Renovation sale at Whitehall store
The Whitehall store is getting a makeover! New floors, new paint, new lighting, new tile in the bathrooms ... and more!
In preparation for a brief store closing in early February, the store is offering a 50% off sale January 22 - February 2 on everything in the store!
Please note: our donation drive-thru will stay open throughout the renovation period in early February.For additional stories visit our What's New page.
Success Story: Eric
Displaced worker, single father of three, reinvents himself
Eric first came to Goodwill Industries Workforce Development Center (WDC) in 2009 after he was laid off from his position as a die cast mold machine operator at Diversified Machining, Inc. Recognizing the decline in manufacturing jobs, Eric took advantage of the federally-funded “No Worker Left Behind,” free tuition program and went on to earn an Associates in Applied Science degree in computer network technology from Muskegon Community College (MCC).
While in school, Eric met with his Goodwill case manager to create a resume and receive assistance on locating an internship opportunity required for graduation. With his case manager’s help, Eric secured an internship at Community Mental Health Services for Muskegon County that he successfully completed.
During his final semester at MCC, tragedy struck when Eric’s wife suddenly died leaving him a single father of three children. With dwindling funds, Eric was forced to rely on state assistance to make ends meet, making him even more determined to succeed in a new career.
Graduating in May 2011, Eric worked with his Goodwill case manager to update his resume, create cover letters, and pursue job leads. By early July, Eric landed a full-time computer support technician position with Lakeshore Professionals, beating out numerous other qualified candidates.
Goodwill Industries facilitated an On-the-Job (OJT) contract with Lakeshore Professionals. OJT is a state and federally-funded program that reimburses employers up to 50% of the starting wage for hiring and training qualified participants.
Eric enjoys his new career and is doing well.
In 2010, 19,181 people in West Michigan received employment services from Goodwill. Of these people, 1,297 people were placed into competitive employment and another 218 worked and earned a paycheck at Goodwill Industries while enrolled in a skill-building or job training program.
