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Bowling Green Launches Goodwill’s ‘Another Way’ Program

Goodwill's 'Another Way' program van actively engaging the Bowling Green community.

News Summary

Goodwill Industries of Kentucky is set to launch the ‘Another Way’ program in Bowling Green on July 1, aimed at assisting the homeless community. The initiative, backed by over $81,000 from the city, offers job skills and valuable work experiences to unhoused individuals. Participants will receive pay for their work, nutritious meals, and access to community resources, all while contributing to local beautification efforts. This unique approach has seen success in Louisville and aims to empower individuals towards self-sufficiency and stable employment.

Bowling Green Steps Up to Tackle Homelessness with Goodwill’s New Program

Exciting news is brewing in Bowling Green as Goodwill Industries of Kentucky gets ready to launch its transformative “Another Way” program starting on July 1. This initiative is all about reaching out to the community’s unhoused individuals, offering them a pathway to jobs and skills that can change their lives. The City of Bowling Green has shown its support by pledging a generous amount of over $81,000 to help kick-start the program.

Creating Opportunities Instead of Encouraging Panhandling

One of the core ideas behind the “Another Way” program is to create a viable alternative for those who might usually resort to panhandling. Instead of relying on handouts, participants in the program will have the chance to earn their own money while gaining valuable work experience. That’s right! This initiative aims to provide job skills and hands-on learning opportunities to empower individuals to stand on their own two feet.

How It Works

So, how will this all unfold? Goodwill’s transportation team will be out and about in Bowling Green, moving through areas that draw heavy foot traffic—think homeless shelters, street corners, and busy highways—to find participants who could benefit from this wonderful opportunity.

Participants will work for four hours each session and can earn $50, enjoy a nutritious lunch, and have access to a wealth of resources at Goodwill’s Opportunity Center. Pretty neat, right?

The program will initially operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays, using a single van that can accommodate up to four individuals per day. Work assignments will come from the talents of the Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Department, including tasks such as cleaning and organizing local parks. It’s a win-win situation—participants get hands-on experience, and the community gets a little sprucing up!

Changing Lives, One Job at a Time

Chad Spencer, the director of career services at Goodwill, is spearheading this program with a heart full of hope. The ultimate goal here is to provide individuals with a new avenue to earn a living and gain confidence, all while improving their lives in the process. This program isn’t just about immediate relief; it’s about setting the foundation for a brighter future.

The “Another Way” program originally kicked off as a pilot in Louisville back in 2019 and has managed to assist over 1,500 individuals to date. That’s a number you can feel good about! The focus here is on linking participants to resources that can help break down barriers—think housing assistance and job placement support.

A Unique Approach with Growing Interest

Participants can sign up for the program up to ten times, aiming to tackle employment barriers and promote self-sufficiency in fewer visits. As for commuting, the average trip will begin at either the Goodwill Opportunity Center or the Salvation Army in Bowling Green, making it convenient and accessible.

Measuring Success

Success for the “Another Way” program will be measured by looking at how many participants transition into stable employment after just a few sessions—an inspiring goal that truly speaks to the heart of the initiative. Additionally, the program aims to foster strong engagement within the community, highlighting the importance of support and camaraderie as people find their footing.

All in all, Bowling Green is showing that with innovative programs like “Another Way,” we can all play a part in uplifting our neighbors and forging a community that embraces everyone. Let’s get ready to watch lives transform, one job at a time!