CAMDEN, N.J. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker visited Hopeworks, a nonprofit and social enterprise that propels young adults ages 17 to 26 into long-term living wage careers, touring the facility, engaging in a dynamic career talk with young adults, and greeting board members and corporate partners of the Camden-based nonprofit.
“I’m inspired by the young people I met today who, in the face of adversity, are working toward their dreams with extraordinary determination,” said Senator Booker. “I’m grateful for the work Hopeworks is doing in Camden to provide these future leaders real-world job experience and a healing atmosphere, empowering them to secure brighter futures for themselves and their families.”
“Senator Booker has been a tireless advocate for education and social justice and his commitment to empowering the next generation is truly commendable,” said Dan Rhoton, Executive Director of Hopeworks. “It was heartening to see, first hand, that Senator Booker shares in our understanding that providing these young adults with the opportunity and support needed to thrive, is not just a goal, but a responsibility. We appreciate Senator Booker taking the time to visit Hopeworks and for his ongoing support on providing the best outcome for young adults.”
During his time in the Senate, Booker has worked to ensure that all Americans have access to a high quality education, fighting to give teachers and early childhood educators the resources they need and to empower students and job-seekers. He introduced the RAISE Act, which would boost teacher compensation by as much as $15,000 through refundable tax credits and help diversify the teacher workforce. He also introduced the Advanced Coursework Equity Act which would increase enrollment and performance of underrepresented students in advanced courses and academic programs. Last year, Booker introduced the Reengage the Workforce Act, bicameral legislation which would provide federal grants to organizations to reconnect individuals without a high school diploma with opportunities to complete their degree, as well as additional workforce training and career support programs.