Our Commitment
to Veterans
Red, White, and Goodwill Blue
Goodwill has stood behind our active duty military service members and armed services veterans for more than 100 years. That tradition continues through the Red, White, and Goodwill Blue veteran hiring program and Goodskills Career Builder.
What began with the employment of veterans in a textile repair business in Boston following their return from duty in World I has grown to become a mainstay of Goodwill programs nationwide. Today we honor their commitment through dedicated supports to assist with the transition to civilian life and to find meaningful work opportunities that uphold their standards of leadership, integrity, and respect.
Support from Discharge to Career
Goodwill of Western New York recognizes that the path from active military service to civilian career is different for every person.
When a service member comes to us, they meet with a Goodskills Career Coach who specializes in finding the right path for their personal employment and life goals. Whether it be joining the Goodwill retail team, receiving targeted job training, finding outside employment, or assistance in job retention, this coach will be at their side every step of the way to provide resources and support.
Joining the Red, White, and Goodwill Blue
Military veterans who have received an honorable discharge have the opportunity to join the Red, White, and Goodwill Blue, a hiring program that recognizes the unique skills that military veterans bring to our team with additional benefits including higher starting wages. Goodwill provides veterans with an opportunity to continue working for a higher purpose.
Participants in the Red, White, and Goodwill Blue program receive career coaching that includes resume building, interview skills, and support that will help pair them with available in a variety of entry level and management positions. Once participants complete the support meeting with our Career Coach, military veterans may be eligible to receive up to a $2/hour pay increase upon hire. Veterans hired through the program will continue being provided additional training and support services for both internal and external advancement opportunities.
Building a Career with Goodskills
Military veterans also have the opportunity to participate in the Goodskills Career Builder, a four-week initiative that provides veterans with targeted workforce readiness and skills to enter careers in technology and advanced manufacturing.
This four-week training is provided at no charge and connects participants directly with hiring employers in advanced manufacturing and technology. Upon graduation, all participants receive $500 for work completed during the hands-on portion of training and access to an expert Goodskills Career Coach for up to three years.
When you join the Goodwill of Western New York family, you are joining a team that celebrates and honors the service of our military members and veterans. To start your career with us, fill out the Veteran Interest Form and you will be contacted by our one of our Goodskills Veteran Support Team Members within two business days.