Mark Sarvary’s journey with Hopeworks began over two decades ago with a lunch that would change everything. Back when he worked at Campbell Soup Company, he attended a presentation from Father Jeff, Hopeworks’ founder, and was so struck by the mission that he immediately asked how he could help. That moment sparked what’s become a lasting commitment, with Mark now serving as our Board President, with over two decades of dedication to Hopeworks’ mission.
Hopeworks isn’t just another nonprofit to Mark; it’s a place where he sees real, undeniable impact. “The thing about Hopeworks that I have loved since the first time I heard about it is the tangibility of the success. The fact that you can literally meet the people. It is so real, and it is so consistent,” he says. Reflecting on his early visits, he describes the Hopeworks house in North Camden as full of energy and promise, where young people were ready to transform their futures. This impact, for him, is what Hopeworks is all about: giving young people the skills and opportunities to grow into confident leaders, no matter their background or story.
Mark is as committed to the mission today as ever, especially as Hopeworks continues to expand. He believes Hopeworks has the unique ability to make a lasting difference—not just in Camden and Philadelphia, but in other communities as well. Mark sees every dollar given to Hopeworks as an investment that returns tenfold. On average, over 99% of young adults (aged 17-26) entering Hopeworks are unemployed. Young adults completing the Hopeworks program make, on average, over $43,000 annually, with over 90% 12-month retention rate in their jobs.
From that first meeting to his leadership as Board President, Mark’s dedication to Hopeworks has only grown. He’s more than just a supporter—he’s a true champion for the organization and the young people it empowers.
Thank you, Mark, for your exceptional leadership and unwavering support, which has been instrumental in driving Hopeworks' continued success and impact in the community.
Hopeworks talent is everywhere! This month, Isabella, Amad, Kaydaysia, and Frank turned training into transformation with new roles at Resintech, Paramount Philly, and Chubb. These wins aren’t just job offers, they’re the start of real careers, built on purpose, skill, and drive. Interested in hiring Hopeworks talent? Contact Riscee Langhorne, Director of Workforce Solutions below!
This month, Hopeworks brought home not one, not two, but three incredible awards! We’re honored to be recognized by Camden Community Partnership with the Community Impact Award, Rutgers Business School of Camden with the Community Partner Award, and the Pinelands Preservation Alliance with the Catalyst of Change Award. Thank you to the great orgs who recognize hope and hard work! Follow us to keep up!
Big thanks to NBCUniversal’s#CreativeImpactLab and Big Picture Alliance for producing a powerful new commercial highlighting Hopeworks' Social Enterprise - Hopeworks Technology Solutions. We support clients while also transforming lives. The commercial showcases our young professionals driving real business results through RCM, Web Development, AI, GIS, and Data Services, all while launching their careers and creating lasting community impact. Click here […]
