Hopeworks is a social enterprise in Camden, New Jersey, and Philadelphia that transforms the lives of young adults (ages 17–26) through technical training, trauma-informed care, and real-world work experience. Operating in-house businesses in web development, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Revenue Cycle Management, Hopeworks helps young people—over 99% of whom enter unemployed—achieve living-wage careers and long-term financial stability. With a 94% job retention rate and an average exit wage of $46,023, Hopeworks combines skill development with healing to break cycles of poverty and violence.
With a focus on skill development, real-world job experience, and trauma-informed care, Hopeworks propels young adults into long-term living wage careers that put them on the path for healing and financial stability.
Founded in 1999 by Father Jeff Puthoff and members of three North Camden churches, Hopeworks began as a secular youth development nonprofit. The organization expanded its technical expertise to include GIS in 2003 and introduced trauma-informed care in 2012, which quintupled completion rates and increased retention 12-fold. Hopeworks has grown from its original State Street location to include a main office on Market Street in Camden (expanded in 2023) and a location in Philadelphia's Kensington neighborhood (opened 2022, expanded 2024). The organization also operates The Cohen Technology Center for alumni and offers post-secondary scholarships for college and advanced training.
Hopeworks is led by CEO Dan Rhoton and COO Onome Pela-Emore, with senior leadership including directors across sales & marketing, administration, career programming, workforce solutions, development, and business operations. The team includes specialists in GIS, web development, revenue cycle management, career readiness coaching, academic support, and community partnerships. The Board of Directors includes leaders from major corporations and nonprofits such as American Water, Comcast, PNC Bank, and TD Bank, as well as entrepreneurs and nonprofit executives.
Hopeworks offers technical training in web development, GIS, and Revenue Cycle Management, with pathways including training, internships, and permanent placement. The organization provides wrap-around support including career coaching, trauma-informed care, and real-world paid work experience through its in-house businesses. Additional programs include the CRIB residential program (offering stable housing and life skills), post-secondary scholarships for college and advanced training, and the Cohen Technology Center for alumni coworking and internet access. The organization is expanding into AI upskilling to prepare young adults for the artificial intelligence economy.
Hopeworks hosts annual signature events including the HOPE Summit (bringing together young professionals, industry leaders, and educational institutions), the Annual Pitch Competition, and Listen and Learn Network Events where professionals share career experiences with young adults. The organization also hosts specialized events such as the Healthcare Leadership Exchange and AI-Ready sessions exploring workforce transformation. Events are held at Hopeworks locations in Camden and Philadelphia, as well as partner venues like Rutgers Camden, and are available both in-person and virtually.
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