United Way of the Midlands Awards $20,000 to Goodwill Omaha Grant to Support and Expand Youth Skilled-Trades Programming

Goodwill Omaha is pleased to announce it has received a $20,000 grant from United Way of the Midlands’ (UWM) Community Impact Fund to support youth skilled-trades programming. The investment will support current programming while helping Goodwill redevelop and expand its approach to skilled-trades training, with new programming scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2027.

Thanks to the generosity of UWM donors and the work of dedicated community volunteers who reviewed and recommended funding, Goodwill Omaha will continue providing young people with opportunities to build practical skills, explore careers in the skilled trades and prepare for employment. The funding comes as Goodwill builds on its experience delivering YouthBuild Omaha and develops an expanded model designed to connect youth more quickly to training and the workforce.

During the most recently completed program year, Goodwill Omaha served 36 young people through YouthBuild. The program combined education, occupational skills training, career preparation and individualized support to help participants overcome barriers and move toward employment or continued education. Participants also received mentoring, case management, employment services and follow-up support intended to promote long-term success.

Building on the experience and lessons learned through YouthBuild Omaha, Goodwill is redeveloping its youth skilled-trades programming to create a more flexible and accelerated pathway into the workforce. Beginning in the first quarter of 2027, new programming will provide focused, hands-on trades training through shorter, cohort-based programming. Goodwill anticipates serving 48 young people annually through four three-month cohorts of 12 participants.

The expanded approach is designed particularly for young people who need a more immediate opportunity to develop job-ready skills and improve their economic circumstances. Participants will continue to receive wraparound services, individualized career guidance, employment assistance and follow-up support. Young people who need to complete a high school equivalency will also be able to connect with Goodwill Omaha’s Adult Education Center, allowing skilled-trades programming to focus more intensively on hands-on training and career preparation.

The impact of this work can be seen in participants such as Jyaer, who remained focused on completing his education despite significant personal challenges. After time away from programming following the loss of his father, he returned determined to move forward, passed all four GED pre-tests on his first attempt and secured the age waiver needed to begin official testing. His experience reflects the persistence and individualized support that Goodwill will continue carrying forward as its youth trades programming evolves.

“United Way of the Midlands has been an important partner in helping young people build skills and move toward meaningful employment,” said Tobi Mathouser, President and CEO of Goodwill Omaha. “This investment allows us to continue serving youth today while strengthening and expanding our skilled-trades programming for the future. By creating a more focused, hands-on pathway to the workforce, we can help more young people gain the skills, confidence and support they need to take their next step.”