Walking into Hopeworks’ new Kensington space is like walking into a tech startup, with its sea of computers and teams of young people — only these tech workers are as young as 17, and are learning to code and build tech products so that they might eventually secure a job in the tech industry with a living wage. Dan Rhoton, 48, the CEO, believes that the antidote to poverty is simple: Create jobs and train young people to fill them. “The way to end poverty is with money,” he says, adding, “I am only half-kidding.” We spoke with Rhoton about how he became the CEO of Hopeworks and why he believes his company is a tool to fight poverty in Philadelphia.
What inspired you to get involved with Hopeworks?
I planned to spend my career in education. I loved my job as a teacher and administrator at a detention facility. Those youngsters had drive. But they were using it in the wrong direction. I felt I could help them change course. I spent 15 years there, and I thought I’d retire there.
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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 […]
