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.