North Louisiana – Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana is marking Second Chance Month this April by reaffirming its commitment to providing training and employment placement for individuals impacted by the justice system. As part of its mission to support the safe and successful reentry of people released from incarceration, Goodwill is offering various programs and services to help individuals overcome barriers and build a brighter future.
Second Chance Month, recognized annually in April by the U.S. Department of Justice, sheds light on the importance of helping individuals reintegrate into society after experiencing justice involvement. It emphasizes the need for service providers to create meaningful opportunities for those seeking a fresh start.
“Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana is committed to providing educational and employment opportunities in our community,” said David Tinkis, President & CEO of Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana. “Through our EXIT-318 program and other initiatives, we aim to reduce recidivism and empower individuals with the skills and support they need to thrive.”
Goodwill’s EXIT-318 program assists returning citizens in the Shreveport, Bossier, Monroe, and Alexandria regions by offering skills training and services tailored to their needs. The organization partners with various entities to provide training in areas such as digital skills, truck driving, information technology, project management, data analytics, and social media marketing.
To coincide with Second Chance Month, Goodwill is participating in several events throughout April aimed at connecting individuals with employment opportunities and resources:
- April 3: Greater Minden Chamber Job Fair & Resource Expo in Minden
- April 9-10: Work Natchitoches Summit in Natchitoches
- April 10: Return for Good Job & Resource Fair in Monroe
- April 17: Return for Good Job & Resource Fair in Alexandria
- April 23: Return for Good Job & Resource Fair in Natchitoches
- April 24: KSLA Career Expo in Bossier City
Lynn Stevens, Director of Workforce Development at Goodwill, emphasized the importance of job training and re-training programs in bridging the skills gap and facilitating reentry into the workforce.
“Even with more available jobs, we’re seeing an ongoing and widening skills gap that is preventing many from reentering the workforce,” said Stevens. “That’s why job training and re-training programs, along with industry-based Job Fairs and Hiring Events, continue to be essential in helping people navigate past these obstacles.”
Individuals interested in learning more about Goodwill’s training programs or services can visit their website at www.goodwillnla.org.