Just prior to coming back to work at the agency, I was going through a very difficult time. My husband had unexpectedly passed away, and my life was turned upside down. Goodwill welcomed me back with open arms, and provided me with a safe environment and much-needed stability.  Being of service to others gave me a sense of accomplishment and belonging, and the future grew brighter for me and my daughter.

My current position is vocational evaluator/case manager.  I am responsible for helping clients learn about their vocational skills, abilities, interests and aptitudes, and how they can translate into potential occupational areas.  In addition, I help individuals identify how they learn best, their emotional and physical tolerance for a work day, and how skills and interests are transferable to different jobs.

As a case manager, I work closely with individuals to guide them through the process of re-entering the workforce, providing support and encouragement along the way.

Goodwill provides a great deal of professional training to keep employees informed of available services, updates to professional standards and other related issues.  We also were able to obtain certification for PowerPath testing, which has really helped many of our clients better understand some learning challenges.

I firmly believe that each and every one of us understands Goodwill’s mission, and that we live it each and every day.

My journey started with handshakes and smiles from two ladies, Clarice and Diane. I was led into a room with just a table, chair and telephone. What I didn’t know was that the telephone was going to be the tool of my trade at Goodwill Industries of Tulsa (OK).

So what is the result of all these phone calls? Well, for one thing we met our quota for the month of September and then some. But is it really about numbers? No. It’s about helping people and changing lives that matters.

Having lunch with Diane, Paul and Greta every day was the high point of my day — there was always joy and laughter around the lunch table. But the biggest gift I received was knowing I made a difference in someone’s life — to hear the joy in a person’s voice when I told them, “Come in and get a $35 clothing voucher for your new job,” or to have someone stop by your desk and say, “thank you,” with a smile on their face.

I never can say thank you enough to the people at Goodwill® for showing me how to really care about someone else’s life. It was and always will be a positive and life changing part of my life.

Hear more stories from people like David.

I joined the Navy first.  I had amazing experiences with different people.  I traveled to Ireland,  South America, the Atlantic, both Arctics, and got to see spots that I never thought I would see, like the pyramids in Egypt and the Nile. It was about the water.  It was about people.  I was trying to be active in it.

With today’s economy, I’ve been homeless.  I’ve also been unemployed for a short period of time.  I’m a workaholic, so I will go out there and find work.  If not, I will make up a job for myself for someone who needs me. You’re in one of the richest countries in the world, but you still see poverty.  You still see people struggling.  You still see families on the streets.

The time that I was homeless and still working, I was like “Wow, this is so strange.”  I never questioned my faith.  I never questioned God.  But I did question how I looked to people.

After connecting with Goodwill Industries of Houston, I heard my coworkers  say as I was just getting into the program or learning how to operate things that I was either too quiet or too nice, which I laugh about.  I can be too nice all day long because I’m blessed.  And I don’t mind that.  That part about me will never change.

This Goodwill Job Connections program is a blessing, it really is. It has helped so many different people out in so many different situations. It’s a life‑changing experience. You get to start all over. It’s hard to imagine that anyone would have such a big heart or that a program out here in the United States would exist.

They have a saying in the Navy when you go through boot camp:  learn by brain or learn by pain.  Observe everything.  Study all things that you are able to and come to an understanding.  If you cannot come to an understanding, get help.  Maybe that person with more wisdom can show you the way.

I decided to start my cookie business, MLA Gourmet, because I’ve been baking all my life. I started doing corporate gifts at Christmastime. I did that for several years, and then I entered into the Goodwill of North Georgia microenterprise program.

I learned a lot about financial issues and marketing. The teachers and instructors were very supportive and knowledgeable. When I first started, one of my concerns was that since I’m not very outgoing, I would not be able to go out and sell my cookies. Going through the program and doing the planning has given me a lot of confidence and helped me to really believe that I could make a real business out of this.

The essence of my business is quality. I also want to do something different, so I have created unique recipes. I have cookies for grown-ups that are liquor infused, such as an absinthe chocolate chip and rum cherry chocolate chip. I want them to always be eaten fresh, and that’s one of the reasons why I started producing cookie dough. I know that when people buy the cookie dough, they’re going to bake them and eat them right away.

I just started selling my cookies here at the Whole Foods locally and in Atlanta. I’m hoping to expand to every Whole Foods. Whenever I haven’t been a hundred percent sure that I can do this, I have just been pulled back in and had Goodwill to support me. It’s been just a blessing.

Check out Monique’s cookie offerings at MLAGourmet.com.

Hear more stories from people like Monique.

