Helping people prepare for, find, and keep good jobs is what Goodwill is about.

Sep 24, 2021

Success Story
Tomasyne

After relocating to Michigan, Tomasyne needed to find work in her new community but was having difficulty securing a job on her own. “My confidence level in my ability to find new employment was getting low. I knew I needed help,” she said.

Tomasyne had heard that Goodwill helps people with job placement so she called the Career Center and made an appointment with Career Coach LaTonya Burks. After some career exploration and assessment of her skills, LaTonya suggested she enroll in Goodwill’s GoodWorks training program. This 2-4 week customizable program includes classroom instruction consisting of topics such as résumé writing, interview coaching, job search assistance, and financial training (budgeting, saving, debt reduction). The training also includes paid Work Experience Training in Goodwill’s Industrial Services Center doing work such as packaging and assembly for Goodwill’s contract partners. “The in-house work experience helps introduce or reacclimate a person to the routine and structure of work,” LaTonya said. “It also enhances their résumé and skill set, and puts money in their pocket.”

Tomasyne does have some physical limitations. Due to hip replacement surgeries, she is unable to stand for long periods of time so LaTonya partnered with GoodTemps Staffing Specialist Aneke Sain on finding a job in an office setting. At the conclusion of the program Tomasyne secured a GoodTemps assignment with local nonprofit Community enCompass as an eviction prevention program housing resource specialist and is thriving in her new role. “I got my confidence back and I can now pay my bills,” she said.

“We knew that Ms. Clark’s extensive work history in the human services field and skill set would be an excellent fit for the temp-to-hire position,” LaTonya said.

“I really like being a part of a team,” Tomasyne said. She enjoys helping people and having a job with meaning. “I work to ensure applicants of the program have an opportunity to keep or obtain housing.”

“For assistance with looking for work, guidance, and job skills … Goodwill is equipped to help in all these areas and more. It will change your life so I tell people to take advantage of the awesome services they offer.”

GoodWorks

GoodWorks is a three-week program designed to improve employability skills and work behaviors to ensure successful long-term job placement in the community. Participants may be referred internally or by a community partner. GoodWorks is aimed at individuals who have had long gaps in employment and/or those who need extra support before securing permanent employment. A career coach works one-on-one with each participant to create a customized plan to meet their employment goals. The program consists of two main parts. Part one involves classroom instruction including topics such as communication and interpersonal skills, mock interviews, job search & interview prep, job retention, budgeting, and more. Part two involves paid work experience training in Goodwill’s Industrial Services Center doing work such as packaging and assembly for Goodwill’s contract partners. There is no fee for eligible participants.

Work Experience Training

Work Experience Training uses time-limited, wage-paying jobs that combine real work, skill development, and supportive services to transition participants rapidly and successfully into the labor market. Participants learn the customs and routines of work, establish an employment record, and generate employer references to enhance their competitiveness. Participation is through eligibility requirements determined through Offender Success, EXIT, and other programs.