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News & Events
Power of Work
Summer 2024 Newsletter
DANIELLE
Advanced in her Healthcare Career
"Ten years ago I completed my learning with the Goodwill-Easter Seals Career Training & Education Program. My career started at the front desk at Fairview clinic. Today, I’m a nurse.
As an LPN in a long-term care facility, I work with physical therapy patients recovering from surgeries and injuries. I have hospice patients in their final months and days and I help their families at the final goodbye. I also work as a travel immunization nurse.
Being a nurse, I know I am making a difference.
"I am now living the future I could never have imagined a decade ago," Danielle continued.
[The programs at GESMN] changed my life and made my family better, my community better, and the world around me brighter.”
HEATHER
Enjoys helping automotive customers
"My experience in the automotive program was full of support and encouragement. As I commuted to class each morning, I felt full of hope and excitement to collaborate with my classmates and learn from our teacher. The program staff made me feel confident that I could make this career change.
I have been in my current position as a Parts Specialist for almost a year. My job provides the opportunity to work as part of a team, problem-solve, work directly with customers, and constantly keep learning.
Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota means so much to me. Completing this training program has made me a stronger and more confident person.”
POWER OF WORK EVENT
Highlights Mission
Thank you to the nearly 400 guests and sponsors who celebrated with us at the sold-out 18th Annual Power of Work event on May 9! You helped us raise more than $230,000. This includes more than $40,000 that will go directly to the Opportunity Fund – a unique program that meets the pressing needs of participants so they can complete career training or move into work. Thanks to you it was an inspiring, fun evening – and our most successful Power of Work event yet!
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Michelle Terkoski, Stonebridge Capital Advisors
Why do you choose to support GESMN? I believe in the power of working. I believe if you can receive training and work it gives you the confidence to keep going. You take pride in yourself and your family and it gives you a means to put food on the table.
What was your favorite part of the Power of Work event? I love the Power of Work event; my favorite part is hearing the stories of the people it has helped get back to work.
Why do you enjoy volunteering with the silent auction? I so enjoy the silent auction; it gives me a chance to do the things I love. Support a great organization, contact companies for items and then using my creative side to make it look enticing to place bids.
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Support the Power of Work Campaign
It’s not too late to join the Power of Work Campaign! Add your support by September 30. To date, more than $12 million has been raised, providing critical community investments in:
- Workforce development programs, digital skills training, and access to technology to bridge the digital divide.
- Client outreach, support, training, and career opportunities.
- Sustainable community impact to meet emerging needs and provide program stability.
YOUR SUPPORT HELPS
Open doors for more people in our community
- Congratulations to the first graduating class of GESMN’s Advanced Manufacturing course! In April, eight students completed their Saint Paul College certificate.
- Over 275 job seekers spoke with 35 employers from numerous industries at GESMN’s career fair in May. In June, the Minnesota Department of Corrections collaborated with GESMN to host the Fair Chance Job Fair, drawing over 225 job seekers and featuring 23 employers.
- GESMN is launching a pre-apprenticeship with the St. Paul electrical union this summer.