Paris Discovers a Transformative Path Through Covenant House’s IT Career Pathways Program 

At Covenant House, we are dedicated to helping young people overcome homelessness and build sustainable futures. One of the ways we do this is through the IT Career Pathways program, which provides youth with training and certifications in the rapidly growing information technology field. 

One such success story is Paris, a resident at Covenant House Greater Washington, whose journey exemplifies the power of this program. Through the support of Covenant House and our partnership with Accenture, Paris has made a remarkable transformation, from facing homelessness to now thriving in an apprenticeship with Accenture. 

A Life-Changing Opportunity 

Paris first heard about the program when Covenant House offered youth a chance to earn valuable certifications in digital marketing and e-commerce through Google’s Coursera platform. At the time, Paris was actively looking for work but struggled to find opportunities. She recognized that this program could be the key to changing her future.  

“I was homeless and uncertain about what would come next, but this program gave me something to focus on,” Paris shared. “Covenant House provided me with the essentials —food, clothes, and a roof over my head — so I could concentrate on my future.” 

After completing the program, Paris was able to secure an internship with Accenture, where she gained hands-on experience and grew her skills. Her internship later evolved into a 12-month apprenticeship, where she continues to build her career in tech. Paris is now living proof of how the program can offer young people a new path forward. 

“I’ve always been interested in coding, and this program gave me the opportunity to develop real-world skills that opened doors,” Paris said. “I never imagined I’d go from feeling lost to now working with one of the biggest tech companies in the world.” 

A Supportive Foundation for Success 

Paris’ success story is made possible by the supportive structure of the IT Career Pathways program, which offers youth tech certifications through platforms like Grow with Google and Cisco’s Networking Academy. The program also ensures that each participant is supported every step of the way by Covenant House staff, from the initial recruitment to the completion of their certifications and beyond. 

Regina Jennings, associate vice president of programs at Covenant House International, helped spearhead the Career Pathways program, building on her previous experience at Covenant House Georgia. “Our mission is to equip these young people with the skills they need to succeed in industries that are in demand and have the potential for long-term stability,” Regina explains. “Paris’ journey highlights just how transformative these opportunities can be for young people facing immense challenges.” 

Through her internship and apprenticeship, Paris will be able to secure the kind of career that will lead to independence and long-term success. But she’s not stopping there— she’s setting her sights on the future. 

“I’m still keeping my options open, but I know now that I have the skills to thrive,” Paris says. “I’m just going to keep working hard and see where this path takes me.” 

A Bright Future Ahead 

The IT Career Pathways program is just one way Covenant House is supporting young people in their journey to independence. With 168 youth now enrolled in the program across multiple locations, and with 52 certifications already earned, the program is expanding rapidly. In fact, it is set to grow even further in 2025, adding \sites in New Orleans and Michigan as Cisco NetAcademies. 

Through our partnership with Accenture and the hard work of our youth and staff, the Career Pathways Program is creating lasting change for those who need it most. As Paris’ story shows, this program is helping young people move from uncertainty to opportunity, from homelessness to careers that offer growth, stability, and the chance to make a difference. 

“I wouldn’t have made it this far without the support of Covenant House,” Paris says. “I came here not knowing where to turn, but now I have a clear path, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.” 

Join Us in Creating More Success Stories 

Paris is just one of many young people whose lives have been changed by the Career Pathways program, and there are many more young people ready to follow in her footsteps. If you’re interested in supporting this life-changing program or learning more about how you can help, visit our Workforce Development page.  Together, we can provide the support and opportunities that youth like Paris need to succeed and create lasting change.