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Own a Business? Host a Community-Based Work Assessment!

Community-Based Work Assessments and Work-Based Learning ExperiencesCommunity-Based Work Assessments and Work-Based Learning Experiences

Community-Based Work Assessments (CBWAs) and Work-Based Learning Experiences (WBLEs) are just two of the many services provided by Goodwill Keystone Area. Funded by the PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), both services offer paid work experience to clients looking for competitive employment in the community.

What is a Community-Based Work Assessment?

Goodwill provides CBWAs for clients referred by OVR who are looking for jobs but have been out of the workforce for a significant period of time. A Goodwill job coach works with the client during three paid assessments (funded by OVR) to determine the client’s skills and the level of assistance needed to perform job duties.

After a client is referred for a CBWA, a Goodwill job coach meets with the client, the client’s family, and/or the client’s group home representatives to identify possible worksites based on the client’s vocational interests. One assessment is usually custodial work, while the other two offer varied duties at locations such as libraries, supermarkets, restaurants, and Goodwill stores and outlets. At the completion of the three assessments, the Goodwill job coach meets with OVR representatives to make recommendations on the next steps in the client’s job search.

What is a Work-Based Learning Experience?Community-Based Work Assessments and Work-Based Learning Experiences

Goodwill provides WBLEs as part of its Youth Services for OVR-referred clients who are aged 16 to 21 and transitioning from school to work. A Goodwill job coach works with the client for 45 to 90 hours of paid work experience (funded by OVR) performing a variety of duties at a Goodwill store. The WBLE is a great way for a client to learn about work and to gain soft skills like punctuality and clear communication.

Not only do CBWAs and WBLEs provide a way to identify a client’s strengths and talents, they also help to build confidence and a sense of purpose to help the clients become more effective workers and productive members of the community. 

If your business would like to host a CBWA, please contact Phil Metzler, Business Services Account Executive, at pmetzler@yourgoodwill.org