The Work of Opportunity
Updates
Sep 29, 2025
As the US approaches its 250th anniversary, we are reflecting on America’s founding ideals—and asking whether the promise of opportunity still holds true today.
Featured
Voices
Aug 25, 2020
The Future of Upskilling is Here: Webinar Recap
In a webinar co-hosted by Blue Meridian, Social Finance, and General Assembly, Jim Shelton shared his views on the current education and job training landscape in the U.S. and moderated a conversation about the Career Impact Bond (CIB).
Media
Aug 24, 2020
Putting Rochester First: Center for Employment Opportunities
A Rochester, NY news station highlights the work of Center for Employment Opportunities, which is continuing to help formerly incarcerated individuals secure permanent employment amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Media
Aug 23, 2020
Longmont LEAD program helping people, reducing recidivism per city report
A Colorado outlet applauds Studio @ Blue Meridian participant LEAD, whose pre-arrest, pre-booking diversion program has assisted people with behavioral health issues in the city.
Media
Aug 11, 2020
As COVID Leaves Millions Unemployed, Here’s How Workforce Funders Are Evolving
Inside Philanthropy reports on how workforce development organizations like Year Up are expanding economic opportunity in underserved communities & helping ensure an equitable recovery, in the wake of COVID-19.
Media
Aug 5, 2020
Nonprofits offer stimulus to Detroiters returning home from prison, jail during COVID-19
A Detroit newspaper highlights the positive impact that the Center for Employment Opportunity’s Returning Citizen Stimulus has had on formerly incarcerated Detroiters who are returning home during the COVID-19 crisis.
Media
Jul 29, 2020
Amid pandemic, NC women need better healthcare access
In an article for the Charlotte Observer, leaders from Upstream North Carolina reaffirm their commitment to ensuring equity in the state’s reproductive healthcare system and increasing contraceptive access for women amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Media
Jul 28, 2020
Kentucky launches new program for young people transitioning from foster care
A Kentucky news outlet shares how the expansion of Youth Villages’ Lifeset program will assist young Kentuckians who are transitioning out of the state’s foster care system.
Media
Jul 26, 2020
Delaware transformed its health care system for women — here’s how | Opinion
Dr. Kara Odom Walker, former Cabinet Secretary of Delaware’s Department of Health & Human Services, highlights Upstream USA as a major contributor to the dramatic reduction of unplanned pregnancies in the state.
Media
Jul 23, 2020
The Long and the Short of Emergency Cash Grants
Philanthropy Roundtable highlights Family Independence Initiative as one of the more effective strategies for moving financial resources quickly to those who need them.
Media
Jul 22, 2020
Here’s how Bank of America is trying to improve economic opportunity in Charlotte
The Charlotte Observer highlights how a partnership between Charlotte-based Bank of America and Blue Meridian investee Year Up is boosting economic mobility in the city.