NexStep Alliance Expands Partnership with Empower and WSU Tech

The physical expansion is made possible through a public-private partnership with the City of Wichita, who is providing the Empower space, and Goodwill Industries of Kansas will be funding the renovations and operations at the center.

“This expansion marks a significant milestone in our commitment to empowering individuals in our community through education and support services,” said Laura Ritterbush, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Kansas. “We are grateful for the continued collaboration with Empower and WSU Tech, which enables us to extend our reach and impact even further.”

“This is a truly exciting moment for our community,” said Ariel Rodriguez, Executive Director at Empower. “We’re thrilled to expand our space and services so we can reach even more individuals and families who need support. We are grateful to Goodwill, WSU Tech, and the City of Wichita for their commitment to this project and the community.”

This Goodwill Opportunity Center is the first of its kind in Kansas and will significantly increase the capacity for NexStep Alliance classrooms at Empower, providing more individuals the opportunity to achieve their educational goals. In addition to educational services, the center will offer a range of other agency services to the public, furthering Goodwill’s mission to provide opportunities to individuals with disabilities and barriers to employment.

“This is taking an under-utilized asset and partnering with organizations that will utilize it to help others,” said Park and Recreation Director Troy Houtman. “Parks isn’t just about green space and events – it’s improving the lives of people in our community and this partnership aligns with that goal.”

“The establishment of the Goodwill Opportunity Center is a transformative moment for our community,” said Dr. Sheree Utash, President of WSU Tech. “By partnering with Goodwill and Empower, and with the commitment from the City of Wichita, we are collectively removing barriers and opening doors to education and employment. This new center will empower individuals to achieve their goals and contribute to their economic independence. We are excited to be part of this impactful initiative.”

The grand opening event for the Goodwill Opportunity Center will be held upon completion in early 2025.

For more information about the Goodwill Opportunity Center and the upcoming grand opening event, please visit www.goodwillks.org.

About Goodwill Industries of Kansas, Inc.
As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, Goodwill Industries of Kansas provides opportunities for people with disabilities and barriers to employment seeking independent and productive lives. Hundreds of people with disabilities receive case management services and develop life and job skills through employment at Goodwill’s home office and in the community. Whether it be recycling donated items or preparing insulation for local aviation manufacturers, Goodwill clients, and employees have found success and become more independent through work in our contracts division.

In addition, adults work toward their high school diploma and other certificate programs through NexStep Alliance, a partnership between Goodwill and WSU Tech. More than 4,000 individuals receive services through Goodwill each year. These programs are supported by 19 retail stores in Kansas along with an online division at shopgoodwill.com/ks and Goodwillfinds.com. For more information about Goodwill, visit goodwillks.org.

About Empower

Empower is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in the North End of Wichita, a vibrant and predominantly Hispanic community. Our mission is to enhance access to workforce readiness, education, and small business development through a diverse range of programs and services. Committed to inclusivity and empowerment, we offer our initiatives in both English and Spanish to ensure that language barriers do not impede access to vital resources. By providing targeted support and fostering economic growth, Empower strives to create opportunities and uplift the community we proudly serve.

About WSU Tech

As Wichita State University’s Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology, WSU Tech stands at the forefront of modern technical education in Kansas, offering over 100 degree and certificate options. These programs cover critical fields such as aviation, health care, manufacturing, design, information technology, police science, culinary arts, business, and more. WSU Tech operates four campuses and serves as the managing partner of the National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT) in Wichita, KS—a city known for its high concentration of STEM jobs.

In 2018, Wichita State University, Kansas’ urban public research hub, affiliated with WSU Tech, enhancing the institution’s student-centered focus and aligning with Wichita State’s dedication to innovation and applied learning. This partnership has created a comprehensive educational environment that supports student achievement and meets the evolving needs of industries in the urban heart of Kansas and beyond.

Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and as a Kansas Board of Regents institution, WSU Tech upholds high academic standards and equips students with the skills necessary for lifelong success and career readiness.