I am the father of a 51-year-old daughter who has a developmental disability. At the time she was diagnosed, she also had a tremendous feeding problem. A lot of the doctors we had seen recommended that she be put into an institution. My wife and I made the decision that was not the route to go.
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In 1994, Goodwill Industries Serving Eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa took an interest in her and trained her.  She ended up starting to work for StratCom headquarters at Offutt Air Force Base and she’s been with them for 17-plus years now.�
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Initially, she was just washing rags and that was all they thought she could do, but they soon found out that she was capable of doing many other things. Consequently she’s been promoted and her pay has been raised.

In 2009 she received a Marco award from Goodwill. That same year she ended up winning the Northwest Region Award for AbilityOne, and then she was recognized as a participant in the national award.
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My concern is, does the government want us to keep these folks on the dole or do they want to let them to be productive citizens and work in our workforce and end up paying taxes like everyone else? I would hope that they do. In my opinion, over the years the people who end up getting cut first whenever there is a government cut back happens to be the developmentally disabled. The people who have low esteem, low education and people who are just down on their luck — the people that Goodwill serves.

She wants to work. She’s been very good with her hands, and she does like to work. There’s no ifs ands or buts about it. Of course we’ve been worried about her when we pass on, and one of those things we have been concerned about is keeping her employed.  Well so far, Goodwill has kept that employment.

Hear more stories from people like Earl and Christel »

When I was in prison, I asked God to help me. I knew the problem was me. Upon my release from prison in August 2010, I was no longer using alcohol or drugs. I said goodbye to my family in Toledo and came to Columbus, looking to start a new life. I was enticed by promises of opportunity.

Promises of work and a place to stay did not materialize, so my first nights in Columbus were spent sleeping on the streets. I eventually landed at the Hilltop Lutheran Church, doing odd jobs and meeting David Foster who helps at-risk individuals in the community turn their lives around.

It was David who guided me into the employment training courses offered through workforce development at Goodwill Columbus. These would prove to be invaluable to me.

In November of 2010, an opportunity to load and unload trucks at the Goodwill Distribution Center surfaced through Goodwill’s Director of Retail Operations Vivian Reyna. I took it. I knew this was my chance, and I had to do a good job.

Being personable, getting the job done and showing leadership qualities has resulted in me receiving a couple of job promotions. I am thankful, and today, I greet the public as an attendant at one of Goodwill’s attended donation centers.

I enjoy everything about my job. They trust me, and they care about my well being at Goodwill.

Hear more stories from people like Lonnie. »

In 2000, one week after graduation,  I was a victim of a drive-by shooting.  I woke in a hospital bed in an intensive care unit to find my family there with the news that I had been paralyzed. When I returned home, I recognized that going to college on a football scholarship was no longer an option.

Although I qualified for disability benefits, I wanted and needed to find a job.  After five years of searching and having several doors close on me, I discovered an organization called DARS, the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services.  I searched for three years to no avail, so DARS supported my enrollment in Goodwill’s training program.

In 2008, I was set up to participate in the Work Adjustment Training (WAT) at Goodwill Industries of East Texas.  Goodwill has shown me both personally and professionally that I can be successful with anything that I put my mind to. Now that I’m employed, I’ve become more independent with my daily duties as a husband, father and a coordinator for Goodwill.

I’ve gained a great deal of confidence in myself while working at Goodwill. I was never a person who would take charge of a situation or confront a problem head on by myself. Now I’m always looking forward to taking on a challenge and the opportunities it brings.

Goodwill has given me pride in myself and my ability to help others. Since entering the Work Adjustment Program as a trainee and learning the skills and principles that are taught, I’ve become very passionate about how I can now help individuals. Working at Goodwill has taught me how to build relationships with small and large companies to train and hire individuals with barriers to employment.

Through hard work, dedication and volunteering, I was able to move up to a higher position during my time working for Goodwill. I also use my life story as an example for the consumers that enter the WAT program. Goodwill has shown me professionally how to grow as an individual, and that success is always near when you work hard.

Hear more stories from people like Jarvin »

I did whatever I had to do to survive. The longer I was on the streets, the more desperate I became in finding ways to survive. Eventually, I found myself in some serious legal trouble and facing prison. I was afforded the opportunity by the judge to attend a six-month rehabilitation program at the Veterans Affairs  in Menlo Park, CA.

