History & Overview
Streetlights is a Job Training, Job Placement and Career Advancement nonprofit founded in the wake of the 1992 L.A. riots. Streetlights’ goal is to create careers, not just jobs, for underrepresented young women and men from diverse backgrounds. This groundbreaking organization was on the forefront of bringing a skilled, ethnically diverse workforce to the behind-the-camera world of film, TV, commercials, and all media platforms.
The Streetlights Job Training Program is the only production training of its kind requiring graduates to complete 4½-weeks of job training, followed by time spent working on actual productions. Taught by industry professionals, the aspiring production assistants (PAs) learn the varied skills necessary to be of true assistance to the production companies from their very first day on the job. Mentoring, job counseling and financial assistance for those in need are also a vital and on-going part of the services provided to the enrollees.
Mission
Streetlights’ mission is to advocate for social and economic equality by providing viable career pathways for underserved men and women who may not have a solid education base or stable work history. In particular, the organization will deliver job training, job placement and career advancement services to young adults who are Black, Indigenous, People of Color from marginalized communities, leading to well-paying careers behind-the-camera in Commercials, Television, Film and Streaming Media.
Awards & Recognition
ADCOLOR AWARDS – PRESENTED BY CNN
MVP Award – Most Valuable Partnership
Streetlights and Saatchi & Saatchi
BANK OF AMERICA
Community Catalyst Award
FREEMAN, FREEMAN & SMILEY
Northern Trust Bank Award
HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Woman of Achievement Award
THE IMAGEN FOUNDATION
Appreciation Award
LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL
Humanitarian of the Year
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition
WOMEN LAWYER'S ASSOCIATION OF LOS ANGELES
Pathfinder Award