At Goodwill of Mississippi, we believe in empowering individuals through lifelong learning and meaningful work—and that starts early! Recently, we partnered with the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services to host a Job Extravaganza at Madison County Schools, giving students with diverse learning needs the opportunity to explore career paths in a hands-on setting.
A Hands-On Career Exploration Experience
The event welcomed 50 students, providing them with the opportunity to connect with 17 local businesses. Each business set up an interactive booth where students could see, touch, and experience the tasks required for various jobs. From customer service and hands-on trades to technical skills, students gained valuable insight into different career fields, helping them build confidence and plan for their future.
"This event was about access and opportunity," said Brad Steffani, President & CEO of Goodwill of Mississippi. "By allowing students to engage directly with employers and experience job tasks first-hand, we’re helping them take an important step toward career readiness."
Building Bridges to Employment
At Goodwill of Mississippi, we’re proud to be part of initiatives that help all individuals gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed. This event was a fantastic example of how hands-on experiences can open doors, and we’re grateful to the businesses and organizations that made it possible.
A special thanks goes to Dwight Owens, our speaker at lunch, who motivated this group of students to reach for the stars!