Did you know that Sept. is National Workforce Development Month? Passed on Aug. 1, 2019, National Workforce Development Month “supports Federal initiatives to promote workforce development” and “acknowledges that workforce development plays a crucial role in supporting workers and growing the economy.” At HopeWorks, workforce development is an…
Going back to school is a big decision, especially as an adult. Your family, current job and other responsibilities may seem more important than continuing your education. However, obtaining your HiSET (also called GED) can grant you access to meaningful careers and opportunities that better support you and…
HopeWorks has come a long way since its founding in 1988. This growth has allowed us to reach more people, provide more opportunities and spread the Gospel throughout Memphis. As we look back, here are five moments in our history that have defined HopeWorks’ past and, in turn,…
According to the American Psychiatric Association, post-traumatic stress disorder is a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. The term PTSD has become more common in our culture, but it also has several other names you might recognize, including “shell…
On Dec. 21, 2018, the Formerly Incarcerated Reenter Society Transformed Safely Transitioning Every Person, or FIRST STEP Act, was signed into law. This piece of bipartisan legislation is (literally) the FIRST STEP in transforming prisons into facilities that will reduce recidivism and strengthen our communities and economy. The…
While HopeWorks staff may not physically be in our office, that doesn’t mean we’re closed! Our employees are working remotely to ensure that our students receive assistance and guidance during this unprecedented time. Because of the nature of the situation, we’ve received an influx of questions about our…
The world is changing with each passing day. As we all work to adjust to our new normals, HopeWorks thanks you for your support. It’s because of you that we are able to provide hope to those who need it most or wouldn’t get a second chance otherwise.…
HopeWorks’ education programs extend beyond Personal and Career Development and HiSET (GED) classes. HopeWorks offers classes for ESL (English as a second language) speakers from more than 40 nations! Our Integrated English Literacy and Civic Education (IELCE) classes provide hope and opportunity – the HopeWorks way. IELCE classes…
The three things that prohibit employment for recently released individuals (education, opportunity, experience) and how to combat it. Getting out of prison isn’t the end of an inmate’s journey – it’s the beginning. There are several obstacles to overcome before reintegration is possible and, with a criminal record,…
The close of a year and the beginning of a new one is an especially beautiful time to reflect on accomplishments and growth. We’re entering a new decade, and leaving behind 10 years of work and progress. This monumental turn-of-the page feels like a critical time to look…