Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina (GIUMSC) proudly announces the launch of a groundbreaking program, LifeLaunch: Growth Opportunities (GO), designed to equip and empower young adults impacted by the justice system with the skills, resources, and support they need to succeed in their personal and professional lives.  

The comprehensive program serves ages 18-24 in Spartanburg and Union counties and is currently enrolling participants. LifeLaunch:GO is made possible thanks to a grant awarded to Goodwill Industries International (GII) by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration.  

LifeLaunch: GO addresses the unique challenges faced by young adults with a criminal background by providing them with work experience, career navigation, and mentorship to support and guide them on their journey to success.  Participants will also receive the skills they need to be successful in the workplace and beyond, including violence prevention, conflict resolution, and leadership training.  

The goal of the LifeLaunch: GO program is to “disrupt justice involvement by providing rewarding and engaging alternatives that lead to employment, career advancement, and the reduced risk of recidivism.” 

“At Goodwill, we believe every young person deserves a chance to succeed and build a brighter future, regardless of background or challenges they’ve faced in life. With the rollout of LifeLaunch: GO, we are committed to empowering youth in the Upstate of South Carolina to overcome obstacles, develop their potential, and achieve their dreams,” said Pat Michaels, CEO of GIUMSC. “We are excited to offer this comprehensive program that combines mentorship, skill-building, educational support, and job placement to provide a strong foundation for their success.” 

If you know of a young adult in Spartanburg or Union counties who has been impacted by the justice system, and would benefit from the LifeLaunch: Go program, please visit www.goodwillsc.org/go for more information.  

The Goodwill® LifeLaunch: GO Program is made possible with a $4 million grant award, covering 86 percent of operating costs, from the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration. Goodwill is contributing leveraged funding valued at $667,414 to cover the remaining 14 percent of operational costs.