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 »

Just over 11 years ago, I was living on the streets of Los Angeles with nowhere to turn. I spent my first month in a shelter bedridden because I was so malnourished and could barely move. There was a counselor at the shelter that persuaded me to take a free computer course offered by Goodwill Southern California. I didn’t want to because I didn’t have any experience with computers and felt out of place, but I went, though reluctantly.

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

안녕하십니까 굿윌 물류센터의 정정수 입니다. 전에 일하던 곳 에서는 의류 일을 했는데 물류센터로 외근도 다니고 했습니다. 실밥도 떼고 스팀으로 옷도 다리고 송장 부치고 배송도 했습니다. 텍 부착 작업도 했습니다.

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. »

I was out of work for almost two years. I was despondent because my house was on the verge of repossession and I had depleted all of my 401(K) to pay my house bill. My unemployment was exhausted, so I was desperately turning over every stone I could to find a job. Even though I was a college graduate, my skill set was outdated.

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.

Hear more stories from people like Tyrone »

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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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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.

Hear more stories from people like Joanna. »

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.

Hear more stories from people like Tounta »

I was born with congenital cataracts and myopic pressure in both eyes. I had surgery done on both eyes back in 1998, where they took out my natural lenses and the cataracts, got rid of the myopic pressure, and replaced my natural lenses with synthetic surgical implants.  That’s the way that I see.

Finding a job was very important to me because I have always been a worker. If I wasn’t working, I was going to school. If I wasn’t going to school, I was working. It was a way to stay off the streets because, growing up in my neighborhood, we had some good times and we had some not so good times. Things started escalating into violence, where you would hear gunshots every day, where someone was being shot or robbed.

I worked for the federal government from 1981 to 2005, and ended up losing my job. I went back to my old position of being a foot messenger because I wanted to get out there and work. It worked out for awhile, but then I said, “There’s got to be something better than this.”

So that’s when my wife Shirley decided to do the foot work and paperwork for me, and she sent out hundreds of letters to agencies around the city. She had me get registered with Goodwill Industries of Greater New York and Northern New Jersey, and that’s when I met Martha Jackson and also, an agency within Goodwill®, GoodTemps. It’s not just any ordinary temp agency. I’ve been to temp agencies where you fill out paperwork, you take a few exams, but then you wait and you wait.

A day or two later, Mark Dixon from GoodTemps contacted me and said, “Hey Darryl, we have a job available for you. It’s temporary but you can start immediately.”  I was like, “Wow, that is amazing!” I nearly fell out of my bed when I heard this. I was happy just to get to work, just to do any kind of work that would earn a paycheck.

Martha Jackson collaborated with the Commission for the Blind, and they got me the services I needed for employment and equipment that I needed for my legal blindness to help me to do my job effectively.

I’ve never been so happy as I am working as an NYPD police administrative aide on the midnight tour.  People come in and have a complaint, and I gladly greet them and tell them to have a seat. I get the paperwork they need, fill out their information, and give them their complaint number.

I also help the officers if they need anything like help processing their arrests of people that they bring into the precinct for processing, and if they do a traffic stop, they can call me over the phone and I will look up plates and do warrant checks.

I’m just blessed. I’m very happy just to be working and helping other people.

Hear more stories from people like Darryl.

I grew up in the Bangor area and moved to Portland five years ago to attend Strive U. I graduated as valedictorian of my class. After graduation, I could not find a job. I became frustrated and thought about moving back to Bangor, away from my social life, my hobbies, my friends, and most of all, my independence.

My vocational rehabilitation counselor told me about Goodwill Industries of Northern New England and provided me with contact information. After a phone conversation with an employment counselor, I felt at ease and was excited to work with her, because when I told her I graduated from Strive U, she instantly knew what I was talking about.

My experience working with Goodwill has been a positive one. My employment counselor listened and went the extra mile for me. She worked with me on updating my résumé, submitting applications, following-up on applications, interview preparation and also attended several interviews with me.

She understands how I think, and how I process information. I interviewed for a job with Lowe’s and was offered a seasonal part-time position. I became overwhelmed and frustrated during the training period and my employment counselor encouraged me not to give up when things get hard or frustrating. She told me that I was very capable of performing all of the necessary duties of the job.