Once I found myself in a veterans rehabilitation program, I found myself facing numerous barriers in integrating myself back into society. The largest of these barriers was employment. My fear was that nobody would hire a recently convicted felon that hadn’t held any type of job for over five years. Eventually, I was referred to Goodwill of Silicon Valley for assistance in their Veterans Individualized Placement (VIP) program. With a little help and encouragement, I was able to land a job at Starbucks.

In June of 2009, a business developer position at Goodwill for the VIP Program was open and I was encouraged to apply. I was given an interview and did my best to convince the panel that I would be the perfect candidate for the position. Who better to know the obstacles and barriers of the veterans Goodwill served than me?

Robert Williamson assists a veteran job seeker at Goodwill of Silicon Valley.

Much to my surprise, I was given the opportunity and hired. I started my first day at Goodwill on July 2, 2009. In April of 2010, I was appointed interim program manager and in July of 2010 was promoted to VIP program manager.

During my time at Goodwill, many positive things have happened in my life. First and foremost, my 15-year-old son has come to live with me. All three of my children have come back into my life. I was accepted to San Jose State University and into the social work program where I maintain a 3.96 GPA. I am a mentor in the Santa Clara County Veterans Treatment Court.

Most of all, Goodwill has meant a life that I would never have imagined was possible. Goodwill’s belief in me has allowed me to pass along my courage, strength, and hope to other veterans facing the same challenges that I faced not too long ago.

Hear more stories from people like Robert »

I was having a hard time finding work due to my incarceration. Work initially consisted of picking up trash at John Paul Jones Arena after games. I cannot say I was even squeezing by. At best, my existence was hand to mouth.

One day, I was at the workforce center looking for full-time work and stumbled upon an application for the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) which is managed by Goodwill Industries of the Valleys. I met the criteria to be a participant in the program. SCSEP provides seniors with the means of attaining skills for today’s job market by placing them in a host agency to learn the necessary skills.

It was the catalyst for propelling me into college. At this time, I am following a three-step plan of Jesus, work and school. Goodwill Industries is a place of second chances, and that’s what they gave me – a second chance to return to a productive life.

I was productive before my incarceration and had worked almost 20 years, nonstop. Now, I am back on my feet through the good graces of Goodwill Industries of the Valleys. They provided me the necessary training and skills to get me back together and helped me get back on my feet.

Hear more stories from people like Cornelius »

Learn how Goodwill helps seniors and people with criminal backgrounds find job success. »

Daniel Watson, who is deaf, previously owned a vending machine business in Alabama; however, business slowed down and he began losing money. He closed the business and moved to Marietta, GA, where he worked several jobs for short periods of time but could not maintain employment.

Daniel signed his story to a Goodwill representative who transcribed his story below:

I enjoyed the program at Goodwill of North Georgia. It taught me hard work is important. Working with the other participants is wonderful. I always wanted a good job but couldn’t find one.

Goodwill trained me for my job at Recycletronics where I now work in inventory. I have been here for over one year and I love it.

I want to thank all of the Goodwill staff and even other participants for showing me I can do it. I am happy with Goodwill’s team work. They share their help and teach people like me different jobs. I smile and say thank you to the staff. God bless you.

Hear or read more stories from people like Daniel »

I grew up in the tough and challenging Cooper Road area of Shreveport, LA. Gang influence, frequent fights and peer pressure took its toll and I was no match for the pull of the streets.

In August 2008, now dropped out of high school and hanging with the wrong crowd, in the wrong scene, I was arrested for robbery and found myself in the Swanson Center for Youth, a secured placement facility in West Monroe, LA. Then my future cracked even harder when I lost the two most influential people in my life in a fairly short – first my grandmother to diabetes, then my mom to long-term kidney failure.

While incarcerated at Swanson, the Office of Juvenile Justice referred me as a participant in Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana’s programs. It was clear that I wanted and needed help, and help was there.

Since that decision, I have moved steadily through successive ‘step-down’ programs. And at each step, Goodwill has been there. All along my journey, I was supported by different Goodwill youth specialists, several times a month, but all offering the same, consistent, encouraging guidance to help me stay on track, to cultivate the right work disciplines and life skills, and to push through the programs toward my goals.

I am now making the right choices and now better prepared. I leaned on Goodwill to help get ready for entering the work force. Assisted with filling out job applications and practicing interview skills, I applied for and landed my important job at Ralph & Kacoo’s restaurant.

I now live with my sister and her family. Recent changes in my work schedule have worked in my favor, and in October of this year, I reentered Goodwill’s literacy program, helping me continue on toward earning my GED.

