Goodwill Houston recently hosted a Learn and Lead Lab focused on the GoodPaths Program. More than 60 individuals representing 20 Goodwills from across the nation joined the Houston team to plan, brainstorm, and listen to the stories of those helped by GoodPaths.
“The main goal of this Learn and Lead Lab was to discuss how to build a retail career pathway program in your own organization and gain understanding about how to create support, both internally and externally.” said Sandra Preciado, Career Pathways Program Manager for Goodwill Industries International
“The event was successful beyond our expectations,” said Katie Phoenix, Galveston Job Connection Manager and manager for Goodwill Houston’s GoodPaths Program. “The level of engagement was absolutely excellent. The dialogue and communication opened doors to discussions about topics and issues that were new territory for all of us.”
Developed by The Hope Street Group and funded by the Walmart Foundation, GoodPaths provides employees with career assessment and coaching, customized training, mentoring, and referrals to support services that help them gain the skills and knowledge necessary for advancement. It provides employers with an opportunity to upskill and retain employees.
“GoodPaths allows investment in employees through training, skills development, and it opens the door to career coaching.” Alma Duldulao-Ybarra, Vice President of Workforce Development for Goodwill Houston, “Program participants also receive financial coaching, and life skills training. That helps them in all areas and allows them opportunities to have stronger families and brighter futures.”
This learn and lead lab was the second of a series of three. The first was held in Charleston, SC in December of 2018 and the third and final will take place later this year in Boise, ID.
