About
STRIVE is a national workforce development nonprofit headquartered in East Harlem, New York City. Founded in 1984 to combat chronic joblessness and poverty in marginalized New York communities, STRIVE provides professional training, intensive personal support, and job placement for people who face societal barriers to employment — including individuals impacted by the justice system. Its legal name is Strive International Inc.
Mission
STRIVE's mission is to provide a pathway to life-changing careers and opportunities through comprehensive professional training, intensive personal support, and self-empowerment for those who face societal barriers to advancement.
What they do
- Career Path — STRIVE's core program for adults, combining the STRIVE START job-readiness workshop (life and job skills) with hands-on occupational training in healthcare, construction, and logistics leading to industry-recognized certifications, plus personalized career coaching, job placement through employer partnerships, and lifetime follow-up support after graduation
- Future Leaders — a program for young adults ages 18-24 impacted by the justice system, offering job training, career exploration, work experience, community service, and leadership workshops; funded by the U.S. Department of Labor and operating in Atlanta, Chicago, Connecticut, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, and San Diego
- Fresh Start — support for adults who were previously incarcerated or are on parole or probation, including housing assistance referrals, health and wellness services, career training and credentialing, and job placement in high-demand fields
History
STRIVE was established in 1984 in East Harlem to address chronic joblessness in marginalized New York City communities. The IRS granted Strive International Inc tax-exempt status in May 1985 (EIN 13-3255679). The organization remains headquartered at 205 East 122nd Street in East Harlem and now operates regional sites in New York City, Atlanta, Birmingham, New Orleans, and North Jersey.
Scale and impact
According to the organization, STRIVE has served more than 90,000 individuals across its 40-year history and currently serves roughly 2,000 students annually. It reports an 80% graduation rate, a 75% job placement rate, and a 70% retention rate. STRIVE's growth plan targets serving 10,000 students per year by 2033, with half of participants coming from justice-impacted backgrounds.
Financials
Per ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer (IRS Form 990 data), Strive International Inc reported revenue of $14.6 million and expenses of $14.1 million in fiscal year 2024, ending the year with net assets of $9.9 million. In fiscal year 2023, revenue was $18.7 million against $12.5 million in expenses.
Governance
STRIVE is led by CEO Philip Weinberg and governed by a volunteer board of directors co-chaired by Brian Friedman and Roy Castro.