Goodwill celebrates more than 100 graduates who ‘exemplify persistence, grit and hard work’
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Gooodwill Industries of Northern Illinois on Wednesday celebrated more than 125 graduates who earned their GED or certifications in fields such as health care and the trades.
The ceremony, held at Riverview Inn & Suites, is the culmination of efforts from adult learners to restart their education or bolster their career options after previous setbacks. The banquet hall was filled with graduates’ family members and other supporters.
“These graduates exemplify persistence, grit and hard work,” said Ben Bernsten, president of Goodwill of Northern Illinois.
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Students earned certifications for earning their high school equivalency as well as completing specialized programs in areas such as welding, commercial driver’s license, certified nursing assistant, medical assistant, pharmacy technician, forklift operation and pre-apprenticeship in the trades.
“This is definitely a turning point,” said Keshaun Jones, 24, who connected with the program while in jail and has now earned his welding certification and pre-apprenticeship. “I don’t know what I’m going to do with it yet, but I know I’m going to be blessed whatever I do, and I’m going to make sure I make the right decision with it.”
Alexander Bradley, who earned his GED, said the graduation lifted a burden off his shoulders.
“It took me five, almost six years to get my diploma just due to me being a knucklehead and not asking for the right help,” he said. “Without this program I don’t know where I’d be right now.”
Bradley, a 23-year-old father of three, said he is also working toward getting his forklift certification. He said Goodwill’s program will help him as he pursues the type of jobs he wants.
“My plan is to just take it a step further,” he said. “This is just the beginning.”
The graduation ceremony is also rewarding for Goodwill, which has a mission to help individuals who have faced barriers to success improve their lives.
“This is one of our favorite days of the year, to be able to celebrate the achievements of our students and knowing what comes next for them in education or job opportunities,” Bernsten said. “Our staff really invests in the success of these students, so it’s a very proud day for all of us and we know that their life trajectory is going to change.”
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
