For more than 7,200 South Carolinians, discarded clothing, unneeded household items, and outdated computers have helped lay the foundation that ultimately led to employment.

The donation and subsequent sale of these and many other items provides funding for the job training and placement programs offered by Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina (GIUMSC) to help people in our communities prepare for, obtain, and be successful in employment.

During GIUMSC’s 2011-12 fiscal year, which ran from July 2011 through June 2012, a total of 38,892 people took advantage of Goodwill’s services in the Upstate and Midlands of South Carolina, with at least 7,282 people obtaining employment during that period with Goodwill’s assistance.

Collectively, these 7,282 individuals have the potential to earn more than $123 million in wages during the course of their first year of work, creating a significant economic impact in our communities.

All of GIUMSC’s services are funded by donations of gently-used clothing and household items and financial contributions from individuals in our community.

“Every opportunity Goodwill has to provide services and help a person become employed is made possible because someone in the community donated,” says Patrick Michaels, President and CEO of GIUMSC. “Every donation made to Goodwill, whether it is a shirt, a pair of pants, a computer, or even a car, makes a direct impact on the life of someone right here in our community who is searching for employment.”

Services provided by GIUMSC include programs that train participants for careers in Retail, Food Service, Manufacturing, and as Certified Nurse Aides.

The program includes a Work Readiness curriculum addressing topics such as properly completing applications, constructing an effective resume, and interview skills; classroom instruction; and work experience in the field of study.

Participants also have the opportunity to complete certification in their respective field upon completion of the program.

In addition to formal training programs, Goodwill Job Connections provide a wealth of resources to help job seekers connect with potential employers and find employment.

Services at the 14 Goodwill Job Connections in the Upstate and Midlands of South Carolina include access to resources like computers and the internet, fax machines, telephones, and job leads and referrals.

A trained employment specialist is on site to assist individuals with their job search.

Additional services available through Goodwill Job Connections include resume development, interviewing skills, and classes such as basic computer literacy and English as second language.

Services are free and open to the public; no appointment is needed.