Foxwynd Foundation Invests $15,000 to Expand Soap for Hope Workforce Empowerment Internship in Coatesville, PA

Educational Equity Alliance (EEA) has received a generous $15,000 grant from the Foxwynd Foundation Donor Advised Fund (DAF) to expand its Soap For Hope Workforce Development Internship, a hands-on training program that equips underserved high school students and adults with practical job skills, confidence, and pathways toward independence.

Soap For Hope transforms a working soap-making studio into a real-world classroom where participants learn product development, marketing, customer engagement, and inventory management—skills that build employability and self-confidence. Steve Wilson, Executive Director of EEA, shared “Every new skill learned becomes a building block of confidence, and this grant from Foxwynd means more people in our community can envision—and begin—a different future.”

Pamela Villagra, Foxwynd Executive Director commented, “We are proud to support the impactful work of Soap For Hope and Educational Equity Alliance. Their commitment to empowering youth and adults with real world skills and opportunities aligns closely with our mission to foster economic independence and community resilience. Grants like this help turn potential into meaningful progress, and we are honored to be part of that journey.”

Interns participate in monthly business workshops and receive workforce-readiness support, including résumé writing, mock interviews, and professional communication coaching. Housing stipends are also given to participants who complete the internship.

In 2024, Soap For Hope launched its first internship with five women in partnership with Thistle Hill, and the impact was clear. One program partner reflected, “The Soap for Hope Entrepreneur program was transformational. Participants learned skills we could use in the real world.”

With Foxwynd’s support, EEA will be able to double the number of interns, reaching 15 participants through two six-month cohorts beginning in 2025, expanding access to skills, mentorship, community connections, and hope.

“We’re making more than soap products,” Wilson added. “With Foxwynd’s partnership, we’re building futures filled with greater possibility.” Educational Equity Alliance operates programs across Chester County that advance educational equity, opportunity, and economic empowerment. Soap For Hope is one of EEA’s signature initiatives supporting independence through entrepreneurship and workforce development.