According to Maine’s Department of Labor, 16% of working-age adults in the state have one or more disabilities, exceeding the national average of 13%.
The need for workers in the renewable energy industry is pressing. The $2 million Green Jobs for ME program aims to expand the number of Mainers in construction and skilled trades who enter the field.
Rich Cantz said while the decision to leave Goodwill Northern New England is "bittersweet," he does so knowing that the organization is "really strong" in terms of its people, finances and culture, "and all the things that make this social enterprise strong."
Goodwill's clinic will use NeuroFeedback, a non-invasive procedure that helps treat anxiety, depression, insomnia and other conditions. The technology will also help diagnose autism, schizophrenia and brain injuries without relying solely on self-reported symptoms.
Goodwill of Northern New England's 1,200 employees will be able to take a course designed by Central Maine Community College, in Auburn, at no cost. The course is one of several the nonprofit has partnered on with the Maine Community College System.
The agency is investigating outbreaks at American Roots and Corsetti's restaurant, both in Westbrook, and at a Goodwill warehouse in Gorham, as well as a pending outbreak at the Cumberland County Jail in Portland.
The nonprofits, Goodwill Industries of Northern New England and LearningWorks, will use the funds to expand their YouthBuild programs, which prepare at-risk young adults for employment in construction and other industries.