Jessica Hidalgo Gulfstream Goodwill Industries Inc. Martin, Palm Beach, Okeechobee, St. Lucie, and Indian River County

Who we are Mission: Gulfstream Goodwill Industries assists people with disabilities and other barriers to employment to become self- sufficient, working members of our community.  Gulfstream Goodwill has 28 retail locations throughout five counties in Southern Florida.  Donated goods are used to help support our mission of rehabilitation, training and employing people with disabilities and other barriers to employment.  All of our rehabilitation services such as evaluation, training, and job placement are free to our program participants.

The Initiative  Gulfstream Goodwill has been working in Re-Entry since  In 2012 Goodwill implemented an initiative to develop fair hiring practices that focused on hiring ex- offenders.  In 2014 Goodwill “Banned the Box” from their application.

Current From February 2014 – December 2014 Total of 695 criminal background checks conducted  58% were clear (no background)  42% applicants had a background 74% were hired 26% were not hired Total of 598 individuals were hired  36% had a background Employer testimonial

Future National Retail Federation Certification Will provide individuals with…  increased employability  strong understanding of the retail industry  skills needed to succeed in retail store positions  increased opportunity for growth and promotions Will lead to future career pathways in other industries

Community Partners Existing Retail Staff Program Participants (Adult and Juvenile Justice Services, Employment Services, Adult Day Training) Retail Training and Certification On-the-Job- Training (OJT) (Paid) Gulfstream Goodwill Retail Staff Promotion Gulfstream Goodwill Retail Staff New Hire Community Retail Placement Career scope, evaluation, soft skills training Gulfstream Goodwill