Having a disability makes everything harder. It is sometimes hard to find the words I need to explain things or answer questions. I knew I wanted to work, and that I could be a hard worker, but how could I prove it? Even if I had been taught, I would need guidance to do a job right. If I did a job wrong, would they understand it’s because I have a disability?

I was lucky to have my mom because she got me into services at Goodwill Industries of Lane and South Coast Counties that could help me. I did not even know what “transferable skills” were. My job coach helped me to find out my skills and what sort of jobs would be good for me. I was excited to fill out job applications and learned a lot.

When I got the job, my job coach spent time working together with my supervisor and I, until I got comfortable. My job coach stayed with me at the worksite and gave me extra training so I could learn the job. Once I was comfortable and knew how to do the job, she challenged me to work even harder. Then I realized just how much I could really do. She explained to me that someday I wouldn’t need her anymore because at my job, I had natural supports; people in the workplace who would care, and support me.

With Goodwill’s help, I have had more opportunities, and have come farther, than I ever thought would be possible.

Hear more stories from people like Sarah »

On September 11, I was at the bank getting change for the business where I was the assistant manager. A TV was on and showing the news about the first tower. When I returned back to work I went to the roof to see for myself. I saw the second plane hit the tower – there was an orange blast. I saw the first tower go down, and then I got down from the roof.

By December, I was a resident of Ohio and hospitalized for three days with tracheal bronchitis. This was the first of many health problems that resulted from being present at 9/11. I was constantly getting sick, I had pneumonia twice that year.

I found then that I didn’t want to be around any crowds, stopped attending church, wore dark sunglasses everywhere I went and was afraid to go outside the house. I was living like this for three years and was finally diagnosed with PTSD, agoraphobia and depression.

But knowing the diagnosis did not make life any better. During those three years I went from being a law-abiding citizen to being a felon. I lost my family, my friends and was incarcerated for two years.

Upon my release, and return to Lorain County I found myself homeless. Businesses would not hire an ex-felon. Due to my diagnosis I was able to become a member of Gathering Hope House – a daytime facility for persons with mental health issues.

They blessed me with a $500 stipend that I managed to get a room with, but I knew I would need a job to keep the room. I was told that Goodwill Industries of Lorain County was a place to get help finding a job. I was afraid they would say no like everyone else had because of my background.

I went to the Goodwill Job Club and started working with a job developer there. He let me know when a job was available with Goodwill and suggested I apply for it. They told me the job was only two days a week, but I told them I would work hard at anything available.

I started October 14, 2010 and since then became full-time. While working here I’ve learned to help others instead of focusing on myself and my worries. I’m not burdened by the things that used to bother me and I have been able to move forward with my life.

Hear more stories from people like Rafael »

See how Goodwill helps people with criminal backgrounds get a second chance at work »

When I was in prison, my kids were taken from their mother. While I was incarcerated, I took parenting classes so that when I got out, I could show that I had the initiative to try to get my kids out of foster care.

After prison, I got my kids back. I also got a job at Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana. I still have my kids, and I’m still working for Goodwill. Goodwill has helped me along the way by giving me steady employment so I don’t have to get back out there in the streets. It has been five years on October 20.

I was hired to work donations. I soon transferred to the outlet store. I was told there were a few forklift positions coming up and that I should try to apply. In the meantime, I was watching and paying attention to how they were unloading trucks and learning at the same time. I had driven a forklift in Mississippi, but it was a four-speed. I had to learn this one, so I got certified through Goodwill to drive a forklift.

I was thinking about getting my GED when I heard about some classes for employees, “Getting Ahead” and “Good Assets,” that would teach you to set goals and manage money, so I signed up. Later, I enrolled in Goodwill’s Excel Center, a high school for adults, and everybody has been real supportive of me. They’ve helped me when I was having problems with my math. Now that I’ve gotten on track, I have one more math class at the Excel Center, and then I can graduate.

My little girls motivate me. Completing my high school education will give my kids a better incentive to stay in school and get theirs while they can, while they’re younger. It will be real important for them to see I started something and finished it.

My next goal is to learn to manage money better. I’m learning how to use my community and my resources around me to better my life. Now that I’m finished with school, I’m trying to enroll in Habitat for Humanity so I can do the hours that are required to get approved for a house. Something that I’ve learned is I can’t try to do it all at once – take little steps at a time and take care of things step by step.

I want people to know that you can learn from your mistakes, and you can further your education no matter how old you get. To have a second chance is great because it makes you look at all the things around that you want to do better.

Hear more stories from people like Vic »

I was abandoned by my mother, and my father was killed when I was one. My grandparents raised me. My problems started early; I was expelled in the 4th grade, a pattern that continued. In high school, I started using marijuana and harder drugs. I was in and out of juvenile centers and jails for years.

