Lack of transportation prevents many from getting or keeping a job. But a new non-profit staffing agency in Augusta has eliminated that barrier to employment for its workers.
First Step Staffing, which is located at 1765 Broad St. in the Salvation Army’s First Stop Center, opened its doors on Monday, Oct. 3. The agency primarily provides staffing services for entry-level light-industrial and warehouse jobs, according to its Chief Mission Officer, Kellie Brownlow.
“These are jobs that people with barriers to employment can succeed in right away,” Brownlow said.
She said the organization provides rides to and from work through Enterprise Rideshare. First Step is the largest alternative employment agency in the United States, which means it not only helps people find jobs but also assists them with personal challenges, such as transportation and housing.
It has partnered with several local organizations, including the Augusta Homeless Task Force, Community Foundation for the CSRA, and Augusta National Golf Club to provide immediate employment opportunities to those at risk of becoming homeless.
“First Step Staffing has been opening the door to economic opportunity for the most marginalized in our community since 2007, and we look forward to expanding our impact into Augusta,” said the agency’s CEO, Amelia Nickerson.
The Atlanta-based nonprofit has offices throughout much of the United States, including Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, and California. Last year, First Step provided placement services for more than 8,000 people nationwide, who earned a combined total of more than $57 million.
For more information, visit firststepstaffing.com/.
