Council Bluffs, IA., March 19, 2024 — Goodwill Industries Inc. is proud to announce the opening of its newest training center in Council Bluffs, Iowa, with a ribbon cutting on April 12, 2024, at 3:00 p.m., and a public open house on April 13, 2024, during the Family Fun Fair from 12:00-2:00 p.m. hosted by the Charles E. Lakin Foundation. This new training center is poised to empower individuals within the community by providing comprehensive job placement services, employability skills classes, and an array of additional resources to foster workforce development and growth.

“At Goodwill we believe in the transformative power of education and employment,” said Tobi Mathouser, president and chief executive officer. With the opening of our new training center in Council Bluffs, we are reaffirming our dedication to serving the community and supporting individuals on their journey toward self-sufficiency.”

This training center is located on the Charles E. Lakin Campus at 705 North 16 Street, Council Bluffs, Iowa. The new training center represents Goodwill Omaha’s commitment to expanding its reach and impact across the region. The center’s prime location ensures accessibility for individuals seeking to enhance their skills and pursue meaningful employment opportunities. The Charles E. Lakin campus provides a place where families in need can find assistance, resources, and training to enable better them to become productive and contributing citizens. “We are thrilled to have Goodill’s training and job placement service added to the campus,” said Jennifer Green, operations manager at Charles E. Lakin Inc. “Together, we continue to explore ways that make a larger impact on the community.” 

The services offered at the Goodwill Council Bluffs training center are open to anyone in the community, and the classes and services are free of charge. Those services include:

  • Job Placement Assistance: Goodwill’s experienced professionals will provide personalized support to help individuals secure employment opportunities.
  • Classes: The training center will offer classes designed to enhance individuals’ knowledge and expertise in various industries. These classes are tailored to meet the evolving needs of the job market.
  • Additional Resources: Besides job placement and training classes, the center will offer a range of supplementary resources, including resume assistance, interview preparation, and access to community partnerships and support services.

The opening of the Council Bluffs training center marks an exciting milestone for Goodwill Industies Inc. and underscores its commitment to empowering individuals through education, employment, and opportunity. By providing comprehensive services under one roof, the center aims to remove barriers to success and equip individuals with the tools they need to thrive in today’s workforce.­