As we celebrate the 4th of July, we’re surrounded by American flags, fireworks and barbeques. However, independence means a lot more for those who have struggled hard to achieve it. That was the case for Christopher. After involvement with the justice system, he had a difficult time finding employment. He wanted so badly to be independent but found that his background was still a barrier.
Category: My Story
My Goodwill Story: Auggie
June marks Pride Month, a time of joy and affirmation for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s also time to take action and create a world that is more open and accepting of all sexual orientations and gender identities. As we commemorate this Pride Month, we want to share Auggie’s story.
My Goodwill Story – William
In the spirit of Older Americans Month, we honor the inspiring story of William, whose life took a remarkable turn upon walking into the Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida (Fort Myers). William’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of community support and personal determination.
My Goodwill Story: Garry
Garry, a 40-year-old single father, recently went on a journey of transformation, not just for himself, but for his son, Brayden, who has been his beacon of hope. Garry’s life was tumultuous, marked by the challenges of a broken home, the lure of illegal activities and the shackles of addiction. His youth was a battle against the odds, with school dropouts and prison bars casting long shadows over his potential. Yet, amidst the turmoil, the birth of his children became a pivotal chapter in his life, a reminder that every day is a new page to be written.
My Goodwill Story – Roy
In celebration of Military Appreciation Month, we are spotlighting the story of Roy, a veteran who came into MERS Missouri Goodwill Industries (St. Louis) for support. Roy’s introduction to Goodwill’s services came through his church and the local Veterans Affairs office which led him to the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). This program, designed for older Americans, combines community service with work-based job training, offering a platform for growth and contribution.
My Goodwill Story: Dekota
As we commemorated Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month this March, it's essential to recognize stories of inclusion, empowerment and the remarkable achievements of individuals like Dekota. His journey with Goodwill Industries of Arkansas exemplifies the transformative impact of providing opportunities and support to individuals with disabilities, reaffirming the importance of inclusivity in our communities.
My Goodwill Story: Jennifer
Ambition, resilience and the determination to overcome challenges define Jennifer's journey toward a brighter future. Jennifer, an ecommerce associate at Goodwill Industries of the Upstate/Midlands South Carolina (Greenville), has faced obstacles that could have hindered her progress. However, her story is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and the support provided by Goodwill® programs like Careers Plus.
My Goodwill Story: Desteny Malone
Resilience, determination and the unwavering pursuit of dreams. Those values are core to how Desteny lives her life today. As a young single mother who didn’t finish high school, she faced numerous challenges, but she refused to let adversity define her path. Instead, she found the Young Adult Opportunity Center (YAOC) at Goodwill Kentucky (Louisville) and began her journey toward success.
My Goodwill Story: Ayanna Scott
The job search can be difficult for anyone; the pressure of an interview, the financial worry and even the process of finding the right fit are daunting. For some, that process is compounded by other struggles. Ayanna was searching for a job and coming up empty-handed, partly because of her past involvement with justice.
My Goodwill Story: Tyler
Tyler was looking for a new job. He didn’t just want any job. He wanted what many of us search for: a job with good pay and healthcare benefits. For Tyler, that search had an extra requirement. He needed a job that could accommodate his hearing impairment. He wasn’t quite sure where to start, but then his mom recommended he check out Goodwill.
My Goodwill Story: Darren
This time of year, amidst the hustle and bustle, we’re all thinking about how much we must be thankful for. After all, that’s what Thanksgiving is all about. With that in mind, we want to share the story of someone thankful for the new direction he has been able to take his life.
My Goodwill Story: Troy
Troy was looking for something new. He worked as a security guard for the past 15 years but craved a new beginning. While trying to find new positions, he felt that living in Southern Texas and not speaking Spanish disadvantaged him. He also knew that a new career would mean some additional education that he couldn’t afford.
