Our Commitment to Inclusion: Advocating for Change
In a world full of unique perspectives and vibrant cultures, the human experience is ripe with diversity and inclusion. It’s not just about tolerance; it’s about celebration, understanding, and empowering others. When we embrace diversity, we embrace the richness of others, and their experiences.
Working hand-in-hand with community-based organizations is integral to our commitment to community here at Ocean State Job Lot. These organizations are the backbone of change, advocating for others, amplifying voices, and fostering environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Inclusion isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of a community where everyone can thrive. At Ocean State Job Lot, we embrace our differences, and work together to build communities where everyone belongs.
Our Partnership with Goodwill Northern New England
Goodwill Northern New England is a progressive, community-based organization that provides job coaching and placement services for individuals with barriers to employment. Recently, Ocean State Job Lot finalized an agreement with Goodwill Northern New England to initiate work experiences in our stores. All of our Maine stores are now sites to facilitate work experiences to encourage learning valuable aspects of the retail industry and help gain impactful skill sets.
After an initial meet and greet with Area Supervisor Jennifer Hafemann at the Ocean State Job Lot store in Rockland, Maine, one of the Goodwill Northern New England job coaches Alyssa G. shared:
“I’m reaching out after my client’s interview in Rockland simply to let you know how grateful we are for this partnership and opportunity. My client and I had a great experience interviewing with Jen and feel he will be very well supported by her and the rest of the team. Despite this being my client’s very first interview, he was comfortable and himself, and I highly attribute that to Jen’s approach and ability to meet people where they are at. We are super excited to kick off this partnership on a positive note, thanks for your help getting this set up!”
After their initial meeting, the client who Alyssa was coaching, Jacob, started his 100-hour work experience in the store.
Thank you to Ocean State Job Lot’s Human Resources and Legal teams who have all been instrumental in developing our community-based organization program this past year.
Do you have a community organization in mind that Ocean State Job Lot can connect with? Share with us via [email protected]!
