Hempstead County Economic Development Corp. launches new internship program to invest in future of Hope youth

HOPE – The Hempstead County Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC) is proud to announce the launch of its Internship Program, a strategic initiative designed to cultivate local talent, support youth career exploration, and strengthen the workforce mentorship in Hempstead County.

This four-week summer program offers college students hands-on experience in economic and community development, entrepreneurship, business data collection and public service. Interns collaborate with local leaders and businesses to support real-world projects that impact their hometowns.

“Our mission is to build a sustainable and prosperous Hempstead County, and that starts with our young people,” said Anna Powell, President of HCEDC. “This internship program provides a unique opportunity for students to discover career paths close to home, while also investing in the future leadership of our community.”

Richard Ware, a native of Hope, Arkansas, is a proud graduate of Hope Public Schools and the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana.

Today, Richard is a rising senior at the University of Central Arkansas, where he is double majoring in Political Science and Philosophy and double minoring in Honors Interdisciplinary Studies and Legal Studies. A dedicated community servant and aspiring attorney, Richard has pursued a number of public service opportunities, including internships with the Arkansas School for the Blind, the Arkansas Office of Personnel Management, and now the Hempstead County Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC). Following his four-week internship with HCEDC, Richard will serve as a congressional intern in Congressman French Hill’s Washington, D.C. office, representing Arkansas’s 2nd Congressional District.

Richard is guided by Luke 12:48 — “To whom much is given, much will be required” — Richard credits the Hope community for instilling in him the values of service, leadership, and faith, which continue to guide his work and aspirations.”

This is the first year for this program. Richard was intrigued by our work and offered his intellect and time. In the future, we hope to have open applications for this role in the Spring of each year.