Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Collective?

The Collective Blueprint is a nonprofit organization based in Memphis, Tennessee. We work with schools, employers, and community stakeholders to establish career pathways. We also work to ensure equitable access to support, resources, and opportunities that allow young adults to thrive

What purpose does this organization serve?

The current economic structure in Memphis does not work for everyone. Its systems and policies hinder economic mobility by not addressing the needs and concerns of all of our city’s young residents. To address this issue, The Collective Blueprint has a two pronged approach. First, we provide personal relationships, resources, and a network of support to help young adults achieve their professional objectives. Second, we educate and advocate for equitable policies and additional programs to help meet the needs of young adults and to remove barriers that stand in the way of economic mobility.

What makes The CB different from all of the other organizations working on finding jobs for youth?

The Collective Blueprint is the only local organization with the specific focus of addressing the needs of young adults who are not in school or working. We look to further workforce and economic development, and our holistic model incorporates intensive emotional support. These supports include counseling, strong one-on-one mentor relationships, and accountability measures. Most importantly, our policy agenda is driven by the young adults we serve.

What does The CB actually do?

The Collective Blueprint establishes career pathways for young adults that will put them on track toward a living wage. We offer two programs to help accomplish this task. In our Schools program, young adults are prepared for postsecondary education and coached through a schooling program that earns them a certification to work in a field with a high demand for new employees. Our Careers program places young adults in a career job with one of our employment partner companies. Additionally, we provide a range of emotional and social supports to ensure that young adults can reach their goals.

What does the Program Cost?

The Collective Blueprint does not charge any fees for entrance into our programs. We actually offer you a stipend for your time and effort. The schools that we partner with charge tuition. However, Tech901’s total tuition of $180 can easily be covered by using half of one of the monthly stipends, and the Financial aid options at Moore Tech allow our Leaders to attend with little to no costs.

What does success look like for The CollectivE?

Our vision is that all young adults have the power and the tools needed to live their best lives.