Goodwill Industries® Honors Jarvin Dorsey with the
2012 Edgar J. Helms Award for Graduate Staff
TYLER, TX — A random drive-by shooting in high school may have halted Jarvin Dorsey’s chances at a college football scholarship but it didn’t stop him from pursuing a career where he could help others overcome challenges that keep them from succeeding in the workplace. For his exceptional skills as a mentor and his hands-on approach to teaching, Dorsey has been honored with Goodwill Industries International’s 2012 Edgar J. Helms Award for Graduate Staff.
Once an all-district offensive lineman, Dorsey thought of nothing but extending his football career into college. A drive-by shooting just one week after high school graduation, though, left him paralyzed. While physical therapy and an incredible strength of spirit helped Dorsey adjust to his disability, he wasn’t able to find work. The Work Adjustment Training Program at Goodwill Industries of East Texas (Tyler) helped Dorsey develop abilities he didn’t know he had such as strong teaching and mentorship skills. Before long, Dorsey was hired as a workforce adjustment training aide. Three promotions later, he now serves as the work adjustment training coordinator.
“Jarvin takes a hands-on approach to helping others reach their potential,” said David Walton, CEO of the Tyler Goodwill. “He sees his Goodwill® work as a calling and not just a job.”
His desire to give back extends beyond work hours. He is a co-founder of the East Texas Piney Woods Chapter of Turning Point, an organization dedicated to providing no-cost sports and outdoor activities to individuals with mobility impairments. Dorsey has also helped install wheelchair ramps and retro-fitted vehicles with hand controls for people with acquired disabilities.
“As a husband and father, a valued employee and a mentor, Jarvin inspires others to become self-reliant and pursue their dreams,” said Jim Gibbons, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries International. “We’re honored that he’s chosen to spread Goodwill’s message that everyone has the right to meaningful work.”
Dorsey will receive his award at Goodwill’s annual Delegate Assembly meeting in Miami, FL, on June 24.
ABOUT THE AWARD
The Edgar J. Helms Award for Graduate Staff honors a current Goodwill employee who is a past recipient of Goodwill services, and who exemplifies the mission of Goodwill Industries and its founder Rev. Edgar J. Helms’ values of unselfish service to people with disabilities or other disadvantaging conditions.
