Streetwise Partners Incorporated

StreetWise Partners is a highly effective, cost efficient career development program that works with low-income individuals to help them overcome employment barriers, break the cycle of poverty, obtain better jobs and achieve short term as well as long term economic self-sufficiency. We accomplish this by tapping into the expertise of volunteer corporate professionals who provide customized one-on-one job skills training, access to professional networks, career coaching and job search assistance. StreetWise Partners assists people in proactively developing their career, not just their next job, and provides the tools and support required to set and achieve specific career goals.

Signature Programming: Career Ventures, StreetWise Partners’ signature one-year program, matches trainees with up to two mentors who impart critical workplace competencies, networking skills and professional etiquette.  We help trainees to achieve long term, improved employment in a professional office setting by teaching a variety of hard and soft skills and instilling the confidence needed to successfully apply them. We are distinguished in our ability to call upon nearly 15 years of experience in managing structured, volunteer-based programs.

High Return on Investment: The positive tangible economic outcomes of StreetWise Partners trainees are one of the many indicators of our success. In 2010, average weekly trainee income increased by 74% from program start to end, and participants added an average of 17 new individuals to their employment networks. Our model also provides a high social return on capital, leveraging cash donations by a factor of four. This leverage is accomplished via substantial in-kind contributions of volunteer time and professional training facilities located in the offices of corporate partners.

360 Degree Benefits: Collaboration between StreetWise Partners, individuals trained and the business community creates an intersection of corporate citizenship, poverty alleviation and economic development. All partners benefit:

1. Trainees obtain career coaching, job training skills, and placement assistance through customized mentoring;
2. Volunteers develop significant leadership skills and enjoy the rewards of their philanthropy by reinforcing a lifelong habit of improving the community in a meaningful way;
3. Corporations, investing financial and in-kind support, benefit from recognition as leaders in corporate social responsibility, enhanced employee morale, and access to qualified and driven employees.

Donations made through Give to the Max Day will be restricted for local use and will only be used to support StreetWise Partners' programs in the Washington, DC region.  StreetWise Partners serves 60 clients annually in the DC, MD, and VA through four year-round programs.

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