Daniel Owens was recovering from a relapse of his bipolar illness and living in debt when he came to Goodwill in Medford, OR. There, he connected with training and financial stability programs that helped him return to the workforce, and gained the support to start his own video production company.
Category: My Story
My Story: Samantha Lawhorne
When Samantha came to Goodwill, she had no work experience. "Goodwill has taught me to be a team player and to take pride in my work," Samantha says.
My Story: Steven Escamilla
Steven suffered permanent injuries in a car crash and, without a job, felt hopeless and like he wasn't contributing to society. After connecting with Goodwill, he regained hope and found employment that allows him to feel fulfilled and earn a paycheck.
My Story: Pearline Haley
Pearline was two and half credits short of receiving her high school diploma when she connected with the Goodwill headquartered in Kalamazoo, MI. Thanks to their Life Guides program, she received the support she needed to be successful and return to school.
My Story: Laura Walling
When Laura landed a job at Goodwill's leadership office out of graduate school, she was excited to be able to advocate on behalf of Goodwill and the people it serves. "I know our democracy works, and I've seen firsthand how the collective voice of supporters can influence policymakers," Laura says. "I am honored to be one of our loudest voices."
My Story: Latonya Thomas
Latonya Thomas separated from the military at the time the economy was melting down, making it hard to find civilian employment. She had lost many of her assets and felt her life had plateaued when she was referred to Goodwill. She's now exploring new careers and working with staff to meet her educational and career goals and is optimistic about her future.
My Story: Sarouet Ouk
With Goodwill's support, Sarouet is making progress towards earning her GED diploma. She has received college preparation and job training support, and now feels connected to her life and the direction she's going.
My Story: Isis Truman
Working at Goodwill has given Isis more than a chance at a paycheck -- it has given her a chance to advance her career and provide for her family. Programs such as leadership training and educational support have helped her come a long way in her life. She says, "I feel really good about the work I do. My work pays off every day."
My Story: Wayne Quamina
Wayne decided to leave behind his successful career with the Port of Trinidad in order to move to the United States and be with his newborn son. He found work as a manual labor, but was forced to stop after his doctors discovered he had congestive heart failure. With Goodwill's support, he found a position that allows him to use his skills while not risking his health.
My Story: Eun Hee Lee
Goodwill Korea gave Eun Hee Lee her first job in 2010. Working at the Sasang Store in Busan, she helps prepare donated clothing, assisting customers and cleaning, among other work. She enjoys her job and gets excited when customers are able to get great deals on items. She says, "I hope more people donate to Goodwill so we have more goods to sell and our store will be full of more and more customers."
나의 이야기: 이은희
2010년에 한국굿윌은 이은희씨에게 첫 직장을 줬습니다. 이은희씨는 부산에있는 사상 굿윌스토어에서는 기증한의류 준비하기, 손님 안내하기, 청소하기 등 여러 가지 일을 하고계십니다. 이은희씨는 일을 즐기시고 고객들이 좋은 가격으로 물건을 살때 좋아하십니다. 이은희씨는 이렇게 말씀합니다, "더 많은 사람들이 굿윌에게 기증해서 저희가 더 많은 물건들을 팔게됐으면 좋겠습니다."
My Story: Kris Jacques
Kris, who has cerebral palsy, had a hard time finding an employer who would allow him to prove he could work, until Goodwill gave him a chance. Since getting hired, he's proved his ability as a donor and greeter, and has gained personal and financial independence.