I worked to my fullest potential and chose not to give up. I grew to love my job. In fact, I applied for a permanent position and I was hired. Goodwill® challenged me to work for my goals.  I did, and I have a great job with great pay. Best of all, I have my independence!

Hear more stories from people like Nick »

See how Goodwill helps people with disabilities live independently and reach their full potential »

I have two children; Tyler is 7 and Grace is 6. I was in a relationship with their father for eight years. After I had our son, the physical abuse began and continued for the last three years of the relationship.

My children were getting caught in the crossfire and I didn’t know how I was ever going to get us out of the situation. Drugs were involved in our lifestyle, and in hindsight, they helped me tolerate the situation and only kept me in it longer.

Finally, through the help of a woman I was working for and my parents, we moved the kids and myself out of the house and into a shelter. Soon thereafter, we got our own place, and things were finally beginning to look up for us. Sadly, I was still dealing with him stalking us. I kept filing violations on protection orders, which finally landed him in jail.

While he was in jail for these violations, I received a visit from the DEA. They wanted to talk to me about what had been going on when I lived with my ex.  In short, we both wound up getting indicted on drug charges.

I served time in federal prison, where I also took a 500-hour treatment course. As my prison time was nearing an end, I was very worried about what my future held. My self-esteem was still suffering, and I didn’t know how I would find a job or be able to support my children.

I was released to a halfway house in Sioux Falls in August of 2010. One day, I was talking to my roommate at the halfway house while she was getting ready for her job. I asked her where she worked, and she said Goodwill. I asked if they were hiring, and she informed me she worked there through a program for people who have been in abusive situations. I shared with her that I had, and she suggested I talk to my counselor, and maybe I could get a referral.

I did exactly that, and was referred to Goodwill Industries Wall Street Mission. I began working at Goodwill, and this began the most positive thing I could have hoped for. I have never met such incredible people in my life. They built me up. They helped me to believe in myself again. They helped me to see that I have so much potential, and that I can do whatever I put my mind and heart to.

I have also been given a great opportunity from everyone within the Goodwill organization. I accompanied Betty Durfee to the Goodwill Advocacy Day in Washington, DC, this past April where I met with our congressional offices. I was able to be an advocate for Goodwill’s programs.

The whole experience was something that I will never forget, and it lit a fire in me. It filled me with passion to make a difference for others that have been through a similar situation.

I began college in August so that I can earn either a sociology or political science degree, and possibly move on to pre-law. I also plan to minor in drug and alcohol counseling. My goal and hope is to be able to lobby for the rights of women and children. I now know that I have a special, God-given gift to take and accept what I’ve been through and turn it into something positive, and make a difference in the lives of others.

Hear more stories from people like Traci »

As told by Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA Career Center Coordinator Janet Thompson

My name is Jerry Jackson. I joined the Marine Corps in 1965 and served for four years in the 0311 Infantry. I am a Vietnam veteran and was deployed from 1968-1969. I also have 19 years of service in the Army National Guard, officially retiring in 1995.

I am a native of Huntington, WV, and have lived here nearly all my life. I retired from specialty metals as a heater operator and was employed for almost 40 years. Due to my ailments, I am no longer able to work full time. I enrolled for benefits through the VA for assistance, and it was suggested to me to try to find a training program where I could at least do nine hours a week minimum to help me get back into a routine.

Like many others, I struggle with using a computer. I heard of Goodwill’s computer training programs in Huntington, and decided to stop by to get more information. When I explained the type of program I was looking for, they were willing to work with me individually and create a custom-made curriculum to meet my needs.

I attended training with Goodwill from August 2010 to April 2011. I learned the basics of operating a computer, creating and deleting folders, pasting pictures into folders, how to use a digital camera, how to use basics of Word and Excel 2007, how to use the Internet, email and Facebook. The VA purchased a camera for me to complete my training.

Thanks to the training at Goodwill, I am now able to effectively use a computer and save my memories through pictures. The VA has also recently helped me to purchase a computer for my home, so I am able to take the skills I learned in my training program and incorporate them in my everyday life. I am glad to have been able to access this training through Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA.

Hear more stories from people like Jerry »

See how Goodwill helps veterans and military families access the supports they need to be successful »

To find out about training programs in your area, get in touch with your local Goodwill headquarters.

