Victoria and Cristina Breaking Down Barriers

June 5, 2023

In 2023, Victoria and Cristina joined GESMN’s construction training program. They got hands-on industry training at GESMN’s 5,600 sq. ft. training…

Deneal shares her ‘secret’ to success

May 8, 2023

Deneal is a published playwright whose play, “Secrets” is a regional finalist in The Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival National…

Lukas Finds His Voice

April 20, 2023

A senior in high school, Lukas wasn’t sure what the next steps in life should be after he graduated. He was referred to Goodwill-Easter Seals…

Q&A with Workforce Development Manager Kyle Van Acker

February 28, 2023

Services & Programs Workforce Development Manager Kyle Van Acker talks to us about his role at GESMN and what he is seeing in our community.

Brady Conquers Job Loss to Forge a New Career

February 8, 2023

After two job losses, Brady faced a common problem: securing stable employment. Through the Connections program at Big Lake High School, Brady was…

Keith’s journey from housing instability to hope

January 19, 2023

Keith is no stranger to overcoming barriers. He previously struggled with substance abuse, which led to housing instability. He spent three years…

Kevin gets his GED and invites others to join YouthBuild

January 6, 2023

When Kevin came to Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota (GESMN), “he was as a confident, capable, charming 18-year-old,” according to Kristen, GESMN’s…

Nicholas' Career Transformation

September 7, 2022

A new career path is a life-changing experience; having support helps people discover their possibilities and potential. Nicholas worked in culinary…

Nathan the Go-Getter

August 17, 2022

When Nathan graduated from high school in 2021, he had little work experience and didn’t know where to start. He had big goals and was ready to work…

Nasir's Steps To Success

June 22, 2022

Nasir immigrated to the United States in 2019 with a goal, to earn his GED.  Balancing receiving an education while working full-time is difficult,…

Bryan Found His Fit

June 1, 2021

After 25 years of working for the same employer Bryan was furloughed due to COVID-19, like many people. He could have easily been discouraged, but…

Keana’s Career Success Empowers Other Women

December 7, 2020

Keana’s personable nature and can-do attitude landed her a job almost immediately at a local bakery, even during a pandemic and record unemployment in…