Hopeworks’ H.O.P.E Summit Empowers Aspiring Professionals to Advance Their Careers

Spokespeople from Campbell’s Soup, Subaru, LinkedIn and more came together to inspire and guide young adults in their professional journey

Camden, NJ, March 12, 2024 – On March 11, Hopeworks – a nonprofit and social enterprise that propels young adults ages 17 to 27 into long-term living wage careers – hosted their first annual H.O.P.E. Summit, a transformative event that brought together thought leaders, professionals and advocates committed to shaping a brighter future for young adults. 

The 2024 H.O.P.E. Summit showcased a dynamic series of panel discussions, networking opportunities and interactive workshops, focusing on crucial topics such as digital literacy, professional development, and navigating AI. Attendees received insightful perspectives from renowned industry leaders, including Kevin Rice, VP IT - Infrastructure and Application Platforms at Campbell’s Soup Company; MG Pinizzotto, IT Director - Marketing, HR and Legal Systems, Data Trust and Enablement, ADA Accessibility, Subaru of America; Mindy Kang, Vice President, Product Development - Next Generation Access Networks, Comcast; Carrie Brooke, Chief Operating Officer, Technical.ly; Hakeem Ruiz, President, Block that Gives Back; and many more. By curating engaging panel discussions, educational workshops, and networking sessions, the H.O.P.E. Summit created an environment where attendees could explore various industries and pathways to higher education. 

“The inaugural H.O.P.E Summit was a transformative event that left a lasting impact on all attendees. It provided a unique platform for individuals to experience a truly immersive and empowering journey towards personal and professional growth,” said Angel Serrano, Senior Director of Development at Hopeworks. “The significance of the H.O.P.E. Summit for our region cannot be overstated. It plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between talented individuals and the resources needed to unlock their full potential. We are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received from our community, partners and beyond who helped make this event a success.” 

By equipping attendees with the knowledge and connections necessary to succeed, the summit fosters a vibrant and dynamic workforce that fuels economic growth and innovation. It empowers individuals by arming them with the resources, guidance, and connections necessary to navigate their career paths successfully and paves the way for a brighter future for communities and the region as a whole. 

The event was sponsored by Seer Interactive, Holman, Campbell’s Soup Company, CDW, Subaru, Pinelands Preservation Alliance and NJM Insurance Group. 

For more information about Hopeworks, please visit www.hopeworks.org and follow Hopeworks on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

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About Hopeworks

Hopeworks is a social enterprise that uses technology, healing, and entrepreneurship to transform lives. Hopeworks’ unique mix of training, trauma-informed care, and real-world experience is what leads to extraordinary results. The approach, combined with high-demand, high-wage technical training and paid work experience is helping to build a workforce that can not only get the job, but keep it, transforming their lives and the lives of their families.

To provide this experience, Hopeworks runs real businesses, providing technology solutions for businesses in web design and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and trauma-informed solutions through training and consulting services with the Hopeworks Training Team. These businesses help generate over 100 jobs a year, and lead to high-wage, permanent opportunities for young adults in a growing tech industry.

Hopeworks’ unique combination has led to extraordinary results, with over 85% of young adults earning high-wage jobs at the end of their work experience with Hopeworks, and a 12-month retention rate of almost 90% at those jobs. Young adults entering Hopeworks are typically earning an average of $400 per year and after going through the training program, they have the opportunity to make a livable and comfortable wage, earning over $42,000 annually.

Media Contact:
Red Thread PR on behalf of Hopeworks 
Gillian Scott: Gillian@redthreadpr.com

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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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