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I train thoroughbred racehorses in Bennett, CO. I have scoliosis in my back, and due to the curvature of my spine, one lung is almost totally nonfunctional, and my heart is turned. Even though I’ve never smoked, it’s hard to breathe even with oxygen. I also have a hard time getting around because I have a bad hip, and I’ve had multiple broken bones.

My various health issues were part of the reason why I quit my 30-year career as a loss prevention manager. I soon realized, though, that staying home to work on my ranch and train my horses wasn’t any easier.

My husband, who works long hours at his own job knew I was struggling and was concerned. One day he happened to see a little ad in the paper about an AgrAbility winter workshop. I had no idea what AgrAbility was all about. The ad mentioned something about advice for people working in the agriculture business who have physical health issues.

At first, I was hesitant, but eventually decided to go.  Boy, am I glad I did! At the AgrAbility workshops, they give you great ideas on how to change your farm equipment and change how to use your equipment.

After one of the workshops, I started talking to Jill, an occupational therapist who works for Goodwill Industries of Denver‘s AgrAbility Program.  So, after we chatted for a bit, Jill asked, “Can I come out to your farm and visit you one day?” I said, “Sure, come on out.So not long after that, Jill and her partner Vince came to visit me on my farm in Bennett, CO.   After looking around for awhile, Jill turned to me and asked, “Jackie, what do you think would help you?” I said, “Gosh I don’t know.” I thought about it for a minute, and then I said, “Well, I always wished I had a utility task vehicle (UTV) to help me get around from barn to barn.”

Not too long after their visit, my phone rang and it was Jill. She said she wanted to go with me and find a UTV, and that’s exactly what we did. We went together into town and bought a UTV Kawasaki Mule. It’s great, it helps me get around from barn to barn, and it allows me to do my work with a lot less pain and a lot quicker than before.

Eventually, Jill also decided I needed help cleaning the stalls. The next thing you know, Jill got me a manure vac. It’s great. It’s really easy to operate and cleaning the stalls isn’t a problem anymore.

My family and I are so grateful for the help that I received. I know there’s so many other people out there like me that want to remain independent and want to keep their ranches and farms running, but they’re working every day with a lot of physical pain. I just want to spread the word that AgrAbility and Goodwill® can help.

Hear more stories from people like Jackie »

Learn how Goodwill helps people with different kinds of disabilities live, work and thrive in their communities »

For 23 years, I’ve spent my life caring for others as an RN. I enjoyed my job as a critical care nurse and found the position to be challenging as well as fulfilling. I was proud to help those who were critically ill and support their families through difficult times.

However, after being diagnosed with a psychological disability, the demands and the stress of my job made it too difficult to continue. I loved my job very much, and having to give it up was devastating, but I decided to find an alternate path to make a fresh start for myself by going back to school for ultrasonography.

Karen Owens practices her computer skills at Goodwill Industries of Knoxville.

After receiving a referral from vocational rehabilitation, I began taking computer courses at Goodwill Industries of Knoxville to help prepare for my return to college. I was surprised to learn that Goodwill® helped people like myself with various difficulties by preparing them for their next steps in life.

Through this program, I learned patience, endurance and how important technology and computer skills are in today’s world. I’m now familiar with computer programs like Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and knowing how to operate these programs will be important as I prepare for college.

Because of Goodwill, I have a place to learn and I am living a happier life. My entire outlook is brighter because I see a place for me and a way that I can care for the ill and injured again.

Hear more stories from people like Karen »

Find out how Goodwill helps people with many kinds of disabilities prepare for successful employment »

At Pensauken High School, my old work experience teacher decided to start a program called School to Work with Goodwill Industries of Southern New Jersey and Philadelphia’s contracts in Pensauken.

Each student volunteered to work while in school. I volunteered, and the first thing we did was stock work, which means we stocked coupons and then we stocked childcare items like bottles and pacifiers. We did that for a year. We were getting piecework pay, and when graduation came we had a choice: we could either stay at Goodwill or find another job.

I chose to stay at Goodwill. The employees saw we were hard-working. I knew that we weren’t going to get paid by piecework anymore – we were now going to get paid by the hours we were working. I did other jobs like assisting other employees and operating some of the machines that they had in the warehouse. After a year, I became one of the team leaders and I was in charge of the other side of the warehouse.

