● Job Readiness Workshops: Host regular career prep sessions covering résumé writing, interviewing, and networking, led by volunteer career coaches or local job center staff. For example, Goodwill career centers help job seekers build résumés, practice interviews, and learn workplace expectations at no cost. Such partnerships provide expert guidance without adding staffing costs. ● Vocational Training Partnerships: Connect participants to free or low-cost job training programs in the community. Many local nonprofits (e.g., Goodwill Industries) offer training in high-demand fields like healthcare, IT, retail, and more. Referring residents to these existing programs leverages in-kind resources to build marketable skills. ● Volunteer Mentor and Internship Opportunities: Partner with area businesses and volunteers to create mentorships, internships, or job-shadowing. For instance, companies can offer short-term entry-level positions or host mock interview days for participants. Professionals may even volunteer to speak about their industry or offer tips, providing valuable insight and motivation at no cost. ● Specialized Veteran/Youth Employment Programs: Tap into external programs tailored to subpopulations. For veteran residents, collaborate with VA employment initiatives like Compensated Work Therapy or Goodwill’s veteran hiring programs to provide paid transitional work experience. For youth, utilize workforce development programs or summer youth employment initiatives. These external programs can fulfill service hours while directly increasing participants’ income and job skills
