Prospective Students |

About the Helms Academy

Operated by Goodwill Industries of Southern NJ & Philadelphia in partnership with Rowan College of Southern NJ/Rowan University, Temple University, the Community College of Philadelphia, Camden County College, and other institutions, The Helms Academy offers free classes and employment services to help individuals advance their education and career prospects. Students can earn a high school diploma while obtaining up to 30 college credits, receive English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction, improve computer skills, enhance math and reading levels, and access job search and employment assistance. With flexible scheduling options, including in-person, hybrid, and virtual online learning, The Helms Academy allows students to tailor their education to fit their personal schedules and commitments. This valuable program is made possible through the generous investment of Goodwill’s retail stores and the support of individuals and companies dedicated to helping students succeed in the ever-evolving workforce.

Who We Serve

Adults 18 and older
Youth programs offered for those 16+ with a parent’s consent
Individuals who wish to improve their English language skills
Individuals preparing for the US Naturalization Test
Individuals who wish to improve their Computer skills
Individuals who wish to improve their Math or Reading skills

Why Get Your High School Diploma?

Better Job Opportunities – Many employers require a high school diploma for even entry-level positions, increasing job prospects and earning potential.
Higher Education Access – A diploma is often a prerequisite for college, vocational training, and certification programs, opening doors to further education.
Personal Achievement & Confidence – Completing high school provides a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem, proving that it’s never too late to succeed.
Improved Financial Stability – High school graduates earn, on average, significantly more than those without a diploma, leading to greater financial security.
Setting an Example – Earning a diploma can inspire family, friends, and children to value education and pursue their own academic goals.

Why It’s Important To Learn English

Expanded Job Opportunities – Many employers prefer or require English proficiency, giving non-English speakers access to better-paying jobs and career growth.
Improved Daily Life & Independence – Knowing English makes everyday tasks—such as shopping, banking, and using public transportation—easier and less stressful.
Greater Access to Education – English is the primary language of instruction in many schools and training programs, allowing for further learning and skill development.
Stronger Social Connections – Learning English helps build relationships with a wider range of people, reducing isolation and improving communication in diverse communities.
More Access to Information & Entertainment – English is the dominant language of the internet, media, and global news, providing access to a wealth of knowledge and entertainment.

Why It’s Important To Obtain Computer Skills

Increased Job Opportunities – Many employers require basic computer skills, and proficiency can lead to better-paying jobs and career advancement. Ongoing computer skill development also keeps you competitive in the job market.
Essential for Everyday Tasks – Many activities, such as online banking, booking appointments, and shopping, require basic computer skills.
Protects Against Cyber Threats – Understanding computer basics helps individuals recognize online scams, protect personal information, and stay safe online.
Access to Information & Learning – The internet provides endless resources for education, self-improvement, and staying informed about current events.
Better Communication – Email, social media, and video calls make it easier to connect with colleagues, friends, and family, both locally and globally.
Supports Remote Work & Learning – With the rise of online jobs and education, computer literacy is crucial for accessing remote opportunities.

Enrollment Process

Please fill out the form to the right and a Helms Academy representative will call you.

LOCATIONS

NEW JERSEY:

HAMILTON: 1245 State Route 33, Hamilton, NJ 08690
MAPLE SHADE: 2835 Route 73, 2nd Floor, Maple Shade, NJ 08052
STRATFORD: 222 White Horse Pike, Stratford, NJ 08084
BROWN MILLS: 16 Broadway (Pemberton Library), Brown Mills, NJ 08015
WESTAMPTON: 795 Woodlane Rd (Westampton Adult Literacy), Westampton, NJ 08060

PENNSYLVANIA:

PHILADELPHIA (North): 1509 Cecil B. Moore Ave., 2nd Floor (Temple University), Philadelphia, PA 19121
PHILADELPHIA (North): 1722 Cecil B. Moore Ave. (Alliance for Progress Charter School), Philadelphia, PA 19121
PHILADELPHIA (Juniata Park): 1440 E. Erie Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19124
PHILADELPHIA (West): 4950 Parkside Ave, Unit B, Philadelphia, PA 19131

Services Offered

School Preparation
Classroom & Virtual Learning
Educational Assessments
Basic Skills Instruction
Digital Skills

Computer Literacy
Tutoring
Individualized Instruction
Up to 30 College Credits
Career Counseling & Preparation

Job Development & Placement
College Counseling
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Citizenship Education

Testimonials

The Helms Academy has dramatically changed the lives of many individuals living in the South Jersey-Philadelphia communities.

The Helms Academy staff really care about you and this makes a huge difference if you succeed or not. Now, I have a chance at a better future. Thank you, Goodwill, for a wonderful program that has changed my life.

Nancy Lafferty

The Helms Academy helped me realize that if you surround yourself with the right people and work hard, you can do whatever you set your mind to. I am well on my way now.

Ashley Hanna

Notice of Privacy Practices

This document is to inform you about how the information you are providing will be stored and used.

The City of Philadelphia (City) has a database known as the Adult Education Information System (AEIS). If you receive adult education services from an organization that uses the City’s database, certain information about you must be entered into it. This information includes your name, contact information, supportive services you may need, test scores, class placements, attendance, and grades. No sensitive information about you, such as your driver’s license number, social security number, citizenship or residency status, or financial information, will be collected or entered in the database.

When your information is entered into the database, individuals who have been authorized by the City will have access to that information for purposes of your education, such as communicating with you and tracking your progress. By providing your information to be entered into the database, you are agreeing to give those authorized individuals access to your information. They are not permitted to use it for any other purpose, except as follows.

From time to time the City and its contractors may also use your information to inform current and future City programming and policy, without using information that is identifiable to you personally. You have the right not to have your information used for programming and policy planning and may so indicate below. This will not affect your access to services. Only aggregate data will be shared publicly, unless the use of individual data is necessary to defend a legal claim, or the City is otherwise ordered to make such data public.

In signing this document, you are affirming that you understand how your information is entered into the database and how it will be shared and used. We ask that you let us know if any of your information should be corrected or updated.

We reserve the right to update this notice and change our privacy practices. If we do, we will post the updated practices on our website at https://www.phila.gov/documents/adult-education-notice-of-privacy-practices/.