The Haines Family Foundation awarded Camden-based Hopeworks a $660,000 grant to support young adults interested in a career in the medical field. 

Hopeworks is a nonprofit social enterprise that empowers young adults to establish living-wage careers. The organization will use the grant to create a medical scholarship fund. It will also expand its program supporting students interested in becoming EMT-certified professionals and medical assistants. 

“We are profoundly thankful to the Haines Family Foundation for their generous support,” Hopeworks CEO Dan Rhoton said in a Nov. 14 statement. “This grant will provide young adults with the opportunity to break through the stigmas and prove their capability for real, meaningful work.” 

Founded in 1995, the Chatsworth-based Haines Family Foundation focuses on education, health, human service and environmental initiatives that serve communities across southern New Jersey and the Philadelphia area. The new funding will cover the tuition costs for students working toward certifications needed to start EMT and medical assistant positions with regional health care networks.  

Through the grant, Hopeworks aims to place about 70 more young adults into these positions. Pay is estimated at at least $42,000 per year. 

As part of the training programs, Hopeworks will: 

• Provide support in completing certification programs; 
• Secure employment with health system partners; and 
• Offer 12-month retention support to ensure long-term job success for all participants.  

“The Haines Family Foundation is honored to support Hopeworks and its initiatives that are making a difference in our community. Investing in promise and opportunity are essential for creating lasting change. We hope that our support will have a significant impact on Hopeworks’ ability to empower individuals and foster positive change,” said Holly Haines, president of the Haines Family Foundation. 

In March, organizers announced the foundation would close at the end of 2025, after 30 years of philanthropy and nearly $20 million in grants awarded.