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Baltimore County Success Stories
With a background in customer service and bilingual jobs, Yemima admits she didn’t know what she was getting herself into when she signed up as the only female for the construction and welding training classes. She says growing up with seven brothers she always saw them using tools but had no idea how to use them. She admits it is a great feeling to now know she can fix something in her house if she needs to. Yemima calls her classmates her big brothers, as they were crucial in pushing her along through the program, saying they motivated her and helped to ensure she would not fall behind. After taking these classes, Yemima says she feels empowered and equipped to take on new employment. “Throughout the course of this program, I had two or three personal events I thought were going to stop me from finishing. However, I was strong enough to do it—my classmates were so motivating, they really helped push me along and the staff was so kind. I’m really grateful; I don’t think I would have been able to make it to the end on my own.” Since completing the program, Yemima was able to find full-time employment in a field of her choice.
With 35 years of experience in the construction field, Eric entered the construction and welding training ready to refresh his skills and get back to work. He admits he was a little apprehensive before the classes started because he was unsure of how the teaching would go—if it was hands on, lecturing, or all textbook learning. Once classes got started, Eric says all the information started coming back to him. Admitting he was the oldest student in the class, Eric was proud to say he didn’t have to retake any tests and had 100 percent attendance. Eric is ready to start working again, saying he already has some job opportunities lined up. “At the end of this they don’t just hand you a piece of paper and say good luck, they do all this extra work to really help you try to find a job. They are here to steer you in the right direction and have construction trade people coming into your class—that’s worth its weight in gold. Having those companies come in was a wonderful asset because it was a stepping stone for us to go from training to setting foot in the working world. If it wasn’t for this program, I would have never had the connections I do now. I feel good that I accomplished this and made it through.”
Goodwill Success Stories
Darlene knew she would face many obstacles getting back on the path to employment. After being out of work for two years, she reached out to the Goodwill employment specialist at partner organization Paul’s Place and got started on her goal of returning to the workforce. Her previous work history included a career in human services with many years of experience as a special education teacher, a para-educator, and human services worker. Determined to do what she loved, Darlene went from being homeless, unemployed, lacking transportation and surviving cancer, to finding housing, owning a vehicle and finding employment as a Mental Health Worker at Sheppard Pratt all in a span of six months. Her future goals include completing her Master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling and to one day open a transitional facility for young women.
“I am thankful to Goodwill for helping me work towards my goal of pursing my passion in the human services field.”
“I am thankful to Goodwill for helping me work towards my goal of pursing my passion in the human services field.”
Mistaken for someone else, Nate was shot and lost his arm. His life as he knew it was forever changed. He became addicted to drugs and spent years struggling to survive. One day, Nate decided he wanted to live and he received the help he needed to become sober. He then came to Goodwill looking for employment help. He enrolled in Goodwill’s Computer and Clerical class and not only learned valuable skills, but was inspired by the instructor to be positive about his life. Nate was then referred to Goodwill Staffing Services for employment. With a new outlook on life, charming personality and great charisma, Nate interviewed with Tallgrass Talent Group and was offered a job as a product demonstrator. “Goodwill gave me purpose. I am so thankful for the opportunities that were provided to me and I now look forward to my future.”
Kevin came to Goodwill looking for a second chance. Despite having a college degree, he was having a hard time finding a job. A mistake had led to a brief time in prison and employers were unwilling to interview him. He enrolled in Goodwill’s Transitional Work program and was able to gain on-the-job experience as a Computer Lab Assistant, helping participants craft resumes and cover letters, search for employment opportunities and complete online job applications. Because of his calm demeanor and excellent work ethic, Kevin was offered full-time employment with Goodwill as a Job Readiness Instructor. He now teaches job readiness classes to others who need help finding employment and one day wants to own his own athletic performance company. “Goodwill gave me the opportunity to prove that you aren’t defined by your situation. If you are determined enough, you can do anything, and Goodwill is there to support you along the way.”
