Recruiting is done by community outreach. This includes neighborhood canvassing, community service announcements on the local radio stations W.I.L.D. and Hot 97.7, adds in the local newspaper, visits to probation, parole and welfare offices; and liaisons with churches, community centers and social service organizations. A growing number of applicants are coming in through word of mouth.
Training
Training consist of a multi-phased, intensive, professional development training program with a heavy focus on dress, speech and behavior in the workplace. In the first phase of the program clients learn how to prepare resumes, fill out job applications, use the telephone properly and interview successfully. They "work " in a simulated job site where they must be on time, perform assigned tasks, be part of a team, accept orders and criticism and keep personal issues out of the workplace.  G.E.D. and Computer classes are incorporated into the curriculum and continue until the applicant recieves a G.E.D. and becomes proficient in the use of the Microsoft Word application and the computer in general. In the second phase of the program the G.E.D. and computer classes continue and clients are assigned to a Placement Specialist who engages them in an intensive job search effort. Clients also have access to a Supportive Services Coordinator for information and referral services.
Job Placement
"Job placement" is a misnomer because STRIVE’s clients apply for and obtain jobs on their own. STRIVE's Placement Specialists provide "leads " based on their understanding of participants ' abilities and their knowledge of employers' requirements. They also "coach "participants in the telephoning and interviewing process. Relationships with employers are built on satisfaction over a period of time with STRIVE hires. The latter depends on a record of properly matching candidates with job opportunities.
Follow-up
Follow-up consists of keeping in touch, on a quarterly or more frequent basis, with working graduates for two years following their initial employment. The objective is to keep them on-the-job. Participants who leave jobs are placed in new positions. Counseling and attitudinal training are given where needed. STRIVE maintains a job retention rate of 80%, measured by the number of participants continuously employed for two years following graduation. STRIVE’s commitment to its graduates is for their lifetimes.
Advanced Programs
Advanced programs are aimed at furthering the careers and incomes of STRIVE’s graduates. Boston Employment Service helps clients gain entry into four fields (the financial industry, office position and the trade unions). Through an in-house GED program, introduced in 2002, STRIVE incorporated education into its program for the first time.