Amigo Spotlight: CEDAR Foundation 

CEDAR Foundation addresses the needs of committed students and assists them in creating a better future. Since 2010, CEDAR Foundation has generously supported Hope Builders’ efforts to empower young adults with the education needed to launch their careers in construction and healthcare.  

Last year and again this year, CEDAR Foundation gave $300,000 to support Amigo Scholarships for twenty trainees enrolled in Hope Builders’ Construction Training Program. The Amigo Scholarships provide comprehensive workforce development services including hands-on training, mentorship, employment readiness coaching and job placement. This support is instrumental in not only helping trainees build technical skills but also in fostering soft skills, such as accountability and resilience, to ensure continued career growth.  

CEDAR Foundation’s gift of $600,000 over the last two years has made it possible for young people, like Cesario, to thrive.  Cesario excelled as a Hope Builders’ trainee; he developed skills in carpentry, metal framing, accountability and self-confidence. Six months ago when he graduated, Cesario secured a job with Clark Construction, earning an annual income of more than $50,000. Cesario shares, “I appreciate the Amigo scholarship because I haven’t found a program like this—that’s free and truly prepares you for a career—anywhere else. If I didn’t have the opportunity to be at Hope Builders, I would still be struggling to find a job and have no direction.”  

We join Cesario in extending our deepest gratitude to CEDAR Foundation for their generosity toward the young adults enrolled in Hope Builders’ Construction Training Program. With their support, we are able to equip young adults with the skills necessary to build pathways to prosperity. If you are interested in sponsoring an Amigo Scholarship, please contact Jessica Hubner at jhubner@tsjhopebuilders.org.