When Laura landed a job at Goodwill's leadership office out of graduate school, she was excited to be able to advocate on behalf of Goodwill and the people it serves. "I know our democracy works, and I've seen firsthand how the collective voice of supporters can influence policymakers," Laura says. "I am honored to be one of our loudest voices."
Category: My Story
My Story: Latonya Thomas
Latonya Thomas separated from the military at the time the economy was melting down, making it hard to find civilian employment. She had lost many of her assets and felt her life had plateaued when she was referred to Goodwill. She's now exploring new careers and working with staff to meet her educational and career goals and is optimistic about her future.
My Story: Sarouet Ouk
With Goodwill's support, Sarouet is making progress towards earning her GED diploma. She has received college preparation and job training support, and now feels connected to her life and the direction she's going.
My Story: Isis Truman
Working at Goodwill has given Isis more than a chance at a paycheck -- it has given her a chance to advance her career and provide for her family. Programs such as leadership training and educational support have helped her come a long way in her life. She says, "I feel really good about the work I do. My work pays off every day."
My Story: Wayne Quamina
Wayne decided to leave behind his successful career with the Port of Trinidad in order to move to the United States and be with his newborn son. He found work as a manual labor, but was forced to stop after his doctors discovered he had congestive heart failure. With Goodwill's support, he found a position that allows him to use his skills while not risking his health.
My Story: Eun Hee Lee
Goodwill Korea gave Eun Hee Lee her first job in 2010. Working at the Sasang Store in Busan, she helps prepare donated clothing, assisting customers and cleaning, among other work. She enjoys her job and gets excited when customers are able to get great deals on items. She says, "I hope more people donate to Goodwill so we have more goods to sell and our store will be full of more and more customers."
나의 이야기: 이은희
2010년에 한국굿윌은 이은희씨에게 첫 직장을 줬습니다. 이은희씨는 부산에있는 사상 굿윌스토어에서는 기증한의류 준비하기, 손님 안내하기, 청소하기 등 여러 가지 일을 하고계십니다. 이은희씨는 일을 즐기시고 고객들이 좋은 가격으로 물건을 살때 좋아하십니다. 이은희씨는 이렇게 말씀합니다, "더 많은 사람들이 굿윌에게 기증해서 저희가 더 많은 물건들을 팔게됐으면 좋겠습니다."
My Story: Kris Jacques
Kris, who has cerebral palsy, had a hard time finding an employer who would allow him to prove he could work, until Goodwill gave him a chance. Since getting hired, he's proved his ability as a donor and greeter, and has gained personal and financial independence.
My Story: Stephanie Gayle
Stephanie separated from her husband and had a hard time making ends meet and supporting her daughters. Goodwill's Beyond Jobs program for single mothers helped connect her to training and employment opportunities, and taught her how to budget. She now has a full-time job and a house for her two girls. She says, "It feels good to know all my hard work has paid off."
My Story: Devin Williams
Devin was incarcerated and had a history of substance abuse when he first learned about Goodwill. With support from Goodwill staff, Devin accessed internship and work opportunities, and graduated from community college. He now has a full-time job and is looking forward to pursuing his bachelor's degree.
My Story – Tabitha Nobles
Tabitha had split up with her husband and was living in a homeless shelter when she first heard about Goodwill. Staff helped her sharpen her job search and interview skills, and connected her with a position at a local hospital. Since getting hired, she has reunited with her husband and says her family is doing great.
My Story: Dalton Henretta
Dalton, who has Asperger's and bipolar disorder, had trouble in school and wasn't sure he'd be able to succeed in a job. With support from Goodwill, he now works full time in their e-books department and says he's learned "you have to give respect to get respect."
