Our Program
The mission of The Monkey & The Elephant (M&E) is to fortify former foster youth with personal and professional skills, employment, and the supportive community needed to lead a sustainable, independent life. We advance our mission through the Employment Training. Participants complete an intensive employment training program combining paid professional development, wrap around support and a part time job.
Together and guided by mentors, program employees earn income, receive intentional coaching, and are provided with a supportive space to learn and grow before they transition to educational or other job opportunities.
Check it out on CBS Philly News Segment and Good Morning America!
Our goal is to help under-resourced young adults acquire the confidence and skill they need as they embark on their employment journey.
M&E builds a sense of community and belonging while supplementing short-term employment with longer-term personal and professional development. Every dollar spent in our coffee shop directly supports our program.
Program employee applicants are referred by organizations serving youth aging out of the child welfare system, including Achieving Independence Center, YVLifeSet, and Youthbuild.
Hear more about our program by clicking this link to a podcast: Aging Out Institute Podcast with M&E
And these news segments: CBS Philly News Segment and Good Morning America!
Ordinary purchases make an extraordinary impact. Every purchase at the cafe supports opportunities for young adults.