In addition to offering Goodwill's Job Junction Career Centers to the community, the following Workforce Development services are also available through Goodwill:

For more information on any Workforce Development Programs, please contact Jim Wadsworth, Senior Vice President of Workforce Development.

Placement Programs:

School-to-Work
The School-to-Work services help youth with disabilities to make a smooth transition from the classroom to working in the community.  The program is designed to introduce young people to the world of work during their sophomore and junior years, and to enable them to transition smoothly when they complete their education.  The goal is for the participant to be ready to work and employed upon graduation.

Job Placement Assistance
Goodwill staff assist participants to find private sector jobs. Each participant receives individualized help from a Goodwill of North Florida Employment Specialist.

Ticket-to-Work
Goodwill of North Florida is an official “Employment Network” service provider, authorized by the Social Security Administration to provide job placement and support services for SSI and SSDI “ticket holders.”  For more information contact Linda Lewis

Supported Employment
Supported Employment is a nationally recognized process for helping people with disabilities find employment. Individuals receive intensive, individualized assistance to find and keep jobs. Counseling, paid on-the-job training, and job retention services are available. Goodwill Employment Specialists provide ongoing support for both employees and employers. Note: Admission to this program is based on specific eligibility requirements.

Training and Education Programs:

Adult Basic Education (ABE)
Adult Basic Education class offers individualized instruction in reading, math and writing skills, as well as General Equivalency Diploma (GED) preparation. This class is open to anyone who scores at the 9th grade level or lower in reading or math.

RISE-Soft Skills Workshops
RISE is a one-week pre-employment “soft-skills” training program. The class helps participants build self-esteem and set goals. It focuses on issues such as appropriate attire, relating to supervisors and peers, conflict management, problem solving, and developing a career/life plan. This class is open to anyone who is enrolled for service.

Benefits Planning Assistance and Outreach (BPAO) Services
Goodwill of North Florida has Employment Specialists certified by the Social Security Administration to provide benefits planning assistance to individuals ages 14-64 who receive SSI or SSDI. These services are available at no charge to SSI or SSDI beneficiaries and their advocates. Beneficiaries will receive accurate and up-to-date information regarding benefits and work incentives for which they may be eligible. 

We serve Alachua, Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Marion, Putnam, and Union Counties.  For more information on who to contact in your county and what BPAO services can do for you click here or contact Valerie Guidry, Program Manager.

Choices-to-Work
The Choices program provides light-duty work for employees who are recovering from on-the-job injuries. A referring insurance company or employer sponsors participants.

Office Skills Training
This 12-week program prepares people for the clerical field. Topics taught include basic computer skills, customer service and problem solving. This program offers introductory instruction on Microsoft Windows, MS Word, MS Excel, MS Access, and using the Internet. No previous computer experience is required. Note: Admission to this program is based on specific eligibility requirements.

Career Counseling
Every person who comes to Goodwill for help receives individual attention and a customized plan to help him or her achieve their greatest level of self-sufficiency. Goodwill Employment Specialists provide assistance and guidance to help participants determine a vocational objective, and to determine what actions to take next in the career planning process.

Job Seeking Skills Training
Participants will learn how to create a resume, conduct a job search, and complete a job application. Participants also learn how to set-up an interview, to dress appropriately, and to interview effectively.

Mobility Training
Employment Specialists provide participants with personalized instruction and guidance on how to use public transportation.

Assessment and Evaluation Programs:

Vocational Assessment and Evaluation
A Goodwill Vocational Evaluator provides diagnostic services aimed at determining the readiness of individuals for employment and training. In addition to making employment and training recommendations, Goodwill identifies community resources that could improve the quality of life for those who may be unprepared for immediate placement in employment.

Information and Referral Services
Goodwill can assist people with satisfying other important work-related needs such as childcare, transportation, money management, housing, and physical and mental health needs through initial assessment and referrals.