Goodwill Connect Offers Comprehensive Career Help

Goodwill has introduced Goodwill Connect, a comprehensive 16-week employment training initiative designed for individuals facing barriers to work or with disabilities. This program aims to provide crucial support throughout the job search process.

Participants will be connected with essential services, including mental health, housing, addiction, and transportation support. This holistic approach ensures individuals have the resources needed for successful employment.

Goodwill Connect will operate both virtually and in person across its locations in Edmonton, St. Albert, and Sherwood Park. The program's manager, Holly Nibourg, emphasized that individuals can self-refer without needing formal diagnoses.

Career and life coaches will collaborate with participants to create personalized action plans aligned with their career goals. This tailored guidance assists those who may not require extensive programming but need initial support to start their job search journey.

The initiative is funded by a substantial four-year grant of approximately $10 million from the provincial government, underscoring its importance in breaking down employment barriers for many.

A graduate of a previous Goodwill career program, Adam O'Donnell, shared his positive experience, highlighting the sense of being understood and supported, which enabled him to secure employment at Edmonton International Airport.