My Story: Christina Banfield

I was introduced to Goodwill Industries of Southern Oregon (Medford) through the Make Parenting a Pleasure class. I actually took the class twice. The classes provided me with opportunities to make my family stronger, especially during some pretty difficult times in our family history. It was an intimate setting and I felt safe and empowered. I enjoyed the staff that facilitated the classes and that were watching over the children.

Then, after having been unsatisfied with my progress in other available job search programs at the Department of Human Services (DHS), I requested to participate in the Goodwill Jobs program. While I was very shy, the staff encouraged me to participate in some receptionist training at Goodwill. In a short time, I mastered the multi-lined phone system, provided excellent customer service, conquered the copy and faxed machines, and was poking around for other skills to master. I requested to take some computer classes at the Job Council and in several weeks, I owned certificates of mastery for each class I took.

Equipped with these new skills, I was ready to get on a fast track to job searching. I was encouraged to cold call, using the phone book, for the hidden job opportunities in our area as I still was not sure on a career path. As I crossed the “L” section, Goodwill put a bug in my ear that I would be a good legal assistant. I did some research and was encouraged to pursue the legal assistant opportunity with Claudia Browne a local, prestigious criminal and family law attorney.

I approached Claudia with resume in hand, interviewed and was awarded a reception position in her office. The rest is what you could say “is history.” Even after two years at this position, I regularly call or come by the Goodwill office for ongoing support from my former supervisors and from all of the staff. I have also been able to return to the DHS Community Marketplace to speak – and that also keeps my confidence high!