Feel Good Story of The Month: Desmond Riley

Feel Good Story of The Month Desmond Riley
Feel Good Story of The Month: Desmond Riley 2

Earlier this month, we had a pop-up visit at our Camden headquarters from a very special guest! Desmond Riley is a Hopeworks alumni from the early 2000’s where we started in a small row home in North Camden.

Desmond just happened to be walking down Market Street when he saw our sign on the window of our new location and decided to walk in. He was greeted by our staff and given a tour where he was blown away by the growth of the program since he was last involved.

”I can’t believe this program is still around! I was just walking by and saw the sign on the window, so I decided to check it out.”

During the tour, he was further surprised to see his picture hanging on the wall along with hundreds of others that have been collected over the years. We were ecstatic to learn that Desmond currently has a successful career in the healthcare field, has recently started a family, and is living life to the fullest.

Moments like these speak for themselves. Being able to see the visual transformation from a trainee over 10 years ago to a Hopeworks alumni and family man with a very successful career.

This is why we do what we do.

February 18, 2025
Social Enterprise Nonprofit: Market-Driven Strategies for Mission Success

‍Podcast episode transcript Josh: Some nonprofits go beyond relying on donations and grants by generating their own revenue while still driving meaningful social change. Social enterprise nonprofits blend business strategies with social impact, creating a sustainable approach to mission-driven work. But balancing financial sustainability with a nonprofit mission isn’t easy. How do these organizations navigate […]

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February 13, 2025
OPINION: Identifying solutions to the root causes of violent crime

Over the last 12 years the Camden County Police Department has brought violent crime down to historically low levels in Camden City. The approach has always been to work with the community and look to build bridges wherever we can to create a safer place for residents. Over the years we noticed that we started […]

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January 31, 2025
On The Horizon: Cheers to 25 Years!

We’re turning 25, and it’s time to celebrate! Hopeworks is officially a quarter-century strong, and what a journey it’s been. Here’s what we’ve accomplished in 25 years: Opened two locations, doubling the impact for young adults in need.Helped countless young professionals earn degrees, diplomas, and certifications.Prepared young professionals to land living-wage jobs and build brighter […]

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808 Market St.,
Camden, NJ 08102
(856) 365-4673
Hopeworks is a 501(c)(3) non-for-profit organization, EIN: 31-1660671.
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