I hung out with the wrong crowd, was fired from every job and had no concern for my family. I was a career criminal. At 22, I met a meth cook who taught me everything he knew. We traveled together until we had a falling out over a large amount of methamphetamine. I was shot at from a balcony. The bullet missed my head and hit my shoe. I escaped with my life but went on with my lifestyle.

At 25, I was sent to a boot camp for ten months. When I got out, I went back to my lifestyle. I was arrested again. There was no shortcut this time. I was given a 30 year sentence, and was looking at years.

When I got out of prison, I didn’t want to go back to my old life. My family got me enrolled at Goodwill Industries of Michiana. My first day on the job, I put together boxes. The next day, my boss informed me that I set a record for the most done. I quickly gained the respect of my supervisors. I asked for a more challenging job and was put in the computer department. In a short amount of time I reorganized the area, and they were impressed.

After a couple of months of being in the program, I applied for a drive-thru job in the Niles store. I was denied at first, but kept inquiring, and was eventually hired. At first it was difficult. My boss was hard on me, but it was my fault. Finally, I learned to control my mouth. My boss, “the tyrant,” actually became one of my closest friends.

Then, the industrial services coordinator position became available. After what I think was the only good interview I have ever done, I was given the job. My ideas and opinions are respected, and I work for my heroes! I could not be happier at the progress I have made with my life in the two years I have been out of prison.

I have now been sober for seven years. When I was released from parole, my parole officer shook my hand and told me I did a great job. I have made amends with my family, and we are close. I am proof that you can rebuild a severely damaged life.

Hear more stories from people like Richard »

I first came to Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania as a single mom, surviving on welfare with limited work experience and little computer and office skills.

I knew I needed to obtain knowledge in computer and office skills and gain real-life work experience in order to obtain steady, full-time employment, but wasn’t sure what industry of the workforce I wanted to enter into.

Goodwill’s Customer Service Supply Chain (CSSC) program was the perfect fit for me because the curriculum consisted of computer classes, which helped me to quickly become proficient in the MS Office Suite, as well as real-life education like how to manage a budget and set realistic goals.

I was so grateful for all that I learned and all those who taught me that, after graduating from the program, I simply didn’t want to leave! Luckily there was a part-time receptionist position open, and now that I had the office skills required and high recommendations from my instructor and case manager, I decided to apply, and got the job.

Although I was enjoying my new receptionist position and learning new skills every day, I was still determined to find full-time employment. After working as a part-time receptionist for about one year, yet another window of opportunity opened up for me! A full-time administrative assistant position opened up in the marketing department and I was confident that I had the skills necessary to apply.  Guess what? I got the job!

I have been at Goodwill for nearly five years now and am excited about future opportunities that could become available to me once I obtain my associate degree in marketing management in 2014.

I will always remember where I started and be grateful for those at Goodwill who have supported me along the way. Thanks to Goodwill’s life changing programs and dedicated staff, I am now a single-mom working full-time, with medical benefits, my own apartment, a car, and a life that I can be proud of. Goodwill has also helped me achieve my most important goal of all, to be a positive role model for my daughter.

Hear more stories from people like Gabi »

I had retired from Lowe’s and thought that it would be the perfect time for me to enjoy free time and time with my family. I soon realized that I was not ready to exit the work world completely. Though I enjoyed being home, I felt I still had more to give.

Once I began my job search, I realized that I wasn’t seeing the whole picture. There were jobs out there that I didn’t have access to because I was not looking online. There were jobs that, despite the felony in my background, I knew I could get.

Someone told me about Goodwill® and how they help people in my situation. I decided to give them a call, and I am so glad I did. They gave me the opportunity to learn more computer skills and to be able to research jobs on my own and make me more independent in this process. They also connected me to potential employers and taught me invaluable skills of communication and networking.

I would recommend Goodwill to anyone who is facing some barrier to finding a job. They were very helpful in helping me find my current job, and also helping me learn what I needed to do to overcome my past.

Hear more stories from people like Calvin »

After much encouragement from a coworker at Goodwill®, I applied for a clerk position and was hired as an administrative assistant for the VP of workforce development.  After my first or second year with Goodwill I received the Employee of the Year Award at our annual Hopes Jobs and Future event.

I have been with the company for 11 years, and am currently an employment service specialist. I work with people with disabilities, assisting them in finding jobs.  I also work with employers to help them see past the labels and negative stereotypes and realize the true potential, and recognize the valuable member of society in front of them.