After a year, the employee specialist saw how hardworking I was, so they did some research on some other jobs and they found this company called Medco. I trained for an interview and I answered every question they asked me. When the interview was over, they said they would consider me.

After about a week or so, they called me and said I got the job and my position was mail clerk. So I took the job, and my job coach was with me when I started. He stayed with me for a while until I got the hang of the mail routine.

My life has gotten better since Goodwill found me this job at Medco. I have more responsibilities, get a chance to help others, and am more independent. I help my mom pay her bills, and I have money to buy clothes and food.

When I wasn’t working, there were times when I said to myself, “I wish I had a job right now.” I like Medco because there’s a lot to do. There are a lot of nice people here and every time I come to work, I feel like a more responsible adult. I feel happy because I’m working.

Hear more stories from people like Sam »

Learn more about how Goodwill helps youth prepare for the workforce »

I am 32 years old, and 14 years ago, my whole world changed. I was 18 years old and thought I was invincible. That all came to a sudden stop on April 12, 1997, when I was in a very serious automobile accident that took my friend’s life and changed mine forever.

My boyfriend was driving intoxicated and swerved off the road. The car flipped several times. None of us had our seatbelts on, and we were all thrown from the car. I flew out the automobile onto a tree stump, which left me in a coma for four and half months.

While in the coma, I had seizures. Doctors tried to get the seizures under control with a drug called Dilantin. I was allergic to that medicine, and it caused a severe reaction called Stevens-Johnson syndrome. I lost all my skin from head to toe and had to be placed in the burn unit for treatment, also receiving a blister on the cornea caused me to be blind in the right eye. I spent 6-8 weeks in the burn unit at the Medical University of South Carolina, and came out of the coma in August.

I then went through an extensive time in physical, occupational and speech therapy. When able to get back to school and attempt to get my diploma, I was able to complete all of my courses, but unfortunately, was not able to pass the exit exam. I did receive my certificate of completion after a few years of trial and error.

Fourteen years later, I’m a new Misty and a mother. Ten years ago, I had my handsome, perfect little boy.  After lots of searching, I finally found a job with Goodwill Industries of Lower South Carolina. I started out working in the back at the Goose Creek store as a processor hanging clothes. I am now a contractor working for the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center (SPAWAR) on base for Goodwill®.

I still struggle with my short-term memory loss and poor balance issues, but being able to work with Goodwill has allowed me to believe in myself and my abilities. Through Goodwill, the things I have learned and am still learning helped me overcome all of my challenges.

Hear more stories from people like Misty. »

Find out how Goodwill helps people with disabilities succeed in the workforce »

Before learning that there was help and support in the community, my daughter Hannah and I were living in a foreclosed home with no running water or gas for over six months, until it became too cold to tolerate outside. We drove a vehicle that had no working brake lights, it wouldn’t go over 35 miles an hour and the trunk didn’t latch, so it needed to be duct taped shut daily.

I felt stuck and unstable, which is the worst feeling in the world when supporting a young child. After about a month of being homeless, I advised the YMCA membership director that my daughter Hannah would no longer be able to attend due to financial issues.  Later that day, I received a call from the childcare director at the YMCA offering me a job. To have the opportunity to work and share my positivity gave me confidence to stay strong and work hard.

They advised me of Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Michigan’s Workers on Wheels program that they had heard good things about that might be able to help me with my transportation issues. I immediately filled out papers and wrote out an essay on why my daughter and I deserved help. I received a phone call the week after Christmas, saying I was approved for a donated car.

Nicole Brill accepts the award for the 2010 Workers on Wheels Recipient of the Year

My life has changed dramatically since September 2010. I’m going into my sophomore year of college, majoring in nursing. My daughter and I have an amazing, stable home. We now have a very dependable and safe means of transportation thanks to Goodwill®. A huge amount of weight was lifted off of my shoulders from the anxiety that used to come along with transporting my daughter in an unsafe and unreliable car.

What Hannah, my daughter, and I experienced wasn’t just being homeless, it was a learning experience that made us become humble, thankful and every day when we wake up we’re even more grateful to look at a wonderful vehicle to get into and go to work and school.

Hear more stories from people like Nicole »

Find out if your Goodwill offers transportation assistance, and access the training and resources you need to be successful »

Locate Your Nearest Goodwill

Before becoming involved with the Evansville, IN, Goodwill®, I was in the drug court program. It was very intense getting up for drug screens, going to meetings and making sure I was on time for every appointment.  I’ve got to admit it was very overwhelming and also a big challenge.

