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July 8, 2005
 
Goodwill Industries Adds 3 Training Programs
 
by HNN Staff

 
Huntington, WV (HNN) - Founded in 1972, Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA Area Inc. has been known for training individuals in the Tri-State with disabilities or other barriers to employment and helping them find jobs for more than thirty years. On Aug. 1, 2005, the agency will begin offering three additional training tracks in its newly configured Goodwill Career Center.
 
The highly successful Business Employment Skills Training (BEST) program will now offer a 14-week course in computer and office skills, and certification in two Microsoft software programs - Word and Excel. Originally part of the BEST program, the new 14-week Medical Office Skills Training (MOST) program will include 10 weeks of specific courses geared to equip graduates with skills in medical billing, medical terminology, and medical coding to meet the needs of the area's growing health care community.
 
For many, Goodwill's retail stores are often the most recognizable presence in the community. Therefore, it follows that a Retail Employment Skills Training (REST) program would be a natural outgrowth of that core business. The REST program will offer 12 weeks of training to include merchandising, loss prevention, display, and providing exceptional customer service.
 
A new career track, Hospitality Skills Training (HOST) has been added to serve the needs of the largest growth industry in West Virginia. This 10-week program will include an overview of hospitality and customer service and will offer the American Hotel and Lodging Association's certifications in both the food and beverage aspect and the lodging side of travel and tourism. Enrollees will also take the ServSafe Course and successful candidates will receive their food handlers' license. As part of this course, students will receive five weeks of practical on-the-job experience as well as classroom training. The other three tracks also will include a two week community internship component.
 
Finally, Goodwill will also offer Adult Basic Education classes as part of the Career Center schedule of courses. Furthermore, Goodwill helps the graduates of all programs map their career path, create an effective resume and teaches personal effectiveness skills. Following graduation, Goodwill's Employment Specialists offers assistance in matching individuals with the right employer.
 
For more information call the Goodwill Career Center at 304-523-7461.
 
For more information contact: Carter Seaton, Marketing Director ctseaton@goodwillhunting.org