong relationships with local employers and lifetime access to services for all graduates are key components of Strive's dedicated and effective approach to job development.