My Story – Kylie Corp

During my school years I remember being an easy target because I was picked on a lot by the other kids. It got harder and harder for me to go to school, but I finally finished high school in 2007.  I had no future plans and remained home with my family for the next three years. I spent most of that time on the computer playing games.

My mom and I talked and decided it was time to call and get some professional help. I got involved with Community Mental Health and they helped me create a personal plan to learn better social skills, think about my future plans and to make money.

When I came to Goodwill Industries of St. Clair County my life started to get better. I felt more comfortable and began making friends and receiving a steady paycheck.  I had good supervisors and great co-workers that helped me come out of my shell. I learned janitorial duties and how to assemble parts in a production workshop

Goodwill taught me how important it is to be on time, how to follow a schedule, how to get along with others and to improve my communication skills.

I was honored when my co-workers elected me to represent them in our monthly client delegate meetings. This was an opportunity to address everyday work concerns with Goodwill board members and staff. I felt like I was an important part here at Goodwill.

As my self-esteem increased, my counselor suggested Goodwill place me in a short-term work trial at a local grocery store to see if I was ready to work in the community. I was so happy that it went well.

Not long after, I was able to find work at a local grocery store in my community. I was hired part-time as a courtesy clerk; my duties are bagging groceries, back stocking and getting grocery carts. Presently I feel my life is so much fuller. I have higher self-esteem and now enjoy meeting new people.

At my job I receive a weekly paycheck. I have opened my own bank account, and am learning to budget my money. In my free time, I enjoy reading and shopping.

Because of Goodwill, I now feel confident about making future plans that I never dreamed of. I plan to get my driver’s license, go to college and study computers, and to live on my own.

Hear more stories from people like Kylie.