Addressing Critical Community Needs Together
In an era of growing healthcare workforce shortages, Herzing University's partnership with Goodwill Greater Milwaukee & Chicago exemplifies how educational institutions and community organizations can work together to create meaningful change. Since 2022, this collaboration has helped nearly 145 individuals launch careers in healthcare through an innovative Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program.
Breaking Down Barriers to Healthcare Careers
For many aspiring healthcare professionals, the path to certification can seem insurmountable due to financial constraints, transportation challenges, and access to education and technology. Through the United For Good program—a partnership between Goodwill and United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County, supported by Herzing University as the education partner—these barriers are being systematically dismantled.
A Comprehensive Approach to Workforce Development
Goodwill Greater Milwaukee & Chicago's mission extends far beyond traditional workforce development. In 2023 alone, the organization supported more than 50,000 people across Wisconsin and Illinois through employment, programs and services. Their holistic approach addresses not just access to services that help people build skills and find employment, but also connects individuals to essential resources including housing, food, and transportation.
The Power of Educational Partnership
"Herzing University emerged as a strong educational partner for Goodwill that could help us bring the program to life," says Suzanne Maldonado, Vice President of Goodwill TalentBridge and Business Development. "The university's expertise in building educational pathways, along with a willingness to collaborate has been an essential component to creating real impact in people's lives."
Meeting Future Healthcare Demands
With CNA jobs projected to grow four percent by 2032 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, this partnership addresses a critical workforce need. The United For Good program offers:
- Paid career training opportunities
- Essential skills development
- CNA certification preparation
- Direct connections to employment opportunities
- Comprehensive support services
Creating Lasting Impact
Through this collaborative effort, Herzing University, Goodwill and United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County are not just filling jobs—they're creating career pathways that transform lives and strengthen communities. The partnership demonstrates how educational institutions can play a vital role in community workforce development while advancing their mission of career-focused education.