Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who are typical participants at StreetWise Partners?
2. How do I know if I should apply to StreetWise?
3. What is the StreetWise application like?
4. If accepted into StreetWise Partners, will I definitely graduate?
5. When and where do the sessions meet?
6. What is the training like?
7. What happens after I graduate from StreetWise Partners?

1. Who are typical participants at StreetWise Partners?

Although our participants come from a variety of backgrounds at StreetWise, successful participants show the following characteristics: o High school or GED level education o Individuals who are actively seeking a job, motivated to enter the corporate/professional workforce or interested in improving upon their current position and career trajectory o Possess at least basic typing and word processing skills o Legally eligible to work in the US o Ability to read and write proficiently in English o Excited about a mentor/coach relationship with corporate professionals o Willing to make the commitment to attend ALL trainings The SWP program is a 4 stage program of core skills training, job placement, retention services and alumni participation. Formal training is on Saturdays for 4 months. Upon completing the training program, participants can flexibly schedule meetings with mentors and program staff.

2. How do I know if I should apply to StreetWise?

If these characteristics describe you then speak with your program coordinator or call SWP directly to inquire about applying. We screen all candidates to make sure that there is a good fit between potential participants and our organization. We offer training for free to participants, and do due diligence to ensure that we attract committed and motivated participants who are serious about improving their employment possibilities in a professional workplace.

3. What is the StreetWise application like?

StreetWise has a competitive screening process in order to select its participants. There are two steps to applying to StreetWise: (1) Complete paper application, and (2) In person interview Both stages of the application process assess skills, motivation and commitment to the program.

4. If accepted into StreetWise Partners, will I definitely graduate?

We need to ensure high quality standards and therefore we only graduate participants who are motivated, attend all sessions, and meet minimum skills standards. We want to ensure that all participants are supported and work one-on-one with participants to address any training issues or obstacles.

5. When and where do the sessions meet?

StreetWise has programs that meet midweek and on the weekends. The training sites are in central locations in New York and Washington, DC and are accessible by public transportation.

6. What is the training like?

There are 4 stages to the SWP program. Core Training: Participants will be assigned to corporate mentors who work closely with them to outline specific program goals and customize a plan to achieve the goals. Over the following fifteen weeks, participants benefit from their relationships to their two mentors, improve their computer proficiency (primarily focusing on Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and the Internet) and develop the necessary tools to actively seek and successfully find jobs. Periodically, guest speakers will discuss job searching and workplace protocol. While most of the sessions are focused on training, the program creates an environment conducive to building relationships among mentors and participants. Work Experience/Job Placement: The employment coordinator will work with each participant to assess skills and interests and identify internships or full time opportunities. Job interviews are often facilitated and arranged by SWP. Retention and Advancement Program: The first 3-6 months of employment are critical to success in the job. SWP will maintain active engagement with all participants through mentoring, peer mentoring and additional trainings. Participation in the retention program is mandatory to graduate from SWP and become an alumnus. Alumni Program: A successful alumnus will have completed stages 1-3 and will continue to work with SWP to gain more skills through optional trainings as well as have access to networking opportunities and job opportunities.

7. What happens after I graduate from StreetWise Partners?

StreetWise cannot and does not guarantee jobs for its graduates but will provide each individual with improved skills that will better help them compete for jobs. We work with volunteer job developers throughout the cycle to announce job opportunities to job-seeking participants. For participants who are employed, we will work to upgrade skills so that participants can seek additional responsibility with their current employer. We will also refer participants to job interviews when there is mutual interest. After graduation, we offer reunion events to all graduates and mentors and we also offer additional mentoring programs to participants who secure employment.