STRIVE's 35th Anniversary Gala
On Tuesday, November 5th, workforce developer STRIVE held their 35th Anniversary Gala at the Edison Ballroom in New York. Former New York Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu and Goldman Sachs Managing Director Dina Powell McCormick were honored. The gala, raised $1M in support of STRIVE’s career readiness programs honors individuals who uphold the success of STRIVE’s students through their commitment as partners and supporters.
“We were proud to honor Mayor Mitch Landrieu and Dina Powell McCormick for their efforts to assist our students in overcoming employment obstacles and barriers,” said STRIVE President & CEO Phil Weinberg. “They have worked to support our mission, advocate for our students, and continue to help us expand our programs. We are grateful to them for their continued generosity in the lives of so many.”
Mayor Landrieu received the STRIVE Leadership Award for his role as a champion of opportunity, and under whose leadership and vision STRIVE launched its workforce development efforts in New Orleans.
“STRIVE was a critical partner in reimagining our economic development and economic opportunity strategy in New Orleans,” said former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu. “STRIVE creates pathways to prosperity for people facing the biggest obstacles, so I am honored to help celebrate their 35th anniversary.”
Goldman Sachs Managing Director Dina Powell McCormick received the STRIVE Champion Award for her long standing support of STRIVE, and as a leader in driving sustainable economic development and revitalizing underserved communities.
“I am humbled to accept this award in honor of the students that STRIVE reaches each year. STRIVE sees what people can be and unlocks their potential, and provides the grace, love, and support, that they need to achieve it,” said Ms. McCormick. “Because of STRIVE’s dedication to providing motivated individuals an opportunity to overcome barriers and enter the workplace, you can see the ripple effect they have on the graduates, their families, and their communities.”
“STRIVE clearly understands the determination of those coming through their doors each day, working hard to move beyond the personal and professional obstacles, and ultimately guiding them to a place where their efforts are rewarded with bonafide jobs and a way of providing for their families,” said CBS This Morning co-host and The Oprah Magazine Editor-at-Large Gayle King. “It was an absolute honor to emcee the STRIVE Gala, and I wish them continued success.”
More than 250 people gathered to acknowledge and laud STRIVE’s work as CBS This Morning co-host and The Oprah Magazine Editor-at-Large Gayle King served as Mistress of Ceremonies. Robin Hood CEO Wes Moore, Fox News Co-host of The Five Dana Perino, Morgan Stanley Managing Director Tom Nides, and Jefferies Financial Group President Brian Friedman served as Gala co-chairs.
Guests heard the ‘success-despite-the-odds’ stories of graduate-turned STRIVE Board Member Roy Castro, and graduate-turned-business owner Catana Yehuda. They each spoke about how their early adverse circumstances led them to STRIVE, and how tenacity and determination led each to own their own piece of the American dream: a $10M ice-cream distribution enterprise, and an environmental and construction services company.
STRIVE’s unique workforce development model provides individuals with the job-readiness skills, positive and engaging attitudes, and connections needed to begin life-changing careers that allow them to have productive, successful, and responsible lives. With over a 70 percent graduation and 70 percent job placement rate, STRIVE leverages partnerships with local employers to provide a ready workforce and a steady pipeline of graduates.
About STRIVE
STRIVE is a national leading workforce development solution for people who face the biggest obstacles for employment. Their proven model propels students into careers that lead to upward mobility and define the promise of the American Dream. Headquartered in East Harlem, New York, and since its founding in 1984, STRIVE has helped more than 75,000 graduates prepare for career success through employment programs geared toward those left behind in the economy, including adults, young adults, and those with a history in the justice system.
All photos provided by STRIVE
