Disability Services
Workforce Development: Disability Services
At Goodwill Columbus, we empower independence through meaningful employment.
Opportunity for all
At Goodwill Columbus, we believe that everyone has a unique contribution to make to our community. Our Disability Services are designed for individuals who are ready to take the next step toward a job in the community. We provide a supportive, encouraging environment where clients can sharpen their skills and find a career path that fits their goals—giving families peace of mind and job seekers the independence they deserve.
Assessment & Planning Services
Finding the right fit is the first step. We help clients explore their interests and discover where they will shine.
Career Exploration: A guided look at different types of jobs to discover the best match.
Vocational Consultation and Evaluation: Compassionate, one-on-one assessments to help identify strengths and professional goals.
Bridge Support Services: Helping individuals get “job-ready” by providing essential foundations like community networking, assistance with obtaining IDs, and professional work clothing.
Training Services
Building confidence through new skills. We focus on practical tools for daily work life.
START UP (Technology Access): A supportive way to learn the computer and tech skills used in today’s workplaces.
Travel Training: Step-by-step coaching to help clients learn to navigate public transportation safely and independently.
Job Readiness and Employment Services
From the first application to the first day on the job.
Job Coaching: One-on-one support at the job site to help clients learn their tasks and feel comfortable in their new work environment.
Community Work Experience Internships: Paid, hands-on learning in real community businesses, providing a safe way to gain experience.
Job Search Assistance (Performance-Based): Help with creating resumes and practicing for interviews.
School Age Transition Services
Bridging the gap between the classroom and a career for students and young adults.
Pre-Employment Transition Services (PreETS): Providing a foundation for future success through five pillars: job exploration, counseling on post-secondary opportunities, instruction in self-advocacy, work-based learning, and workplace readiness.
Summer Youth Work Experience: A seasonal program where students earn a paycheck while gaining first-hand professional experience in a real work environment.
Our Employer Partners: Clients have the opportunity to train and work with leading local organizations, including: Goodwill Columbus Retail, Giant Eagle, Columbus Recreation and Parks, and Mid-Ohio Food Collective.
Project SEARCH
Goodwill proudly partners with Designer Show Warehouse (DSW) to offer an immersive career preparation.
Project SEARCH offers adults with disabilities the opportunity to complete a paid, six-month internship that combines logistics training with essential life skills.
This successful collaboration boasts a 100% placement rate, helping graduates transition directly into competitive roles with starting wages typically ranging from $11 to $15 per hour.
Success stories
Meet Zach
After gaining crucial experience through the Summer Youth Program and Project SEARCH, both facilitated by Goodwill Columbus, Zach reconnected with his former tutor, Goodwill Career Consultant Morgaine, and quickly secured his job at FedEx using the new device he earned for completing the digital skills program.
Meet Gretchen
After being referred by Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, Gretchen successfully transitioned into a permanent retail role through personalized job coaching and a community work experience at Goodwill. By utilizing customized tools and her natural attention to detail, she has surpassed her 90-day milestone and continues to excel as a highly efficient, high-quality member of her team.