House Bills Unveiled This Week Have Implications for Job Training
This week, House Republicans unveiled a $3.5 trillion spending plan that proposes to reduce the national debt. The proposal, which aims to balance the budget by 2040, relies heavily on significant spending reductions for a number of popular social programs including Medicare, Medicaid and food stamps. Education and job training programs would also be consolidated.
Crucial Skills to Find a Job at a Call Center
Tom from Des Moines, IA, asks, “I’ve heard that a local employer is increasing its call center staff. What kind of skills do I need to be successful there?”
My Story: Daniel Watson
Daniel Watson, who is deaf, previously owned a vending machine business in Alabama; however, business slowed down and he began losing money. He closed the business and moved to Marietta, GA, where he worked several jobs for short periods of time but could not maintain employment.
Goodwill Is Going to the Hill!
Goodwill Industries International, Inc. (GII) is looking forward to conducting its sixth annual Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill on Tuesday, April 17. As Congress considers what can be accomplished before the elections, GII is working to ensure that our elected leaders recognize the resources that Goodwill’s enterprise, comprised of 158 community-based organizations, brings to the […]
Education and Practice Can Dispel Your Computer Fears
Alyssa from Roanoke, VA, asks, “I have computer phobia! How do I conquer my fear of using computers so that I’m more employable?”
My Story: Gradlin Davenport
Gradlin grew up in a tough area of Shreveport, LA where gang influence, frequent fights and peer pressure took its toll. After dropping out of high school, Gradlin was arrested for robbery. While incarcerated, Gradlin become involved with Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana. Hear how Gradlin overcome his criminal background and is now on a path to success.
Action Needed to Demonstrate Support for Job Training
Federal spending is under an intense microscope this year. Unless Members of Congress hear clear support for the workforce system from stakeholders and others that support job training, it will likely be a tempting target for federal budget cuts. Spending and deficit reduction will likely be fiercely debated during this Congressional session, dominated by election-year […]
Climb the Career Ladder by Finding a Good Mentor
Magdalene from Shreveport, LA, asks, “I’d like to move up the career ladder and think a mentor would help. How do I find a good mentor?”
My Story: Sarah Carter
Sarah knew that she wanted to work, but wasn’t sure where to start and was afraid employers wouldn’t understand her disability. After her mom connected her to Goodwill, Sarah learned to identify her skills and target jobs that were well-suited for her. Her job coach helped her apply for and earn a job, and she now looks forward to growing in her position and challenging herself to do more as time goes on.
New TANF Provision to Address EBT Card Abuse Draws Praise, Raises Concerns
In 2010, Goodwills provided services to nearly 160,000 people who received Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and received over 112,000 referrals from TANF agencies. With the number of families living in poverty at an all-time high, Goodwill actively seeks opportunities to educate Congress and the public about our programs that assist this vulnerable population. […]
College Degrees Help Young Moms Advance Their Careers
Shauna from Montgomery, AL, asks, “I’m a young mom and would like to go back to college. How can Goodwill help me?”
My Story: Rafael Munoz
Rafael was in New York City when the attacks on 9/11 took place, and later developed health problems and other challenges including PTSD, agoraphobia and depression. After spending time in prison, he found himself homeless and unable to find a job to get his life back on track. While living at a facility for individuals with psychological disabilities, he was referred to Goodwill for support finding a job. He started working two days a week at Goodwill, and is now working full-time and learning to help others instead of focusing on his own worries.