Connecting people to work. Preparing people for life.

Natasha came to the Goodwill Workforce Connection Center in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood determined to find a job that would build a better future for herself and her three children. After only two months of career services, Natasha met her goal, landing a full-time job as a lead phlebotomist with a local facility.

When Litzi joined the Empower Youth program, she felt lost. Thanks to the Empower Youth program, she has achieved both her CNA and CPR certifications and is now a patient care technician.

Although Ricky has been employed for several years, he wanted to work on his communication, reading and writing skills. Goodwill’s THRIVE program helped him achieve his goals.

Kenosha Christmas Charities, Inc. and Goodwill provide seasonal and holiday coat and toy donation events.

With determination—and the support of the United For Good program—Eva has found a pathway to independence, stability and a career that aligns with her dreams.

Goodwill hosted its first New Lives Awards Luncheon on November 1, 2024 at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel in Milwaukee. At the event, Goodwill leaders, board members, community partners and donors gathered to celebrate and honor our mission: Connecting people to work. Preparing people for life.

Kaylee Oquendo always knew she wanted to make a difference, especially in the lives of kids. Thanks to Goodwill’s Impact Program, she found her dream role as a medical assistant at Children’s Wisconsin

With the growing healthcare workforce shortage, Goodwill partnered with United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County to fill this critical community need.

The North Riverside Goodwill Store & Donation Center partnered with J. Sterling Morton West High School in Illinois to provide students the opportunity to learn job skills and gain life experience that will help them successfully achieve employment.

Learning the right skills to be successful at a job is important. Perhaps even more important is having the confidence to know you are ready for whatever lies ahead. It’s learning these types of life skills that make Project SEARCH so impactful.

Project SEARCH is a national business-led, school-to-work transition program that includes hands-on training and career exploration internships that empower young adults with disabilities to build skills and confidence to enter the workforce.

Jo Ann takes pride in creating a positive experience for shoppers and donors. She is a long-time Goodwill shopper who is not shy about being 80 years old. Jo Ann’s life experiences are helping Goodwill build a supportive community.

Jordan received an on-the-spot job offer after gaining the skills and confidence to ace the interview through Goodwill’s Empower Youth program.

The Employee Empowerment Network extends our mission services inward from the outside to our store and donation centers.

Case managers are the heart of the Empower Youth program, guiding participants in realizing their potential, overcoming obstacles and becoming a trusted source and mentor throughout the job process.

The Empower Youth: Career Training and Development program provides job readiness training and placement support to help teens and young adults ages 16 to 24 prepare for and find their next job.

Jonathan found a community that helped him embrace his identity, vocalize goals, and promote inclusivity and self-acceptance through Goodwill’s Boys and Men of Color program.

For Billy, the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program opens the door to possibility, purpose and independence. His employment specialist connected him to the DVR to partner in his support and help match Billy’s interests, abilities and skills to different types of work.