My Goodwill Story – Jalen

During Digital Inclusion Week (October 6-10, 2025), we’re celebrating stories like Jalen’s — stories that show how access to digital tools, training and career support can open doors to opportunity.

Jalen started working at a Goodwill Industries of Arkansas (Little Rock) store in 2022. While he was an employee, he connected with his career navigator and began building a plan for his future. He enrolled in several Goodwill Academy courses, earning certificates that strengthened his résumé and expanded his skill set. Those included his CPR/First Aid certification and the Goodwill Digital Career Accelerator certificate.

The experience he gained on the job, combined with the training and certifications he earned, helped him take the next step. In 2024, Jalen accepted a full-time position at Penske Transportation as a clamp truck driver — nearly doubling his previous income and moving closer to a living wage.

This new role is more than a job. It’s a stepping stone toward his long-term goal. Jalen is currently enrolled in a bachelor’s program at the University of Central Arkansas, working toward a degree in Child Psychology. His new income will help him pay for school and continue building a future he’s proud of.

Jalen shared, “I am very thankful for the training and certifications that I gained while working at Goodwill.”

At Goodwill, we believe our role as an employer is to help people grow — even if that means supporting them as they move on to new opportunities. Jalen’s story is a reflection of that commitment and a reminder of what’s possible when we invest in people and digital inclusion.

Connect with your local Goodwill career center if you’re interested in finding a job or advancing your career.

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