It isn't always, "who you know": STREETLIGHTS PRODUCTION ASSISTANT PROGRAM
STREETLIGHTS
STREETLIGHTS is a nonprofit job training, job placement and mentoring program which provides opportunities for employment in the entertainment industry for economically or socially disadvantaged young minority men and women.
This pioneer organization was founded in 1992 by commercial and documentary producer Dorothy Thompson. Staffed by experienced industry professionals, STREETLIGHTS' mission is to promote ethnic diversity in the entertainment industry while helping the students overcome any barriers to employment. The ultimate goal is to assist the graduates in career advancement; establishing themselves in the departments that interest them, and for which they show aptitude. With each step forward, they become closer to attaining social and economic parity for themselves and their families.
""Streetlights' Production Assistant Program is absolutely terrific!" says James D. Brubaker, President-Physical Production, Universal Pictures. "I hire at least one of their P.A.s to work on all my local film productions."
This is the only training of its kind which requires each graduate to complete 240 hours of training, 120 of which are spent working on actual commercial, film, music video or TV productions. They learn everything from walkie-talkies to petty cash, pick ups and returns, navigating the city with a Thomas Guide, who's who on the job, as well as office and on-set practices and protocol. This extensive preparation allows the P.A.s to be of assistance to the production companies from their very first day on the job.
Production Assistant Program 
The Streetlights Production Assistant Program is a non-profit organization created to promote ethnic diversity on the sets and stages of Hollywood. Streetlights provides free training & job placement for low-income men and women age 20 and over. A Production Assistant is an entry-level job behind the scenes in the motion picture, commercial and television industry. It is an excellent and accepted way to get your foot in the door and learn the ropes. Following six weeks of classroom and paid on-site training, Streetlights provides ongoing mentoring, job placement and career counseling to ensure your long-term success.
Candidates will undergo a rigorous selection/screening/training process. Qualifying for our program is rigorous. Due to the limited availability of jobs, only the most motivated applicants will gain admittance into class. Applicants must possess a strong work ethic and a team- oriented attitude.
Classes are conducted a maximum of four times a year. Applications accepted year round.
For additional information on this great organization:
STREETLIGHTS PRODUCTION ASSISTANT PROGRAM
Raleigh Studios
650 N. Bronson Avenue
Suite B108
Hollywood, CA 90004
Telephone: 323- 960-4540
Fax: 323- 960-4546