Benton Harbor Replication

About this grant

The Benton Harbor community in Michigan has been severely affected by a lack of jobs and a high rate of poverty. As in many communities, the high rate of unemployment affects the largely minority, central-city area and often leads to racial tension. Following widespread civil disturbances during the summer of 2003, Governor Granholm created the Benton Harbor Task Force. To address the problem, the East Harlem Employment Service will use Mott funding to plan, develop and implement a STRIVE program in Benton Harbor.First-year objectives include developing a custom STRIVE program and curriculum; identifying and selecting sponsoring agencies; assisting in building necessary collaborations and partnerships; hiring and training local staff; establishing an office and training site; recruiting participants and employers for the first training class; and overseeing the first complete cycle of job placement and client support.The East Harlem Employment Service, founded in 1984, is a nonprofit employment training and placement organization. Through the STRIVE program, it provides attitudinal training and post-placement support for inner-city residents who seek long-term employment.