Goodwill Industries of Michiana is among a handful of organizations selected nationally to provide assistance to individuals interested in health care careers.
The Michiana agency is among eight other Goodwill organizations, selected by Goodwill International to partner with the Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation to introduce Healthcare CareerLaunch.
“COVID-19 has left a lasting impact on many communities and has changed the landscape of the workforce,” said Dr. Kimberly Roop, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s Medicaid Plan President in Indiana. “This programming will train thousands of workers and prepare them for high-growth jobs, with good pay and benefits.”
The program is part of the Rising Together coalition, which is working to support individuals gain access to sustaining careers. Goodwill Industries of Michiana received a two-year grant to provide coaching and career services to anyone seeking healthcare training for jobs including certified nurse aide, qualified medication aide, medical assistant, phlebotomy technician and medical records assistant.
Goodwill Healthcare CareerLaunch is available to South Bend and Elkhart area residents. The program is provided at no cost to participants and includes help exploring opportunities in the health care field and developing a career plan.
It also includes other services including securing transportation, food, housing, and childcare. Workshops are available, at no cost, to enhance digital skills, job readiness and financial planning.
“The pandemic has elevated our need for more healthcare professionals,” said Debie Coble, Goodwill president and CEO. “Through the Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield grant, we can inspire a new workforce and provide the tools that lead to a successful career,”
The other Goodwill organizations taking part include: Goodwill of North Georgia (Atlanta, Georgia); Rappahannock Goodwill Industries (Fredericksburg, Virginia); Goodwill Industries Knoxville (Knoxville, Tennessee); Goodwill Industries of Arkansas (Little Rock, Arkansas); Goodwill Serving the People of Southern Los Angeles County (Long Beach, California); Goodwill of Middle Georgia & the CSRA (Macon, Georgia); and Goodwill Industries of the Valleys (Roanoke, Virginia).
