In August of 2024, we announced that CareerWork$ became part of the Washington Bankers Association (WBA), marking an exciting new chapter for an organization deeply rooted in our foundation’s mission. Launched in 2006, BankWork$® was the first program created to provide free training and access to entry-level banking careers—offering participants a pathway to economic stability.
Over the years, the program grew to serve multiple cities and inspired the creation of CareerWork$ as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2017. CareerWork$ expanded its scope to include programs like CareerWork$ Medical®, which prepares individuals for administrative careers in the healthcare field, and CareerWork$ Ready, which equips participants with job readiness skills across industries. Together, these programs empower individuals to build meaningful careers and advance their lives.
We’ve been moved by countless success stories from program graduates who gained confidence, built new personal and professional networks, and embarked on sustainable career paths. One such story is Maggie’s. As a single mother, she found it challenging to break into the banking industry without prior experience. After enrolling in BankWork$® Fundamentals, a virtual BankWork$ program open to individuals living outside of the BankWork$ footprint, Maggie gained not only the technical knowledge needed for banking but also the confidence and self-belief to pursue her goals. Today, Maggie is thriving in her career and celebrating her one-year anniversary with Wells Fargo, where she’s setting her sights on becoming a Personal Banker. Read more about Maggie’s inspiring journey here.
Research highlights the program’s measurable impact: CareerWork$ graduates more than double their salaries within three years of completing the program, with many advancing further in the financial services industry. These impressive outcomes have inspired our continued support, including over one million dollars in 2024 and similar contributions annually since 2014. Under the capable leadership of Managing Director Ranko Fukuda, we are confident the program will continue evolving to help even more individuals achieve economic stability.