Goodwill Receives Grant from Ameren
Goodwill Industries of Central Illinois has received a $2,000 grant from Ameren Illinois to be used for Goodwill’s GoodJobs program. The GoodJobs program provides young adults, ages 16-19, with employment resources and job skills training.
During the two week program, participants attend soft skills courses, receive assistance with resume writing, participate in mock interviews and complete on-the-job training at one of Goodwill’s retail stores. The program culminates in a hiring event that features employers specific to the 16-19 age group.
The program is free of charge and also includes on-going support; weekly job leads lists and access to future monthly hiring events.
“This grant will help us give our young people the best possible start on entering the workforce and taking the first steps to successful a career,” said Samantha Kinsey, Goodwill Youth Services Program Manager.
The grant was made through the Ameren Cares program, which connects Ameren Illinois to the communities it serves through charitable giving and volunteering. It will cover supplies needed by these young adults, including USB drives, office supplies, transportation (gas cards or bus passes), uniforms for on-the-job training at Goodwill stores and a Goodwill store voucher for interview clothing.
Daetta Jones, Division Director for Ameren Illinois, shared, “Ameren Illinois is proud to support Goodwill’s GoodJobs program. Preparing our young people to enter the workforce is vital to creating strong communities in the future.”
Goodwill also offers the GoodSkills program. Youth ages 11-17, participate in activities designed to explore career possibilities and learn valuable life skills. Through workshops, guest speakers, and hands-on activities, young people discover the many opportunities available to them. Every child has a different path and GoodSkills helps them discover which path is theirs.
All of Goodwill’s free programs are possible through the sale of your donated items. Goodwill Industries of Central Illinois serves 21 counties within Central Illinois. Along with youth services, Goodwill offers employment services, veterans’ services, operates a veterans’ home and employs more than 300 people.