The Hope Services Life Skills and Vocational Training Center is proud to celebrate the first Construction class of the year and congratulate our newest graduates of the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) program!

Diamante, Gabriel, Bo and Terrance successfully completed the intensive 80‑hour NCCER Core Construction course, earning a nationally recognized certification. This important milestone opens doors to meaningful employment opportunities—two graduates are entering the workforce through On‑the‑Job Training (OJT) placements, while the other two have secured apprenticeships with Florida Masonry.

The course is taught by our Vocational Training Specialist Bobby Reyes and blended classroom instruction with hands‑on learning. Participants gained practical experience using industry tools, following essential safety protocols, and completing 14 hours of on‑site work with Habitat for Humanity, reinforcing real‑world skills.

“Graduating four individuals from our NCCER Core Construction Program represents more than the completion of a class; it represents opportunity, confidence, and a real pathway to employment,” said David Caldas, Executive Director of Operations at Hope Services. “Each graduate has shown commitment, resilience, and a willingness to invest in their future, and we are incredibly proud of the progress they’ve made.”

Hope Services extends heartfelt thanks to CareerSource Pasco Hernando and Community Foundation Tampa Bay for your generous financial support for the Construction programs. We also recognize the contributions of David Caldas in launching the organization’s Second Chance Program, which provides justice‑impacted individuals with Construction and Culinary training to help break the cycle of incarceration and build brighter futures.

Enrollment is now underway for February classes! Our in‑person certification programs include: Culinary, Construction and Retail. We also offer Pre‑Placement Training and Self‑Advocacy classes virtually, providing flexible learning opportunities. 

Anyone interested may contact the office at: 813-907-3731 or Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.

Hope Services and its incredible Dream Team are moving full steam ahead with plans for Dance Your Dream 2026, now celebrating its 5th year!

This year’s magical theme, “A Night at the Circus,” will feature dancing, food by Chick-fil-A, Title Sponsor of the event, raffles and a community resource room connecting attendees with local organizations that provide support and services.

As always, Dance Your Dream is completely free and welcomes individuals living with disabilities ages 14 and up. While admission is free, all proceeds benefit the Hope Services Life Skills and Vocational Training Center Scholarship Fund, expanding access to training and opportunity.

Registration is required and is now open.

If you’re dreaming of attending Dance Your Dream 2026 but don’t have a dress, you’re not alone, and you’re absolutely not out of options. Gowns for Girls is excited to help you shine by offering a stunning selection of gowns, completely free of charge.

Mark your calendar and join us at Wesley Chapel District Park on March 16, where you can browse beautiful dresses, try on your favorites, and find the perfect gown.

Every girl deserves to feel special. Come find the dress that helps your dream night come to life.