Since 2017, Goodwill North Central Texas has participated in the Texas Workforce Commission’s Summer Earn & Learn program (SEAL). SEAL gives students, age 15 – 22, with disabilities the opportunity for paid work experience with a local employer. Students receive workplace training, learn job skills, and build their confidence and independence—all while earning a paycheck! In 2023 the program served, trained and placed 164 students at worksites throughout the community.
This month, we are highlighting the accomplishments of our program participants. Check out their stories below!
When Sydney was told that she would be working at the Thomas Place Community Center, she was not sure what to expect. However, she quickly adapted to her surroundings at Thomas Place, and with the amazing support from the staff, she has been a wonderful addition to the summer camp. Initially, Sydney was only going to work five weeks at Thomas Place, but the staff were so impressed with her work that they asked her to stay on. Sydney was happy to extend her work for another five weeks—she loves the staff at Thomas Place just as much as they love her!
Kevin was initially intimidated by his job placement with the City of Fort Worth’s Property Management division. Although he went into the job with no idea of what to expect, Kevin quickly adapted to his surroundings, got to know the staff, and learned how to archive files and input data. Kevin’s supervisor at Property Management said that Kevin completely exceeded expectations and works just as diligently and efficiently as the year-round staff, leading to an offer for Kevin to extend his employment by five additional weeks! Kevin was able to spend his entire summer with the City of Fort Worth learning, growing, and earning.
Goodwill North Central Texas was excited to partner with local favorite, Sinsational Cakes Bakery this year. The bakery in North Richland Hills is owned and operated by Nicole Ward, who had previously competed in the Food Network’s Cupcake Wars. This partnership gave SEAL participant Kiera an extra-sweet opportunity to learn valuable skills. Although she was nervous at first, Kiera quickly found her stride preparing baked goods and has even been offered part-time employment after the program ends this summer.
Isabella and Marvin are diving into a world of technology with Texas Wesleyan libraries through Summer Earn & Learn! As a circulation desk assistant, Isabella has helped library staff create themed book displays, cataloged inventory, and even learned how to use the facility’s printing press. And Marvin has gained hands-on experience with the library’s IT department resetting computers and troubleshooting technical issues, which will help him achieve his goal of becoming an IT professional with Best Buy. These students are stretching their creative muscles and gaining confidence at the same time!
The Bedford Center YMCA and Northpark YMCA are no strangers to the Summer Earn & Learn program. The facilities have worked with multiple SEAL students this year, including Stephanie, Austin, Mason and Simeon. Stephanie and Austin have been keeping the Bedford Center in top shape, with Stephanie assisting counselors with kid’s camp and Austin working at the front desk. Mason and Simeon have helped the NorthPark YMCA kickstart their new e-sports program and were so loved by the staff that they were asked to spend both five-week cohorts at the center. Their participation in Summer Earn & Learn has made it a “Y for all.”
We’re excited to serve another great group of students in 2024! Through student, employer and work experience trainers’ efforts, Summer Earn & Learn helps us create a stronger local community. Keep an eye out for registration opportunities in early 2024, and email SEALReferrals@GoodwillNCT.org to get connected with this one-of-a-kind program!