As someone who has firsthand experience living on the streets, I know the hardships and low points that many Goodwill clients face daily. When teaching a class the first question I ask is, “Do you know where you’re going? If you don’t know, then you’re looking at it.” The purpose of this is so they don’t focus on their past but put words to their future and empower themselves to take the action necessary to transform their life.

I make it a priority to personally get to know each client, their story, and give them the faith to believe in themselves regardless of their challenges. I tell them to focus on their abilities and not their disabilities. The extra paperwork and after hour calls are worth it as long as I know I’m making a difference. Recently, I was given the Angel Award for recognition from my coworkers for going above and beyond.

I feel very blessed and grateful for the chance that Goodwill Southern California provided me through their programs and employment opportunities. Not only did they change my life, but they gave me the opportunity to work with many unique individuals so that I could guide them to a better future.

I came to Goodwill without any job experience and am thankful that I too can now help others transform their lives through the power of work.

Hear more stories from people like Robbie »

My name is Jungsoo Jung and I am from the Goodwill Processing Center in South Korea. At the Processing Center, I go out on the road. I take care of loose seams, steam clothes, tag clothes and sometimes even deliver them.

Compared to working at Goodwill now, working at my previous place of employment was very frustrating. This is because there were not as many people with disabilities there. There was a fellow co-worker who both worked and went to school with me and he made my life very difficult.

I learned about Goodwill through the church young adult group and my mother asked me if I would be interested in volunteering there, so I did. At Goodwill, they take donated household items, sort them, process and then sell them. Through this business, Goodwill connects people with job opportunities throughout the country.

My current boss treats me very well. At this place, we are able to eat well, and everything is very delicious. Since we go all over Seoul to collect donated goods, I feel like we have wandered all over the country. I love that I can go out to other places.

At Goodwill, I have also learned how to operate the truck lift. I have learned how to greet customers, how to sort items as well as how to work safely.  I have also learned how to treat the donated goods preciously. I am thankful that when our donors give us their donated items, they are very polite and nice to us. When I go to pick up donated items, I always smile and thank them for their generosity.

I am grateful to be able to work at Goodwill, and I believe I can do my job well. I am becoming more and more used to my work now, and I hope to be able to do my job even better. I am going to work hard, and I am going to get a raise.

I am going to buy birthday presents for my mom, dad and younger sibling, and I am also going to buy a gift for my parents’ wedding anniversary. If I start dating, I am going to buy all of the things she likes to eat and share them with her.

I want to save my money and buy a house, too. And if reunification happens, I want to take time off and go on a vacation to the hot springs in North Korea. I want to take a vacation to the United States but I don’t speak English so I’ll need a guide. I thank God that I can work at Goodwill.

Hear more stories from people like Jungsoo.

Learn more about Goodwill’s international efforts to create job opportunities for people with disabilities.

한국어

그곳에서 일할 때는 지금 굿윌보다 많이 답답했습니다. 왜냐하면 여기보다 장애인이 많지 않았습니다. 동료중 한사람이 회사와 학교를 같이 다니는데 그 사람이 힘들게 했습니다.

교회 청년부를 통해 굿윌에 대해 알게 되었고 어머니가 굿윌에 지원해 보는 것이 어떻겠느냐고 해서 지원하게 되었습니다. 굿윌은 집에 안쓰는 물건을 기증해서 분류해서 손질해서 판매하는 것입니다. 그래서 전국적으로 많은 사람들에게 직장을 주는 것입니다. 지금 같이 일하는 상사는 아주 잘 대해주십니다. 이곳에서는 밥도 잘 먹을 수 있고 맛있습니다. 물품을 수거하려고 서울을 전체를 돌아다니다 보니까 전국 방방곳곳을 돌아다니는 기분입니다. 이제는 밖으로 돌아다닐 수 있어서 참 좋습니다.

굿윌에서 일하면서 트럭의 리프트를 내리고 올리는 일을 배웠습니다. 고객에게 인사하는 법도 배우고 물건 분류 하는 일도 배우고 안전하게 일하는 법도 배웠습니다. 기증해주신 물품을 소중하게 다루는 법도 배웠습니다. 또한 고객들에게 물품을 기증받아을때 고객분들이 친절하게 해주셔서 감사했습니다. 수거를 하러 가면 항상 웃으면서 기증자 분들께 감사하다고 합니다.

