STEP: Economic Mobility Empowerment Program | Leadership Training Institute

Building Wealth, Creating Stability, and Closing the Economic Gap

LTI’s STEP (Strategic Training for Economic Progress) Program is a financial education and workforce development initiative designed to empower Black Long Islanders by addressing systemic economic disparities. By providing personalized financial coaching, career development, and wealth-building strategies, STEP helps individuals and families achieve economic security and long-term stability.

Through customized financial plans, strategic savings initiatives, and workforce training, participants gain the knowledge and resources they need to increase savings, reduce debt, and build wealth for future generations.

OUR Services

Financial Coaching & Wealth-Building Support
- Short- & Long-Term Savings Planning
- Retirement & Investment Education
- Debt Reduction & Credit Improvement Strategies
Homeownership & Asset Building
- Guidance on qualifying for home loans and navigating the home-buying process
- Budgeting and savings plans to prepare for homeownership
- Support in overcoming historical housing discrimination barriers
Workforce & Career Development
- Job readiness training, interview preparation, and career advancement coaching
- Strategies for income growth and career mobility
- Employer partnerships to connect participants with higher-paying opportunities
Personalized Financial Planning
- Each participant receives a customized plan tailored to their unique financial situation and goals
- One-on-one financial coaching sessions ensure ongoing support and guidance

Why STEP Matters

Economic mobility is key to reducing racial wealth disparities and creating generational financial stability. The STEP Program empowers individuals with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to navigate financial systems, achieve homeownership, reduce debt, and secure long-term wealth.

Impact Highlights:

✔ 75% of participants increase their savings within six months.
✔ Dozens of families successfully purchased homes through STEP.
✔ 90% of clients report improved financial literacy and long-term planning.

Success stories

"After years of struggle, one family in STEP was finally able to purchase a home, overcoming past financial challenges and discriminatory housing barriers."
Breaking Barriers to Homeownership

"A client who had no short-term savings now has a fully funded emergency account, ensuring financial security in case of unexpected expenses."
Saving for a Better Future

"One participant learned to manage income more effectively, allowing them to pay bills and build savings simultaneously—something they previously thought was impossible."
Strategic Budgeting for Growth

Participant Testimonials

"Coming to LTI gave us insight into different areas of Long Island, tax brackets, and what we needed to do financially to prepare for buying a home."
James & Monique, STEP Participants

"LTI taught us how to use the same income to cover our expenses while saving money. Now, we’re seeing real growth in our savings account."
Lisa T., STEP Participant

Upcoming Workshops & Enrollment

Financial Empowerment Workshop Series

Location: LTI Economic Empowerment Center, Uniondale, NY
Date: Ongoing Enrollment – Spring 2025
Details: Learn budgeting, debt solutions, and investment strategies tailored for economic mobility.

Download PROGRAM GUIDE | Register Now

Get Involved

Help us empower more individuals and families to achieve financial freedom.

Donate to fund financial literacy and homeownership coaching.
Volunteer as a financial mentor or career coach.
Partner With Us to provide housing, employment, or financial services for participants.

Gallery & Resources

See Photos of participants reaching their financial goals.

Watch Video: How STEP is changing lives through economic empowerment.

Download Brochure: Learn more about the STEP Program and its impact.

Contact Us

For more information about STEP or partnership opportunities, contact us at info@ltiny.org or call 516-483-3400.