Program Associate - Program Associate Summer Search Employee Review

2.0
Mar 14, 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great opportunities for undeserved adolescents who can navigate the cultural insensitives to benefit from the trips.

Cons

This organization has a paternalistic view of the adolescents it serves. It uses a deficient based approach to working with students of color, pushing students to neglect instead of embracing their communities strengths. Ideally, Summer Search works towards getting children way from their communities, peers and family members. For this reason, most of the employees at summer search do not reflect the communities they serve. They have a difficult time retaining people of color and in general most program associates. This is a terrible organization for both high need students (as they cheery pick the top performing students that would go to college anyways- they have a hard time retaining men of color - black and latino) and staff. Do not waste your time trying to make a difference with this organization. They will expect you to drink the cool aid (as it is referred to among the leadership) to work here.

Explore other reviews about Summer Search

5.0
Sep 30, 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

flexiblility is good there yup

Cons

not any to say no

3.0
Jul 3, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The organization's mission is genuinely impactful, and there are many dedicated staff who are passionate about the work. Opportunities exist for those who are highly self-directed and can navigate ambiguous environments.

Cons

My experience reveals an organization grappling with severe systemic issues that profoundly undermine its potential and the morale of its staff. Firstly, there is a critical absence of clear strategic planning and decisive leadership. Decisions often appear reactive rather than part of a cohesive vision, leading to significant organizational drift and a lack of direction for employees. This contributes directly to the current precarious financial outlook, evidenced by substantial budget shortfalls and recent layoffs that reflect deeper, unaddressed structural problems. Compounding these issues is a pervasive culture of favoritism, where advancement and opportunities seem disproportionately influenced by personal relationships rather than merit or performance. The stated commitment to fairness and equity often rings hollow, with observable practices frequently contradicting the espoused values, leading to a sense of hypocrisy that erodes trust. Furthermore, unprofessional practices are unfortunately common, characterized by inconsistent policy application and a noticeable lack of accountability across various levels. This environment contributes to demonstrably low morale among staff, who often feel unheard, undervalued, and uncertain about the organization's future.

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