Economic instability drives health disparities. Five Health’s STRIDE Academy addresses that root cause directly by providing workforce development and financial literacy training to community members facing employment barriers.

This post shares outcome data and participant stories from our first cohort.

The Program Model

STRIDE Academy runs eight-week cohorts that combine:

• Resume building and interview preparation
• Financial literacy and credit repair
• Soft skills and workplace readiness
• Direct connections to local employers
• Ongoing mentorship and support

Participants meet twice weekly for workshops and one-on-one coaching. Childcare and transportation stipends remove common barriers to participation.

Cohort One Outcomes

Our first cohort graduated 24 participants in January 2026. Three months post-graduation:

• 79% secured employment (19 of 24 participants)
• Average wage increase of $4.50/hour compared to prior employment
• 67% enrolled in employer-sponsored health insurance
• 83% reported improved financial confidence

One participant, Maria, had been unemployed for 14 months after a layoff. She completed STRIDE Academy in December and started work as a medical office coordinator in January. Her new job includes health benefits for her entire family—the first time they’ve had insurance in over a year.

Another participant, James, was working part-time retail with no benefits. STRIDE helped him land a full-time logistics position with a local hospital. He’s now earning enough to move out of his sister’s apartment and into his own place.

Why Economic Stability Is a Health Issue

Employment and income directly affect health outcomes. People with stable jobs are more likely to:

• Have health insurance and access primary care
• Afford medications and follow treatment plans
• Live in safer neighborhoods with better resources
• Experience lower chronic stress levels

STRIDE Academy treats economic stability as a health intervention because that’s exactly what it is.

Scaling the Model

We’re recruiting for Cohort Two now and planning to expand to four cohorts annually by 2027. Each cohort costs approximately $32,000 to operate, with per-participant costs of $1,333.

Funder support for STRIDE Academy directly translates into stable employment, health coverage, and improved outcomes for Miami families. Contact Dr. Ichite at amanda@5-health.com to discuss partnership opportunities.

Contact us about supporting STRIDE Academy expansion