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Goodwill and Google Team Up to Provide Digital Job Training

Peoria Public Radio

Goodwill Industries of Central Illinois is benefiting from a $10 million grant from Google.

Goodwill is partnering with the tech giant to launch a Digital Career Accelerator nationwide. Goodwill marketing manager Craig Armstrong says $50,000 is directed to the local Goodwill chapter in Peoria.

The initiative aims to provide job training for more than a million disadvantaged people over the next three years. Google volunteers will be dispatched to communities across the country to assist with trainings for Goodwill team members and program participants. 

Goodwill of Industries of Central Illinois President Don Johnson says the career accelerator will strengthen Peoria by helping people advance their careers and provide a skilled workforce for employers. 

The new initiative aims to provide opportunities for disadvantaged people, particularly those with disabilities, the elderly, veterans and those transitioning back into society.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there are nearly 6 million job openings in the US. Many of these jobs remain unfilled because job applicants lack specific skills employers need.