굿윌에서 일하게 되서 감사하고 맞겨진일을 잘할 수 있을 것 같습니다. 점점더 일에 익숙해져서 앞으로는 지금보다 일을 더 잘할 수 있을 것 같습니다. 열심히 해서 월급도 더 많이 받을 것입니다. 엄마 아빠 동생 생일선물도 사주고요 엄마 아빠 결혼기념일 날 선물도 사드릴 거에요. 애인이 생긴다면 제가 맛있어하는 것을 여자친구랑 나눠먹고 싶어요. 월급 모아서 집도 사고 싶습니다. 또 통일된다면 휴가도 내서 북한에 있는 온천에도 가고 싶습니다. 미국 여행도 가보고 싶은데 영어를 못해서 가이드가 필요할 것 같습니다. 굿윌에서 일할 수 있어서 하나님께 감사합니다.

장애를 가진 사람들을 취업기회를 창출하기위한 굿윌의 국제적인 일에 대한 자세한 내용을 읽으십시오.

English Version

Being born three months premature caused me to have cerebral palsy, and I had to have 1-2 surgeries every year from the ages of 2 to 16. I had to learn to walk again. It was so hard. The disorder and corrective surgeries left me with circulation problems, limpness in my right leg and blindness in my right eye. Despite my ongoing visits to medical professionals, I graduated from high school with honors in 2003, and I planned for college.

At age 17, I was diagnosed with lupus and later osteoporosis. Even with these additional medical setbacks, I decided to keep going with my education. I quickly found it was hard to keep up, having to go to doctors so often. However, my perseverance paid off with a 4-year degree as a registered nurse from the Mt. Carmel College of Nursing in Columbus, OH.

I was excited to start work, but soon a full-time position as a home health nurse proved too physically and mentally demanding. Nursing is very stressful and since stress is one of the factors that cause my symptoms to flare up, I found nursing to be too challenging.

I was very disappointed that I couldn’t do nursing like I wanted to do. While I was sitting at home unemployed, I saw a Goodwill Columbus commercial on television. I decided to look Goodwill® up on the web. I later came in and met with a representative in workforce development who told me that Goodwill could help me.

When I arrived at Goodwill, everybody was welcoming. They treated me normally. Victor Whittington, my Goodwill instructor, was wonderful. When I’d come into the classroom, he’d say, “Hey, don’t worry about anything. You can do this, and you’ll do great.” He believed in my abilities, and the coursework in the workforce development program at Goodwill taught me the medical billing and office skills I currently use today.

While networking at Goodwill, I found a job that would allow me to use my old and new skills. When I started my job as a patient accounts representative at Practice Outsourcing Solutions on August 30, 2010, I was amazed at how fast I caught on to my work. All the skills I learned at Goodwill were directly tied to this job.

Looking back, I found Goodwill to be a facility where all the people, especially those with disabilities, understood each other, and I liked the fact that I did not have to explain myself. The time I spent at Goodwill resulted in me knowing that I can accomplish something as an adult. It makes me feel great, and I want others with disabilities to know that just because they have disabilities doesn’t mean they can’t do anything with their lives. There’s something out there for all of us to do and be great at while we’re doing it.

Here more stories from people like Azzizle. »

Someone told me about Goodwill® of Central Arizona. After visiting the neighborhood workforce development career center, I was quickly evaluated and tested, and I received funding to gather a number of certifications required to update my skill set to the new standards. With Goodwill’s help, I was provided classes and necessary training to take and successfully pass the industrial certification in computer, CompTIA , A+ and Network+ ,  and I became a Microsoft Certified Professional.

After completing the course and exam, I decided to further my education by enrolling in Cisco entry-level courses. While taking advantage of the services offered by Goodwill , my new skill set qualified me for a position at Freescale Semiconductor.

That time allowed me to volunteer at Goodwill in the IT department, where I was given a bit of real-world experience, and I was able to give a little bit back. Goodwill liked me so much, they hired me part time, and then elevated me to a full-time status, where I’m increasing my knowledge in information technology. I received another Microsoft certification in Windows 7 just this month.

I am thankful for the community program at Goodwill and the services they offered me. Goodwill was able to keep my foundation and family strong.

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Goodwill® saved my life. It absolutely saved my life. Before coming to Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia and the CSRA, I was an active drug user for almost ten years. Abandoned by my mother, I was raised by my father. He passed away when I was one month shy of my 16^th birthday, and I was left to fend for myself. Depressed over losing my dad, I fell into a new “family” with friends that used drugs and alcohol.

I used drugs for a living and got them by any means necessary. I was constantly in and out of rehabs and halfway houses. I went into my first rehab in 2005 with intentions of completing the program to live a better life and provide for my newborn twin girls. After six months, nothing had changed because I did not want to change. I willingly signed adoption papers giving my babies a better life since I knew I was still an addict.

