Goodwill of Middle Georgia and the CSRA plans to reopen their Job Connection Career Centers to in-person client services on Tuesday, May 26. Initially the centers will be open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
 
Job Connection services, which are funded by sales in Goodwill’s retail stores, are offered at no cost to job seekers servicing around 17,000 annually. Although the pandemic forced the temporary closure of the career centers in mid-March, Goodwill has been delivering virtual career services online.
 
To maintain the health and safety for all who enter the reopened career centers, staff members will undergo daily health screenings and will be required to wear a mask. Job seekers and visitors will be subject to temperature screenings and will also be required to wear a mask. The workspace, including computer terminals, will be reconfigured to ensure a minimum of six feet of social distancing is maintained.
 
“Our services are critical to people who have lost jobs due to the global health crisis,” said Leah Pontani, Vice President of Career Services. “The very competitive market makes finding employment even more challenging. For those who are collecting unemployment, we encourage them not to wait until the last month they’re receiving benefits to seek suitable employment. With so many displaced workers, there is going to be a lot of competition. There should be time built into a job search for upskilling, re-skilling or maybe preparing to enter a whole new industry.”
 
Goodwill Job Connection Career Centers go beyond traditional employment assistance, utilizing a holistic approach to job placement and staffing services. Job seekers are matched with potential opportunities and equipped to navigate the application and interview process. In addition to resume and interview preparation, the centers can connect individuals with immediate openings in Goodwill Staffing Services, Goodwill retail locations or provide information on educational opportunities..
 
“We are working daily to ensure we have the most up-to-date information on job opportunities and are increasing our outreach efforts with businesses and organizations to match job seekers with local employers,” Pontani said. “Whether you’re looking to find a job today, need help identifying and preparing for a new career for the future, or if you’re struggling to locate necessary resources in the community, our staff is prepared to assist.”
 
Walk-ins are welcome once the career centers reopen, but appointments are encouraged to eliminate client wait times while accommodating social distancing.