We are a non-profit,501 (c)(3) organization established in 2007. Using research-based concepts and proven methods, The Initiative develops and implements individualized education, mentoring and coaching programs that focus on promoting healthy, productive relationships and resiliency in individuals, businesses and communities. In addition to its Business Edge Trainings and Adult Momentum Coaching,
The Initiative has always strived to create services that support and empower our community's most vulnerable, at-risk population. From 2007-2010, through the Second Chance Training Program, The Initiative served more than 2500 clients ranging from youth to adulthood. The Second Chance Training Program was facilitated to inmates, clients and/or staff in the
following settings: Hillsborough County Sheriff Office-JOLT Program, Florida Department of Corrections Prison (male & female units), Hillsborough County Work-Release Center, Probation & Parole Facilities, Goodwill Suncoast Correctional Center, Goodwill Suncoast Drug Center, Hillsborough Correctional Institution and the Pinellas County Sheriff Office. Through the experience in the correctional facilities, The Initiative identified the increasing need for a preventative approach. By 2010, the Spark Inside Teen Mentoring program was developed for at-risk youth. Using a proven, preventative model, facilitators mentor middle and high school students throughout Hillsborough and Pinellas county. To date, the Spark program has severed more than 500 youth. Today, services fall into 4 categories: Adult Momentum, Youth Action, Community Drive and Business Edge. Our approach is to start with the child but also serve the adults that touch children's lives. In doing so, The Cypress Initiative conducts regular, on-going programs in schools, in-house, on-site at corporate and non-profit facilities, and for the general public in community settings.
