Explaining a Criminal Background When Seeking a Job

Bill from El Paso, TX, asks “I have a felony charge from 11 years ago. How do I explain that to an employer?”

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Goodwill® Asks: What's Important to You This Election Season?

Campaign season is fully underway as both major political parties prepare for their respective conventions. Living in a swing state means I’m exposed to even more commercials, radio ads and newspaper editorials than those lucky enough to be able to avoid seeing such negativity -- and I’m a policy wonk who usually loves this stuff, especially when the issues are being debated. There is certainly no lack of issues critical for nonprofits and supporters like you that can be discussed.

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Goodwill® Asks: What’s Important to You This Election Season?

Campaign season is fully underway as both major political parties prepare for their respective conventions. Living in a swing state means I’m exposed to even more commercials, radio ads and newspaper editorials than those lucky enough to be able to avoid seeing such negativity -- and I’m a policy wonk who usually loves this stuff, especially when the issues are being debated. There is certainly no lack of issues critical for nonprofits and supporters like you that can be discussed.

READ MORE from Goodwill® Asks: What’s Important to You This Election Season?

My Story: Nikkinta Murphy

When Nikkinta was released from prison, she needed a job but didn't know where to turn. Project Re-entry, an initiative between Goodwill and other organizations, taught her how to look for a job, fill out an application and interview. After finding a job, Nikkinta now says "Never give up on yourself, no matter what happens."

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LA Teens Experience Life as Adults at Goodwill® Reality Event

More than 100 teens from 29 parishes in north and central Louisiana got a little taste of reality during Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana’s (Shreveport) Reality City event. During the event, youth encountered real-life scenarios, including buying a car, renting or buying a house, applying for car insurance and health insurance, buying groceries and clothing, putting children in daycare, going to the doctor and more.

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My Story: Lonnie Willis Jr.

After growing up in a life of alcohol, drugs and violence, Lonnie found himself incarcerated. During his time in prison, he decided to turn his life around for the better - a decision which eventually led him to Goodwill. Lonnie benefited from employment training programs and is now proud to work as an attendant at one of Goodwill's attended donation centers.

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My Story: Eddie Leonard

Eddie's productive life went downhill when he started experimenting with drugs and alcohol. After being referred to Goodwill, he fell in love with the agency and earned a position as the floor care manager.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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