Goodwill using its revenue to find jobs for New Mexicans

Goodwill remodeled its services hub at its 5000 San Mateo NE location and held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday. The hub hosts eight job-related programs as well as wraparound services.

The goal of the services is to connect job seekers of all demographics to employment across the state.

Shauna Kastle is the president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of New Mexico. She said in 2023, Goodwill provided free services to 21,538 New Mexicans and placed 3,072 of those individuals into community-based employment.

The company's newly remodeled hub has four programs focused on job readiness that connect employers to job seekers, and Goodwill provides necessary training. Anyone can participate.

One of these programs is for the film industry and aims to provide production assistant training.

Goodwill also provides a training program for senior citizens who are entering the job market.

“All to ensure the success of anybody who walks through that door,” Kastle said.

Goodwill is partnered with the New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services to offer four programs to veterans and their families.

“You’re doing wonderful things. Thank you for the enduring relationship,” said NMDVS Secretary Eric James.

The revenue generated by the sale of donated items is what funds the programs.

The hub is attached to a classic thrift store, outlet and donation center. The separate building provides a community space remodeled with a modern aesthetic where job seekers will have access to program and case managers, work desks with computers and meeting rooms.

The service center is open Monday through Friday and is available to walk-ins from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.