“Partnerships are the backbone of what we do,” said Sheila Olson, chief services and programs officer at Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota (GESMN), during the annual Power of Partnerships luncheon on December 3, 2024.
The event brought together over 125 local leaders, advocates and champions of workforce development to showcase the impact of collaboration and honor five long-time partner organizations that help transform lives by creating career opportunities.
“When we work together, leveraging each other’s expertise,” Olson continued, “we can address challenges in a way that brings meaningful, lasting change to the individuals we serve. Today is about celebrating those partnerships and the incredible results they create.”
A Year of Milestones
“Work is important. Work is meaningful. Work provides belonging to people in our communities,” emphasized GESMN’s President and CEO, Michael Wirth-Davis, as he shared year-end highlights.
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Over 5,600 participants benefited from GESMN’s programs that work with over 600 partner organizations and employers.
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Over 1,100 youth engaged in career readiness programming, with partnerships spanning 62 schools and 18 colleges.
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Over 50 employers received skills-based hiring training, enhancing workforce inclusivity across Minnesota.
These achievements were made possible thanks to the generous contributions from the community and the successful completion of the Power of Work comprehensive campaign, which raised over $12 million.
“Partnerships help us build pathways to sustained funding and career opportunities for participants and highlight our services in the region,” said Mary Jones, chief philanthropy officer at GESMN.
Honoring Partnerships
“Our partners are more than collaborators—they are innovators,” said Keith Brooks, senior director of services and programs at GESMN. “They help us imagine new possibilities for workforce development and inspire us to push the boundaries of what we can achieve together. Their commitment transforms lives.”
2024 GESMN partner honorees:
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South Washington County Schools: For over 10 years of partnership supporting students' transition to adulthood through paid work experiences.
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Rochester Family Services: For 12 years of collaboration in expanding the FATHER Project, strengthening support systems for fathers and families.
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Minnesota State Transportation Center of Excellence: For innovative support in automotive career training and education, including introducing participants to electric vehicle technology.
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Ramsey County Workforce Solutions: For over two decades of partnership, integrating county staff into GESMN programs to provide tailored support for participants.
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Minneapolis Regional Chamber: For co-launching the MN Skills-Based Hiring Accelerator, benefiting over 150 individuals and 50 employers in the past year.
“Together, we are creating career possibilities, empowering individuals and transforming communities—one partnership at a time,” added Wirth-Davis.
Learn more about GESMN’s impact on our community and how to get involved.