Last year, President Biden signed a proclamation declaring April as Second Chance Month. The initiative aims to highlight and support individuals involved in the criminal justice system. Goodwill of North Georgia is proud to observe Second Chance Month.
Goodwill of North Georgia believes in redemption and second chances. The organization understands that it can be challenging for hundreds of thousands of North Georgians to find employment with a criminal record, which can prevent them from getting a steady job, finding a safe place to live, accessing quality healthcare, or returning to school.
To help these individuals, Goodwill of North Georgia’s Career Service Programs provide no-cost job training that will help them develop the skills necessary for employment. One initiative is the Ignite Grant, designed to assist those in North Georgia who are involved in the criminal justice system.
Through the Ignite Grant, eligible individuals can start meeting virtually or in person with a Goodwill Certified Career Coach and enhance their workforce skills and employability. Our services include resume writing support, one-on-one career coaching, job search strategies and career planning, employment assistance, and occupational skills training.
Popular training programs for returning citizens include warehousing and storage, retail trade, food services, machinery manufacturing, professional, computer, scientific services, and construction.
Ronnie Carter, recently released from incarceration, arrived at the Old National Career Center with hopes of training for a new career. With the center’s help, Ronnie found the perfect career pathway in Supply Chain Management, which was background-friendly. Ronnie persevered through the obstacles of readjusting to life outside of prison, supporting his family, and completing the training program. He completed the program, passed his CDL-A certification exam on the first try, and landed a job at Boyd Brothers Transportation. Ronnie credits Goodwill of North Georgia for assisting him with his second chance.
Over the last five years, the organization has connected more than 4,500 returning citizens to new jobs, supporting them in rebuilding their lives and contributing to their communities.
