Social Enterprise

Social Enterprise: Because Work Works

Our youth-led business is the backbone of our sustainability, covering nearly half of our program costs. But the real reason is simple: Work Works.

Why social enterprise?

Because too often, young people are seen as problems to be fixed rather than active participants in their own solutions. Through our work-based social enterprise, youth gain real-world job experience and all the benefits that come with it: a paycheck, the value of being part of a team, constructive feedback, performance reviews, and opportunities for promotion and leadership. This approach empowers them to take ownership of their future and build the skills they need to thrive.

Performance & Competencies

On every shift youth track attendance, rate themselves and their peers on professionalism and engagement, and reflect on core competencies designed to support their career trajectory.

It’s our business. It’s our job. It’s putting the power in youths’ hands. Working boosted my confidence and made me feel like this isn’t just school or a camp.

- Tris, Graduate

Our Social Enterprises

Fitrah was known as the "book people," and while that identity still defines us, we've evolved into something much broader. Our social enterprises now play a key role in youth empowerment, and as we've grown, we've found innovative ways to connect with and strengthen our community.

During every shift we have lots of opportunities to step up and do more than what’s expected. That can be arriving early or staying late to support the shift to reach its goals. It can be helping out others on shift if you finish your tasks early. We work on leadership with things like tours, volunteer groups, and speaking at events. But leadership is also doing the little things like noticing we’re out of shipping labels and replacing them without being asked.”

– Nick, Graduate