Goodwill Offers Free Virtual Job Training, Placement

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries Inc. has turned its workforce development efforts virtual to offer the public free training opportunities and job placement services.

“We believe in the value of people and the power of work,” CEO Mark Goloja said in a prepared statement. “We are doing all that we can to remain true to our mission as it grows increasingly relevant. We are proud to continue to serve our community by transitioning how we support both job seekers and employers.”

Goodwill’s virtual opportunities include webinars and one-on-one appointments to assist individuals with job-search techniques and preparation, provide employment leads and placement services and offer additional help with the application process. The nonprofit also offers training programs where participants can earn certifications in various fields, including the Google IT Support Professional Certificate program, which prepares learners for an entry-level role in IT support.

Job-preparation tools and programs include The Northstar Digital Literacy Assessment and Accenture’s Skills to Succeed Academy, which help individuals acquire the skills needed to choose the right career, find a job and succeed in the workplace.

“As Ohioans and Pennsylvanians face record-high unemployment numbers amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to ensure we are providing our community members with the resources and guidance they need to prepare for and find employment,” said Emily McHenry, director of mission services.

Youngstown Goodwill continues to offer free digital skills training through its Digital Career Accelerator initiative. The courses cover topics ranging from basic computer skills to entry- and mid-level skills, which include using software programs like Microsoft Office and learning introductory graphic design.

Source: Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries Inc.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.