Growing up in a humble environment on the West Side of San Antonio, my parents worked tirelessly to ensure my siblings and I were provided essential resources to continue our education. For decades, many undeserved communities like the one I grew up in, promote educational attainment and skills development as a means towards social and economic mobility. It is this lifelong commitment to learning that can help reduce generational poverty.

This is why in 2009, thanks to the generosity of our donors and our shoppers, Goodwill created the Good Careers Academy, or GCA, to support workforce training and development for the community. With several locations in the region, GCA provides comprehensive and accredited vocational training in high demand fields to individuals looking to improve their earning potential. Certifications offered through GCA have proven to be life changing for our graduates, who according to a 2020 study, on average earn over 70% more income upon four years after completion of their respective training programs. Goodwill covers the cost of the training in large part through the revenue we generate from our retail stores.

Since then, Goodwill has maintained our commitment to support workforce development in our community. By offering small classroom sizes, our dedicated faculty and staff deliver quality instruction through hands-on learning, personalized tutoring, and work study programs. In addition, over 90% of students enrolled are eligible to receive a full financial sponsorship, which allows graduates to be debt-free from student loans.

To celebrate their accomplishments, Good Careers Academy hosted a graduation ceremony on Oct. 22. Over 50 graduates were celebrated by loved ones for having earned their certificate of completion from one of the following programs: Medical Assistant, Nurse’s Aide, Pharmacy Technician, or Commercial Driver License.

This accomplishment is no small feat. These students have overcome life challenges in pursuit of a credential and for some, it will be the first time they walk the stage to be recognized for their educational achievements. This graduating class not only decided to pursue these certifications, but also an opportunity to be self-sufficient and to make a mark in the community. We applaud their courage and drive.

Helping to change lives through the power of work is at the forefront of all our program offerings. As the demand for a more qualified workforce continues to grow, Goodwill will keep up the good work in offering skills development and training to members of our community. To learn more about the Good Careers Academy and upcoming certifications, visit goodwillsa.org.

Carlos J. Contreras, III, is President & CEO at Goodwill San Antonio.

Published on October 31, 2022 - Mysanantonio.com - Southside Reporter