Workforce Development
Goodwill offers a full range of workforce development services designed to assist individuals motivated to work but with barriers to employment in achieving positive employment outcomes. Services are individualized to meet the needs of individuals with varying interests and abilities and are responsive to changing wants and needs.
Case Management
Case management services are provided to all individuals receiving services. Upon acceptance, an individual is assigned a case manager who provides ongoing assistance, support and guidance to the individual. The case manager ensures that the individual is benefiting from the service he or she is receiving.
Supported Employment
This service provides long-term paid employment in supportive, supervised environments to individuals who are unable to compete or function in competitive environments due to significant vocational limitations or challenging behaviors. Individuals can choose from a variety of work opportunities that are available within the Work Center as well as at community-based sites. Individuals are encouraged to learn new skills, demonstrate positive work behaviors and move to more independent work settings as appropriate.
Transitional Employment
This service is time-limited and is primarily geared towards chronically unemployed individuals with little or no skills or work history. Individuals can choose from a variety of work opportunities that are available within Goodwill as well as through partnerships with community employers. Individuals are able to gain work experiences and an understanding of the value of work and workplace expectations while earning a paycheck. An individual participating in transitional employment may also be actively involved in job placement activities.
Assessment and Career Planning
The purpose of this service is to identify an individual’s vocational assets and barriers to employment. Assessment methods include structured interviews, job tryouts, behavioral observations, standardized tests and interest inventories. Information that is gathered is used to help an individual make informed choices about his or her career direction. An employment plan is developed that outlines the individual’s desired employment goals and the services that will be provided to assist him or her in achieving these goals.
Job Seeking/Readiness Skills Training
This service supports individuals in actively participating in their own job search. Individuals with no or limited job seeking skills are encouraged to attend weekly Job Club sessions that are facilitated by an instructor. Job Club sessions not only provide a structured approach to job seeking but also promote peer discussion and support. Individuals also learn job readiness skills that help prepare them for the world of work and the demands of the workplace, which leads to long-term job retention.
Job Development and Placement
Individuals who are deemed ready to work competitively are referred for placement services. Job developers who are knowledgeable about the local labor market assist individuals in finding jobs that are consistent with their interests and abilities. A good job match increases the likelihood of an individual maintaining long-term employment. The ultimate decision to accept a job rests with the individual. Ongoing follow-along support is provided for a minimum of ninety days.
Job Coaching
There are times when it is beneficial to have a job coach at the employment site with an individual. The job coach can provide training and support to a newly hired individual and assist him or her in assimilating into the work culture. Job coaching is a short-term service and is gradually faded out as an individual gains skills and confidence. A job coach is available to return to an employment site to assist an individual in learning a new task or routine or to intervene when a problem arises.
