By StreetWise Partners

In 2023, inspired by the incredible generosity of our community, StreetWise Partners launched The Opportunity Pledge. The pledge is a public commitment to build an inclusive and diverse workforce. With an impact of $175,000 generated in year one, the response is clear: the Opportunity Pledge is filling a critical void in the workforce development sector.  

Strategically designed to leverage the power of cross sector collaborations, the Pledge is one of a kind in that it uniquely positions mentorship as the key pathway to addressing critical gaps in employment opportunities. Those gaps can begin to close with StreetWise Bridge, our 1-year mentoring program. Results are far and wide, spanning employment rates, income levels, and job readiness. Our job seekers experience: 

• Income increases from $15K to $50K+ on average  

• Professional networks increase from 0 to 100+ contacts    

• 90% of graduates reported an increase in confidence, job preparation and public speaking ability

Each year from June – August corporations and philanthropic organizations are invited to join StreetWise in their commitment to create equity in the workforce. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the pledge harnesses a wide range of resources and expertise, creating a powerful force for change.  

As part of our celebration of September as National Workforce Development Month, we are thrilled to announce the new Opportunity Pledge signatories for 2024: Aminad Consulting, BBR Partners, Citco, London Stock Exchange, and Schonfeld Strategic Advisors. 

“We are thrilled to support StreetWise Partners in their mission to empower individuals through mentorship and professional development. Their dedication to creating opportunities aligns perfectly with our values of kindness and generosity, and we are proud to contribute to their impactful work.”

Lido Ramadan
Aminad Consulting President & CEO

“What makes the Opportunity Pledge truly exceptional is its unwavering focus on collaboration and inclusion. It’s not just another program; it’s a movement that brings together corporations, philanthropic organization, and individuals in a united effort to create a more equitable and inclusive job marketing. We’re honored to be a part of it.”

Stephanie Diamond
BBR Partners Director, Impact Driven Client Solutions

“At LSEG, we are always seeking ways to bring forth positive change. The Opportunity Pledge with StreetWise Partners will take our partnership to a new level to create opportunities for those in need to participate in education, employment, and enterprise.”

Patricia Cuddy
LSEG Head of People, Markets and the Americas

“At Schonfeld, we are passionate about supporting the local communities in which we live and work. Through our partnership with StreetWise, we are honored to influence the trajectory of peoples’ careers and look forward to expanding our collective impact in the years to come.”

Jenn Cohen
Schoenfeld Strategic Advisors Global Head of Human Capital Management

These firms made The Opportunity Pledge with a financial contribution to StreetWise Partners, a commitment to hire StreetWise Partners’ jobseekers, or in-kind donations such as lending office space for in-person programming. Resources generated by The Opportunity Pledge directly enhance the outcomes of StreetWise Bridge mentees and jobseekers. This approach not only increases the employability of underrepresented groups but also encourages industries to adopt inclusive hiring practices, driving systemic change and cultivating a more equitable labor market.

It’s also imperative to take a moment and recognize our inaugural adopters who laid the foundation for this campaign’s success. Erickson Immigration Group, Global Atlantic Financial Group, The Ready Foundation, Symphony, TIAA, Tradeweb – thank you for joining us in year one. We’re grateful to have your leadership and example for other organizations..  

Nicole Carrea, Chief Partnerships Officer at StreetWise says “The Opportunity Pledge signatories are propelling this work forward in a significant way, making a tangible impact on the lives of countless individuals and creating a brighter future for all”.  

While enrollment in the Opportunity Pledge has now concluded for the year, there remain plenty of opportunities for individuals and organizations to get involved with StreetWise. We welcome anyone who is interested to email Nicole and inquire how you can be a part of this dynamic movement. Together, we will create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.