Goodwill NYNJ Launches PACE Program in Queens

Building on two decades of success helping adults achieve long-term employment

QUEENS, N.Y., Oct. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Goodwill Industries of Greater New York and Northern New Jersey (Goodwill NYNJ) is proud to announce the launch of its new PACE (Partnership for Advancement and Career Empowerment) program in Queens, in collaboration with the New York City Department of Social Services (NYCDSS). The program officially begins October 1, 2025.

PACE builds on Goodwill NYNJ's 20+ year legacy of helping families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) transition from public assistance to long-term, sustainable employment. Goodwill NYNJ has consistently achieved some of the highest job retention rates in New York City, while pioneering innovative training models such as Bridge to Tech, which prepares participants for entry-level roles in the technology sector.

Goodwill's Queens PACE program will provide:

• Career coaching and job readiness workshops to prepare participants for success
• Sector-based training aligned with employer demand in Queens, including in high-growth industries such as healthcare, technology, and transportation
• Flexible, responsive training pathways to ensure the program produces job seekers who are work-ready and equipped with skills that meet real-time labor market needs
• Customized support services to help families overcome barriers and achieve lasting economic independence

"Our roots in Queens run deep, and PACE allows us to continue serving this community with programs that change lives," said Katy Gaul-Stigge, President & CEO of Goodwill NYNJ. "By building on existing employer partnerships and forging new ones, and by staying closely attuned to the needs of local businesses, we can ensure residents not only find jobs but connect to sustainable careers in industries that are hiring now."

In addition to serving job seekers, the Queens PACE program also partners with local employers who are seeking motivated, work-ready candidates. Employers interested in building a pipeline of talent through PACE are encouraged to connect with Goodwill by reaching out to Marlin Jenkins, SVP of Workforce Development, at [email protected].

Goodwill NYNJ's Workforce Impact

In the past year, Goodwill NYNJ:

• Provided digital skills training to more than 6,700 individuals
• Placed over 800 people into jobs through its Digital Career Accelerator program
• Served thousands through programs such as GoodTemps, Bridge to Tech, and Supported Employment

The Queens PACE program is a cornerstone of Goodwill NYNJ's "No Talent Left Behind" strategic plan, which ensures every New Yorker has access to opportunity through inclusive employment systems and full-circle partnerships with employers.

For more information about Goodwill NYNJ's workforce development programs, visit www.goodwillnynj.org.

Media Contact:
Helen Murphy
SVP of Development, Communications and Marketing
Goodwill NYNJ
C: 913-530-3237
[email protected]

SOURCE Goodwill Industries of Greater New York and Northern New Jersey, Inc.