My Goodwill Story: Blanca

It’s only July, but we’re already starting to think about back-to-school season. The new-to-you outfits, DIY teacher gifts and an exciting sense of new possibilities all make this time of year one filled with inspiration.   

For Blanca, her back-to-school inspiration came from an even deeper place after an unimaginable loss. Her 24-year-old son passed away after a car accident. Though devastated, Blanca found strength in her son’s final act of generosity: he chose to be an organ donor, saving four lives in the process. 

Blanca’s son’s legacy as a life-giver has been a source of comfort for her and inspired her to begin a new chapter of her own. She would honor her son’s memory by rebuilding her life and continuing to grow.  

In summer 2024, she came to the Goodwill® Employment Connection Center (ECC) seeking help with Consumer Direct WA (CDWA) paperwork as she pursued employment as a caregiver. The team at Goodwill Industries of the Columbia (Kennewick, WA) assisted her in completing her background check and encouraged her to stay focused on her goals. Soon after, Blanca proudly began working as a caregiver. 

Her Back-to-School Journey 

But Blanca’s journey didn’t stop there. Motivated by her son’s example and her desire to keep improving, she returned to the ECC months later to share exciting news: she had enrolled at Skylar Academy to earn her High School Diploma. Recognizing that she needed to strengthen her computer skills for school, Blanca once again turned to Goodwill for support. Through our Spanish Digital Literacy Classes, she learned essential computer skills that allowed her to complete her coursework with confidence. 

In summer 2025, Blanca graduated from Skylar Academy, a moment of triumph that symbolized not only academic achievement but personal transformation. Today, she continues to participate regularly in our Spanish Digital Literacy Classes, always eager to learn, grow and support others along the way. 

Despite enduring profound loss, she has chosen to honor her son’s legacy through self-improvement, chasing bigger dreams and going back to school. Her journey reminds us that even through grief, new beginnings are possible, and with support, every individual has the strength to rise again.