A unique partnership between this global software company and Camden’s tech training nonprofit is changing lives now, and for the future.
It all started with a phone call. Anthony Conte, then CFO of EPAM, reached out to Hopeworks Camden, with a simple question -- “how can EPAM help?”
The answer has allowed both Hopeworks and EPAM to grow in unexpected ways!
Hopeworks, training and employing youth in technology in Camden, New Jersey, was looking for ways to connect their young people to experiences and opportunities in technology, and EPAM was looking for a way to have a greater impact on the local Philadelphia community.
It started with a tour, the first of many that EPAM employees would provide to Hopeworks youth of EPAM’s facilities and operations. Hopeworks youth not only got to see the operations of a global software powerhouse, but they also had in-depth conversations with the people that make EPAM run, learning about project management, UX/UI, Quality Assurance, and a myriad of other careers in technology. As one Hopeworks youth shared, “I thought tech was all about coding, but you can do anything in technology!”
The tours alone would have been a win, but EPAM was not content with simply providing information. Committed to help Hopeworks youth grow, EPAM staff, led by Amanda Antorino, continued to look for ways to add more value. Soon EPAM volunteers were teaching youth coding and technology at Hopeworks’ Code Days and hackathons, mentoring youth at events, and helping Hopeworks turn young people with ambition into true technologists.
Tours, training, and mentorship were an amazing beginning, but EPAM had more to offer. As part of its work, Hopeworks runs a web development shop, building and maintaining websites for companies across the region. This business not only brings revenue to Hopeworks, but it also provides jobs for Hopeworks youth, giving them valuable experience and income.
EPAM saw how they could help. Utilizing their expertise in digital platform engineering and software development, EPAM worked with Hopeworks Web Development staff and youth to help build a better project management structure, allowing Hopeworks to build better websites, gain more customers, and employ more youth!
Now, EPAM staff are lending their expertise as Hopeworks explores what jobs and opportunities are available for Hopeworks youth in the coming years, helping Hopeworks ensure that they are training youth for not just the jobs of today, but the jobs of tomorrow.
Tours, training, mentoring, strategy, and skills -- these are just a few of the things that EPAM has helped Hopeworks build. It may have all started with a phone call, but, thanks to the dedication of EPAM staff, has it has become so much more for both Hopeworks and EPAM!
Helping disadvantaged young adults in the U.S. to overcome barriers to economic opportunity and secured sustained long-term employment Hopeworks was founded in New Jersey in 1999 to help young adults overcome barriers to economic opportunity and build sustainable futures. Most participants do not have college degrees, and 99% of them are unemployed when they join […]
$1.2M Commitment from The Hg Foundation Enables Hopeworks’ Expansion into Two New Cities The Hg Foundation, a grant-giving charity focused on improving tech education and skills, today announced a new $1.2 million partnership with Hopeworks, a U.S. social enterprise that supports young adults into long-term living wage careers. The partnership will enable Hopeworks to expand its […]
Check out our Camden office full of energy, creativity, and hustle at our Pop-Up Shop Lunch Event! Our incredible young adults showcased and sold their original art, handmade jewelry, delicious food desserts, and so much more. From eye-catching booths to mouthwatering treats, every table told a story of passion, talent, and entrepreneurship. Proud to support […]