After about 90 days, I was told by my counselor about the Evansville Goodwill and some of their resources. I immediately contacted them and set up an appointment.  I can’t begin to tell you how nice the staff was and the compassion they showed.

I was told about a funded program called Access to Recovery (ATR) and, let me tell you, I was ecstatic about some of the things that the ATR program had to offer.  They helped me with things like my counseling sessions and bus tokens.  I was so grateful to have the opportunity to have some counseling from the staff at the Goodwill.

My life has changed tremendously since working with the Goodwill and Access to Recovery.  I have been clean and sober for 3 years and 5 months.  I can actually be myself and slowly find out what I can do and be.  My outlook on life is totally different now.  I have a paying job and a wonderful family.   I’m free.

I go to meetings, and I also talk to a lot of recovering alcoholics, which has helped me in my sobriety.  If you are willing to change and believe in yourself, there is help out there and many resources.  Take advantage of them!  My life was never a cake walk, but based on where I am today, I can handle just about anything.

Hear more stories from people like Darrell. »

Looking for a job or want to improve your job skills? Contact your local Goodwill to find out about programs and services in your area.

Get Help Today

In late 2009, we launched Goodwill’s “My Story” series, giving job seekers coming to our page the chance to hear and read the first-person stories of people who have improved their lives through the Goodwill® job training, career placement and volunteer programs your donations help support. Almost two years later, we are honored to share our 100^th story on the site.

Collectively, these 100 individuals give voice to the spectrum of job seekers looking for work in today’s economy and demonstrate to employers how hiring people with diverse backgrounds makes our workforce great. Our stories come from people with disabilities, people with criminal backgrounds, people facing long-term employment, people from low-income households, veterans, seniors, single mothers and youth – just to name a few.

Click on the podcast players below to hear the stories of three individuals:

• 
  Jason Tobey, a Gulf War-era veteran, faced challenges reintegrating into the civilian workforce after being honorably discharged from the military. With support from Goodwill of Orange County’s microenterprise development program, Jason started his own business and now employs other veterans and their family members.

• 
  Shannon Epps was living paycheck to paycheck while trying to raise her three children on her own. After getting involved in Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin’s Almost Home program, Shannon learned financial management skills and became a home owner for the very first time.

• 
  Michelle Banton dropped out of high school and experienced homelessness and time in prison before enrolling in Goodwill Industries of Greater New York and Northern New Jersey’s 25-day vocational rehabilitation program.  She was offered a full time job with Goodwill in 2003, where she has received several promotions and still works today.

Hear more stories and use our interactive map to zoom in and find stories from people who have found employment and volunteer success through Goodwill in your city of state.

Don’t see your city or state represented? These 100 individuals represent just a fraction of the 2.4 million people who received employment training, job placement services and other community-based services from Goodwill in 2010. Look up the name and contact information for the Goodwill headquarters serving your area using our locator, and reach out to them to learn more about how Goodwill is helping people in your community go to work.

Visit Our Goodwill Locator

I was homeless until I came to Goodwill Easter Seals Minnesota last year. I didn’t have a place to live, no job, and I was living on the street. I was a recovering drug addict and an alcoholic. Even though I had gotten clean and sober I had nowhere to go, no ambition and no spirit.

When I went to rehabilitation services, they recommended that I come to Goodwill®. When I first got here I wasn’t really cool with it, but they worked with me and gave me a job and an opportunity.

My self-esteem quickly went up. They care about you and where you’ve been. They made sure to help me with what I wanted in life. They worked with me and kept me working. I haven’t had anyone to do that for me in so long. When people love you and care about you, good things happen. I hope I never let them down.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to find my way. My biggest accomplishment was finding someplace to live. I have a place to come home to.  That is everything. They helped me find a job and I got one today.

I want to help people, because someone helped me when I needed it. I would say to anyone who is like me, “If I can do it, anybody can do it.” There’s help out there if you want it.

Hear more stories from people like Edward. »

Learn how Goodwill helps people get back on the road to work and self-sufficiency. »

I was born with cerebral palsy. I came to the Gulfstream Goodwill Industries program when I was about 16 years old. I came from a home with eight brothers and sisters, and not a good background. When I was in school, I couldn’t read, write or spell very well.

