Programs & Services: Job Training

Workforce Development Programs

Workforce Development Programs are targeted to low income men and women with significant barriers to self-sufficiency, including lack of basic skills, chronic unemployment, welfare dependency, and lack of English fluency. Building on its job training expertise in working with individuals with disabilities, Goodwill introduced First Step, its first workforce development program for individuals transitioning from welfare to work, in the fall of 1996. The First Step program has become the prototype for similar programs in six metropolitan areas and has been recognized by The White House as a model for serving individuals with barriers to employment.

Since that time, Goodwill has expanded the scope and number of our Workforce Development training programs to include the following:

First Step: Retail Training

First Step is a three-week retail-training program developed in collaboration with The TJX Companies. Program participants receive training in customer service, basic computer skills, and resume writing. The program guarantees job placement for individuals who successfully complete the program.

Step Up: Office and Computer Skills Training

Step Up is a 16-week program that prepares program participants for work in a professional office setting through office and computer skills training as well as resume writing and Internet skills. Post-placement support is also provided to ensure job retention.

Career Focus: Job Retention and Career Advancement

Career Focus provides post-placement supports to help individuals retain their jobs, advance in their careers and achieve economic self-sufficiency and, when necessary, find re-employment. The program offers case management, referrals for training, seminars on computer training, education, housing and childcare, and clothing assistance for job interviews. Childcare is available for evening workshops.

For more information about Workforce Development programs and eligibility, please contact Programs & Services at (617) 445-1010.