Brody’s Thriving Thanks to Goodwill
Brody's employment journey has been a testament to his determination and the invaluable support of Goodwill. His path began with a job interview at Giant Foods. Accompanied by a Goodwill employment specialist, he received an offer and was assigned to cart duty – a position he was hoping to avoid.
A primary concern that Brody and his parents had about working with carts was safety in the parking lot. Early on, Brody's near-miss with a vehicle prompted his employment specialist to work with him on his non-verbal communication skills and situational awareness.
He learned the importance of consistently making eye contact to help foster a mutual understanding between himself and drivers. This significantly boosted Brody’s confidence and, as time passed, he eventually increased his efficiency from pushing two to three carts to handling up to six at once.
As the weather shifted to colder days, Brody's job satisfaction dwindled. This led Brody and his parents to contemplate quitting. Brody's father contacted HR and, after discussing the situation, was pleasantly surprised that Giant wanted to offer Brody a position in the produce department.
Brody has successfully completed his initial 40 hours of training and formed positive working relationships with his managers and co-workers. He is doing a great job engaging with customers, working independently and – with the help of his employment specialist – prioritizing his tasks.
Brody and his parents are grateful for Goodwill's support and the positive impact it has had on his life.
Goodwill Success Story - Wally
Looking for some career inspiration? Check out this amazing video about Wally Vera's career progression at Goodwill Keystone Area. She started out as a textile sorter and worked her way up to becoming a key holder, assistant manager and now she's a store manager at Berwyn!
Wally credits Goodwill for providing her with the support and resources she needed to grow in her career. Her story is a true testament to the power of hard work, determination and the right support system. Don't miss out on this inspiring video!
Tasha Buoyed by Goodwill’s Support
Tasha's journey to succeed on her own has not been an easy one. For years she struggled with unemployment and depression, which led her to have thoughts of suicide. However, Tasha found a glimmer of hope thanks to Goodwill.
After completing three work assessments in the community, she experienced a back injury during her final assessment. Upon her return, she secured a job with Home Depot but had to decline for not having proper I-9 identification. With the help of her employment specialist, Karena, Tasha eventually landed a part-time busser position at Mad Mex in Willow Grove (Montgomery County).
During her time there, Tasha grew tremendously in her attitudes and abilities. She credits these words from Karena that helped her during difficult times: “Because you taught me to walk slowly, quietly and with purpose, I am doing great and love my job AND my coworkers.”
Unfortunately, the restaurant suddenly closed right before her one-year anniversary. This was devastating to Tasha, yet she is maintaining a positive attitude about her future as she now has her own apartment and graduated from Starting Point – a resource center for those seeking support for mental wellness, personal growth and recovery.
Tasha is working with Karena again to find employment and is grateful to Goodwill for inspiring her to be resilient and determined. “Goodwill helped me get a job and be successful during my time at Mad Mex. Karena has taught me the importance of working hard and staying positive, and she continues to lift me up along my journey.”
For more information about Goodwill’s programs and services, contact Sue Soderberg
EMAIL
or call 717.394.0647.
Goodwill Mission Success Story - Yamna
For more information about Goodwill’s programs and services, contact Sue Soderberg
EMAIL
or call 717.394.0647
Seth Achieves Statewide Honors
In his role as a photo license technician at PennDOT’s Regional Office Center in Harrisburg, Seth helps customers by reviewing proper forms of identification and verifying their camera card information.
Over the years, Seth has taken on more responsibilities all due to his hard work and dedication. Seth had support from a Goodwill job coach when he started but quickly learned what he needed to do – he even created his own picture sheet to refer to when the need would arise.
Eventually Seth worked his way to become a greeter and manage one processing system. Within no time he learned how to operate multiple systems and, most importantly, manage one of the most challenging roles where he has to welcome every customer who walks into the center while processing their information at the same time.
Seth is now a seasoned photo license technician who not only does his job effectively and accurately, but also mentors and assists new hires with processing issues at the site.
Seth has demonstrated a great sense of responsibility when it comes to his job. He does not call off work, is always on time and adheres to his schedule. Seth has a very pleasant personality and goes out of his way to help customers and co-workers.
“The favorite part about my job is helping people get their licenses,” Seth said. “I like seeing the smiles on new drivers after they pass their test and I get to take their photos. This job makes me feel like I’m part of a bigger place.”
For his outstanding work and attributes, Seth was one of 31 individuals across Pennsylvania to earn the UniqueSource Achievement Award. This award recognizes remarkable workers from around the state who demonstrate exceptional character in living and coping with disabilities, particularly in the workplace.
UniqueSource Products & Services is an agency that partners with Goodwill Keystone Area and other organizations to identify, market and deliver products and services that create employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Goodwill employees serve as greeters and photo ID technicians at various photo ID sites as well as provide custodial services to a number of state facilities.
Seth’s statewide honor does not stop here. He represents Pennsylvania in the Special Olympics and qualified for the national competition.
Congratulations Seth on your incredible achievements!
For more information about Goodwill’s programs and services, contact Sue Soderberg
EMAIL
or call 717.394.0647