OUR PROGRAM
HOW IT WORKS
HopeWorks Job Training Program is a three-part program offering job and life skills training for low-income and formerly homeless residents of Snohomish County.
Hard & Soft Skills
Job skills are “hard skills,” things like technical knowledge: how to make the perfect cup of coffee, how to perform landscape maintenance, or how to operate a cash register. Life skills are “soft skills,” and include things like customer service, punctuality and communication. Both hard and soft skills are necessary to succeed in the workplace, and HopeWorks helps trainees learn both of these types of skills.
Hands-on Training
We teach these skills through a training program embedded in three distinct businesses: Ground Works Landscaping, Renew Home & Decor, Tomorrow’s Hope and Kindred Kitchen. Each training program is between 10 – 15 weeks long.
Who We Serve
Our program serves people living at Housing Hope, but we also receive referrals for participants from other nonprofits and shelters throughout Snohomish County. Each participant works with HopeWorks staff to identify their goals and skills, and address any barriers standing in the way of their future success.
OUR 3-PHASE PROGRAM

Phase 1
Life Skills
Before starting the program, our participants attend a two-week class called Solid Foundations. In this class, participants learn soft skills like goal setting, communication and teamwork. After this introductory course, the on-the-job technical training begins.

Phase 2
Job Skills
After the Solid Foundations course, participants begin a training experience at Ground Works, Renew or Kindred Kitchen, where supervisors mentor and support participants in continuing to develop their soft skills, and teach industry-specific technical skills. The hallmark of phase two focuses on establishing healthy habits in the workplace, including strong attendance and professional communication. New skills are introduced and trainees are immersed in the working operations of the social enterprise businesses.

Phase 3
Resume, Job & Education Support
Phase three emphasizes increasing independence, skill mastery and mentorship. An increased sense of urgency and teamwork are present, as participants in this phase build their confidence and also begin their job search in preparation for graduation.
GROUND WORKS TRAINING
Trainees learn landscaping industry standards and practices. Trainees work with a professional crew that mentors them in using hand tools, plant knowledge, power equipment, and following safety procedures. While progressing through the internship, interns set and meet goals with the guidance of an employment specialist and their trainer.
12-week program for participants includes:
- 4 weeks Solid Foundations life skills course
- 8 weeks job training experience (stipend included)
- Ages 18+
Training Program Core Competencies:
- Teamwork
- Personal Responsibility
- Being Coachable
- Time Management & Punctuality
- Problem Solving
- Customer Service
- Industry Safety Standards
- Equipment Knowledge
- Industry Knowledge & Skills
