#United States #Queens #PACE Program #Career Empowerment #Goodwill NYNJ

Goodwill Industries Launches PACE Program in Queens

Goodwill Industries of Greater New York and Northern New Jersey (Goodwill NYNJ) has officially launched its PACE (Partnership for Advancement and Career Empowerment) program, aimed at supporting residents of Queens. Beginning on October 1, 2025, the initiative symbolizes a commitment to career training and job readiness, catering specifically to individuals receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

With over 20 years of experience facilitating employment transitions, Goodwill NYNJ is recognized for its effectiveness in fostering sustainable job opportunities for families in need. The organization has consistently reported high job retention rates in New York City, and its innovative training programs, such as the Bridge to Tech initiative, have equipped participants for jobs in the burgeoning technology sector.

Features of the PACE Program

The PACE initiative is designed with a multifaceted approach to meet the needs of both job seekers and local employers:

• - Career Coaching and Job Readiness Workshops: Participants will receive immediate guidance to enhance their job search skills, ensuring they're well-equipped for interviews and job placements.
• - Sector-Based Training: The program offers training tailored to the demands of high-growth industries such as healthcare, technology, and transportation. This targeted training helps participants acquire skills that are highly sought after in the current labor market.
• - Flexible Training Pathways: Goodwill NYNJ is committed to producing job-ready candidates through adaptable training options that align with real-time labor market requirements.
• - Customized Support Services: To overcome barriers to employment, the program provides tailored support to help families achieve long-term economic independence.

Commitment to the Community

Katy Gaul-Stigge, President and CEO of Goodwill NYNJ, expressed the organization’s dedication to the Queens community, stating, "Our roots in Queens run deep, and PACE allows us to continue serving this community with programs that change lives." The program is built on existing partnerships with employers and aims to develop new connections to ensure that local residents not only secure jobs but also embark on sustainable career paths.

Employers in the Queens area are encouraged to reach out to Goodwill NYNJ if they are looking for motivated candidates to fill job openings. Marlin Jenkins, Senior Vice President of Workforce Development, can be contacted for details on how businesses can engage with the PACE program.

Goodwill NYNJ’s Workforce Impact

In the past year alone, Goodwill NYNJ has made a substantial impact in the community by:

• - Providing digital skills training to over 6,700 individuals.
• - Assisting more than 800 individuals in finding jobs through its Digital Career Accelerator initiative.
• - Offering services such as GoodTemps, Bridge to Tech, and Supported Employment to thousands in need of support.

The PACE program is a vital component of Goodwill NYNJ's strategic plan, "No Talent Left Behind," ensuring that every New Yorker has access to opportunities through inclusive employment systems and robust partnerships with employers.

For further information on the various workforce development programs offered by Goodwill NYNJ, visit their website at www.goodwillnynj.org.

Media Contact

Helen Murphy,
Senior Vice President of Development, Communications, and Marketing
Goodwill NYNJ
C: 913-530-3237
Email: [email protected]

This new initiative marks a significant step in enhancing economic mobility within the Queens community and reaffirms Goodwill NYNJ’s long-standing commitment to empowering individuals through meaningful employment.