employment first

The Employment First program matches individuals receiving public assistance with training classes that teach self-sufficiency. With the help of a case manager, participants focus on setting goals and seeking employment. Individuals who participate in the Employment First program are prepared to find and keep jobs.

Who We Serve

Participants receiving public assistance are referred to Goodwill’s Employment First program from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

Case Management Services

Goodwill’s case management services present participants with a systematic approach for identifying and achieving self-sufficiency. Through assessment, goal planning, resource brokering, job development and retention services, case managers help participants chart their course toward economic independence. Case managers assist program participants by helping them:

• Identify and overcome employment barriers
• Build on strengths
• Develop a self-sufficiency map
• Secure necessary resources
• Arrange transportation and day care
• Find and retain employment
• Job Retention Services

Training Services

Group Job Search Workshop

Goodwill Industries’ Group Job Search Workshop empowers participants to improve motivation, self-esteem and assume responsibility necessary to become self-sufficient. The three-week workshop is designed to help participants seek, secure and maintain employment. Participants will expand their coping skills, overcome poor motivation and learn that they can succeed. They learn ways of accessing resources in a productive group setting. This intensive workshop supplies participants with the enduring life/job readiness skills, knowledge and capacity to reach economic independence.

Workshop topics include:

• Problem Solving/Planning
• Health and Wellness
• Domestic Violence
• Resources and Time Management
• Relationships/Communication
• Personal Empowerment
• Cultural Diversity
• Managing home, work and family
• Job Readiness

 
Through classroom instruction, experiential activities, individual assistance, access to an employment resource room, contact with local business representatives and six weeks of follow-up, participants are prepared to find and keep jobs. The following Job Search topics are covered:

• Market Trends/Hidden Job Market
• Resumes/Cover Letters/Applications
• Work Ethic and Attitude
• Identifying Transferable Work Skills
• Job Interviews
• Job Retention Skills

Additional Services
Resource Room – Employment First offers job search materials, employment postings, telephones, computers and Internet access to its participants.

Job Development Services - Works to bridge the gap between those who need jobs and those who need qualified employees.