I entered another rehab program in 2008 and remained sober for two years, and gave birth to my son. I was given prescription pain medicine due to an emergency surgery, and while I did not relapse, taking the medication was against my probation and I was required to enter another rehab – this time in Milledgeville, GA. I successfully completed the rehab program and moved into Hope House – a sober living halfway house. Through Hope House I met Goodwill Case Manager Charles Cofer and entered Goodwill’s WORKing Solutions program.

I worked within Goodwill’s WORKing Solutions program at The Shrimp Boat restaurant for eight weeks of transitional employment. Upon completion of my eight-week WORKing Solutions job, I was hired on permanently. That was over a year ago, and I am still employed at The Shrimp Boat.

In addition to working and being a mom, I am studying to take my GED with the goal of attending college to work in drug counseling. I am still active at the Hope House, often going back to help other women. It feels good to show them that they can change their path. They can have a better life.

Goodwill showed me that we all can have a better life if we work at it, and I am living proof of that.

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Joanna McVicker is GII’s 2012 Kenneth Shaw Graduate of the Year

My story began when I was kicked in the head by a horse at the age of four. Because of this accident, I have a life-long brain injury that affects the way in which I retain and process information. This injury caused me to study differently in elementary, middle and high school.

Even after I graduated from high school, I continued to have difficulty finding and maintaining a job. If I got a job, I did not have an understanding of my disability, which often resulted in the employer letting me go; or I would make mistakes out of fear, which led to me being just an average employee with no hopes of progressing with the company.

Then in August of 2010, I was referred to Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley for an intake. The case manager carefully read my file and asked me questions for clarification. She and my Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) counselor realized that I needed something not only structured, but also focused on vocational and cognitive strategies— something that would help me with daily life skills as well.

At that time Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley had just started an ABI (Acquired Brain Injury Program). This program offered a combination of vocational and cognitive skills. The program was taught by an instructor with a brain injury who was able to understand my issues, as she was living with the same things that I was struggling so much with.

After completing this 8-week program, my confidence level increased, I became capable of organizing my thoughts better, and I began to recognize my strengths. This program provided me with the courage to take advantage of several other programs at Goodwill. I attended numerous job readiness workshops, took computer classes, and even participated in an event to raise awareness of brain injuries.

I am now employed in a job that I truly enjoy, and for the first time I feel empowered in my life.

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Find out how Goodwill helps people with disabilities live, work and thrive in their local communities. »

My husband and I were living with my mom and stepdad in the garage with our babies. The place we were at before was condemned, and we needed a place to stay. We were both employed, but they were seasonal jobs. When both our jobs ended, we started looking for work and coming up short. We couldn’t even get jobs in the fast food restaurants.

I was in a depressed state of mind, hating that we couldn’t support ourselves as well as our babies. I was feeling emotionally and physically drained almost every single day and feeling like a horrible mother. I was hating life, praying nightly that God would help us out of this horrible situation. I truly felt like I didn’t accomplish a thing in my life, thinking ‘Wow, I’m in my 30s and what have I got to show for it?”

I heard about the Goodwill Industries of the Columbia community job program through welfare. Through the program, we were able to get bus vouchers, diapers, clothes vouchers – the little things that meant a lot to me since we didn’t have much. In the classroom, there were diverse people with all different past situations. I was glad that I wasn’t the only one with a felony background, struggling to stand on my own two feet, but unable because of my past mistakes in life.

I started out in the pre-vocational program – that was an eye opener. I didn’t know that Goodwill hired people with disabilities. I learned a lot working in pre-voc, where the mission is all about how it helps the participants learn and grow while they’re there. I learned about what it has done to make Goodwill what it is today.

Two months before my six months were done, I got to work in the wares department, learning what goes in the totes that are taken out to the stores, the pricing, name brands, what is sellable and what isn’t. Through a lot of support from the employees, I got hired as a wares assistant. The advances I made were getting work experience to gain full-time employment.

Personally, it’s taken awhile, but soon we will be able to get our own place through the Kennewick Housing Authority. That wouldn’t have happened without having a job. My one year anniversary with Goodwill was in October 2011, and I got emotional because it’s been years since I’ve had a job that lasted that long.

I now have a new perspective on life. I see a brighter, better future ahead of me, as well as for my family. I thank God at every opportunity that I had the privilege to be at the right place at the right time, so I could be where I’m at right this very moment in my life.

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