From our humble but aspirational beginnings in East Harlem 40 years ago to the floor of the New York Stock Exchange earlier this month, it is an understatement to say that STRIVE has come a long way.
STRIVE graduate Romelia Corvacho and STRIVE CEO Phil Weinberg capture the moment.
On Friday, September 4, STRIVE executives, board members and regional team members, had the honor of ringing the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange, marking a watershed moment for STRIVE.
The bell ringing provided a memorable opportunity to celebrate and recognize our 40th Anniversary and to shine the spotlight on STRIVE’s critical mission and legacy of impact. Today, STRIVE is serving individuals ready for a new start in 14 sites around the country, with more on the horizon.
As Board co-chair, Roy Castro so eloquently put it, "This was a BIG DAY for us all. A kid from the South Bronx, born and raised in one of the areas most impacted by economic hardship, was able stand in THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE and literally ring the Closing Bell! If you don’t believe in second chances, let me be the testimony needed to show you that it’s real. Doing it with STRIVE for the 40th Anniversary is even more special. After my immediate family, they were the first to believe in me and give me that second chance that I so desperately needed."
Thanks to our generous partners at Annaly Capital Management.
Video: Ringing the bell!