Redefine possibilities.

YWCA Strive

Through mentorship, education and practical support, our program paves the way for women to redefine possibilities and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

Transforming Futures

Connect with the skills you need to for job you want for the life you deserve!

YWCA Strive is a hands-on workforce development and training program in digital skills designed to assist women and people of color in the Lower Cape Fear who face barriers in finding careers and obtaining gainful employment.

  • With YWCA Strive, you will learn and practice skills desired by local employers and that you need to define and succeed on your career path.

    Topics include, but are not limited to:

    Digital Skills for the Workplace

    Essential Skills (i.e., Soft Skills)

    Entrepreneurship and Business Skills

    Financial Independence

    Critical Thinking

    Leadership Skills

    Personal Empowerment

    Team Work and Collaboration

    Career Coaching

    Presentation Skills

    Balancing Personal and Professional Obligations

    Opportunities for Education and Career Advancement

  • YWCA Strive offers hands-on classes and assignments that will help you develop and practice your skills in a collaborative, supportive environment.

    You will take the skills you learn in class and work one-on-one with a career coach to define your career path, identify solutions to any barriers, and receive individualized feedback and support on your progress and skills development.

  • Upon completion of all requirements, you’ll receive your Strive Professional Certificate and you’ll have an updated resume, stronger interview skills, and the knowledge and ability to launch your career. You’ll also learn about local resources available for starting your own business and other opportunities for education and career advancement.

    YWCA Strive facilitators are always working to identity and share local employment opportunities with participants. Our facilitators are making connections with local employers and educating them on the value of the Strive Professional Certificate and what our program graduates can bring their workplace.

  • Must live in the Lower Cape Fear

    Must be 18+ years old

    Must have basic English literacy and math skills

    Must show desire and ability to complete the full program

    Preferred enrollment opportunities for women, people of color, those who have not completed a bachelor’s degree, and those who receive a referral through a partner agency.

YWCA Strive is funded by a grant from Google.org and YWCA USA and was initially developed by YWCA McLean. 

YWCA Strive is committed to promoting equity and providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our community, including clients, staff, volunteers, community partners, and vendors. We are committed to helping individuals of all races, ethnicities, national origins, genders, sexual orientations, incarceration backgrounds, religions, ages, abilities, and other diversities succeed through our programming and services. We are committed to promoting equity throughout our operations, including the provisions of services, staff decisions, and selection of volunteers and vendors.