to Re-Enter!
Helping individuals with a fresh start.
Start your next chapter today. All of us need second chances sometimes. Through our re-entry programs, Goodwill can help you get your second chance and gain the skills you need to earn a good job.
Accelerate Program
Get no-cost training and career opportunities in two different career pathways – In transportation, distribution and logistics, or in healthcare industries.
Specific trainings include:
- Warehousing 101
- Commercial Drivers License – Class A (CDL)
- Pharmacy Technician
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
Goodwill’s Accelerate Program was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration and is overseen by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Office of Employment and Training. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. The Illinois workNet Center System, an American Job Center, is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
Adult Programs
Re-Entry Peer Navigators
Goodwill’s Re-entry Peer Navigators assist individuals who are just re-entering the community, or need a little help connecting to resources. This could include connecting to new skills, transportation supports, training, employment, and more! And services are done hand-in-hand with Goodwill’s Peer Navigators, who understand the challenges you face and can provide assistance.
If you are 18+ years old, have legal system involvement, and live in Winnebago County, you could be eligible for free services.
Pathway Home Program
Goodwill’s Pathway Home program assists individuals making the transition from incarceration to community living. Services are provided both inside the Winnebago County Jail, and in the community.
Through this program, we can help make the re-entry process a little easier. We help individuals create a re-entry plan, access resources, and connect to training, employment and support.
Individuals must enroll while in facility at the Winnebago County Jail in Rockford, IL.
If you have questions, please reach out to us at (815)965-3795.
Re-Entry Simulation
Ever wonder what it’s like to rebuild your life after incarceration?
At Goodwill Northern Illinois, our re-entry simulations give participants a hands-on experience of the challenges justice-involved individuals face. Participants move through a series of real-life scenarios, such as finding housing, securing employment, arranging transportation, and meeting legal requirements, all while trying to avoid returning to jail.
It’s more than a simulation—it’s a wake-up call. Let’s build understanding, empathy, and better pathways forward!
Is your group or business interested in hosting a Goodwill re-entry simulation? Call 779-210-4040 or email MarisaH@goodwillni.org to schedule your event.