Success Stories
My Story: Clarence Smith
I spent four years in the state penitentiary in Pennsylvania. I never looked at it as a liability or a handicap. I saw it as a privilege and an opportunity for me to excel. I went on a lot of interviews, and doors were closed in my face because of my record. I didn’t have the opportunity to work in some jobs where I felt I could be an assistant to the company, because they wouldn’t hire me.
I was working with the Mayor’s Office for the Reentry of Ex-Offenders in Philadelphia and I was referred to Goodwill Industries® of Southern New Jersey/Philadelphia for their 7th Street project. They taught me how to be a leader — not just in the workplace, but also in life too. I learned, despite whatever kind of job I was working, to make it the best job that I could for myself and for my family. I learned communication skills and how to conduct myself.
My Story: Travis Derouaux
Before becoming involved with Goodwill® Columbus, I was a senior in high school. I lived at home, and I had put several job applications with no luck. My teacher told me about the Project Opportunity program, and I wanted to participate.
I did an internship at the Giant Eagle grocery store, which included classroom studies and on-the-floor training. I learned about the job skills I needed to work there. After finishing the program, I was given the opportunity to apply for a job, and I got hired.
My Story: Patrice Baugh
Many years ago, I saw a sign on a metro bus that advertised computer skills and ten-key skills—skills and experiences I didn’t have. I kept seeing them advertised in the newspaper by employers, and I knew I couldn’t even get my foot in the door without those skills. My interest definitely was definitely piqued. I could also earn an hourly wage, which was extremely important.
At the Seattle Goodwill®, I was able to take job interview and coaching classes, and I had a great supervisor at the time in the production department that really focused on discipline. I gained the confidence to interview at The Seattle Times where, nine months earlier, I wouldn’t have had the confidence to go in and feel like I could contribute.
My Story: David Beiter
I can remember as far back as second grade that I knew I was different and didn’t know how to express it. I was diagnosed late in my 40s with bipolar and major depressive disorder.
I was a good citizen. I had a house, I had a car, and I had two dogs and cats. Through my years I watched my father drink alcohol every morning, and I picked up on that through my life. I drank it all away. I lost everything. I had nothing but the shirt on my back and a backpack that had a few clothes in it.
My Story: Ora Harris
When I came to Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina less than two years ago, I was homeless and living in a shelter. To get to my job at Goodwill, I had to walk from the shelter to the bus stop, and from the mall down a busy street to the facility once I got off the bus. It was a challenge to get to work on time every day, but I never missed a day.
While I was with Goodwill, I did a lot of growing. They helped me get my self-esteem back, and made me appreciate life more. With their help, I was able to get back on my feet and pursue the dreams I have for myself.
