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.
Tag: External Employees
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.
Canadian Goodwill Program Helps Youth with Disabilities Go to Work
In an age of high unemployment, people with disabilities continue to have a harder time finding jobs than most. In Hamilton, Ontario, Goodwill's "Youth at Work" Program helps young adults ages 16-30 with disabilities prepare for work through job training opportunities, work placement and assistance finding permanent work.
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My Story: Azziale Arnold
Azziale was born with cerebral palsy, a condition that required yearly corrective surgeries as an adolescent and caused circulation problems, partial blindness and limpness in one leg. She was also diagnosed with lupus and osteoporosis at age 17. Despite these challenges, Azziale graduated high school and completed a four-year registered nursing degree. When work as a home health nurse proved too stressful, she connected with Goodwill and learned medical and billing skills that enabled her to find work as a patient accounts representative.
My Story: Tyrone Coleman
Before coming to Goodwill, Tyrone had been out of work for almost two years -- he had exhausted his unemployment benefits and had depleted his 401(K) to pay for his house. Though he had a college degree, his skill set was out of date. Tyrone connected with Goodwill, who supported him in gaining multiple IT certifications. He now works full-time for the agency and is thankful to be able to provide for his family.
My Story: Darryl Humphrey
Darryl was born with congenital cataracts and myopic pressure in both eyes, and had surgery done on both eyes back in 1998, where doctors replaced his natural lenses with synthetic implants. After leaving his job with the federal government, Darryl started looking for a better job and got in touch with Good Temps, a Goodwill staffing agency in New York. Through the program, he landed a job as an NYPD police administrative aide, a position that allows him to work and help people.
My Story: Nick Vaughan
After receiving post-secondary training, Nick was unable to find a job and was contemplating moving back to where he grew up, where he'd have to give up his friends and his independence. He was referred to Goodwill, where an employment counselor helped him update his resume and submit applications. He landed a seasonal part-time job at Lowe's and was later hired full time. He now loves his job and the independence it affords him.
My Story: Sam Olmo
As a high school student, Sam participated in a work experience program with Goodwill that taught him valuable job skills. He continued to work with Goodwill after graduation, and his great work ethic earned him the position of team leader. An employee specialist at his local agency saw how hardworking Sam was and helped him advance in his career by connecting him with a position as a mail clerk at Medco. Sam says he now enjoys being able to provide for himself and his mother, and is proud of his newfound independence. Read on to hear Sam tell his story.
People with Disabilities Are an Asset to the Workplace
In order to get the highest return on investment, Goodwill® knows that businesses need to hire the right workers. Employees with disabilities represent skilled workers in all industries, who are capable of confronting challenges and solving problems, and are receiving the training that modern businesses require. During National Disability Employment Awareness Month and beyond, Goodwill Industries International encourages the public and private sectors to hire applicants with disabilities and benefit from the unique talents they bring to the workplace. For decades, Goodwill agencies throughout North America have trained and hired people with disabilities to work in Goodwill stores, donation centers and career centers as well as in emerging fields outside of Goodwill including healthcare, green industries and financial services. Read on to learn about two people with disabilities who are succeeding in the workforce with support from Goodwill.
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My Story: Jason Tobey
Jason Tobey, a Marine Corps veteran who completed several tours during the Gulf War, expected to easily transition into the civilian workforce after being honorably discharged from the military. He was surprised to find, however, that not all employers looked at servicemen and women from these conflicts as favorable job candidates. After returning to school, Jason became involved with Goodwill of Orange County’s microenterprise development program, which gave him the skills he needed to start his own business, Semper Fi Security. He’s now helping others with a military service record succeed, employing eight veterans with plans to hire more as business grows.
