Jorge was struggling in school and having a hard time at home when a Goodwill teacher recommended he join a mentorship program. Goodwill paired him with Nate who, like Jorge has interests in film and music. In addition to sharing hobbies, Nate helps Jorge stay on track in school. Jorge says, "My involvement with Nate and Goodwill has made me a better person."
Tag: Educational Attainment
Goodwill® Affirms Commitment to Youth Education, Employment
At least one in six youth ages 16-24 — or more than 6.7 million young people — are unemployed and not in school. In December 2010, President Obama called upon 25 leaders, including Goodwill Industries International President and CEO Jim Gibbons, from the private, nonprofit and government sectors to address key community challenges and create opportunities for these youth and help them find paths to training, support and jobs.
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My Story: Eureeka Jackson
Eureeka became the primary caregiver for her sisters after her grandmother passed away. She entered vocational rehabilitation training at Goodwill, which helped her eventually gain a full-time position at the agency. She is now proud to be able to provide for her sisters and is working towards a college degree as a medical assistant.
My Story: Kim Kershaw
Kim Kershaw was unemployed and helping her mother recover from several strokes when she realized she'd like to work in the health care field. With support from a Goodwill Columbus scholarship, she trained and passed her nursing test with flying colors and now works for Goodwill taking care of residents in the agency's Residential Services for Developmental Disabilities program.
My Story: Andi Petley
Andi Petley never thought of herself as an "overcomer." After battling a drug addition that lost her custody of her children, she knew a change had to be made. Hear how Andi overcame her fears and took back her life with support from Goodwill®.
My Story: Robert Williamson
After serving in the U.S. Army, Robert became addicted to alcohol and lived on the streets for five years. He was referred to a rehabilitation program following some legal troubles, a stint which ultimately led him to Goodwill's Veterans Integration Program (VIP). With the program's support and encouragement, Robert was hired to work at the Goodwill, eventually rising to the rank of VIP program manager. "Their belief in me has allowed me to pas along my courage, strength and hope to other veterans facing the same challenges I faced not too long ago," he says.
My Story: Cornelius Furr, Sr.
Following time in prison, Cornelius faced challenges finding employment and was barely making ends meet. He heard about the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), managed in his community by Goodwill, where he learned valuable work skills and gained motivation to go to college. He credits the program and Goodwill for helping him get back on his feet.
My Story: Gradlin Davenport
Gradlin grew up in a tough area of Shreveport, LA where gang influence, frequent fights and peer pressure took its toll. After dropping out of high school, Gradlin was arrested for robbery. While incarcerated, Gradlin become involved with Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana. Hear how Gradlin overcome his criminal background and is now on a path to success.
My Story: Vic King
Vic started his adult life on the wrong track when he didn't complete high school and started selling drugs to make ends meet. He served time in prison, but thanks to parenting classes he took while incarcerated, he regained custody of his kids upon his release. He began working at Goodwill, where he has gradually been given more responsibilities. He is also taking advantage of financial strengthening classes, and is working towards completing his GED so he can be the best role model he can be for his children.
My Story: Joette Estep
Joette was working in the retail industry and feeling financially and physically stressed when she decided to contact Goodwill about its medical office skills training program. There, she gained the confidence and computer skills she needed to be successful. As part of the program, she completed an internship, which later led to her finding full-time employment with great benefits at age 60.
