This report profiles 12 programs conducted as part of the Hitachi Foundation's Partnerships in Economic and Educational Opportunity Initiative. The introduction and overview explain the goals of the initiative, which was undertaken to improve the economic and career options available to young people who have traditionally been underserved by schools in making the connections from school to work. Next, 16 lessons learned from the projects, including the following lessons, are discussed: (1) community-based partnerships serve youth better; (2) flexibility counts; (3) understanding culture is key; (4) entrepreneurship is an option; (5) connect staff, volunteers, and culture; (6) public service yields public benefits; (7) meaningful work offers lasting value; (8) youth are a program resource; (9) cultivate innovative human resources; (10) alternative experience has value; and (11) commitment is key. Presented next are profiles of the programs, which were conducted in diverse rural and urban settings characterized by diverse economic, racial, and cultural conditions. All profiles contain an overview, lessons learned, challenges faced and overcome, and information about project planners and their roles. Concluding the report are a final set of lessons, a list of 10 generally available resources, and definitions of selected Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills know-how and workplace competencies. (MN)