StepUp Ministries Greensboro
Held is thrilled to launch a new core partnership with StepUp Greensboro. This partnership, set to launch in January 2024, is not only about providing financial aid and case management support; it's about empowering individuals with the resources they need to navigate their journeys confidently and successfully.
The StepUp - Held Referral Partnership
At the core of this partnership lies a shared vision between StepUp Ministries and Held. StepUp has been instrumental in serving the homeless, the unemployed, and the underemployed through their various support services, like job readiness training and life skills courses. Held brings to the table its expertise in offering guaranteed income to those in dire need. This synergy is the driving force behind the program's goal to provide both financial relief and a stable pathway to lifelong careers for its participants.
StepUp staff will identify and refer unemployed or underemployed individuals in their services to Held. Once referred and approved, Held will provide them with a guaranteed income of $833 per month for one year. This financial support, amounting to $10,000 per participant, is not just monetary assistance; it's a stepping stone towards stability. We believe it will allow recipients to focus on career development without the overbearing stress of financial hardship.
Complementary Services of StepUp Ministries and Held
The beauty of the StepUp - Held partnership lies in its holistic approach. StepUp's contribution extends beyond mere referrals. They will continue to offer their case management services, ensuring that participants receive comprehensive support tailored to their individual needs. Simultaneously, Held's guaranteed income provides the financial backbone, enabling participants to focus on their career aspirations without the constant worry of making ends meet.
When I met with StepUp’s Director Anthony Bass to discuss this partnership, he walked with me to the exit past a wall with pictures of graduates of StepUp’s various programs. He paused for a moment and said, “John, those are a lot of changed lives up there. And I can’t help but think there’s a lot more people whose lives could’ve changed if they’d had what you all are offering.”
Evidence and Research Support
The effectiveness of combining career development programs with guaranteed income initiatives is supported by research. Studies like the Stockton Economic Empowerment Demonstration (SEED) have shown that guaranteed income programs improve job prospects and overall wellbeing. This approach not only increases the rate of full-time employment among recipients but also enhances their emotional health and resilience to unexpected financial shocks. By integrating StepUp's career development expertise with Held's financial support, the partnership is set to replicate these positive outcomes, fostering an environment where participants can thrive.
The StepUp - Held Referral Partnership is more than just a program; it's a testament to the power of collaborative effort and our belief in human potential. As we look forward to its launch, we're not just anticipating the success stories it will create but also the ripple effect it will have on the community. This initiative is poised to change lives, open new doors, and create opportunities that many never thought possible.
If you would like to give to support our work in this partnership, click below.
