Goodwill Industries of Central Florida (GICF) is breaking new ground in youth job training by partnering with local school districts to provide hands-on work opportunities for high school students. This exciting initiative, now active in Orange, Seminole, and Lake counties, equips students with valuable skills to prepare them for the workforce.
Empowering Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Teens
The program, launched in August, focuses on supporting Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teens, with 60 participants gaining firsthand experience at seven Goodwill locations:
- Leesburg
- Clermont
- Winter Garden
- Apopka
- Curry Ford
- West Sanford
- Oviedo
Students work alongside Goodwill employees in various roles, including donation attendants, processors, store clerks, and sorters. These tasks provide practical training and introduce participants to workplace responsibilities.
Building Skills for Independence
Ed Durkee, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, emphasized the importance of this partnership.
“Our partnership with the school districts is a vital step in helping students gain the essential job skills they need to thrive independently,” Durkee said. “By providing hands-on work experience, we’re giving students the stepping stones they need to achieve their own goals in life.”
How Donations Fuel Job Training Programs
Community donations are the backbone of Goodwill’s mission. By donating gently used household items, clothing, and furniture, local residents directly support Goodwill’s job training programs. These contributions create employment opportunities and provide essential resources for Central Floridians seeking meaningful work.
In 2024 alone, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida diverted nearly 24 million pounds of items from landfills, using these resources to fund job placement services and training programs.
Why This Program Matters
This partnership with local school districts not only benefits students but also strengthens the community. By investing in the future workforce, Goodwill helps bridge the gap between education and employment.
Get Involved with Goodwill
Goodwill Industries of Central Florida offers numerous opportunities for residents to contribute to their mission, from donating unwanted items to exploring job opportunities within the organization.
For more information about Goodwill’s programs, and services, or how to join their team, visit www.GoodwillCFL.org.
About Goodwill Industries of Central Florida (GICF)
With over six decades of service, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida has become a vital resource for job seekers in the region. Operating 31 retail and outlet stores and 18 Donation Xpress locations across six counties, Goodwill channels more than 90% of its annual revenue into programs that empower individuals to achieve economic independence.
By providing essential job training and placement services, Goodwill continues to create opportunities that inspire and enable Central Floridians to thrive.