Before I came to Goodwill®, I was selling drugs for a living. I began serving in one of their youth programs to better my job skills. As of now I am working, and I am going to college.

Goodwill has helped me get my own apartment, helped me learn how to drive, gave me independence and also gave me a different way of thinking.  Most importantly Goodwill has given me the ability to believe in myself.

“Goodwill purchased special software for a computer that read out loud and helped Josh begin to read on his own. He was also able to learn to drive and get his license thanks to special adaptive devices that allow him to drive to school and work,” explained Gulfstream Goodwill Industries spokesperson Cal Miller.

“Josh is an individual whose personality and desire to be a success in life is amazingly apparent. He works hard and has the ability to overcome tremendous obstacles, and keep a positive attitude and a huge smile on his face. His message, combined with his outgoing personality, makes him a phenomenal representative for Goodwill.”

Hear more stories from people like Josh. »

Find out how Goodwill helps people with disabilities go to work »

I spent my high school years growing up in a small town in Northern California. Though I was a good student, there were very few resources to help me choose a financially feasible course to college, so I decided to join the United States Marine Corps. I served in the Marine Corps from 1991 to 1997 completing many tours including Desert Hope, Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

After my honorable discharge from the military, I expected that my service would make me a sought-after candidate. Instead, I found that both companies and society did not always look favorably upon this first Gulf War or the servicemen or women involved.

After changing jobs a number of times and exploring a number of industries, I decided to go back to school and focus on interior design and architectural design. I developed a passion for green and universal design for all and envisioned creating a design firm focusing on these two areas.

I first started looking for a position when I graduated in 2009, but at the height of the economic recession, there were no positions available. It was at this time that I found out about Goodwill of Orange County and their microenterprise development program. The 15-week course provided valuable information about getting a business started. Each class had a guest speaker that I not only learned from, but also used as a networking resource.

While I was taking the course, I was involved with the local American Legion post in my area and recognized an opportunity to meet their security needs for their facility and their events. Using the knowledge I was gaining through Goodwill’s future business owner’s course, I temporarily changed my course and began developing Semper Fi Security, Inc.

Semper Fi Security provides many services, such as parking and traffic control as well as greeters and watchmen. For the American Legion Post, it was able to ensure proper membership, sign-in of their guests and parking control. In addition to myself, Semper Fi Security has been able to provide part time positions for eight additional veterans. With a recent contract for vessel charters, boating and entertainment companies, I expect to hire many more former veterans and their immediate families.

I continue to be active in Goodwill’s services by participating in the follow-up membership program Goodwill Business Connections. While my dream is still to design a better world through architecture and interiors, I am enjoying building a new business that provides opportunities for veterans and their families that are adjusting back into civilian life and looking to receive positive gainful employment.

Hear more stories from people like Jason. »

Read more about Goodwill’s commitment to helping veterans and military families find employment. »

Before I came to Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers, I had just lost my job. I was making about $65,000 per year living in Midland, GA, doing sales for Xerox. I thought I was doing really well initially and then I lost my job due to layoffs, as well as business-to-business sales and the economy being “off.”

They closed the office here in Columbus, GA, and shortly after that I started to go through a divorce, which was not helpful. I lost two forms of income and, therefore, I lost my house and a rental property I couldn’t pay for either.

I had known Andrea, a Goodwill® career services manager, for three years and she told me about the organization.  So, I came in and registered, looked at some of the jobs and applied for a couple of them.

Andrea had called me one day and told me that someone had just called her and said that they were looking for a restaurant manager. At that time, I was working two jobs. I never had any time for my kids or myself; all I was doing was working and just barely making it.

I went and interviewed with him and got the job. Now I feel like things are going forward. I am making enough money and work decent hours. I get to spend plenty of time with my kids which are very important to me.

And now, I’m also being an employer myself.  I use Goodwill for quite a few things. I send my employees over there for doing their taxes and taking English classes. If I need new employees, I go to Goodwill to find them and pre-screen them for me. I am very thankful for everything that Goodwill and Andrea have done for me. I look forward to staying a partner with Goodwill as long as I can.

Hear more stories from people like Eric. »

Find out more about how Goodwill helps people build strong careers and strengthen families. »