Saving Lives. Changing Futures.
About Us:
The Strong Futures initiative first began in June 2016 as a pilot by the City of Chicago, Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) in partnership with St. Sabina Church. Strong Futures addresses the needs of disconnected young adult males, between the ages of 18-28, who are justice-involved and/or have other barriers to stability, by connecting them with full time employment. Strong Futures provides intensive coaching, comprehensive wrap-around services, and support that will enable them to stabilize economically, retain employment, and develop into productive, responsible men in society.
Staff:
Program Manager- Tommie Bosley Program Mentor/Coach - Gary Lewis
Program Mentor/ Coach- John Harris Program Mentor/Coach - Elijah Maxey
RESULTS:
As of November 2017, the Strong Futures Program has 43 of its 61 participants employed in a full time capacity, and an additional 14 of its 61 participants are currently employed either part-time or are in job training paid internships. Overall employment rate is currently at 93%! We have two members who went on to enroll in college full time as well. The Strong Futures team has also assisted several individuals with securing permanent housing.
OUR GOALS:
The Strong Futures model was designed to create a more efficient way to service young men by connecting them to existing workforce and supportive resources, thereby creating a pathway for them to be successful in the work place. Our goal is to increase the chances of our participants identifying and sustaining meaningful employment, by providing intensive coaching and mentoring, as well as aligning the efforts among service providers across the city.
Next Steps:
The Strong Futures Program is currently looking to expand to 100 participants, with the goal of 100% full time job placement.
TO MAKE A DONATION CONTACT US AT 773-483-4300.
Strong Futures at the Ajibawo Microsoft Project during a field trip to LeadersUp.
Ajibawo Microsoft Project, second professional field trip for the group.
A work in progress on the Strong Futures program at St Sabina Church that seeks to find employment for at risk young adults while providing the mentoring and coaching that goes along with changing a life.