“The American Dream” holds the promise that all people, regardless of where they begin, can build better lives than their parents through hard work and perseverance. The unfortunate truth is that for many Americans, the American dream has never been within reach as structural barriers related to race, disability, and now, in light of the harsh economic conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, progress appears even more elusive.
Employment social enterprises offer a solution that’s been hiding in plain sight. Employment social enterprises (ESEs) are organizations that specifically focus on addressing challenges for people who face barriers to employment. They give workers job experience and skills while earning income. These jobs may be temporary, transitional, or permanent. Most ESEs provide additional social support which their workers need to be successful on the job.
In this report, we have identified four main models of ESEs…
General ESEs work with multiple disenfranchised populations through a variety of programs and services, and typically receive significant funding from philanthropic and government grants.
Case Study: Humanim
Other Examples: Goodwill, The Chicago Lighthouse, TROSA
Targeted ESEs focus on specific (or “targeted”) population groups, offer more tailored services, and tend to generate more earned revenue than General ESEs.
Case study: Vehicles for Change
Other Examples: AnnieCannons, New Moms, Juma Ventures
Connector ESEs place people in jobs by responding to employer demand for skilled workers, offering tailored training, language education, services that easily integrate into supply chains and other complementary support services.
Case study: Year Up
Other Examples: Entrada ESL, Project Return, Viability, Mile High Workshop
Corporate ESEs are programs or units embedded within larger companies that employ people from one of the six population groups profiled in this report. Corporate ESE programs involve more than a traditional human resources function, by explicitly ensuring that employees have access to tailored support services.
Case study: Salesforce Vetforce
Other Examples: Bank of America Support Services, Televerde, Walgreens Boots Alliance
