By JEFFREY POWELL
Education is essential when entering the job market, both for first time workers or those looking to reinvent themselves. Employers are looking for qualified individuals that can go to work with a minimal amount of training and education. With this in mind the DeFuniak Springs Goodwill Industries Big Bend Inc. recently began offering a service which will allow clients to test for and receive a General Education Development (GED) diploma.
“People need this service to succeed in life,” said Career Campus Instructor Employment Specialist Laura Jo Hust. “We pride ourselves on treating the whole individual. We offer access to resources for various life skill needs including the GED testing. These clients are my people and my goal is to help them improve their lives and become self sufficient.”
Recently renovated for the specific purpose of GED testing, the DFS Goodwill offers this service twice a month through the Pearson VUE organization. The tests focus on four modules which are taken separately. The modules cost $32 each and include tests concerning language, mathematics, social studies and science. Many clients are able to receive financial assistance through tri-county if they qualify. The center offers free pre-testing and GED classes to prepare clients for the tests. Clients can also space the time between test according to their own needs and skills. Goodwill is one of only three locations offering this service. The other two are Northwest Florida State College and Emerald Coast Technical College.
“I believe if I get my GED I can get a better job,” said client Zachary Egger. “That job would help me get a car so I can go places like the movies and the beach. I am proud of myself for the work I have done here.”
The DFS Goodwill can be reached by calling (850) 951-1268.
