New Workforce Solutions Sites to serve as a “first-stop” employment resource for community members
Maine – Goodwill Industries of Northern New England has partnered with Seeds of Hope in Biddeford; Crooked River in Casco; and Spectrum Generations in Damariscotta and Topsham to establish community-based Workforce Solutions Sites (WSS). The goal of these partnerships is to offer “first stop” career assistance for individuals looking for employment.
Workforce Solutions Sites provide basic self-directed tools for job-seekers. Community members can use the resources available to look for jobs, write resumes, and place phone calls. Some individuals may be qualified to receive further assistance through Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funding.
Goodwill has received funding from Coastal Counties Workforce, Inc. to open ten Workforce Solutions Sites throughout mostly rural areas in the six coastal counties of Maine. The sites are being established to make employment services accessible to residents of these regions.
In order to qualify as a Workforce Solutions Site, participating locations must offer community members at least one computer, high-speed internet, a printer, fax machine, and phone. Monica Driscoll, Workforce Solutions Project Developer, noted that the unique aspect of the Workforce Solutions Sites is the flexibility of services to fit the needs of the local community. “Though each site will be different, staff will be trained on how to navigate the Maine Workforce Solutions/ CareerCenter system and how to best help people looking for work,” she noted. “It’s also a benefit for the partner, as they see increased foot traffic at their organization or place of business.” If your organization is interested in becoming a Workforce Solutions Site, please contact Monica Driscoll at monica.driscoll@goodwillnne.org.
For Site hours of operation or to make an appointment, please call:
Casco Workforce Solutions Site: 627-4291
Biddeford Workforce Solutions Site: 283-1783
Damariscotta Workforce Solutions Site: 563-1363
Topsham Workforce Solutions Site: 729-0475
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Goodwill Industries of Northern New England has a 77-year history of providing innovative services that eliminate barriers to opportunity and help people in need reach their fullest potential through the power of work. Last year, we served 58,000 individuals through job training and placement, career counseling, family strengthening services, youth employment opportunities, brain injury programs, and other community support services for people with disabilities. Our programs are funded by revenue from our 26 retail stores, grants, fees, and financial gifts. Please visit www.goodwillnne.org for more information.
